Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a communication method and apparatus. The method comprises: a communication device generates a first OFDM symbol, and then sends the first OFDM symbol on a first bandwidth, wherein the first OFDM symbol comprises Nwpt non-zero subcarriers on the first bandwidth, and the first bandwidth is a bandwidth configured in an area where the communication device is located and used for transmitting the first OFDM symbol. By constructing an OFDM symbol as a WPT signal on the basis of an OFDM technology, existing OFDM hardware devices can be reused without additionally providing a corresponding device, thereby reducing device costs. In addition, a middle portion of a spectrum of the OFDM symbol is relatively flat, and a spectrum of a sinusoidal signal is relatively sharp, so that an area occupied in a transmit mask by the OFDM symbol is larger than an area occupied in a transmit mask by the sinusoidal signal. Therefore, the communication method provided in the present application uses an OFDM symbol as a WPT signal, thereby improving the spectrum utilization rate.

Description

A communication method and apparatus

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410939411.0, filed on July 12, 2024, entitled "A Communication Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0004] Currently, wireless local area network (WLAN) applications based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 technology have been deployed in many fields, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and consumer electronics.

[0005] To reduce the deployment and maintenance costs of wireless fidelity (WiFi) IoT, the IEEE 802.11 working group is discussing an IoT device that supports energy harvesting. This new project is named the Ambient Power (AMP) project. This project introduces radio frequency (RF) wireless power transfer (WPT), using capacitors that support RF WPT to replace traditional batteries, thus addressing the bottleneck issues associated with traditional batteries.

[0006] The AMP project authorization request (PAR) currently plans to define a wireless power transfer method in the sub-1 GHz frequency band to provide wireless power to low-power nodes within a short range. Currently, different countries or regions design their own WPT signals based on their specific requirements (e.g., different requirements for the sub-1 GHz band, bandwidth, and transmission templates). These designs often use sinusoidal signals as the WPT signal. However, existing WLAN devices communicate based on orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) technology. Therefore, using sinusoidal signals as the WPT signal would prevent the reuse of existing OFDM hardware, requiring additional equipment and increasing costs. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This application provides a communication method and apparatus to reduce equipment costs and improve spectrum utilization.

[0008] Firstly, this application provides a communication method, which can be executed by a communication device or a module (such as a processor, processing unit, chip system, circuit, or chip) within the communication device. Optionally, the method can also be implemented by a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the communication device. Exemplarily, the following example illustrates the execution of the communication method by a communication device. The method may include the following steps: the communication device generates a first OFDM symbol; subsequently, the communication device can transmit the first OFDM symbol on a first bandwidth, wherein the first OFDM symbol includes Nwpt non-zero subcarriers on the first bandwidth, and the first bandwidth is the bandwidth configured in the area where the communication device is located for transmitting the first OFDM symbol.

[0009] In this method, OFDM symbols are constructed as WPT signals based on OFDM technology. This allows for the reuse of existing OFDM hardware without the need for additional equipment, thus reducing equipment costs and saving deployment costs and time, thereby improving communication efficiency. Furthermore, the mid-spectrum of OFDM symbols is relatively flat, while the spectrum of sinusoidal signals is sharper. This results in OFDM symbols occupying a larger area of ​​the transmission template compared to sinusoidal signals. Therefore, compared to existing solutions that use sinusoidal signals as WPT signals, the communication method provided in this application uses OFDM symbols as WPT signals, which helps improve spectrum utilization.

[0010] In one possible implementation, Nwpt is related to Ngi, the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing, where Ngi represents the number of guard interval subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing is determined based on N, which is used to represent the down-frequency factor or clock shift ratio.

[0011] In the above implementation, since Nwpt is related to Ngi, the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing, Nwpt can be flexibly adjusted (also known as dynamic adjustment). This allows for flexible adjustment of the OFDM symbol spectrum, helping to meet the requirements of different OFDM symbols (such as different transmission template requirements for OFDM symbols) and generating OFDM symbols that meet different requirements (such as different transmission template requirements), thereby improving the versatility of WPT signals. For example, Ngi can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs, the first bandwidth can also be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs (such as different regions requiring different bandwidths for transmitting OFDM symbols), and the subcarrier spacing can be flexibly varied according to N. This facilitates flexible adjustment of the number of non-zero subcarriers based on Ngi, the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing.

[0012] In one possible implementation, when N = 10, the set of indices for the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-3:2}, {-6:5}, {-1:0}, {-7:6}; or,

[0013] When N = 20, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-6:5}, {-12:11}, {-4:3}, {-15:14}; or,

[0014] When N = 50, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-16:15}, {-32:31}, {-39:38}, {-17:16}; or,

[0015] When N = 100, the index set of Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-32:31}, {-64:63}, {-35:34}, {-80:79}, {-37:36}, {-78:77};

[0016] Where N represents the down-clock factor or clock shift ratio.

[0017] In the above implementation, different down-frequency ratios (or clock conversion ratios) correspond to different sets of non-zero subcarrier indexes. This makes it easy to select the corresponding set of non-zero subcarrier indexes based on the actual down-frequency ratio (or clock conversion ratio), so as to accurately determine which non-zero subcarriers can be used for wireless power transmission. For example, these non-zero subcarriers are needed for subcarrier mapping in the process of generating OFDM symbols for WPT signals.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the set of indices Wwpt for Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is {Wsc-Wgi-Wdc};

[0019] Where Wsc = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, Wgi = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(-floor(Nsc / 2)+Ngi / 2-1),(floor(Nsc / 2)-Ngi / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, Wdc is an empty set or Wdc = {-floor((Ndc-1) / 2):floor((Ndc-1) / 2)}, Wsc represents the index set of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Wgi represents the index set of Ngi guard interval subcarriers, Wdc represents the index set of DC subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Nsc represents the number of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Ndc represents the number of DC subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, and floor represents rounding down.

[0020] In the above implementation, since the non-zero subcarrier index set Wwpt is related to Wsc, Wgi, and Wdc, Wwpt can be flexibly adjusted, which helps to generate OFDM symbols that meet different requirements (such as different transmission template requirements). For example, Wsc can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs (such as the different bandwidths required for transmitting OFDM symbols in different areas, allowing Wsc to be flexibly adjusted), Wgi can also be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs, and Wdc can also be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs. This facilitates the flexible adjustment of the non-zero subcarrier index set Wwpt based on Wsc, Wgi, and Wdc.

[0021] In one possible implementation, Nwpt = Nsc - Ngi - Ndc;

[0022] Where Nsc = ceil(B / △f), △f = 312.5kHz / N, B represents the first bandwidth, △f represents the subcarrier spacing, Ngi is an even number greater than or equal to 0, Ndc is 0 or an odd number greater than or equal to 1, and ceil represents rounding up.

[0023] In the above implementation, since Nwpt is determined by Nsc, Ngi, and Ndc, Nwpt can be flexibly adjusted, which also allows the spectrum of OFDM symbols to be flexibly adjusted. This helps to meet the requirements of different OFDM symbols (such as different transmission template requirements for OFDM symbols) and can generate OFDM symbols that meet different requirements (such as different transmission template requirements), thereby improving the versatility of WPT signals.

[0024] In one possible implementation, N = 20;

[0025] If B = 200kHz, then Nsc = 12, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 12, and the index set Wwpt of the 12 non-zero subcarriers is {-6:5}; or,

[0026] If B = 400kHz, then Nsc = 24, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 24, and the index set Wwpt of the 24 non-zero subcarriers is {-12:11}; or,

[0027] If B = 250kHz, then Nsc = 16, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 8, Nwpt = 8, and the index set Wwpt of the 8 non-zero subcarriers is {-4:3}; or,

[0028] If B = 500kHz, then Nsc = 32, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 2, Nwpt = 30, and the index set Wwpt of the 30 non-zero subcarriers is {-15:14}.

[0029] The above implementation describes the specific forms of Wwpt corresponding to different bandwidths when N=20. This makes it easier to determine which non-zero subcarriers are used for wireless power transmission based on the actual bandwidth when the down-frequency factor (or clock conversion ratio) is constant (e.g., N=20), so that the generated OFDM symbols meet the transmission template requirements corresponding to the actual bandwidth.

[0030] In one possible implementation, N = 50;

[0031] If B = 200kHz, then Nsc = 32, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 32, and the index set Wwpt of the 32 non-zero subcarriers is {-16:15}; or,

[0032] If B = 400kHz, then Nsc = 64, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 64, and the index set Wwpt of the 64 non-zero subcarriers is {-32:31}; or,

[0033] If B = 250kHz, then Nsc = 40, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 8, Nwpt = 32, and the index set Wwpt of the 32 non-zero subcarriers is {-16:15}; or,

[0034] If B = 500kHz, then Nsc = 80, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 2, Nwpt = 78, and the index set Wwpt of the 78 non-zero subcarriers is {-39:38}.

[0035] The above implementation describes the specific forms of Wwpt corresponding to different bandwidths when N=50. This makes it easier to determine which non-zero subcarriers are used for wireless power transmission based on the actual bandwidth when the down-frequency factor (or clock conversion ratio) is constant (e.g., N=50), so that the generated OFDM symbols meet the transmission template requirements corresponding to the actual bandwidth.

[0036] In one possible implementation, N = 100;

[0037] If B = 200kHz, then Nsc = 64, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 64, and the index set Wwpt of the 64 non-zero subcarriers is {-32:31}; or,

[0038] If B = 400kHz, then Nsc = 128, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 128, and the index set Wwpt of the 128 non-zero subcarriers is {-64:63}; or,

[0039] If B = 250kHz, then Nsc = 80, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 10, Nwpt = 70, and the index set Wwpt of the 70 non-zero subcarriers is {-35:34}; or,

[0040] If B = 500kHz, then Nsc = 160, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 160, and the index set Wwpt of the 160 non-zero subcarriers is {-80:79}.

[0041] The above implementation describes the specific forms of Wwpt corresponding to different bandwidths when N=100. This makes it easier to determine which non-zero subcarriers are used for wireless power transmission based on the actual bandwidth when the down-frequency factor (or clock conversion ratio) is constant (e.g., N=100), so that the generated OFDM symbols meet the transmission template requirements corresponding to the actual bandwidth.

[0042] In one possible implementation, N = 10;

[0043] If B = 200kHz, then Nsc = 6, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 6, and the index set Wwpt of the 6 non-zero subcarriers is {-3:2}; or,

[0044] If B = 400kHz, then Nsc = 12, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 12, and the index set Wwpt of the 12 non-zero subcarriers is {-6:5}; or,

[0045] If B = 250kHz, then Nsc = 8, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 6, Nwpt = 2, and the index set Wwpt of the two non-zero subcarriers is {-1:0}; or,

[0046] If B = 500kHz, then Nsc = 16, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 2, Nwpt = 14, and the index set Wwpt of the 14 non-zero subcarriers is {-7:6}.

[0047] The above implementation describes the specific forms of Wwpt corresponding to different bandwidths when N=10. This makes it easier to determine which non-zero subcarriers are used for wireless power transmission based on the actual bandwidth when the down-frequency factor (or clock conversion ratio) is constant (e.g., N=10), so that the generated OFDM symbols meet the transmission template requirements corresponding to the actual bandwidth.

[0048] In one possible implementation, N = 20;

[0049] If B = 200kHz, then Nsc = 12, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 12, and the index set Wwpt of the 12 non-zero subcarriers is {-6:5}; or,

[0050] If B = 400kHz, then Nsc = 24, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 24, and the index set Wwpt of the 24 non-zero subcarriers is {-12:11}; or,

[0051] If B = 250kHz, then Nsc = 16, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 4, Nwpt = 12, and the index set Wwpt of the 12 non-zero subcarriers is {-6:5}; or,

[0052] If B = 500kHz, then Nsc = 32, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 2, Nwpt = 30, and the index set Wwpt of the 30 non-zero subcarriers is {-15:14}.

[0053] The above implementation describes the specific forms of Wwpt corresponding to different bandwidths when N=20. This makes it easier to determine which non-zero subcarriers are used for wireless power transmission based on the actual bandwidth when the down-frequency factor (or clock conversion ratio) is constant (e.g., N=20), so that the generated OFDM symbols meet the transmission template requirements corresponding to the actual bandwidth.

[0054] In one possible implementation, N = 50;

[0055] If B = 200kHz, then Nsc = 32, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 32, and the index set Wwpt of the 32 non-zero subcarriers is {-16:15}; or,

[0056] If B = 400kHz, then Nsc = 64, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 64, and the index set Wwpt of the 64 non-zero subcarriers is {-32:31}; or,

[0057] If B = 250kHz, then Nsc = 40, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 6, Nwpt = 34, and the index set Wwpt of the 34 non-zero subcarriers is {-17:16}; or,

[0058] If B = 500kHz, then Nsc = 80, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 2, Nwpt = 78, and the index set Wwpt of the 78 non-zero subcarriers is {-39:38}.

[0059] The above implementation describes the specific forms of Wwpt corresponding to different bandwidths when N=50. This makes it easier to determine which non-zero subcarriers are used for wireless power transmission based on the actual bandwidth when the down-frequency factor (or clock conversion ratio) is constant (e.g., N=50), so that the generated OFDM symbols meet the transmission template requirements corresponding to the actual bandwidth.

[0060] In one possible implementation, N = 100;

[0061] If B = 200kHz, then Nsc = 64, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 64, and the index set Wwpt of the 64 non-zero subcarriers is {-32:31}; or,

[0062] If B = 400kHz, then Nsc = 128, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 128, and the index set Wwpt of the 128 non-zero subcarriers is {-64:63}; or,

[0063] If B = 250kHz, then Nsc = 80, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 6, Nwpt = 74, and the index set Wwpt of the 74 non-zero subcarriers is {-37:36}; or,

[0064] If B = 500kHz, then Nsc = 160, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 4, Nwpt = 156, and the index set Wwpt of the 156 non-zero subcarriers is {-78:77}.

[0065] The above implementation describes the specific forms of Wwpt corresponding to different bandwidths when N=100. This makes it easier to determine which non-zero subcarriers are used for wireless power transmission based on the actual bandwidth when the down-frequency factor (or clock conversion ratio) is constant (e.g., N=100), so that the generated OFDM symbols meet the transmission template requirements corresponding to the actual bandwidth.

[0066] Secondly, this application provides a communication device, which can be a communication equipment or a module within a communication equipment (such as a processor, processing unit, chip system, circuit, or chip). This communication device has the function of implementing any of the methods described in the first aspect. This function can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the aforementioned function.

[0067] Thirdly, this application provides a communication device that may include units or means for performing the various steps of any of the implementation methods in the first aspect described above. These units or means may be implemented in software, or in hardware, or hardware may execute corresponding software implementations.

[0068] Fourthly, this application provides a communication device that may include a processor and a transceiver (or interface circuit or communication interface). The processor is used to communicate with other devices via the transceiver and to execute the methods in any possible implementation of the first aspect described above. The transceiver is used to enable communication between the communication device and other devices, for example, to receive signals from other communication devices and transmit them to the processor, or to send signals from the processor of the communication device to other communication devices, such as the transmission or reception of data and / or signals. Exemplarily, the communication interface may be a transceiver, circuit, bus, module, or other type of communication interface.

[0069] Fifthly, this application provides a communication device that may include a processor and a memory. The memory may store necessary computer programs or instructions for implementing the functions described in the first aspect. The processor may execute the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, and when the computer programs or instructions are executed, cause the communication device to implement the methods in any possible implementation of the first aspect.

[0070] Sixthly, this application provides a communication device that may include a processor. The processor may be coupled to a memory. The memory may store necessary computer programs or instructions for implementing the functions described in the first aspect above. The processor may execute the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, and when the computer programs or instructions are executed, cause the communication device to implement the methods in any possible implementation of the first aspect above.

[0071] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a computer program product comprising a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a communication device (or computer), cause the communication device (or computer) to perform the method in any possible implementation of the first aspect described above.

[0072] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed by a communication device (or computer), cause the communication device (or computer) to perform the method in any possible implementation of the first aspect described above.

[0073] Ninthly, this application provides a chip that may include a processor and may also include a memory (or the chip may be coupled to the memory), the chip executing program instructions in the memory to cause the chip to perform the method in any possible implementation of the first aspect above. Here, "coupling" means that two components are directly or indirectly connected to each other, such as coupling can refer to an electrical connection between two components.

[0074] In a tenth aspect, this application also provides a chip system including a processor for supporting a computer device in implementing any of the possible implementations of the first aspect described above. In one possible implementation, the chip system further includes a memory for storing programs and data necessary for the computer device. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0075] Based on the implementation methods provided in the above aspects, this application can be further combined to provide more implementation methods. Attached Figure Description

[0076] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a WLAN network architecture provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0077] Figure 2 illustrates a flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0078] Figure 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of a possible communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0079] Figure 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of another possible communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0080] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0081] The following describes the network architecture to which the communication method provided in this application applies. It should be noted that this description is for the convenience of those skilled in the art and is not intended to limit the scope of protection claimed in this application.

[0082] The embodiments of this application can be applied to WLAN scenarios, for example, to IEEE 802.11 system standards, such as 802.11be, Wi-Fi 7, or Extremely High Throughput (EHT), 802.11bf, and next-generation standards of 802.11be, such as Wi-Fi 8 or even later. Alternatively, the embodiments of this application can also be applied to wireless local area network systems such as Internet of Things (IoT) networks or Vehicle-to-X (V2X) networks. Of course, the embodiments of this application can also be applied to other possible communication systems, such as worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) communication systems, 5G communication systems, and future communication systems.

[0083] The following example uses embodiments of this application applicable to WLAN scenarios. It should be understood that WLAN standards, starting with 802.11a / g, have evolved through 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, and the currently discussed 802.11be. 802.11n can also be called high throughput (HT); 802.11ac can also be called very high throughput (VHT); 802.11ax can also be called high efficiency (HE) or Wi-Fi 6; 802.11be can also be called EHT or Wi-Fi 7. Standards prior to HT, such as 802.11a / b / g, can be collectively referred to as non-high throughput (Non-HT).

[0084] Figure 1 illustrates a network architecture diagram of a WLAN to which this application is applicable. As shown in Figure 1, the network structure may include one or more access point (AP) type stations and one or more non-access point station (non-AP STA) stations. For ease of description, this application refers to access point type stations as access points (APs) and non-access point type stations as stations (STAs). Figure 1 illustrates an example of a network structure including one AP and six stations (STA 1, STA 2, STA 3, STA 4, STA 5, STA 6).

[0085] An access point can be a point of access for terminal devices (such as mobile phones) to enter a wired (or wireless) network. It is mainly deployed in homes, buildings, and campuses, with a typical coverage radius of tens to hundreds of meters. Of course, it can also be deployed outdoors. An access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, its main function being to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet. Specifically, an access point can be a terminal device (such as a mobile phone) or a network device (such as a router) with a WiFi chip. Access points can be devices supporting the 802.11bn standard, or they can be devices supporting various WLAN standards of the 802.11 family, such as 802.11be, 802.11ax, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b, and 802.11a. The access point in this application can be a VHT access point, an HE access point, or an EHT access point, or it can be an access point applicable to a future generation of WiFi standards.

[0086] The site can be a wireless communication chip, wireless sensor, or wireless communication terminal, and can also be referred to as a user. For example, the site can be a mobile phone supporting WiFi communication, a tablet computer supporting WiFi communication, a set-top box supporting WiFi communication, a smart TV supporting WiFi communication, a smart wearable device supporting WiFi communication, an in-vehicle communication device supporting WiFi communication, and a computer supporting WiFi communication, etc. Optionally, the site can support the 802.11bn standard, and can also support various WLAN standards of the 802.11 family, such as 802.11be, 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b, and 802.11a. The site in this application can be a VHT site, an HE site, or an EHT site, and can also be a site applicable to a future generation of WiFi standard.

[0087] For example, access points and sites can be devices used in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV), IoT nodes and sensors in the Internet of Things (IoT), smart cameras, smart remote controls, smart water and electricity meters in smart homes, and sensors in smart cities.

[0088] This application primarily uses an IEEE 802.11-based network as an example for illustration. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that the various aspects of this application can be extended to other networks employing various standards or protocols, such as Bluetooth, high-performance radio LAN (HIPERLAN), wide area networks (WAN), WLAN, personal area networks (PAN), or other networks now known or to be developed in the future. Therefore, regardless of the coverage area and wireless access protocol used, the various aspects provided in this application can be applied to any suitable wireless network.

[0089] To facilitate understanding of the contents of this application, the following explanations are provided for the nouns or terms used in this application.

[0090] (1) OFDM: It is a type of multi-carrier modulation (MCM). The main idea of ​​OFDM is to achieve high-speed parallel transmission of serial data through frequency division multiplexing. Therefore, it has good resistance to multipath fading and can support multi-user access. For example, the generation process of an OFDM symbol (also called an OFDM signal) includes: The transmitting device transforms the modulated symbol (i.e., the modulated data symbol) through Fourier transform (such as discrete Fourier transform (DFT) or fast Fourier transform (FFT)) to obtain a frequency domain sequence. The frequency domain sequence includes multiple frequency domain symbols. Then, the transmitting device maps the frequency domain sequence onto a set of orthogonal subcarriers and performs inverse Fourier transform (such as inverse discrete Fourier transform (IDFT) or inverse fast Fourier transformation (IFFT)) to obtain a time domain symbol (i.e., an OFDM symbol). Then, the transmitting device adds a cyclic prefix (CP) to the time domain symbol before transmitting it. Adding a CP (Concurrent Propagation) to the time-domain symbol can eliminate inter-symbol interference caused by multipath propagation. At the receiver, after appropriate processing steps, the original modulated symbol can be extracted from the OFDM symbol, thus reconstructing the transmitted data information. The most crucial operation in generating OFDM symbols is mapping the modulated data symbols onto different subcarriers. These subcarriers can carry data and are called non-zero subcarriers, or they can be empty and have a frequency domain value set to 0. By adjusting the number of non-zero subcarriers, the spectrum of the time-domain symbol can be adjusted to meet desired conditions, such as satisfying the transmit template (power spectral density (PSD) mask).

[0091] (2) WPT: Transmits electrical energy in space using electromagnetic fields or radio frequency signals without the need for traditional physical connections.

[0092] For example, in practical applications, a WPT system typically consists of two parts: a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter generates an electromagnetic field or radio frequency signal and transmits energy to the area where the receiver is located. The receiver, through a well-designed receiving antenna and rectifier circuit, extracts electrical energy from the signal transmitted by the transmitter to power devices or recharge batteries.

[0093] Currently, the technologies used in WPT include electromagnetic induction technology, electromagnetic resonance technology, and microwave power transmission technology.

[0094] Electromagnetic induction technology uses a changing magnetic field to induce current in a receiving coil. Specifically, the transmitter generates a changing magnetic field through one or more inductor coils, typically with a frequency between tens of kilohertz (kHz) and hundreds of kHz. This changing magnetic field induces an alternating voltage in the coil within the receiver. A rectifier circuit within the receiver converts this alternating voltage into direct current (DC) voltage, which is then used to charge devices or power other electronic devices. Electromagnetic induction technology is suitable for short-range and low-power devices, such as consumer electronics like smartphones, smartwatches, and headphones.

[0095] Electromagnetic resonance (EMR) technology improves energy transfer efficiency and distance by matching resonant circuits. In an EMR system, both the transmitter and receiver contain resonant circuits. The transmitter generates a high-frequency signal via a power source. When the receiver and transmitter are brought close together at the resonant frequency, energy transfer efficiency is significantly improved. This makes EMR technology suitable for medium-power applications, such as wireless charging for electric vehicles. By precisely adjusting the resonant frequency and parameters between the transmitter and receiver, efficient and safe energy transfer can be achieved while maintaining system stability and power efficiency.

[0096] Microwave power transfer technology uses high-frequency radio frequency signals to transmit energy. Microwave power transfer systems typically operate in the several GHz frequency band, enabling long-distance energy transmission and high transmission efficiency. Microwave power transfer technology is suitable for applications requiring long-distance transmission and high-power supply, such as wireless power supply for industrial equipment and power supply for remote sensors.

[0097] (3) Window function: This is an important concept in signal processing and data analysis. It is a mathematical function that typically weights or truncates a signal over a finite time period for use in areas such as spectrum analysis, filter design, and data window selection. Window functions usually weight signals in the time domain, which can improve the effectiveness of signal processing. Its name comes from its behavior in the time domain; it can be viewed as a function that is non-zero within a certain interval of the signal and zero within other intervals, similar to the effect of a window.

[0098] Currently, different countries and regions around the world design their own WPT signals based on their varying requirements (such as different requirements for the Sub-1 GHz band, bandwidth, and transmission template). This results in limited application scope and poor versatility for WPT signals. The channel bandwidth corresponding to the Sub-1 GHz band refers to the frequency points within that band being below 1 GHz; that is, one or more segments are extracted from the Sub-1 GHz band as the channel bandwidth. Furthermore, in WLAN scenarios, WLAN devices communicate based on OFDM technology. Therefore, using a sinusoidal signal as the WPT signal cannot reuse existing OFDM hardware, requiring additional equipment and increasing equipment costs.

[0099] Chapter 15.247 of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) stipulates that the bandwidth of the 902–928 MHz band shall not exceed 500 kHz and the transmission power shall not exceed 1 W.

[0100] The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China's "Provisions on the Application of 800 / 900MHz Band Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology (Trial)" stipulates that the specific frequencies for use of 800 / 900MHz band radio frequency identification (RFID) technology are 840-845MHz and 920-925MHz. The radio frequency specifications of the RFID technology radio transmitter in this frequency band are as follows: (1) Carrier frequency tolerance: 20×10-6; (2) Channel bandwidth and channel occupancy bandwidth (99% energy): 250kHz; (3) Channel center frequency: fc(MHz)=840.125+N×0.25 and fc(MHz)=920.125+M×0.25 (N and M are integers, with values ​​from 0 to 19); (4) Adjacent channel power leakage ratio: 40dB (first adjacent channel), 60dB (second adjacent channel); (5) Transmit power: 2W erp; (6) The working mode is frequency hopping spread spectrum mode, and the maximum dwell time of each frequency hopping channel is 2 seconds.

[0101] The European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) standard, "Harmonized Standard for Access to Radio Spectrum," stipulates that the 865-868MHz band has a bandwidth of 200kHz and a transmit power not exceeding 2W; the 915-921MHz band has a bandwidth of 400kHz and a transmit power not exceeding 4W.

[0102] In view of this, this application provides a communication method to reduce equipment costs and improve spectrum utilization.

[0103] The specific implementation of the communication method in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is understood that the methods or steps executed by the communication device in the following embodiments can also be executed by modules (such as processors, processing units, chip systems, circuits, or chips) in the communication device, or by logic nodes, logic modules, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the communication device. For example, the communication device can be the AP shown in Figure 1, or the communication device can be the STA shown in Figure 1.

[0104] Figure 2 illustrates a flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method is applicable to the network architecture shown in Figure 1. For ease of description, the method is described using a first communication device executing the communication method shown in Figure 2 as an example. The specific implementation process of this communication method may include:

[0105] S201: The first communication device generates the first OFDM symbol.

[0106] S202: The first communication device transmits a first OFDM symbol on a first bandwidth. Correspondingly, the second communication device receives the first OFDM symbol on the first bandwidth. For example, after receiving the first OFDM symbol on the first bandwidth, the second communication device can extract energy (also called electrical energy) from the first OFDM symbol. The second communication device can then use the extracted energy to power a corresponding device or to charge a battery.

[0107] The process of generating the first OFDM symbol by the first communication device is described below.

[0108] The first communication device can modulate the data sequence using a modulation method to obtain a modulation sequence. The modulation sequence includes Nwpt modulation symbols. Then, the first communication device can perform DFT processing on the modulation sequence to obtain a frequency domain sequence, which also includes Nwpt frequency domain symbols. Next, the first communication device can map the frequency domain sequence onto Nwpt non-zero subcarriers and perform IFFT processing to generate the first OFDM symbol.

[0109] The communication equipment operates in a frequency band less than 1 GHz, specifically Sub-1 GHz. The first bandwidth is the bandwidth (also called channel bandwidth) configured in the area where the communication equipment is located for transmitting the first OFDM symbol. The first OFDM symbol includes Nwpt non-zero subcarriers within the first bandwidth. For example, a non-zero subcarrier can refer to a subcarrier with a non-zero frequency domain value, capable of carrying data. In this embodiment, the non-zero subcarrier can be used for wireless charging transmission. It should be understood that the non-zero subcarrier is named based on its function; in practical applications, other names can be used instead, as long as the function reflected by the other name is the same as that reflected by the non-zero subcarrier. This embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0110] In this embodiment, the index set (also called the sequence number set) of Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is associated with N. Here, N represents the down-frequency factor or clock conversion ratio, and can be flexibly adjusted according to the actual application scenario or actual needs.

[0111] For example, the set of indices for Nwpt non-zero subcarriers related to N can mean that the set of indices for Nwpt subcarriers is determined based on N. The following examples illustrate the set of indices for Nwpt non-zero subcarriers.

[0112] Example 1: When N=10, the index set of Nwpt non-zero subcarriers can be any of the following sets: {-3:2}, {-6:5}, {-1:0}, {-7:6}.

[0113] Example 2: When N=20, the index set of Nwpt non-zero subcarriers can be any of the following sets: {-6:5}, {-12:11}, {-4:3}, {-15:14}.

[0114] Example 3: When N = 50, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-16:15}, {-32:31}, {-39:38}, {-17:16}.

[0115] Example 4: When N = 100, the set of indices of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-32:31}, {-64:63}, {-35:34}, {-80:79}, {-37:36}, {-78:77}.

[0116] It should be understood that the index set form {a:b} in Examples 1 to 4 above represents {a, a+1, a+2, ..., b-2, b-1, b}. That is, {a:b} can be understood as including a, a+1, a+2, ..., b-2, b-1, b. For example, consider the index set {-6:5} in Example 1 above. The index set {-6:5} includes -6, -5, -4, -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

[0117] For example, the modulation scheme used to generate the first OFDM symbol may include, but is not limited to: quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), binary phase shift keying (BPSK), offset quadrature phase shift keying (OQPSK), quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), etc.

[0118] For example, consider the index set {-3:2} in Example 1 above. The index set {-3:2} includes 3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2. Thus, the indices of the six non-zero subcarriers are 3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2. After modulating the data sequence to obtain six modulation symbols, the first communication device can perform DFT processing on the six modulation symbols to obtain six frequency domain symbols. Then, the first communication device can map the six frequency domain symbols onto the aforementioned six non-zero subcarriers (that is, map the six frequency domain symbols onto the six non-zero subcarriers with indices 3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2), and after performing IFFT processing, generate the first OFDM symbol. The meanings of other different index sets listed in this embodiment are the same as those explained in this example, and will not be repeated hereafter.

[0119] Optionally, in this embodiment, the index set Wwpt of the aforementioned Nwpt non-zero subcarriers can be determined by the following formula (1). It is understood that formula (1) or formula (2) are merely methods for confirming the index set of Nwpt non-zero subcarriers and do not constitute a limitation on the application of the final index set of Nwpt non-zero subcarriers to the symbol transmission (also known as signal transmission) process. Wwpt = {Wsc - Wgi - Wdc} Formula (1)

[0120] Where Wsc = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, Wgi = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(-floor(Nsc / 2)+Ngi / 2-1),(floor(Nsc / 2)-Ngi / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, and Wdc is an empty set or Wdc = {-floor((Ndc-1) / 2):floor((Ndc-1) / 2)}.

[0121] Where Wsc represents the set of indices of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Wgi represents the set of indices of guard interval (GI) subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Wdc represents the set of indices of direct current (DC) subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Nsc represents the number of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Ndc represents the number of DC subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, and floor represents rounding down. It is understood that DC subcarriers are usually located in the middle of all subcarriers. It is also understood that Nsc here may not be the same as the total number of subcarriers in the OFDM system. The total number of subcarriers in an OFDM system is usually a power of 2, for example, 2^32. p Where p is an integer greater than or equal to 1. For example, in the scheme provided in the embodiments of this application, under a certain down-frequency factor (or clock conversion ratio), the maximum number of available subcarriers among the available subcarriers determined by different bandwidths can be selected first, and then a value greater than or equal to the maximum number of available subcarriers can be used as p. In addition, the number of Fourier transform points (or the number of inverse Fourier transform points) can be a multiple of the total number of subcarriers, for example, the number of Fourier transform points = the total number of subcarriers * q, where q is an integer greater than or equal to 1.

[0122] For example, taking Wsc as an example. When Nsc = 20, Wsc = {-10, -9, -8, ..., -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, ..., 8, 9}.

[0123] For example, the Nsc mentioned above can be determined based on the first bandwidth and the subcarrier spacing. For example, Nsc = ceil(B / Δf). Wherein, the subcarrier spacing Δf = 312.5kHz / N. Here, Nsc represents the number of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, B represents the first bandwidth, and ceil represents rounding up.

[0124] In one example, Ndc can be 0. In another example, Ndc can be an odd number greater than or equal to 1, such as 1, 3, 5, 7, etc. The choice of an odd number for Ndc is to account for the symmetry of the spectrum.

[0125] For example, when Ndc = 0, Wdc is an empty set. When Ndc is an odd number greater than or equal to 1, Wdc = {-floor((Ndc-1) / 2):floor((Ndc-1) / 2)}. For instance, taking Ndc as 5, when Ndc = 5, then Wdc = {-floor((5-1) / 2):floor((5-1) / 2)} = {-2:2}. That is to say, the indices of the DC subcarriers included in Wdc are -2, -1, 0, 1, and 2 respectively.

[0126] In this embodiment, Nwpt is related to Ngi, the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing. Ngi represents the number of guard interval subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing is determined based on N. For example, a guard interval subcarrier can be a subcarrier with a frequency domain value of zero, which does not carry data. In this embodiment, guard interval subcarriers can be used to protect OFDM symbols and are generally distributed on both sides of the OFDM symbol. It is understood that for traditional WiFi OFDM symbols, several subcarriers on both sides (i.e., guard interval subcarriers) are generally not used for information transmission; their frequency domain value is set to 0 to separate two adjacent OFDM symbols, protecting the reception and decoding of the current OFDM symbol. For example, the number of guard interval subcarriers is generally set to an even number.

[0127] It should be understood that the guard interval subcarrier is named based on its function. In actual application scenarios, other names can also be used instead, as long as the function reflected by the other name is the same as the function reflected by the guard interval subcarrier. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0128] For example, the relationship between Nwpt and Ngi, the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing can mean that Nwpt is determined based on Ngi, the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing. In other words, Nwpt is determined based on Ngi, Nsc, and Ndc. For instance, with the same total number of subcarriers and the same number of Fourier transform points, determining the corresponding Nwpt and Wwpt for different Ngi and / or first bandwidth and / or subcarrier spacing helps meet the requirements of different transmission templates (or the needs of different application scenarios).

[0129] For example, Nwpt can be determined by the following formula (2). Nwpt = Nsc - Ngi - Ndc Formula (2)

[0130] Where Ngi is an even number greater than or equal to 0.

[0131] In one example, considering that the spectral sidelobes of existing OFDM symbols are difficult to reduce below -30dB, windowing (e.g., weighting or truncation) is required to meet certain scenario requirements (e.g., a minimum transmit template of -50dB or -60dB). For instance, after generating the first OFDM symbol, the first communication device can use a window function to window the first OFDM symbol. This limits the duration of the first OFDM symbol, thereby reducing spectral leakage and effectively lowering the spectral sidelobes. For example, window functions can include rectangular windows, Hanning windows, Hamming windows, Blackman windows, etc.

[0132] In another example, since there is no need to consider reducing the spectral sidelobes of the OFDM symbol to below -30dB, windowing of the OFDM symbol is not required. For example, after generating the first OFDM symbol, the first communication device can transmit the first OFDM symbol.

[0133] For example, let's take the application of a triangular window function to window OFDM symbols. Based on the above formulas (1) and (2), the following examples illustrate the specific implementation of determining non-zero subcarriers under different down-frequency factors and different bandwidths.

[0134] Example 1: When N=20, if B=200kHz, then Nsc=12, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=12, and the index set Wwpt of the 12 non-zero subcarriers is {-6:5}.

[0135] Example 2: When N=20, if B=400kHz, then Nsc=24, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=24, and the index set Wwpt of the 24 non-zero subcarriers is {-12:11}.

[0136] Example 3: When N=20, if B=250kHz, then Nsc=16, Ndc=0, Ngi=8, Nwpt=8, and the index set Wwpt of the 8 non-zero subcarriers is {-4:3}.

[0137] Example 4: When N=20, if B=500kHz, then Nsc=32, Ndc=0, Ngi=2, Nwpt=30, and the index set Wwpt of the 30 non-zero subcarriers is {-15:14}.

[0138] Example 5: When N=50, if B=200kHz, then Nsc=32, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=32, and the index set Wwpt of the 32 non-zero subcarriers is {-16:15}.

[0139] Example 6: When N=50, if B=400kHz, then Nsc=64, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=64, and the index set Wwpt of the 64 non-zero subcarriers is {-32:31}.

[0140] Example 7: When N=50, if B=250kHz, then Nsc=40, Ndc=0, Ngi=8, Nwpt=32, and the index set Wwpt of the 32 non-zero subcarriers is {-16:15}.

[0141] Example 8: When N=50, if B=500kHz, then Nsc=80, Ndc=0, Ngi=2, Nwpt=78, and the index set Wwpt of the 78 non-zero subcarriers is {-39:38}.

[0142] Example 9: When N=100, if B=200kHz, then Nsc=64, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=64, and the index set Wwpt of the 64 non-zero subcarriers is {-32:31}.

[0143] Example 10: When N=100, if B=400kHz, then Nsc=128, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=128, and the index set Wwpt of the 128 non-zero subcarriers is {-64:63}.

[0144] Example 11: When N=100, if B=250kHz, then Nsc=80, Ndc=0, Ngi=10, Nwpt=70, and the index set Wwpt of the 70 non-zero subcarriers is {-35:34}.

[0145] Example 12: When N=100, if B=500kHz, then Nsc=160, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=160, and the index set Wwpt of the 160 non-zero subcarriers is {-80:79}.

[0146] For example, the non-zero subcarriers determined based on Examples 1, 2, 5, 6, 9, and 10 above can comply with (or satisfy) the regulatory requirements of the European region (such as complying with the European region's transmission template requirements), which helps to improve spectrum utilization and avoid wasting bandwidth.

[0147] For example, the non-zero subcarriers determined based on Examples 3, 7, and 11 above can comply with the regulatory requirements of the Chinese region (such as the transmission template requirements of the Chinese region), which helps to improve spectrum utilization and avoid wasting bandwidth.

[0148] For example, let's take the windowing process of OFDM symbols using the Hanning window function as an example. Based on the above formulas (1) and (2), the following examples illustrate the specific implementation of determining non-zero subcarriers under different down-frequency factors and different bandwidths.

[0149] Example 1: When N=10, if B=200kHz, then Nsc=6, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=6, and the index set Wwpt of the 6 non-zero subcarriers is {-3:2}.

[0150] Example 2: When N=10, if B=400kHz, then Nsc=12, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=12, and the index set Wwpt of the 12 non-zero subcarriers is {-6:5}.

[0151] Example 3: When N=10, if B=250kHz, then Nsc=8, Ndc=0, Ngi=6, Nwpt=2, and the index set Wwpt of the two non-zero subcarriers is {-1:0}.

[0152] Example 4: When N=10, if B=500kHz, then Nsc=16, Ndc=0, Ngi=2, Nwpt=14, and the index set Wwpt of the 14 non-zero subcarriers is {-7:6}.

[0153] Example 5: When N=20, if B=200kHz, then Nsc=12, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=12, and the index set Wwpt of the 12 non-zero subcarriers is {-6:5}.

[0154] Example 6: When N=20, if B=400kHz, then Nsc=24, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=24, and the index set Wwpt of the 24 non-zero subcarriers is {-12:11}.

[0155] Example 7: When N=20, if B=250kHz, then Nsc=16, Ndc=0, Ngi=4, Nwpt=12, and the index set Wwpt of the 12 non-zero subcarriers is {-6:5}.

[0156] Example 8: When N=20, if B=500kHz, then Nsc=32, Ndc=0, Ngi=2, Nwpt=30, and the index set Wwpt of the 30 non-zero subcarriers is {-15:14}.

[0157] Example 9: When N=50, if B=200kHz, then Nsc=32, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=32, and the index set Wwpt of the 32 non-zero subcarriers is {-16:15}.

[0158] Example 10: When N=50, if B=400kHz, then Nsc=64, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=64, and the index set Wwpt of the 64 non-zero subcarriers is {-32:31}.

[0159] Example 11: When N=50, if B=250kHz, then Nsc=40, Ndc=0, Ngi=6, Nwpt=34, and the index set Wwpt of the 34 non-zero subcarriers is {-17:16}.

[0160] Example 12: When N=50, if B=500kHz, then Nsc=80, Ndc=0, Ngi=2, Nwpt=78, and the index set Wwpt of the 78 non-zero subcarriers is {-39:38}.

[0161] Example 13: When N=100, if B=200kHz, then Nsc=64, Ndc=0, Ngi=0, Nwpt=64, and the index set Wwpt of the 64 non-zero subcarriers is {-32:31}.

[0162] Example 14: When N = 100, if B = 400kHz, then Nsc = 128, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 0, Nwpt = 128, and the index set Wwpt of the 128 non-zero subcarriers is {-64:63}.

[0163] Example 15: When N=100, if B=250kHz, then Nsc=80, Ndc=0, Ngi=6, Nwpt=74, and the index set Wwpt of the 74 non-zero subcarriers is {-37:36}.

[0164] Example 16: When N = 100, if B = 500 kHz, then Nsc = 160, Ndc = 0, Ngi = 4, Nwpt = 156, and the index set Wwpt of the 156 non-zero subcarriers is {-78:77}.

[0165] For example, the non-zero subcarriers identified based on Examples 1, 2, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13, and 14 above can comply with the regulatory requirements of the European region (such as the transmission template requirements of the European region), which helps to improve spectrum utilization and avoid wasting bandwidth.

[0166] For example, the non-zero subcarriers determined based on Examples 3, 7, 11, and 15 above can comply with the regulatory requirements of the Chinese region (such as the transmission template requirements of the Chinese region), which helps to improve spectrum utilization and avoid wasting bandwidth.

[0167] As can be seen from steps 201 to 202 above, by constructing OFDM symbols as WPT signals based on OFDM technology, existing OFDM hardware can be reused without the need for additional equipment. This reduces equipment costs and saves on equipment deployment costs and time, thus improving communication efficiency. Furthermore, the mid-spectrum of OFDM symbols is relatively flat, while the spectrum of sinusoidal signals is sharper. This means that OFDM symbols occupy a larger area of ​​the transmission template compared to sinusoidal signals. Therefore, compared to existing solutions that use sinusoidal signals as WPT signals, the communication method provided in this application uses OFDM symbols as WPT signals, which helps improve spectrum utilization.

[0168] It is understood that, in order to achieve the functions in the above embodiments, the communication device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and method steps described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed in this application, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application scenario and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0169] Figures 3 and 4 are schematic diagrams illustrating possible communication devices provided in embodiments of this application. These communication devices can be used to implement the functions of the communication devices in the above method embodiments, and thus also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiments. In the embodiments of this application, the communication device can be a communication device, or it can be a module (such as a chip) applied to a communication device.

[0170] The communication device 300 shown in Figure 3 includes a processing unit 310 (or a processing module) and a transceiver unit 320 (or a communication module, used for sending and receiving data). The communication device 300 can be used to implement the functions of the communication device in the method embodiment shown in Figure 2. For example, the transceiver unit 320 can perform the receiving and sending actions performed by the communication device in the method embodiment. The processing unit 310 can perform other actions besides the sending and receiving actions performed by the communication device in the method embodiment.

[0171] When the communication device 300 is used to implement the function of the communication device in the method embodiment shown in FIG2 above: the processing unit 310 is used to generate a first OFDM symbol. The transceiver unit 320 is used to transmit the first OFDM symbol on a first bandwidth. The first OFDM symbol includes Nwpt non-zero subcarriers on the first bandwidth, and the first bandwidth is the bandwidth configured in the area where the communication device is located for transmitting the first OFDM symbol.

[0172] In one possible implementation, Nwpt is related to Ngi, the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing, where Ngi represents the number of guard interval subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing is determined based on N, which is used to represent the down-frequency factor or clock shift ratio.

[0173] In one possible implementation, when N = 10, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-3:2}, {-6:5}, {-1:0}, {-7:6}; or, when N = 20, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-6:5}, {-12:11}, {-4:3}, {-15:14}; or, when N = 50, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is... The index set is any one of the following sets: {-16:15}, {-32:31}, {-39:38}, {-17:16}; or, when N = 100, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-32:31}, {-64:63}, {-35:34}, {-80:79}, {-37:36}, {-78:77}; where N represents the down-frequency factor or clock shift ratio.

[0174] In one possible implementation, the set of indices for the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is {Wsc-Wgi-Wdc};

[0175] Where Wsc = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, Wgi = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(-floor(Nsc / 2)+Ngi / 2-1),(floor(Nsc / 2)-Ngi / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, Wdc is an empty set or Wdc = {-floor((Ndc-1) / 2):floor((Ndc-1) / 2)}, Wsc represents the index set of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Wgi represents the index set of Ngi guard interval subcarriers, Wdc represents the index set of DC subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Nsc represents the number of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Ndc represents the number of DC subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, and floor represents rounding down.

[0176] In one possible implementation, Nwpt = Nsc - Ngi - Ndc; where Nsc = ceil(B / Δf), Δf = 312.5kHz / N, B represents the first bandwidth, Δf represents the subcarrier spacing, Ngi is an even number greater than or equal to 0, Ndc is 0 or an odd number greater than or equal to 1, and ceil represents rounding up.

[0177] For a more detailed description of the processing unit 310 and the transceiver unit 320, please refer to the relevant description in the method embodiment shown in Figure 2 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0178] It should be understood that the transceiver unit 320 in the embodiments of this application can be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuit components, and the processing unit 310 can be implemented by a processor or processor-related circuit components.

[0179] It should be noted that the module division in the embodiments of this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, exist as separate physical entities, or have two or more units integrated into one unit. The integrated units described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional units.

[0180] If the integrated unit 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 solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. 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, or a server, etc.) or processor 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 a USB flash drive, a portable hard drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.

[0181] The communication device 400 shown in Figure 4 includes a processor 410. Optionally, the communication device 400 may also include at least one of a memory 420, a transceiver 430, and an antenna 440.

[0182] Transceiver 430 may be a transceiver unit, transceiver, or transceiver circuit, etc., used to implement transceiver functions. Transceiver 430 may include a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver may be a receiver or receiving circuit, etc., used to implement the receiving function; the transmitter may be a transmitter or transmitting circuit, etc., used to implement the transmitting function.

[0183] The memory 420 may store a computer program, software code, or instructions 450, which may also be referred to as firmware. The processor 410 can control the communication device 400 by running its own computer program, software code, or instructions 460, or by calling the computer program, software code, or instructions 450 stored in the memory 420, to implement the embodiments described above. The processor 410 may be a central processing unit (CPU), and the memory 420 may be a read-only memory (ROM) or a random access memory (RAM).

[0184] The processor 410 and transceiver 430 described in this application may be disposed on an integrated circuit (IC), analog IC, radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC), mixed signal IC, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), printed circuit board (PCB), or electronic device.

[0185] The modules included in the communication device 400 are merely illustrative examples, and this application does not impose any limitations on them.

[0186] When the communication device 400 is used to implement the above method embodiment, the processor 410 can implement the function of the processing unit 310, and the transceiver 430 can implement the function of the transceiver unit 320.

[0187] Based on the same concept, this application also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program or instructions that, when run on a communication device (or computer), cause the communication device (or computer) to perform the methods provided in the above embodiments.

[0188] Based on the same concept, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed by a communication device (or computer), cause the communication device (or computer) to perform the methods provided in the above embodiments.

[0189] The storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access. For example, but not limited to, a computer-readable medium can include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage media or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer.

[0190] Based on the same concept, embodiments of this application also provide a chip, which may include a processor and a memory (or the chip may be coupled to the memory). The processor executes program instructions in the memory to cause the chip to perform the methods provided in the above embodiments. Here, "coupling" means that two components are directly or indirectly connected to each other, such as coupling can refer to an electrical connection between two components.

[0191] Based on the same concept, embodiments of this application also provide a chip system, which includes a processor for supporting a computer device in implementing the functions involved in the communication device in the above embodiments. In one possible implementation, the chip system further includes a memory for storing necessary programs and data of the computer device. This chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0192] It is understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0193] The method steps in this application embodiment can be implemented in hardware or by a processor executing software instructions. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disks, portable hard disks, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Alternatively, the ASIC can reside in a communication device. Of course, the processor and storage medium can also exist as discrete components in the communication device.

[0194] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. A computer program is a set of instructions that directs each step of an action of an electronic computer or other device with message processing capabilities. It is typically written in a programming language and runs on a target architecture. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are performed, in whole or in part. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium can be volatile or non-volatile, or it can include both types of storage media.

[0195] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology 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.

[0196] In this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. In the textual description of this application, the character " / " generally indicates an "or" relationship between the preceding and following related objects; in the formulas of this application, the character " / " indicates a "division" relationship between the preceding and following related objects.

[0197] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers described above does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method, applicable to communication equipment or modules of communication equipment operating at frequencies less than 1 GHz, includes: Generate the first orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbol; Transmit the first OFDM symbol on the first bandwidth; The first OFDM symbol comprises Nwpt non-zero subcarriers over the first bandwidth, and the first bandwidth is the bandwidth configured in the area where the communication device is located for transmitting the first OFDM symbol.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The Nwpt is related to Ngi, the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing. Ngi represents the number of guard interval subcarriers included in the first bandwidth. The subcarrier spacing is determined based on N, which represents the down-frequency factor or clock conversion ratio.

3. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When N = 10, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-3:2}, {-6:5}, {-1:0}, {-7:6}; or, When N = 20, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-6:5}, {-12:11}, {-4:3}, {-15:14}; or, When N = 50, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-16:15}, {-32:31}, {-39:38}, {-17:16}; or, When N = 100, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-32:31}, {-64:63}, {-35:34}, {-80:79}, {-37:36}, {-78:77}; Wherein, N is used to represent the down-frequency factor or clock conversion ratio.

4. The method as described in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is {Wsc-Wgi-Wdc}; Where Wsc = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, Wgi = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(-floor(Nsc / 2)+Ngi / 2-1),(floor(Nsc / 2)-Ngi / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, Wdc is an empty set or Wdc = {-floor((Ndc-1) / 2):floor((Ndc-1) / 2)}, Wsc represents the index set of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Wgi represents the index set of Ngi guard interval subcarriers, Wdc represents the index set of DC subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Nsc represents the number of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Ndc represents the number of DC subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, and floor represents rounding down.

5. The method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, Nwpt = Nsc - Ngi - Ndc; Wherein, Nsc = ceil(B / Δf), Δf = 312.5kHz / N, B represents the first bandwidth, Δf represents the subcarrier spacing, Ngi is an even number greater than or equal to 0, Ndc is 0 or an odd number greater than or equal to 1, and ceil represents rounding up.

6. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes processing units and transceiver units; The processing unit is used to generate a first OFDM symbol; The transceiver unit is used to transmit the first OFDM symbol on the first bandwidth; The first OFDM symbol comprises Nwpt non-zero subcarriers over the first bandwidth, and the first bandwidth is the bandwidth configured in the area where the communication device is located for transmitting the first OFDM symbol.

7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The Nwpt is related to Ngi, the first bandwidth, and the subcarrier spacing. Ngi represents the number of guard interval subcarriers included in the first bandwidth. The subcarrier spacing is determined based on N, which represents the down-frequency factor or clock conversion ratio.

8. The apparatus as claimed in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, When N = 10, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-3:2}, {-6:5}, {-1:0}, {-7:6}; or, When N = 20, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-6:5}, {-12:11}, {-4:3}, {-15:14}; or, When N = 50, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-16:15}, {-32:31}, {-39:38}, {-17:16}; or, When N = 100, the index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is any one of the following sets: {-32:31}, {-64:63}, {-35:34}, {-80:79}, {-37:36}, {-78:77}; Wherein, N is used to represent the down-frequency factor or clock conversion ratio.

9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The index set of the Nwpt non-zero subcarriers is {Wsc-Wgi-Wdc}; Where Wsc = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, Wgi = {-floor(Nsc / 2):(-floor(Nsc / 2)+Ngi / 2-1),(floor(Nsc / 2)-Ngi / 2):(floor(Nsc / 2)-1)}, Wdc is an empty set or Wdc = {-floor((Ndc-1) / 2):floor((Ndc-1) / 2)}, Wsc represents the index set of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Wgi represents the index set of Ngi guard interval subcarriers, Wdc represents the index set of DC subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Nsc represents the number of available subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, Ndc represents the number of DC subcarriers included in the first bandwidth, and floor represents rounding down.

10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, Nwpt = Nsc - Ngi - Ndc; Wherein, Nsc = ceil(B / Δf), Δf = 312.5kHz / N, B represents the first bandwidth, Δf represents the subcarrier spacing, Ngi is an even number greater than or equal to 0, Ndc is 0 or an odd number greater than or equal to 1, and ceil represents rounding up.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, Including processor and memory; The memory is used to store computer programs; The processor is configured to execute a computer program in the memory such that the method described in any one of claims 1-5 is implemented.

12. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed by a communication device, cause the method described in any one of claims 1-5 to be implemented.

13. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the method described in any one of claims 1-5 to be implemented.

14. A chip, characterized in that, The chip includes a processor coupled to a memory, the processor being configured to execute program instructions stored in the memory such that the method described in any one of claims 1-5 is implemented.

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