Communication method, apparatus and device, and medium and program product

Abstract

The present application belongs to the field of wireless communications. Disclosed are a communication method, apparatus and device, and a medium and a program product. The method is executed by means of a first station, and comprises: sending a first frame to a second station, wherein the first frame is used for sharing a transmission opportunity with the second station and / or triggering the second station to execute NPCA.

Description

Communication methods, devices, equipment, media and software products Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wireless communication, and in particular to a communication method, apparatus, device, medium, and program product. Background Technology

[0002] If a site has a transmission requirement but the main channel is busy or there is interference, the site can only wait for the main channel to become idle or for the access point to schedule the transmission before it can transmit, which will result in low system transmission efficiency.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method, apparatus, device, medium, and program product, the technical solution of which includes at least:

[0005] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a communication method is provided, the method being performed by a first station, the method comprising:

[0006] Send a first frame to the second station. The first frame is used to share a Transmission Opportunity (TXOP) with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform Non-Primary Channel Access (NPCA).

[0007] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a communication method is provided, the method being performed by a second station, the method comprising:

[0008] Receive a first frame, which is used to share a transmission opportunity with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform NPCA.

[0009] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a communication device is provided, the device comprising:

[0010] The sending module is used to send a first frame to the second station, the first frame being used to share a transmission opportunity with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform NPCA.

[0011] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a communication device is provided, the device comprising:

[0012] The receiving module is used to receive a first frame, which is used to share a transmission opportunity with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform NPCA.

[0013] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a communication device is provided, the communication device comprising: a processor; a transceiver connected to the processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to load and execute the executable instructions to implement the communication methods as described in the foregoing aspects.

[0014] According to another aspect of the embodiments of this application, a communication device is provided, the communication device comprising: a receiver; the communication device is configured to implement the communication methods as described in the foregoing aspects.

[0015] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores at least one program that is loaded and executed by a processor to implement the communication methods as described in the foregoing aspects.

[0016] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a computer program product or computer program is provided, the computer program product or computer program including computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium, a processor retrieving the computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium, and the processor executing the computer instructions to implement the communication methods as described in the above aspects.

[0017] According to one aspect of the embodiments of this application, a chip is provided, the chip including a programmable logic circuit and / or at least a program, the chip being used to implement the communication methods as described in the foregoing aspects based on the programmable logic circuit and / or the at least a program.

[0018] The technical solutions provided in this application embodiment may include the following beneficial effects:

[0019] The system supports the first station sharing TXOP with the second station via the first frame and / or triggering the second station to switch from the primary channel to a non-primary channel for transmission. When the primary channel is insufficient to meet the transmission needs between the first and second stations, the system supports transmission between the first and second stations via interference-free non-primary channels to improve communication reliability, spectrum utilization, and system throughput. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a wireless communication system provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a subband switching operation provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 3 illustrates a schematic diagram of secondary channel access provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of secondary channel access provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 5 illustrates a schematic diagram of secondary channel access provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 6 illustrates a schematic diagram of reverse transmission provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 7 illustrates a schematic diagram of TXOP sharing provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 8 shows a flowchart of a communication method provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 9 shows a flowchart of a communication method provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 10 shows a flowchart of a communication method provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 11 shows a flowchart of a communication method provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 12 shows a schematic diagram of the format of the first frame provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 13 shows a schematic diagram of the format of the first frame provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 14 shows a schematic diagram of the format of the first frame provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 15 shows a schematic diagram of the format of the second frame provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 16 shows a schematic diagram of the format of a BA frame provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 17 illustrates a frame format diagram containing NPCA capability elements provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 18 shows a schematic diagram of a communication method for switching working channels provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 19 shows a schematic diagram of a communication method for switching working channels provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 20 shows a schematic diagram of a communication method for switching working channels provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 21 shows a schematic diagram of a communication method for switching working channels provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 22 shows a schematic diagram of a communication method for switching working channels provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 23 illustrates a schematic diagram of a communication method for switching working channels provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 24 illustrates a schematic diagram of a communication method for switching working channels provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 25 shows a schematic diagram of a communication method for switching working channels provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 26 illustrates a schematic diagram of a communication method for switching working channels provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 27 shows a structural block diagram of a communication device provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 28 shows a structural block diagram of a communication device provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 29 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Exemplary embodiments will be described in detail here, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description refers to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0051] The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes any or all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0052] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used in this application to describe various information, this information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from one another. For example, without departing from the scope of this application, first information may also be referred to as second information, and similarly, second information may also be referred to as first information. Depending on the context, the word "if" as used herein can be interpreted as "in the case of," "when," or "in response to determination." In this specification, when expressing the meaning of Boolean values, "0" is expressed as "first meaning" and "1" as "second meaning." Without loss of generality, those skilled in the art will understand that the meanings they represent can be interchanged, i.e., "1" represents "first meaning" and "0" represents "second meaning."

[0053] It should be understood that the format, name, and value of the frames / elements / fields involved in the various embodiments of this application are merely examples and do not imply any limitation on the format, name, and value of the frames / elements / fields. In different embodiments or designs, it is possible that one or more of the aforementioned element / field names, their positions in the frame, their arrangement order with other elements / fields, the number of bytes occupied, or the number of bits occupied may change. Similarly, in different embodiments or designs, it is possible that one or more of the aforementioned frame names, included elements / fields, the number of bytes occupied, or the number of bits occupied may change.

[0054] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a wireless communication system 100 provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The wireless communication system 100 includes stations (STAs) and other devices. In this application, STAs include access point STAs (AP STAs) and / or non-access point STAs (non-AP STAs), where an AP STA can be simply referred to as an AP. Communication between STAs can be implemented as communication between an AP and a non-AP STA, communication between two non-AP STAs, or communication between a STA and a peer STA. A peer STA refers to a device communicating with another STA; a peer STA may be an AP or a non-AP STA. Figure 1 illustrates this using an example of a wireless communication system 100 including an AP 110 and a non-AP STA 120.

[0055] The AP 110 is a device deployed in a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) / Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) system to provide wireless communication capabilities to STAs (Stations). The AP 110 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. The AP 110 can be a terminal device or network device (such as a router) with a WLAN / Wi-Fi chip.

[0056] In some embodiments, AP 110 can be a device that supports various current and future Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 family of WLAN standards, including 802.11be, 802.11bn, 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b, and 802.11a. AP 110 can also be used in network environments that support next-generation WLAN systems / next-generation Wi-Fi communications.

[0057] The non-AP STA 120 can be a wireless communication device that supports WLAN / Wi-Fi technology, such as a wireless communication device with a WLAN / Wi-Fi chip.

[0058] In some embodiments, the non-AP STA 120 can be a device that supports various current and future IEEE 802.11 family of WLAN standards, including 802.11be, 802.11bn, 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b, and 802.11a. The non-AP STA 120 can also be used in network environments that support next-generation WLAN systems / next-generation Wi-Fi communication.

[0059] In this embodiment, the next-generation WLAN system is an evolution of the 802.11be system and is backward compatible with the 802.11be system. Next-generation Wi-Fi communication refers to any new generation of Wi-Fi communication after Wi-Fi 7 based on the 802.11be specification, such as Ultra High Reliability (UHR) communication.

[0060] In some embodiments, both AP 110 and non-AP STA 120 support the IEEE 802.11 protocol, but are not limited to the IEEE 802.11 protocol.

[0061] It's understandable that the role of a STA in wireless communication is not absolute. For example, when phone A is connected to a router, phone A is a non-AP STA, but when phone A acts as a hotspot for phone B, phone A acts as an AP.

[0062] In this application embodiment, the STA can be a device with wireless transceiver capabilities, such as one that supports the 802.11 series of protocols and can communicate with the AP or other STAs. For example, an STA is any user communication device that allows users to communicate with the AP and thus with the WLAN. STAs can be, for example, user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device, etc.

[0063] In this application embodiment, the STA can also be a device that provides voice / data / image connectivity to the user, such as a handheld device, vehicle device, home device, home appliance, gaming device, etc., with wireless connection function or equipped with a wireless communication module. Examples include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving vehicles, drones or aerial photography equipment, wireless terminals in remote medical surgery, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, cellular phones, cordless phones, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phones, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices with wireless communication capabilities, other processing devices connected to wireless modems, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, terminal devices in 5G networks, and Beyond 5G. Terminal devices in 5G (B5G) networks, terminal devices in 6G networks, and terminal devices in future evolved Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs) can also be televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, kitchen appliances, door locks, fish tanks, robot vacuum cleaners, game consoles, cameras / camcorders, sensors, etc. with wireless connectivity. This application embodiment is not limited to these.

[0064] By way of example and not limitation, the STA in the embodiments of this application can also be a wearable device. Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that apply wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Examples include smartwatches or smart glasses, as well as devices that focus on a specific type of application function and need to be used in conjunction with other devices such as smartphones, such as various smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0065] Furthermore, the STA in this application embodiment can also be a terminal device in an Internet of Things (IoT) system. IoT is an important component of future information technology development, and its main technical feature is connecting objects to networks through communication technologies, thereby realizing an intelligent network of human-machine interconnection and object-to-object interconnection. In this application embodiment, IoT technology can achieve massive connectivity, deep coverage, and terminal power saving through technologies such as narrowband (NB).

[0066] Furthermore, the STA in this application embodiment can also be an in-vehicle communication device in a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) system or the vehicle itself. The communication methods in a V2X system are collectively referred to as V2X (where X represents anything). For example, V2X communication includes: vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication, vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P) communication, or vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication, etc.

[0067] In some embodiments, the frequency bands supported by the wireless communication system 100 include, but are not limited to: millimeter wave (mmWave) bands (such as 45GHz, 60GHz, etc., which belong to the 30-300GHz range) and low-frequency bands. Among them, low-frequency bands include Sub-7GHz bands (such as 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz, etc., which belong to the 1-7.25GHz range).

[0068] In some embodiments, there are one or more links between AP 110 and non-AP STA 120.

[0069] In some embodiments, multi-band communication is supported between AP 110 and non-AP STA 120. For example, communication can occur simultaneously on one or more frequency bands such as 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz, 45 GHz, and 60 GHz. Alternatively, communication can occur simultaneously on different channels within the same frequency band or on different channels within different frequency bands. Multi-band communication can improve communication throughput and / or reliability between devices. Such a device supporting multi-band communication can be considered to have multi-link operation (MLO) capability and is commonly referred to as a multi-band device or multi-link device (MLD), sometimes also called a multi-band entity or multi-link entity. In other words, an MLD is an entity or device that supports communication with other MLD entities using multiple wireless links.

[0070] An AP MLD can include one or more APs; that is, an AP MLD's associated STAs include one or more APs. A non-AP MLD can include one or more non-AP STAs; that is, a non-AP MLD's associated STAs include one or more non-AP STAs. One or more links can be formed between AP MLDs and non-AP MLDs, allowing communication between APs associated with an AP MLD and between non-AP STAs associated with a non-AP MLD. One or more peer-to-peer (P2P) links can also be formed between non-AP MLDs, allowing communication between non-AP STAs associated with two different non-AP MLDs. Similarly, one or more P2P links can be formed between AP MLDs, allowing communication between APs associated with two different AP MLDs.

[0071] A Basic Service Set (BSS) is the fundamental topology in WLAN / Wi-Fi communication. The communication devices constituting a BSS include one Access Point (AP) and several non-AP STAs (Standard Target Units). After joining the AP's radio domain, each non-AP STA establishes an association with the AP. Associated non-AP STAs and the AP can transmit data together, and non-AP STAs within the same BSS can exchange data with each other through the AP.

[0072] In this application, the primary channel refers to the channel shared by all member stations in the basic service set (BSS). For example, in a BSS corresponding to 20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz, 80+80MHz, or 320MHz, the primary channel is a primary 20MHz channel.

[0073] Nonprimary channel: refers to any 20MHz channel other than the primary 20MHz channel in a 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz, 80+80MHz, or 320MHz basic service set (BSS).

[0074] Primary 20MHz Channel: This refers to the 20MHz channel used to transmit 20MHz Physical Layer Protocol Data Units (PPDUs) within a 20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz, 80+80MHz, or 320MHz basic service set (BSS).

[0075] Primary 40MHz Channel: This refers to the 40MHz channel used to transmit 40MHz physical layer (PHY) protocol data units (PPDUs) in an 80MHz, 160MHz, 80+80MHz, or 320MHz basic service set (BSS).

[0076] Primary 80MHz Channel: In a 160MHz, 80+80MHz, or 320MHz basic service set (BSS), the 80MHz channel that is used to transmit 80MHz physical layer (PHY) protocol data units (PPDUs).

[0077] Primary 160MHz Channel: In a 320MHz basic service set (BSS), the 160MHz channel that contains the primary 20MHz channel.

[0078] Optionally, the aforementioned main 20MHz channel, main 40MHz channel, main 80MHz channel, and main 160MHz channel can be collectively referred to as the main channel.

[0079] A secondary channel is a channel associated with a primary channel used to create a channel wider than the primary channel. In a 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz, 80+80MHz, or 320MHz basic service set (BSS), the secondary channel is a secondary 20MHz channel.

[0080] Secondary 20MHz Channel: In a 40MHz BSS, the 20MHz channel adjacent to the primary 20MHz channel together forms the 40MHz channel corresponding to the 40MHz very high throughput basic service set. In an 80MHz BSS, the 20MHz channel adjacent to the primary 20MHz channel together forms the primary 40MHz channel corresponding to the 80MHz basic service set. In a 160MHz or 80+80MHz BSS, the 20MHz channel adjacent to the primary 20MHz channel together forms the primary 40MHz channel corresponding to the 160MHz or 80+80MHz basic service set. In a 320MHz BSS, the 20MHz channel adjacent to the primary 20MHz channel together forms the primary 40MHz channel of the 40MHz BSS. In an 80MHz BSS, the 20MHz channel adjacent to the primary 20MHz channel together forms the primary 40MHz channel of the 80MHz BSS. In a 160MHz or 80+80MHz BSS, the 20MHz channel adjacent to the primary 20MHz channel together forms the primary 40MHz channel of the 160MHz or 80+80MHz BSS. In a 320MHz BSS, the 20MHz channel adjacent to the primary 20MHz channel together forms the primary 40MHz channel of the 320MHz BSS.

[0081] Secondary 40MHz Channel: In an 80MHz BSS, the 40MHz channel adjacent to the primary 40MHz channel together forms the 80MHz channel corresponding to the 80MHz basic service set. In a 160MHz or 80+80MHz BSS, the 40MHz channel adjacent to the primary 40MHz channel together forms the primary 80MHz channel. In an 80MHz basic service set (BSS), the 40MHz channel adjacent to the primary 40MHz channel that together form the 80MHz channel of the 80MHz BSS. In a 160MHz or 80+80MHz BSS, the 40MHz channel adjacent to the primary 40MHz channel that together form the primary 80MHz channel.In an 320MHz basic service set, the 40MHz channel adjacent to the primary 40MHz channel that together form the 80MHz channel of the 320MHz BSS).

[0082] Secondary 80MHz Channel: In a 160MHz or 80+80MHz BSS, the 80MHz channel excluding the primary 20MHz channel, together with the primary 80MHz channel, forms the 160MHz or 80+80MHz channel corresponding to the 160MHz or 80+80MHz basic service set. In a 320MHz BSS, the 80MHz channel adjacent to the primary 80MHz channel, together they form the primary 160MHz channel.

[0083] Secondary 160MHz Channel: In a 320MHz BSS, the 160MHz channel, excluding the primary 20MHz channel, together with the primary 160MHz channel, forms the 320MHz channel of the 320MHz BSS.

[0084] Optionally, the aforementioned secondary 20MHz channel, secondary 40MHz channel, secondary 80MHz channel, and secondary 160MHz channel can all be referred to as secondary channels.

[0085] Sub-channel: In the embodiments of this application, a sub-channel can be understood as a smaller bandwidth channel within a larger bandwidth channel. For example, suppose a larger bandwidth channel is a channel with a bandwidth of 80MHz. Optionally, this 80MHz channel can be divided into four smaller bandwidth 20MHz channels, then each smaller bandwidth channel is a sub-20MHz channel. Optionally, the channel corresponding to the 80MHz channel can also be divided into two smaller bandwidth channels corresponding to 40MHz, then each smaller bandwidth channel is a sub-40MHz channel.

[0086] Operating Channel: This refers to the channel used to transmit beacon frames. The operating channel can be a collection of multiple sub-channels used by the site during operation. Specific examples include 20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz, or 320MHz operating channels.

[0087] Operating Channel Width: This refers to the channel width in which the station (STA) is currently able to receive signals. Specific examples include 20MHz, 40MHz, 80MHz, 160MHz, or 320MHz.

[0088] • Regarding Multi-User Request-to-Send / Clear-to-Send (MU-RTS / CTS):

[0089] An AP can use a MU-RTS trigger frame as the first frame of a transmission to initiate simultaneous transmission with multiple STAs. The target STA receiving the trigger frame responds with a CTS frame on the resource element indicated by the trigger frame. The resource element indicated by the trigger frame specifically instructs the STA to transmit a CTS frame on the primary 20MHz, primary 40MHz, primary 80MHz, primary 160MHz, 80+80MHz, or 320MHz channel.

[0090] MU-RTS Trigger / CTS Frame Exchange Sequence Procedure:

[0091] In each 20MHz channel occupied by a PPDU containing a MU-RTS trigger frame, the transmitter of the MU-RTS trigger frame shall request at least one non-AP STA to transmit a CTS frame occupying the 20MHz channel. The transmitter of the MU-RTS trigger frame shall not request a non-AP STA to transmit a CTS frame on a 20MHz channel not occupied by a PPDU containing a MU-RTS trigger frame.

[0092] MU-RTS trigger frames must not be carried by Very High Throughput (VHT) MU PPDUs or High Efficiency (HE) MU PPDUs.

[0093] If a non-AP STA receives a MU-RTS trigger frame, it should begin CTS frame transmission at the Short Interframe Space (SIFS) time boundary after the received PPDU ends, provided all of the following conditions are met:

[0094] The MU-RTS trigger frame has a user information field pointing to the non-AP STA. If the AID12 subfield equals the 12 least significant bits (LSB) of the STA's AID, and the MU-RTS trigger frame is sent by the AP associated with the non-AP STA, or if the MU-RTS trigger frame is sent by the AP corresponding to the transmitted BSSID, and if the non-AP STA is associated with the AP corresponding to an untransmitted BSSID, and indicates support for receiving control frames with the TA field set to the transmitted BSSID by setting the Rx control frame to the multi-BSS subfield to 1 in the HE capability element transmitted by the non-AP STA.

[0095] -UL MUCS condition indicates that the medium is in an idle state.

[0096] Otherwise, non-AP STAs must not send CTS frames.

[0097] (In each 20MHz channel occupied by the PPDU that contains an MU-RTS Trigger frame,the transmitter of the MU-RTS Trigger frame shall request at least one non-AP STA to send a CTS frame that occupies the 20MHz channel.The transmitter of an MU-RTS Trigger frame shall not request a non-AP STA to send a CTS frame in a 20MHz channel that is not occupied by the PPDU that contains the MU-RTS Trigger frame.

[0098] An MU-RTS Trigger frame shall not be carried in a VHT MU PPDU or an HE MU PPDU.

[0099] If a non-AP STA receives an MU-RTS Trigger frame,the non-AP STA shall commence the transmission of a CTS frame at the SIFS time boundary after the end of a received PPDU when all the following conditions are met:

[0100] -The MU-RTS Trigger frame has one of the User Info fields addressed to the non-AP STA.The User Info field is addressed to a non-AP STA if the AID12 subfield is equal to the 12LSBs of the AID of the STA and the MU-RTS Trigger frame is sent by the AP with which the non-AP STA is associated or by the AP corresponding to the transmitted BSSID if the non-AP STA is associated with an AP corresponding to a nontransmitted BSSID and has indicated support for receiving Control frames with TA field set to the transmitted BSSID by setting the Rx Control Frame To MultiBSS subfield to 1in the HE Capabilities element that the non-AP STA transmits.

[0101] -The UL MUCS condition indicates that the medium is idle.

[0102] Otherwise,the non-AP STA shall not send a CTS frame.)

[0103] The response CTS frame to the MU-RTS trigger frame should be transmitted via a non-HT or non-HT duplicate PPDU at a rate of 6 Mb / s, with the TXVECTOR parameter SCRAMBLER_INITIAL_VALUE set to the same value as the RXVECTOR parameter SCRAMBLER_INITIAL_VALUE of the PPDU carrying the MU-RTS trigger frame. The PPDU carrying the CTS frame should be transmitted on the 20 MHz channel indicated in the RU allocation subfield of the user information field of the MU-RTS trigger frame.

[0104] (The CTS frame sent in response to an MU-RTS Trigger frame shall be carried in a non-HT or non-HT duplicate PPDU with a 6Mb / s rate and with the TXVECTOR parameter SCRAMBLER_INITIAL_VALUE set to the same value as the RXVECTOR parameter SCRAMBLER_INITIAL_VALUE of the PPDU carrying the MU-RTS Trigger frame.The PPDU carrying the CTS frame shall be transmitted on the 20MHz channels indicated in the RU Allocation subfield of the User Info field of the MU-RTS Trigger frame.)

[0105] The format of the MU-RTS trigger frame is as follows:

[0106] The Resource Unit Allocation (RU Allocation) subfield in the User Info field addressed to the STA indicates whether the CTS frame is transmitted on the primary 20MHz channel, primary 40MHz channel, primary 80MHz channel, 160MHz channel, or 80+80MHz channel.

[0107] The RU Allocation subfield bit B0 is set to 0 to indicate the primary 20MHz channel, primary 40MHz channel, and primary 80MHz channel. For 160MHz and 80+80MHz indications, B0 is set to 1. Non-AP STAs ignore B0 for 160MHz and 80+80MHz indications.

[0108] Bits B7–B1 of the RU Allocation subfield are set to the following values ​​to indicate the primary 20MHz channel:

[0109] -61. If the primary 20MHz channel is the only 20MHz channel or the lowest frequency 20MHz channel in the primary 40MHz channel or primary 80MHz channel;

[0110] -62, if the primary 20MHz channel is the second lowest frequency 20MHz channel in the primary 40MHz channel or primary 80MHz channel;

[0111] -63. If the primary 20MHz channel is the third lowest frequency 20MHz channel in the primary 80MHz channel.

[0112] -64, if the primary 20MHz channel is the fourth lowest frequency 20MHz channel in the primary 80MHz channel.

[0113] Bits B7–B1 of the RU Allocation subfield are set to the following values ​​to indicate the primary 40MHz channel:

[0114] -65, if the primary 40MHz channel is the only 40MHz channel or the lowest frequency 40MHz channel in the primary 80MHz channel;

[0115] -66, if the primary 40MHz channel is the second lowest frequency 40MHz channel in the primary 80MHz channel;

[0116] The RU Allocation subfield bits B7–B1 are set to 67 to indicate the primary 80MHz channel.

[0117] The RU Allocation subfield bits B7–B1 are set to 68 to indicate the primary and secondary 80MHz channels.

[0118] The IEEE 802.11 series of standards specifies the following rules for secondary channel usage: If the primary channel's CCA detection is idle, the secondary channel's CCA result for the Priority Interframe Space (PIFS) will be checked. If the secondary channel is also idle, it can be used together with the primary channel. If the primary channel's CCA detection is busy, the secondary channel cannot be used independently, as this would waste its frequency domain resources.

[0119] To address the problem of severe waste of secondary channel frequency resources caused by devices being unable to use secondary channels for transmission when the primary channel is busy, several mechanisms have been proposed.

[0120] For example, the Subchannel Selective Transmission (SST) mechanism: The STA selects the optimal 1MHz, 2MHz, 4MHz, 8MHz, or 16MHz channel to communicate with the AP below 1GHz (Sub-1-GHz, S1G), avoiding some fading channels. The differences between HE SST in 802.11ax and SST in 802.11ah are as follows:

[0121] • The HE STA and HE AP establish an SST operation by negotiating a trigger-enabled target wake time (Trigger-enabled TWT);

[0122] • HE STA and HE AP follow the rules of individual TWT agreements during the Trigger-enabled TWT Service Period.

[0123] Although the SST mechanism supports HE STAs operating independently on the secondary channel, it is limited to Trigger-enabled TWT SPs.

[0124] For example, when the main channel is busy, the station performs CCA on other channels on the operating bandwidth and transmits on the channel on which the complete CCA was successfully performed.

[0125] Option 1: After determining that the primary channel is busy, a device begins to perform a full CCA on another channel.

[0126] For example, it is suitable for devices that do not support performing a full CCA in parallel on multiple channels.

[0127] • This sequential CCA will delay the acquisition of access to idle non-master channels.

[0128] Option 2: A device performs a full CCA in parallel on multiple channels across its operating bandwidth, including the primary channel. If the primary channel is busy, the CCA continues to be performed on the other channels.

[0129] This applies to devices that support the parallel execution of a full CCA across multiple channels.

[0130] • Reduce access latency to non-primary channels.

[0131] For any option, when the primary channel is busy, the device completes a full CCA on any non-primary channel:

[0132] If the channel set for which a complete CCA has been completed is part of an 802.11 bonded channel set, then PIFS CCA is performed on the remaining channels, and transmission is carried out on the channels that are idle during the PIFS time.

[0133] If the channel set that has completed a full CCA is not part of the 802.11 bonded channel set, then transmission only occurs on channels that have completed a full CCA at the same time or approximately at the same time (e.g., using self-delay-aligned channels for transmission).

[0134] Transmissions on any non-primary channel should end at the same time as the busy state on the primary channel. This is possible when the PPDU length and / or NAV information for the busy primary channel sub-channel are known.

[0135] When the duration of the main channel's busy state is unknown:

[0136] For example, a busy state based on Energy Detection (ED), such as in non-802.11 technologies, has no NAV value and no physical layer length.

[0137] Sites participating in this program may perform the following actions:

[0138] • Use a non-primary channel no matter what.

[0139] • Transmit short bursts of data on non-primary channels while periodically polling the primary channel.

[0140] (While the primary is BUSY, the STA performs CCA on other channels in its operating bandwidth and transmits on the channels where CCA completes successfully.

[0141] Option 1:A device starts full CCA on other channels after it determines the primary is busy.

[0142] ·Egsuitable for devices which cannot perform full CCA in parallel on multiple channels.

[0143] ·Such sequential CCA can delay gaining access on the idle non-primary channels.

[0144] Option 2:A device performs full CCA in parallel on multiple channels in its operating bandwidth,including the primary.If the primary is BUSY,CCA continues on other channels.

[0145] ·This is suitable for devices that can perform full CCA in parallel on multiple channels.

[0146] ·Reduces the delay in gaining access to non-primary channels.

[0147] For either option,when a device completes full CCA on any non-primary channel while the primary channel is BUSY:

[0148] If the set of channels for which full CCA has completed is part of an 802.11bonded channel set,perform PIFS CCA on the remaining channels and transmit on those that are found to be IDLE.

[0149] If the set of channels for which full CCA has completed is not part of an 802.11bonded channel set,transmit only on those that complete full CCA together or at about the same time(e.g.using self-defer to align transmissions on the channels).

[0150] Transmissions on any non-primary channels should end at the same time as the BUSY of the primary channel.This is possible when PPDU length and / or NAV information is known for the BUSY primary subchannel.

[0151] When primary channel BUSY duration information is not available.

[0152] ·E.g.ED based BUSY,e.g.non-802.11technology,no NAV,no PHY LENGTH.

[0153] Participating STA may:

[0154] ·Utilize non-Primary channels anyway.

[0155] ·Transmit short bursts on the non-primary channels while periodically polling the primary channel.)

[0156] If a site does not support performing a full CCA in parallel on multiple channels, then when it determines that the primary channel is busy, it needs to initiate a full CCA (i.e., perform an EDCA procedure) on one or more secondary channels. This approach introduces some access time delays. If one or more secondary channels are available, the transmission is performed on those available channels.

[0157] If the site supports performing full CCA in parallel on multiple channels, then when it determines that the primary channel is busy, the EDCA process on the secondary channels continues independently (i.e., unaffected by the primary channel status). This approach places slightly higher demands on equipment capabilities. If one or more secondary channels are idle, transmission occurs on those idle channels.

[0158] If an idle secondary channel that has performed a full CCA belongs to a predefined bound secondary channel group, then on the secondary channels that have not performed a full CCA, it is checked whether they are idle during the PIFS time. If they are idle, transmission can also be performed on that secondary channel.

[0159] The usage time of the secondary channel should be consistent with the end time of the primary channel being busy. Otherwise, the following problems will occur: it will cause problems for other STAs using the secondary channel. For example, when a certain STA is busy on the primary channel, it occupies the secondary channel for a long time, but other STAs are unaware of the secondary channel usage. Therefore, it reduces the opportunity for other STAs to use the higher bandwidth that includes the secondary channel, and occupies the channel access opportunity of other Overlapping Basic Service Set (OBSS) STAs that use the secondary channel as the primary channel.

[0160] For example, the AP can dynamically initiate sub-channel transmission operations during the transmission opportunities it receives.

[0161] For example, a new Dynamic Subband Operation (DSO) method could be defined, allowing a 320MHz AP to dynamically indicate transmit / receive opportunities on the secondary 160MHz channel to a 160MHz non-AP STA based on each Transmission Opportunity (TXOP) when it wins channel access. Within each dynamically allocated opportunity, the operation can be either a downlink (DL) or a triggered uplink (UL).

[0162] Option 1: The subband-switch initial control (SIC) frame in the non-HT copy PPDU (a modified MU-RTS, Buffer Status Report Poll (BSRP), or a newly defined frame) is used only for subband switching of non-AP STAs and does not elicit any response. After SIFS, the AP sends a second control frame (which can be a regular MU-RTS / BSRP) that elicits a response in the sub-160MHz channel.

[0163] Option 2: The initial control frame for subband switching for non-AP STA has sufficient padding to cover the subband switching delay and triggers a response in the next 160MHz.

[0164] (UHR can define a new method Dynamic Subband Operation allowing the 320MHz AP to dynamically indicate to a 160MHz non-AP, Tx / Rx opportunity on the secondary 160MHz on a per-TXOP basis whenever it wins channel access on it. The operation could be DL or trigger-based UL inside each dynamically allocated opportunity.

[0165] Option 1: The subband-switch initial control (a modified MU-RTS or BSRP or a newly defined frame) frame in non-HT duplicate PPDU is used only for subband switch by DSO non-APs and does not elicit any response. SIFS later, the AP sends a second control frame (which can be a regular MU-RTS / BSRP) elicits a response in the secondary 160MHz.

[0166] Option 2:The subband-switch initial control frame with sufficient padding to cover subband switch latency is used for subband switch by DSO non-APs and elicits a response in the secondary 160MHz.)

[0167] Figure 2 illustrates a DSO (Distributed Switching Order) process. The AP sends a sub-channel handover control frame (or sub-band handover control frame) on the primary channel (in the figure, the primary channel bandwidth is 160MHz, referred to as P160 or 160P; the primary channel bandwidth can also be other sizes, which this application does not limit) and the secondary channel (in the figure, the secondary channel bandwidth is 160MHz, referred to as S160 or 160S; the secondary channel bandwidth can also be other sizes, which this application does not limit). This instructs STA1 to switch to the secondary channel, but STA1 will not respond to this sub-channel handover control frame at this time. After a Short Interframe Space (SIFS) interval, the AP sends a second control frame. This control frame can be a regular Multi-User Request to Send (MU-RTS) frame or a Buffer Status Report Poll (BSRP) frame. STA1, which receives the DSO handover instruction, responds within 160S, while STA2, which does not receive a DSO handover instruction, responds within 160P. Upon receiving the DSO handover instruction, STA1 acquires the transmission period DSO TXOP after performing a sub-channel handover. Within the DSO TXOP, STA1 and the AP can exchange data multiple times, including uplink (UL) and / or downlink (DL) transmissions. Each frame exchange is spaced at SIFS intervals to ensure compliance with the minimum frame interval requirements of wireless communication specifications. When the DSO TXOP ends, STA1 switches back to 160P and continues communication on the main channel.

[0168] This method allows the AP to dynamically initiate secondary channel transmissions within the acquired TXOP, but it does not specify how non-AP STAs can initiate secondary channel transmissions, thus limiting its application scenarios.

[0169] For example, when the STA / AP detects that the primary channel is occupied by OBSS transmission, it switches to the secondary primary channel (or auxiliary primary channel) to obtain TXOP through (MU-)RTS / CTS or BSRP / BSR.

[0170] When a STA receives RTS / CTS frame exchanges from OBSS STAs while listening on the primary channel and obtains the NAV counter value from the PPDU, the STA may switch to the secondary primary channel. The secondary primary channel is announced by management frames sent by the AP.

[0171] After switching to the secondary primary channel, the STA will restart a new backoff process after sensing the wireless medium on the secondary primary channel for a period of time. Detection of the secondary primary channel can be performed simultaneously with the detection of the primary primary channel, or it can be performed after switching to the secondary primary channel.

[0172] When the NAV counter expires, the STA should switch to the main channel.

[0173] After acquiring a TXOP on the secondary primary channel, the STA will initiate frame exchange with (MU-)RTS / CTS or BSRP / BSR.

[0174] The duration of the TXOP in the secondary primary channel should be less than the current NAV counter value of the primary channel.

[0175] Upon receiving a (MU-)RTS or BSRP frame on the secondary primary channel, if the CS of the secondary primary channel is idle, the STA will respond by sending a CTS or BSR frame. This (MU-)RTS or BSRP frame is then transmitted through the same secondary primary channel.

[0176] (When a STA listens on a primary channel a RTS / CTS frame exchange sent by an OBSS STA and sets NAV counter from the PPDU,

[0177] ·The STA may switch to an auxiliary primary channel.

[0178] ·An auxiliary primary channel is declared by a management frame sent by an AP.

[0179] ·After switching to an auxiliary primary channel,A STA invokes a new back-off procedure after sensing the wireless medium on an auxiliary primary channel for TBD time.

[0180] An auxiliary primary channel sensing can be performed in parallel with the primary channel sensing.

[0181] Or it can be performed after switching to the auxiliary primary channel.

[0182] After the NAV counter is expired,the STA shall switch to the primary channel.

[0183] After obtaining a TXOP on an auxiliary primary channel,A STA initiates a frame exchange with the(MU-)RTS / CTS or BSRP / BSR.

[0184] The TXOP duration on the auxiliary primary channel shall be less than the current NAV counter of the primary channel.

[0185] After receiving the(MU-)RTS or BSRP frame on an auxiliary primary channel,

[0186] A STA responds with the CTS or BSR frame if the following is met,

[0187] The CS of the auxiliary primary channel is idle.

[0188] The(MU-)RTS or BSRP frame was sent on the same auxiliary primary channel.)

[0189] As shown in Figure 3, when the AP and / or non-AP STA detects that the primary channel is occupied by OBSS transmission, it switches to the secondary primary channel (Auxiliary Primary Channel) and acquires the TXOP through (MU-)RTS and CTS frame exchanges, or through BSRP and BSR frame exchanges. The AP and / or non-AP STA need to perform channel idle detection before acquiring the TXOP on the secondary primary channel.

[0190] As shown in Figure 4, when the AP and / or non-AP STA perform channel idle detection on the secondary primary channel, if they can determine that the secondary primary channel was in a previous NAV state (i.e., the secondary primary channel was previously occupied by its own BSS), then the secondary primary channel can be considered to be idle during the corresponding time period.

[0191] This method cannot be applied to situations where other interference (such as non-Wi-Fi radio frequency interference within the device) causes the main channel to be busy; it also cannot be applied to situations where the main channel busy information received by the non-AP STA and AP is inconsistent (e.g., the non-AP STA is subject to OBSS interference while the AP is not). Therefore, the application scenarios of this method are limited.

[0192] For example, an AP simultaneously monitors both the primary and secondary primary channels. During the period when the primary channel is occupied by the OBSS, the AP competes for the TXOP on the secondary primary channel via RTS / CTS or BSRP / BSR. The duration of this TXOP does not exceed the duration occupied by the OBSS. A non-AP STA, upon detecting that the primary channel is occupied by the OBSS, switches to the secondary primary channel to wait for the access point to initiate transmission. It switches back to the primary channel when the OBSS's occupation ends.

[0193] As shown in Figure 5, neither the AP nor the non-AP STA requires multi-channel concurrent packet detection or CCA capabilities. Furthermore, channel access is only permitted on one non-primary channel (indicated by the AP). The AP and non-AP STAs indicate their respective channel handover delays. Before initiating a TXOP on a non-primary channel, the non-AP STA must adhere to the Baseline Medium Synchronization Recovery Rules in the existing standard. The TXOP period on the non-primary channel is limited to no more than the TXOP period of the OBSS on the primary channel. Initiating a TXOP on a non-primary channel requires a short control frame.

[0194] This method cannot be applied when other interference (such as interference from other radio frequencies within the device) causes the main channel to be busy; it also cannot be applied when the main channel busy information received by the non-AP STA and the AP is inconsistent (e.g., the non-AP STA is subject to OBSS interference while the AP is not). Therefore, the application scenarios of this method are limited.

[0195] For example, in the face of periodic interference from other (non-Wi-Fi) radio frequencies within the device, a non-AP STA / AP can report its own periodic interference information to the other party. Upon receiving an Aggregate MAC Protocol Data Unit (A-MPDU), a non-AP STA or AP can report whether it is experiencing non-periodic interference and the interference bandwidth in a BA frame.

[0196] For non-periodic interference from other (non-Wi-Fi) radio frequencies within the device, when a TXOP initial frame (e.g., RTS / MU-RTS) is received, the TXOP responding device (non-AP STA or AP) can indicate the expected TXOP end time in the CTS. When a response frame other than the first frame is transmitted, the TXOP responding device (non-AP STA or AP) can also indicate the expected TXOP end time.

[0197] This method can terminate frame interactions early to avoid aperiodic interference. However, if interference exists only in parts of the channel, this avoidance method may lead to a decrease in system transmission efficiency.

[0198] For example, the Reverse Direction (RD) mechanism is essentially a mechanism where the RD initiator shares TXOPs with the RD responder. An exemplary RD exchange sequence is shown in Figure 6:

[0199] a) The TXOP holder or service period source sends an RDG PPDU (i.e., a PPDU containing RD authorization). The RDG PPDU is represented by a PPDU containing one or more additional High Throughput Control (+HTC) MPDUs. The RDG / More PPDU field is equal to 1. The STA sending this PPDU is called the RD initiator. The rules for the RD initiator apply only to a single RD exchange sequence, from when the RD initiator sends the RDG PPDU until the end of the last PPDU in the entire RD exchange sequence.

[0200] b) The RD responder sends one or more PPDUs, known as an RD Response Burst. The first (or only) PPDU of an RD Response Burst contains at most one immediate BA or ACK frame. The last (or only) PPDU of an RD Response Burst requires an immediate BA or ACK frame response. The rules for the RD responder apply only within a single RD exchange sequence, from the time the RD responder receives the RDG PPDU until the RDG responder sends a PPDU with the RDG / More PPDU field equal to 0.

[0201] c) If the last PPDU of the RD response burst is required, the RD initiator shall transmit a PPDU containing an immediate BA frame or ACK frame (the RD initiator's final PPDU).

[0202] If the RD initiator is a HE STA and the RD responder is a HE AP, then the RD response burst may contain one or more basic trigger frames. The basic trigger frame should trigger the RD initiator and at least one other STA in a full-bandwidth uplink multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (UL MU-MIMO) transmission.

[0203] However, the RD mechanism only instructs the sharing of TXOP to the peer device, without further designing how the RD responder transmits the shared TXOP.

[0204] For example, consider the TXOP sharing method initiated by a non-AP STA. In this method, as shown in Figure 7, the non-AP STA indicates the duration of the remaining TXOP to be shared, its own queueing status, and trigger-based PPDU parameters (TB PPDU parameters) in the initial control frame (e.g., TXOP Sharing Request). The AP responds with a CTS-to-self frame to indicate acceptance of the sharing, and with a CTS frame to indicate rejection. During the shared transmission opportunity, the AP performs downlink or uplink multi-user transmission or multi-access point operation until the transmission opportunity duration expires. The AP can extend the bandwidth during the shared transmission opportunity by executing a fallback procedure. The AP can return the transmission opportunity to the non-AP STA by sharing it again.

[0205] However, this method only instructs non-AP STAs to share TXOPs with APs, without further designing how APs transmit within the shared TXOPs.

[0206] In some cases, APs and / or non-AP STAs may be interfered with by other radio frequencies (non-Wi-Fi) within the device, such as Bluetooth, Ultra Wide Band (UWB), Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN), and cellular communication networks such as Long Term Evolution (LTE), New Radio (NR), and 6th-Generation (6G), which are referred to as in-device interference.

[0207] These disturbances can be periodic or aperiodic. For periodic in-device disturbances, their initial occurrence may be predictable well in advance or even detected instantly. For aperiodic in-device disturbances, they are generally detected instantly, and their duration can be very long, such as a few milliseconds or even seconds, or very short, such as tens or hundreds of microseconds. Instantly detected in-device disturbances, especially aperiodic disturbances, are difficult to avoid through pre-scheduling; conventional pre-scheduling or periodic scheduling methods are not applicable.

[0208] The proposals and mechanisms for using secondary channel transmission described above cannot solve the problem of interference within the device, nor are they applicable to situations where the OBSS interference detected by the AP and non-AP STA is inconsistent.

[0209] Figure 8 illustrates a flowchart of a communication method provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The method is performed by a first station and includes at least some of the following steps:

[0210] Step 1120: Send a first frame to the second station. The first frame is used to share TXOP with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform Non-Primary Channel Access (NPCA).

[0211] TXOP refers to the period of time during which an AP and / or a non-AP STA transmits on the working channel.

[0212] NPCA can also be called Secondary Channel Access (SCA) or Auxiliary Primary Channel Access (APCA). If a STA has NPCA enabled, it means that the STA can switch from the primary channel to a non-primary channel or a secondary channel for transmission.

[0213] In this application, the first site includes one or more APs, or the first site includes one or more non-AP STAs. Optionally, the first site may also be one or more APs attached to an AP MLD, or one or more non-AP STAs attached to a non-AP MLD. That is, the first site may or may not be an MLD device.

[0214] In some embodiments, the second station is the peer station of the first station, and the first station sends the first frame to the second station. The second station includes one or more APs, or the second station includes one or more non-AP STAs. Optionally, the second station may also be one or more APs attached to an AP MLD, or one or more non-AP STAs attached to a non-AP MLD. That is, the second station may or may not be an MLD device.

[0215] In some embodiments, the first site is associated with the second site, that is, the first site and the second site have successfully completed the authentication association process; or, the first site and the second site establish a peer-to-peer (P2P) link.

[0216] In summary, the method provided in this application supports a first station sharing a TXOP with a second station via a first frame and / or triggering the second station to execute NPCA, thereby inducing the second station to switch from the primary channel to a non-primary channel for transmission. When the primary channel is insufficient to meet the transmission requirements between the first and second stations, the method provided in this application supports the first and second stations to transmit via an interference-free non-primary channel, thereby improving communication reliability, spectrum utilization, and system throughput.

[0217] In some embodiments, based on the embodiment shown in FIG8, step 1120 can also be implemented as step 1210, as shown in FIG9. Optionally, the first station can also perform one or more of the following optional steps: steps 1220, 1230, 1240, 1250, and 1260. Step 1230 can be implemented as a combination of any one or more of steps 1230a, 1230b, 1230c, and 1230d, and step 1260 can be implemented as either step 1260a or step 1260b.

[0218] Figure 9 illustrates a flowchart of a communication method provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The method is performed by a first station and includes at least some of the following steps:

[0219] Step 1210: Send the first frame to the second station. The first frame is used to share TXOP with the second station and / or trigger the second station to execute NPCA.

[0220] In some embodiments, the first frame also carries one or more of the following information: first handover information of the first station; information indicating that the first station only transmits on a non-primary channel; and channel interference information.

[0221] In some embodiments, the first handover information includes one or more of the following: the time when the first station switches from the primary channel to the first subchannel, the first subchannel, the start time of the NPCA, and the end time of the NPCA. The first subchannel may also be referred to as one or more of the following: target subchannel, NPCA primary channel, anchor channel, second primary channel, auxiliary primary channel, or temporary primary channel.

[0222] Optionally, the first subchannel is a 20MHz subchannel other than the primary 20MHz. For example, the first subchannel is used as the new primary 20MHz channel when the first site and the associated STA (such as the second site) perform NPCA.

[0223] Optionally, the operating channel bandwidth of the first station after switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel is the same as the operating channel bandwidth before the switch, or the operating channel bandwidth of the first station after switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel is less than the operating channel bandwidth before the switch. The operating channel bandwidth of the second station after switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel is the same as the operating channel bandwidth before the switch, or the operating channel bandwidth of the second station after switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel is less than the operating channel bandwidth before the switch.

[0224] In some embodiments, the channel interference information includes one or more of the following: the start time of interference in the main channel, the end time of interference in the main channel, the duration of interference in the main channel, and the bitmap of the interfered sub-channel.

[0225] In some embodiments, the first frame is further used to: instruct the second station to schedule the transmission of the first station in the shared TXOP and in the available sub-channels; instruct the second station to schedule the transmission of the first station in the shared TXOP and in the available resource units; instruct the second station not to schedule the transmission of the first station in the shared TXOP; instruct the second station not to schedule the transmission of the first station within a first handover delay in the transmission opportunity, the first handover delay referring to the delay of the first station switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0226] The transmission at the first station includes uplink and / or downlink transmissions. Uplink transmission at the first station is equivalent to the first station sending PPDUs, and downlink transmission at the first station is equivalent to the first station receiving PPDUs. Therefore, the second station may schedule the first station to receive and / or send PPDUs, or it may choose not to schedule the first station to receive and / or send PPDUs.

[0227] Optionally, the first handover delay is determined by the implementation, agreed upon by the communication protocol, or predefined. For example, the first handover delay can be any value between 8μs and 1024μs. Another example is that the first handover delay can be any value between 8μs and 256μs. Yet another example is that the first handover delay can be any value between 8μs and 512μs. Yet another example is that the first handover delay can be 8μs, 16μs, 32μs, 64μs, 128μs, 256μs, 512μs, or 1024μs. Here, the unit of the first handover delay is microseconds (μs), but the possibility of using seconds (s), milliseconds (ms), or interframe space (IFS) as the unit is not excluded.

[0228] Optionally, during the first handover delay, the second station shall not schedule the first station to perform transmission; that is, the second station shall not schedule the first station to receive and / or send PPDUs.

[0229] Optionally, the first handover delay is communicated to the second station by the first station, or the first station informs the second station in advance. For example, the first station informs the second station of the first handover delay using a management frame. For example, the first station informs the second station of the first handover delay during the association process.

[0230] In some embodiments, when interference is present or anticipated on the main channel, the first station transmits a first frame to the second station. The interference includes in-device interference and / or OBSS interference. Optionally, the interference on the main channel may be periodic or aperiodic.

[0231] In some embodiments, the first frame may be any one or more of the following: a management frame, a control frame, a data frame carrying an Aggregated Control (A-Control) field, a management frame carrying an A-Control field, or a Quality of Service Null Frame (QoS Null Frame) carrying an A-Control field.

[0232] Step 1220: Receive the first response frame.

[0233] In some embodiments, the first response frame is used to indicate one or more of the following: the second site accepts the sharing of TXOP; the second site performs NPCA; the second site rejects the sharing of TXOP; the second site refuses to perform NPCA.

[0234] Optionally, the first response frame includes a first padding field. Optionally, the first station switches from the primary channel to the first sub-channel during the transmission time of the first padding field. Optionally, the transmission time of the first padding field is used for the first station to switch from the primary channel to the first sub-channel; it can also be understood that the existence of the first padding field provides the first station with sufficient time to switch from the primary channel to the first sub-channel.

[0235] In some embodiments, the first response frame includes any one or more of the following: an ACK frame, a BA frame, and a response frame to a control frame.

[0236] Step 1230 can be implemented as part or all of steps 1230a, 1230b, 1230c, and 1230d.

[0237] Step 1230a: Switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0238] When the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel, it can perform uplink and / or downlink transmissions. In other words, after switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel, the first station can receive PPDUs, or send PPDUs, or receive and send PPDUs, or send and receive PPDUs.

[0239] In some embodiments, the first station and the second station transmit Non-HT PPDU, Non-HT Duplicate PPDU, or MU PPDU on the first sub-channel.

[0240] In some embodiments, after sending the first frame to the second station, the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel for transmission.

[0241] In some embodiments, upon receiving a first response frame, and the first response frame being used to instruct the second station to accept the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to perform NPCA, the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel for transmission.

[0242] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive the first response frame within a first time period, it switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel for transmission.

[0243] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive a first response frame within a first duration instructing the second station to reject the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to refuse to perform NPCA, it switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel for transmission.

[0244] Optionally, the first duration is agreed upon by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station.

[0245] In some embodiments, the first station switches from the primary channel to the first sub-channel, satisfying one or more of the following conditions: the switch is completed before the start of interference on the primary channel; the switch is completed before the start of NPCA; the switch is completed before the end of transmission of one or more first CTS-to-self frames at the second station; the switch is completed at the start of interference on the primary channel; the switch is completed at the start of NPCA; and the switch is completed at the end of transmission of one or more first CTS-to-self frames at the second station. One or more first CTS-to-self frames are transmitted by the second station.

[0246] In some embodiments, the first station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the start of interference on the main channel, or the first station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the start of interference on the main channel.

[0247] In some embodiments, the first station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the start of NPCA, or the first station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the start of NPCA.

[0248] In some embodiments, the first station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the end of one or more first CTS-to-self frame transmissions at the second station, or the first station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the end of one or more first CTS-to-self frame transmissions at the second station.

[0249] In some embodiments, the number of first CTS-to-self frames is determined based on a first handover delay. Optionally, multiple first CTS-to-self frames are transmitted consecutively back-to-back, i.e., multiple first CTS-to-self frames are aggregated and transmitted in the same PPDU; or, multiple PPDUs carrying first CTS-to-self frames are transmitted consecutively back-to-back, i.e., each PPDU carries one first CTS-to-self frame, with no gap between the multiple PPDUs; or, multiple PPDUs carrying first CTS-to-self frames are spaced apart, such as SIFS, i.e., each PPDU carries one first CTS-to-self frame, with SIFS as the interval between the multiple PPDUs.

[0250] In some embodiments, when the second station sends multiple first CTS-to-self frames, that is, when the total duration of the multiple first CTS-to-self frames is greater than the first handover delay, the first station receives at least one first CTS-to-self frame at the beginning or end, for determining that the second station will schedule the first station or for the first station to perform media synchronization on a non-primary channel.

[0251] In some embodiments, the first station receives a first CTS-to-self frame after sending a first frame to the second station.

[0252] In some embodiments, the first station receives a first CTS-to-self frame upon receiving a first response frame, which is used to instruct the second station to accept the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to perform NPCA.

[0253] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive the first response frame within a fourth time period, it receives the first CTS-to-self frame.

[0254] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive a first response frame within a fourth time period instructing the second station to reject the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to reject the execution of NPCA, the first station receives a first CTS-to-self frame.

[0255] Optionally, the fourth duration is determined by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station. Optionally, the fourth duration may be the same as or different from the first duration.

[0256] In some embodiments, the first CTS-to-self frame is sent by the second station if the first handover delay is greater than or equal to a first threshold. A description of the first handover delay is given in step 1210 and will not be repeated here. Optionally, the first threshold is SIFS, PIFS, DIFS, or several microseconds.

[0257] In some embodiments, the value of the Duration field of the first CTS-to-self frame is less than or equal to the remaining duration of the current TXOP.

[0258] In some embodiments, the first and second stations know the interference start time and / or the NPCA start time. Therefore, the second station can determine when to send the first CTS-to-self frame, and the first station can estimate the end time of the first CTS-to-self frame sent by the second station. Thus, the first station can ensure that it sends the next PPDU after the SIFS following the second station's sending of the first CTS-to-self frame. After completing the switching of the working channel, the first and second stations need to perform Physical Channel Sensing (Physical CS) or Net Channel Assessment (CCA) for at least SIFS before sending the next PPDU. The next PPDU can only be sent when the channel is idle.

[0259] In some embodiments, if the second station fails to receive the PPDU sent by the first station after the first CTS-to-self frame due to possible timing errors and other interference, the first and second stations use the retransmission mechanism in the existing standard to continue transmission.

[0260] Step 1230b: Terminate the current TXOP prematurely.

[0261] In some embodiments, the first site terminates the current TXOP prematurely upon receiving a first response frame, wherein the first response frame is used to instruct the second site to refuse sharing the TXOP and / or the second site to refuse to perform NPCA.

[0262] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive the first response frame within a second time period, it terminates the current TXOP prematurely.

[0263] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive a first response frame instructing the second station to accept the TXOP sharing and / or the second station to perform NPCA within a second time period, the current TXOP is terminated prematurely.

[0264] Optionally, the second duration is agreed upon by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station. Optionally, the second duration may be the same as or different from the first duration.

[0265] Step 1230c: Require other radio frequencies within the equipment at the first site to cease transmission and reception.

[0266] Other radio frequencies within the equipment at the first site refer to non-Wi-Fi radio frequencies within the equipment at the first site, such as one or more of the following: Bluetooth, UWB, NTN, cellular communications such as LTE, NR, 6G, etc. The requirement that other radio frequencies within the equipment at the first site not transmit or receive can also be understood as suspending or terminating non-Wi-Fi communication at the first site.

[0267] In some embodiments, upon receiving a first response frame, and the first response frame being used to instruct the second station to refuse sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to refuse to perform NPCA, the first station requests that other radio frequencies within the first station's device not transmit or receive.

[0268] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive the first response frame within a third time period, it requests that other radio frequencies within the first station's device cease transmission and reception.

[0269] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive a first response frame within a third time period instructing the second station to accept the TXOP sharing and / or the second station to perform NPCA, it requires other radio frequencies within the first station's device to cease transmission and reception.

[0270] Optionally, the third duration is agreed upon by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station. Optionally, the third duration may be the same as or different from the first duration, or the third duration may be the same as or different from the second duration.

[0271] Step 1230d: Send one or more second CTS-to-self frames.

[0272] Optionally, the number of second CTS-to-self frames, or the number of PPDUs carrying second CTS-to-self frames, is determined based on the second handover delay. Optionally, multiple second CTS-to-self frames are transmitted consecutively back-to-back, i.e., multiple second CTS-to-self frames are aggregated in the same PPDU for transmission; or, multiple PPDUs carrying second CTS-to-self frames are transmitted consecutively back-to-back, i.e., each PPDU carries one second CTS-to-self frame, with no gap between the multiple PPDUs; or, multiple PPDUs carrying second CTS-to-self frames are spaced apart, such as SIFS, i.e., each PPDU carries one second CTS-to-self frame, with SIFS as the interval between the multiple PPDUs.

[0273] In some embodiments, after sending a first frame to a second station, the first station sends one or more second CTS-to-self frames.

[0274] In some embodiments, upon receiving a first response frame, and the first response frame being used to instruct the second site to accept the sharing of TXOP and / or the second site to perform NPCA, the first site sends one or more second CTS-to-self frames.

[0275] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive the first response frame within a fourth time period, it sends one or more second CTS-to-self frames.

[0276] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive a first response frame within a fourth time period instructing the second station to reject the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to refuse to perform NPCA, it sends one or more second CTS-to-self frames.

[0277] Optionally, the fourth duration is determined by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station. Optionally, the fourth duration may be the same as or different from the first duration.

[0278] In some embodiments, if the second handover delay of the second station is greater than or equal to a second threshold, the first station transmits a second CTS-to-self frame; wherein the second handover delay refers to the delay at which the second station switches from the primary channel to the first sub-channel. Optionally, the second threshold is SIFS, PIFS, the Distributed Coordination Function Interframe Space (DIFS), or several microseconds.

[0279] Optionally, the second handover delay is determined by the implementation, agreed upon by the communication protocol, or predefined. For example, the second handover delay can be any value between 8 μs and 1024 μs. Another example is that the second handover delay can be any value between 8 μs and 256 μs. Yet another example is that the second handover delay can be any value between 8 μs and 512 μs. Still another example is that the second handover delay can be 8 μs, 16 μs, 32 μs, 64 μs, 128 μs, 256 μs, 512 μs, or 1024 μs.

[0280] Optionally, during the second handover delay, the first station may not be scheduled by the second station. Optionally, during the second handover delay, the second station may not schedule the first station to perform transmissions; that is, the second station may not schedule the first station to receive and / or send PPDUs.

[0281] Optionally, the second handover delay is communicated to the first site by the second site, or the second site may inform the first site of the second handover delay in advance. For example, the second site may inform the first site of the second handover delay using a management frame. Alternatively, the second site may inform the first site of the second handover delay during the association process.

[0282] Optionally, the second handover delay may be the same as or different from the first handover delay.

[0283] In some embodiments, the value of the Duration field of the second CTS-to-self frame is less than or equal to the remaining duration of the current TXOP.

[0284] In some embodiments, the first and second stations know the interference start time and / or the NPCA start time. Therefore, the first station can determine when to send the second CTS-to-self frame, and the second station can estimate the end time of the second CTS-to-self frame sent by the first station. Thus, the second station can ensure that it sends the next PPDU after the SIFS following the first station's completion of sending the second CTS-to-self frame. After completing the switching of the working channel, the first and second stations need to perform Physical Channel Detection (PCS) or Net Channel Assessment (CCA) within at least SIFS before sending a PPDU. A PPDU can only be sent when the channel is idle.

[0285] In some embodiments, if the first station fails to receive the PPDU sent by the second station after the second CTS-to-self frame due to possible timing errors and other interference, the first station and the second station use the retransmission mechanism in the existing standard to continue transmission.

[0286] Steps 1230a, 1230b, 1230c, and 1230d can be executed individually or in combination, and the execution order can be adjusted according to the actual situation. For example, the first station can execute step 1230a, or step 1230b, or step 1230c, or step 1230d, or steps 1230a and 1230b, or steps 1230a and 1230c, or steps 1230a, 1230c, and 1230d, etc. Not all combinations are listed here.

[0287] Step 1240: Send a second frame to the second station. The second frame is used to carry the second handover information of the first station.

[0288] The second handover information for the first site includes the time when the first site switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0289] In some embodiments, the second frame is further used to instruct the second station not to schedule the transmission of the first station during a third handover delay, whereby the third handover delay refers to the delay during which the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0290] Optionally, the third handover delay is determined by the implementation, agreed upon by the communication protocol, or predefined. For example, the third handover delay can be any value between 8 μs and 1024 μs. Another example is that the third handover delay can be any value between 8 μs and 256 μs. Yet another example is that the third handover delay can be any value between 8 μs and 512 μs. Still another example is that the third handover delay can be 8 μs, 16 μs, 32 μs, 64 μs, 128 μs, 256 μs, 512 μs, or 1024 μs.

[0291] Optionally, during the third handover delay, the first station may not be scheduled by the second station. Optionally, during the third handover delay, the second station may not schedule the first station to perform transmissions; that is, the second station may not schedule the first station to receive and / or send PPDUs.

[0292] Optionally, the third handover delay is communicated to the second station by the first station, or the first station informs the second station in advance. For example, the first station informs the second station of the third handover delay using a management frame. Alternatively, the first station informs the second station of the third handover delay during the association process.

[0293] Optionally, the third handover delay may be the same as or different from the first handover delay.

[0294] In some embodiments, the first station sends a second frame to the second station before the end of interference on the main channel, or before the expected end of interference on the main channel.

[0295] In some embodiments, the second frame includes any one or more of the following: a management frame, a control frame, a data frame carrying an A-Control field, a management frame carrying an A-Control field, and a QoS Null frame carrying an A-Control field.

[0296] Step 1250: Receive the second response frame.

[0297] The second response frame is used to instruct the first station to switch to the main channel or remain on the first sub-channel.

[0298] Optionally, the second response frame includes a second padding field. Optionally, the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel during the transmission time of the second padding field. The presence of the second padding field provides the first station with sufficient time to switch back from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0299] In some embodiments, the second response frame includes any one or more of the following: an ACK frame, a BA frame, and a response frame to a control frame.

[0300] Step 1260 can be implemented as either step 1260a or step 1260b.

[0301] Step 1260a: Switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0302] In some embodiments, after the first station sends a second frame to the second station, it switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0303] In some embodiments, when the first station receives a second response frame, and the second response frame is used to instruct the first station to switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel, the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0304] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive a second response frame within a fifth time period, it switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0305] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive a second response frame indicating to remain on the first sub-channel within a fifth time period, it switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0306] Optionally, the fifth duration is determined by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station.

[0307] In some embodiments, the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel if one or more of the following conditions are met: the switch is completed before the end of interference on the main channel; the switch is completed before the end of NPCA; the switch is completed before the end of transmission of one or more third CTS-to-self frames at the second station; the switch is completed at the end of interference on the main channel; the switch is completed at the end of NPCA; or the switch is completed at the end of transmission of one or more third CTS-to-self frames at the second station. One or more third CTS-to-self frames are transmitted by the second station.

[0308] In some embodiments, the first station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of interference on the main channel, or the first station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel at the end of interference on the main channel.

[0309] In some embodiments, the first station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of the NPCA, or the first station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel at the end of the NPCA.

[0310] In some embodiments, the first station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of one or more third CTS-to-self frame transmissions at the second station, or the first station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel at the end of one or more third CTS-to-self frame transmissions at the second station.

[0311] In some embodiments, the third CTS-to-self frame is transmitted by the second station if the third handover delay at the first station is greater than or equal to a third threshold. The description of the third handover delay refers to the relevant content in step 1240 and will not be repeated here. Optionally, the third threshold is SIFS, PIFS, DIFS, or several microseconds.

[0312] In some embodiments, the number of third CTS-to-self frames, or the number of PPDUs carrying third CTS-to-self frames, is determined based on a third handover delay. Optionally, multiple third CTS-to-self frames are transmitted consecutively back-to-back, i.e., multiple third CTS-to-self frames are aggregated and transmitted in the same PPDU; or, multiple PPDUs carrying third CTS-to-self frames are transmitted consecutively back-to-back, i.e., each PPDU carries one third CTS-to-self frame, with no gap between the multiple PPDUs; or, multiple PPDUs carrying third CTS-to-self frames are spaced apart, such as SIFS, i.e., each PPDU carries one third CTS-to-self frame, with SIFS as the interval between the multiple PPDUs.

[0313] In some embodiments, the value of the Duration field of the third CTS-to-self frame is less than or equal to the remaining duration of the current TXOP.

[0314] In some embodiments, the first and second stations know the interference end time and / or NPCA end time. Therefore, the second station can determine when to send the third CTS-to-self frame, and the first station can estimate the end time of the third CTS-to-self frame sent by the second station. Thus, the first station can ensure that it sends the next PPDU after the SIFS following the second station's transmission of the third CTS-to-self frame. After completing the switching of the working channel, the first and second stations need to perform Physical Channel Detection (PCS) or Net Channel Assessment (CCA) within at least SIFS before sending a PPDU. A PPDU can only be sent when the channel is idle.

[0315] In some embodiments, after the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel, it detects or listens to the main channel. Optionally, the first station performs uplink and / or downlink transmissions on the main channel. That is, after the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel, it can receive PPDUs, or send PPDUs, or receive and send PPDUs, or send and receive PPDUs.

[0316] In some embodiments, if the second station fails to receive the PPDU sent by the first station after the third CTS-to-self frame due to possible timing errors and other interference, the second station and the first station use the retransmission mechanism in the existing standard to continue transmission.

[0317] Step 1260b: Remain on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0318] In some embodiments, after sending the second frame to the second station, the first station remains on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0319] In some embodiments, if the first station receives a second response frame, and the second response frame is used to instruct the first station to remain on the first sub-channel, the first station will remain on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0320] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive a second response frame within a sixth time period, it remains on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0321] In some embodiments, if the first station does not receive a second response frame instructing the first station to switch to the main channel within a sixth time period, it remains on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0322] Optionally, the sixth duration is determined by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station. Optionally, the sixth duration may be the same as or different from the fifth duration.

[0323] In some embodiments, after the current TXOP ends, the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel. Optionally, after switching back to the main channel, the first station detects or listens to the main channel. Optionally, the first station performs uplink and / or downlink transmissions on the main channel. That is, after switching from the first sub-channel to the main channel, the first station can receive PPDUs, or send PPDUs, or receive and send PPDUs, or send and receive PPDUs.

[0324] It is important to emphasize that steps 1220, 1230, 1240, 1250, and 1260 are all optional steps. The first station may choose not to execute these optional steps, or may execute some or all of them, and the execution order can be adjusted according to the actual situation. For example, the first station may execute only step 1210, or execute steps 1210 and 1220, or execute steps 1210 and 1230, or execute steps 1210 and 1240, or execute steps 1210, 1240, and 1250, or execute steps 1210, 1240, and 1260, or execute steps 1210, 1220, and 1230, or execute steps 1210 and 1260. Steps 220, 1230, and 1260, or steps 1210, 1220, 1230, 1240, and 1260, or steps 1210, 1220, 1230, 1250, and 1260, or steps 1210, 1220, 1230, 1240, 1250, and 1260, etc., are not all listed here.

[0325] In summary, the method provided in this application supports a first station sharing a TXOP with a second station via a first frame and / or triggering the second station to execute NPCA, thereby inducing the second station to switch from the primary channel to a non-primary channel for transmission. This utilizes the non-primary channel to meet the transmission requirements between the first and second stations. The method provided in this application is particularly suitable for situations where the primary channel may be subject to interference, and can improve communication reliability, spectrum utilization, and system throughput through an interference-free non-primary channel. Especially for scenarios with immediate interference, such as when interference on the primary channel is expected to occur very quickly (e.g., less than 1ms), the method provided in this application can promptly trigger the first and second stations to transmit via an interference-free non-primary channel, effectively reducing or even avoiding the impact of interference on the transmission between the first and second stations.

[0326] Figure 10 illustrates a flowchart of a communication method provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The method is performed by a second station and includes at least some of the following steps:

[0327] Step 1320: Receive the first frame, which is used to share TXOP with the second site and / or trigger the second site to execute NPCA.

[0328] TXOP refers to the period of time during which an AP and / or a non-AP STA transmits on the working channel.

[0329] NPCA can also be called Secondary Channel Access (SCA) or Auxiliary Primary Channel Access (APCA). If a STA has NPCA enabled, it means that the STA can switch from the primary channel to a non-primary channel or a secondary channel for transmission.

[0330] In this application, the second site includes one or more APs, or the second site includes one or more non-AP STAs. Optionally, the second site may also be one or more APs attached to an AP MLD, or one or more non-AP STAs attached to a non-AP MLD. That is, the second site may or may not be an MLD device.

[0331] In some embodiments, the first site is the peer site of the second site, and the second site receives the first frame sent by the first site. The first site includes one or more APs, or the first site includes one or more non-AP STAs. Optionally, the first site may also be one or more APs attached to an AP MLD, or one or more non-AP STAs attached to a non-AP MLD. That is, the first site may or may not be an MLD device.

[0332] In some embodiments, the first site is associated with the second site, that is, the first site and the second site have successfully completed the authentication association process; or, the first site and the second site have established a P2P link.

[0333] In summary, the method provided in this application embodiment supports the second station in obtaining the shared TXOP through the first frame and / or being triggered to execute NPCA, thereby enabling a switch from the primary channel to a non-primary channel for transmission. When the primary channel is insufficient to meet the transmission requirements between the first and second stations, the method provided in this application embodiment supports the first and second stations to transmit through an interference-free non-primary channel, thereby improving communication reliability, spectrum utilization, and system throughput.

[0334] In some embodiments, based on the embodiment shown in FIG10, step 1320 can also be implemented as step 1410, as shown in FIG11. Optionally, the second station can also perform one or more of the following optional steps: step 1420, step 1430, step 1440, step 1450, and step 1460. Step 1430 can be implemented as step 1430a and / or step 1430b, and step 1460 can be implemented as step 1460a or step 1460b.

[0335] Figure 11 shows a flowchart of a communication method provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The method is performed by a second station and includes at least some of the following steps:

[0336] Step 1410: Receive the first frame, which is used to share TXOP with the second site and / or trigger the second site to execute NPCA.

[0337] For related details, please refer to steps 1210; they will not be repeated here.

[0338] Step 1420: Send the first response frame.

[0339] For related details, please refer to steps 1220; they will not be repeated here.

[0340] Step 1430 can be implemented as part or all of steps 1430a and 1430b.

[0341] Step 1430a: Send one or more first CTS-to-self frames.

[0342] In some embodiments, after receiving the first frame, the second station sends one or more first CTS-to-self frames.

[0343] In some embodiments, the second station sends one or more first CTS-to-self frames when sending a first response frame, and the first response frame is used to instruct the second station to accept the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to perform NPCA.

[0344] In some embodiments, the second station sends one or more first CTS-to-self frames without sending a first response frame.

[0345] In some embodiments, if the second station does not send a first response frame within a fourth duration, it sends one or more first CTS-to-self frames.

[0346] In some embodiments, if the second station does not send a first response frame within a fourth duration instructing the second station to reject the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to refuse to perform NPCA, it sends one or more first CTS-to-self frames.

[0347] Optionally, the fourth duration is determined by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station. Optionally, the fourth duration may be the same as or different from the first duration.

[0348] In some embodiments, if the first handover delay of the first station is greater than or equal to a first threshold, the second station sends one or more first CTS-to-self frames. A description of the first handover delay is given in step 1210 and will not be repeated here. The first threshold is SIFS, PIFS, DIFS, or a number of microseconds.

[0349] Step 1430b: Switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0350] When the second station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel, it can perform uplink and / or downlink transmissions. In other words, after switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel, the second station can receive PPDUs, send PPDUs, receive and send PPDUs, or send and receive PPDUs.

[0351] In some embodiments, the first station and the second station transmit Non-HT PPDU, Non-HT Duplicate PPDU, or MU PPDU on the first sub-channel.

[0352] In some embodiments, after receiving the first frame, the second station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel for transmission.

[0353] In some embodiments, the second station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel for transmission when it sends a first response frame, which is used to instruct the second station to accept the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to perform NPCA.

[0354] In some embodiments, the second station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel for transmission without sending a first response frame instructing the second station to reject the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to refuse to perform NPCA.

[0355] In some embodiments, if the second station does not send a first response frame within a first duration, it switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel for transmission.

[0356] In some embodiments, if the first station does not send a first response frame within a first duration instructing the second station to reject the sharing of TXOP and / or the second station to refuse to perform NPCA, it switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel for transmission.

[0357] Optionally, the first duration is agreed upon by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station.

[0358] In some embodiments, the second station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel if one or more of the following conditions are met: the switch is completed before the start of interference on the main channel; the switch is completed before the start of NPCA; the switch is completed before the end of transmission of one or more second CTS-to-self frames at the first station; the switch is completed at the start of interference on the main channel; the switch is completed at the start of NPCA; or the switch is completed at the end of transmission of one or more second CTS-to-self frames at the first station. One or more second CTS-to-self frames are transmitted by the first station.

[0359] In some embodiments, the second station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the start of interference on the main channel, or the second station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the start of interference on the main channel.

[0360] In some embodiments, the second station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the start of NPCA, or the second station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the start of NPCA.

[0361] In some embodiments, the second station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the end of one or more second CTS-to-self frame transmissions at the first station, or the second station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the end of one or more second CTS-to-self frame transmissions at the first station.

[0362] In some embodiments, when the first station sends multiple second CTS-to-self frames, i.e., when the total duration of the multiple second CTS-to-self frames is greater than the second handover delay, the second station receives at least one second CTS-to-self frame at the beginning or end to determine whether the first station is about to start a channel handover or has completed a channel handover. Other related details regarding the second CTS-to-self frames and the second handover delay can be found in step 1230d and will not be repeated here.

[0363] In some embodiments, the second station and the first station complete the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel simultaneously, or the second station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel earlier than the first station, or the second station completes the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel later than the first station.

[0364] Step 1440: Receive the second frame, which carries the second handover information of the first station.

[0365] For related details, please refer to step 1240; they will not be repeated here.

[0366] Step 1450: Send the second response frame.

[0367] For related details, please refer to step 1250; they will not be repeated here.

[0368] Step 1460 can be implemented as either step 1460a or step 1460b.

[0369] Step 1460a: Switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0370] In some embodiments, after receiving the second frame, the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0371] In some embodiments, the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel when it sends a second response frame, and the second response frame is used to instruct the first station to switch to the main channel.

[0372] In some embodiments, the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel without sending a second response frame indicating that it should remain on the first sub-channel.

[0373] In some embodiments, if the second station does not send a second response frame within a fifth duration, it switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0374] In some embodiments, if the second station does not send a second response frame indicating that it should remain on the first sub-channel within a fifth duration, it switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0375] Optionally, the fifth duration is determined by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station.

[0376] In some embodiments, the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel if one or more of the following conditions are met: the switch is completed before the end of interference on the main channel; the switch is completed before the end of NPCA; the switch is completed before the end of transmission of one or more fourth CTS-to-self frames at the first station; the switch is completed at the end of interference on the main channel; the switch is completed at the end of NPCA; or the switch is completed at the end of transmission of one or more fourth CTS-to-self frames at the first station. One or more fourth CTS-to-self frames are transmitted by the first station.

[0377] In some embodiments, the second station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of interference on the main channel, or the second station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel at the end of interference on the main channel.

[0378] In some embodiments, the second station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of the NPCA, or the second station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel at the end of the NPCA.

[0379] In some embodiments, the second station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of one or more fourth CTS-to-self frame transmissions at the first station, or the second station completes the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel at the end of one or more fourth CTS-to-self frame transmissions at the first station.

[0380] In some embodiments, one or more fourth CTS-to-self frames are transmitted by the first station when the fourth handover delay is greater than or equal to a fourth threshold. The fourth handover delay refers to the delay at which the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel. Optionally, the fourth threshold is SIFS, PIFS, DIFS, or a number of microseconds.

[0381] Optionally, the fourth handover delay is determined by the implementation, agreed upon by the communication protocol, or predefined. For example, the fourth handover delay can be any value between 8 μs and 1024 μs. Another example is that the fourth handover delay can be any value between 8 μs and 256 μs. Yet another example is that the fourth handover delay can be any value between 8 μs and 512 μs. Yet another example is that the fourth handover delay can be 8 μs, 16 μs, 32 μs, 64 μs, 128 μs, 256 μs, 512 μs, or 1024 μs.

[0382] Optionally, during the fourth handover delay, the first station may not be scheduled by the second station. Optionally, during the fourth handover delay, the second station may not schedule the first station to perform transmissions; that is, the second station may not schedule the first station to receive and / or send PPDUs.

[0383] Optionally, the fourth handover delay is communicated to the first site by the second site, or the second site may inform the first site in advance. For example, the second site may inform the first site of the fourth handover delay using a management frame. Alternatively, the second site may inform the first site of the fourth handover delay during the association process.

[0384] Optionally, the fourth handover delay may be the same as or different from the third handover delay, and the fourth handover delay may be the same as or different from the second handover delay.

[0385] In some embodiments, the number of fourth CTS-to-self frames, or the number of PPDUs carrying fourth CTS-to-self frames, is determined based on a fourth handover delay. Optionally, multiple fourth CTS-to-self frames are transmitted consecutively back-to-back, i.e., multiple fourth CTS-to-self frames are aggregated and transmitted in the same PPDU; or, multiple PPDUs carrying fourth CTS-to-self frames are transmitted consecutively back-to-back, i.e., each PPDU carries one fourth CTS-to-self frame, with no gap between the multiple PPDUs; or, multiple PPDUs carrying fourth CTS-to-self frames are spaced apart, such as SIFS, i.e., each PPDU carries one fourth CTS-to-self frame, with SIFS as the interval between the multiple PPDUs.

[0386] In some embodiments, the value of the Duration field of the fourth CTS-to-self frame is less than or equal to the remaining duration of the current TXOP.

[0387] In some embodiments, the first and second stations know the interference end time and / or NPCA end time. Therefore, the first station can determine when to send the fourth CTS-to-self frame, and the second station can estimate the end time of the fourth CTS-to-self frame sent by the first station. Thus, the second station can ensure that the next PPDU is sent after SIFS following the fourth CTS-to-self frame sent by the first station. After completing the switching of the working channel, the first and second stations need to perform Physical Channel Detection (PCS) or Net Channel Assessment (CCA) within at least SIFS before sending a PPDU. A PPDU can only be sent when the channel is idle.

[0388] In some embodiments, after the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel, it detects or listens to the main channel. Optionally, the second station performs uplink and / or downlink transmissions on the main channel. That is, after the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel, it can receive PPDUs, or send PPDUs, or receive and send PPDUs, or send and receive PPDUs.

[0389] In some embodiments, if the first station fails to receive the PPDU sent by the second station after the fourth CTS-to-self frame of the first station due to possible timing errors and other interference, the second station and the first station use the retransmission mechanism in the existing standard to continue transmission.

[0390] Step 1460b: Remain on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0391] In some embodiments, after receiving the second frame, the second station remains on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0392] In some embodiments, the second station, when sending a second response frame that instructs the first station to remain on the first sub-channel, remains on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0393] In some embodiments, the second station remains on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends without sending a second response frame instructing the first station to switch to the primary channel.

[0394] In some embodiments, if the second station does not send a second response frame within a sixth duration, it remains on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0395] In some embodiments, if the first station does not send a second response frame instructing the first station to switch to the main channel within a sixth time period, it remains on the first sub-channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0396] Optionally, the sixth duration is determined by the communication protocol, or is predefined, or is indicated by the first station, or is indicated by the second station. Optionally, the sixth duration may be the same as or different from the fifth duration.

[0397] In some embodiments, after the current TXOP ends, the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel. Optionally, after switching back to the main channel, the second station detects or listens to the main channel. Optionally, the second station performs uplink and / or downlink transmissions on the main channel. That is, after switching from the first sub-channel to the main channel, the second station can receive PPDUs, or send PPDUs, or receive and send PPDUs, or send and receive PPDUs.

[0398] It is important to emphasize that steps 1420, 1430, 1440, 1450, and 1460 are all optional steps. The second station may choose not to execute these optional steps, or may execute some or all of them, and the execution order can be adjusted according to the actual situation. For example, the second station may execute only step 1410, or execute steps 1410 and 1420, or execute steps 1410 and 1430, or execute steps 1410 and 1440, or execute steps 1410, 1440, and 1450, or execute steps 1410, 1440, and 1460, or execute steps 1410, 1420, and 1430, or execute steps 1410, 1420, and 1430, or execute steps 1410, 1420, and 1450. Steps 420, 1430, and 1460, or steps 1410, 1420, 1430, 1440, and 1460, or steps 1410, 1420, 1430, 1450, and 1460, or steps 1410, 1420, 1430, 1440, 1450, and 1460, etc., are not all listed here.

[0399] In summary, the method provided in this application allows the second station to obtain the shared TXOP through the first frame and / or be triggered to execute NPCA, enabling it to switch from the primary channel to a non-primary channel for transmission, thus utilizing the non-primary channel to meet the transmission needs between the first and second stations. The method provided in this application is particularly suitable for situations where the primary channel may be subject to interference, and can improve communication reliability, spectrum utilization, and system throughput through an interference-free non-primary channel. Especially for scenarios with immediate interference, such as when interference on the primary channel is expected to occur very soon (e.g., less than 1ms), the method provided in this application can promptly trigger the first and second stations to transmit through an interference-free non-primary channel, effectively reducing or even avoiding the impact of interference on the transmission between the first and second stations.

[0400] As mentioned earlier, the first frame may include a data frame and / or a management frame and / or a QoS Null frame carrying the A-Control field.

[0401] Figure 12 illustrates a schematic diagram of the format of a first frame provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The first frame includes one or more of the following fields: Frame Control, Duration, Address 1, Address 2, Address 3, Sequence Control (Seqctl), Address 4, Quality of Service Control (QoS Control), High Throughput Control (HT Control), Data, and Frame Check Sequence (FCS). The numbers below each field indicate the number of bytes it occupies.

[0402] The HT Control field occupies 0 or 4 bytes and includes one or more of the following fields: VHT, HE, and A-Control. For example, the VHT field has a value of 1, occupying 1 bit. For example, the HE field has a value of 1, occupying 1 bit.

[0403] The A-Control field occupies 30 bits, including a control list and / or a padding field. The number of bits used by the control list is variable, while the padding field occupies 0 or more bits. Therefore, the A-Control field may or may not include a padding field, corresponding to the description of the "first padding field" above.

[0404] The Control List includes a Control Identifier (Control ID) and / or Control Information (Control Info). The Control ID field occupies 4 bits and can take a currently reserved value, such as 10.

[0405] The Control Info field occupies 26 bits and carries one or more of the following information: first handover information for the first site; information indicating that the first site only transmits on a non-primary channel; and channel interference information. For example, the Control Info field includes one or more of the following fields: a first field, a Switch Start Time field, an Integrity Duration field, an Allocation Duration field, and a Reserved field.

[0406] The first field is used to instruct the first site to share the TXOP and / or to instruct the execution of NPCA. Instructing the execution of NPCA can be understood as instructing the first site to perform an NPCA, or triggering the second site to perform an NPCA. Optionally, the first field is called the TXOP Sharing field, or the NPCA field, or other names. Optionally, the first field occupies 1 bit, 2 bits, or more.

[0407] Taking the first field occupying 1 bit as an example, different values ​​of the first field represent different meanings. For instance, if the first field has the first value, it means sharing TXOP; if the first field has the second value, it means not sharing TXOP. Alternatively, if the first field has the first value, it means sharing TXOP, and the second value is a reserved value. Another example: if the first field has the first value, it means executing NPCA; if the first field has the second value, it means not executing NPCA. Yet another example: if the first field has the first value, it means executing NPCA, and the second value is a reserved value. Finally, another example: if the first field has the first value, it means sharing TXOP; if the first field has the second value, it means executing NPCA.

[0408] Taking the first field, which occupies 2 bits, as an example, different values ​​in the first field can represent different meanings. For instance, the lower-order bits of the first field indicate whether to share the TXOP, and the higher-order bits indicate whether to execute the TXOP; or, the higher-order bits indicate whether to share the TXOP, and the lower-order bits indicate whether to execute the TXOP. The value of a single bit can be found in the description in the previous paragraph.

[0409] In this application, the first value is 0 and the second value is 1; or, the first value is 1 and the second value is 0; or, the first value and the second value are other values ​​besides 0 or 1, as long as the first value and the second value are different.

[0410] The Switch Start Time field indicates the time when the first station begins adjusting its working channel, or the time when the first station begins switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel, or the start time of the NPCA (National Time Synchronization Function), or a partial synchronization time value (partial timing synchronization function timer) indicating the start time of the first station adjusting its working channel, or the offset (in microseconds) between the start time of the first station adjusting its working channel and the current time, or the offset (in microseconds) between the start time of the first station switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel, or the offset (in microseconds) between the start time of the NPCA. The partial synchronization time value can represent truncated synchronization time data, such as the lowest valid 12 bits taken from the 64 bits of the Timer Synchronization Function Timer (TSF Timer). The Switch Start Time field may occupy 12 bits, less than 12 bits, or more than 12 bits. The Switch Start Time field can also be renamed, such as Start Time field, Switch Time field, etc. In other words, this application does not impose any restrictions on the number of bits or the name of the Switch Start Time field.

[0411] The Inteference Duration field indicates the duration of interference, the expected duration of interference, or the duration of NPCA, in microseconds. The Inteference Duration field may occupy 12 bits, less than 12 bits, or more than 12 bits.

[0412] The Allocation Duration field indicates the duration of a shared TXOP or the duration of an NPCA, in microseconds. The Allocation Duration field may be 12 bits, less than 12 bits, or more than 12 bits.

[0413] Control Info may include an Inteference Duration field or an Allocation Duration field, or both.

[0414] The fields, number of bytes, and number of bits shown in Figure 12 are optional examples. This application supports any adaptive modifications to the frame format of the first frame based on Figure 12, such as adding fields, removing some fields, recombining some fields, changing the number of bytes, changing the number of bits, changing the field names, etc.

[0415] Figure 13 illustrates a schematic diagram of the format of the first frame provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. Unlike the format shown in Figure 12, the Control Info field includes one or more of the following fields: a first field, a Switch Start Time field, and an Interfered Subchannels field.

[0416] The Interfered Subchannels field indicates subchannels that are being interfered with, or subchannels that are expected to be interfered with. The Interfered Subchannels field may occupy 16 bits, less than 16 bits, or more than 16 bits. Each bit in the Interfered Subchannels field corresponds to one subchannel. If a bit has the first value, it indicates that the subchannel corresponding to that bit is being interfered with or is expected to be interfered with. If a bit has the second value, it indicates that the subchannel corresponding to that bit is not being interfered with or is not expected to be interfered with. The correspondence between the bits in the Interfered Subchannels field and the subchannels can be agreed upon by the communication protocol or predefined. The first value is 0, 1, or another value; the second value is 1, 0, or another value.

[0417] For example, each bit in the Interfered Subchannels field represents a 20MHz subchannel. For instance, the first bit represents the primary 20MHz subchannel, the second bit represents the secondary 20MHz subchannel within the primary 40MHz, the third bit represents the low-frequency 20MHz subchannel within the secondary 40MHz within the primary 80MHz, the fourth bit represents the high-frequency 20MHz subchannel within the secondary 40MHz within the primary 80MHz, and so on. The 16th bit represents the highest-frequency 20MHz subchannel within the secondary 160MHz within the 320MHz.

[0418] For example, the bits in the Interfered Subchannels field correspond to subchannels ordered by their center frequencies, with the primary 20MHz subchannel potentially located anywhere within the 16 bits. For instance, ordered by center frequency from lowest to highest, the first bit represents the lowest frequency 20MHz subchannel within the 320MHz range, and the 16th bit represents the highest frequency 20MHz subchannel within the 320MHz range. Alternatively, ordered by center frequency from highest to lowest, the first bit represents the highest frequency 20MHz subchannel within the 320MHz range, and the 16th bit represents the lowest frequency 20MHz subchannel within the 320MHz range.

[0419] The descriptions of the other fields in the first frame are shown in Figure 12 and will not be repeated here.

[0420] The fields, number of bytes, and number of bits shown in Figure 13 are optional examples. This application supports any adaptive modifications to the frame format of the first frame based on Figure 13, such as adding fields, removing some fields, recombining some fields, changing the number of bytes, changing the number of bits, changing the field names, etc.

[0421] Figure 14 illustrates a schematic diagram of the format of the first frame provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. Unlike the format shown in Figure 12, the Control Info field includes one or more of the following fields: Access Category Constraint (AC Constraint) field, Reverse Direction Grant / More PPDU (RDG / More PPDU) field, Parameterized Spatial Reuse Transmission (PSRT PPDU) field, Command and Status Extension (CAS Extension) field, First Field, Switch Start Time field, and Interfered Subchannels field.

[0422] The CAS Extension field indicates whether the length of the CAS control information can be extended from 8 bits to a longer length, for example, up to 26 bits. The CAS Extension field occupies 1 bit. When the CAS Extension field is in its first value, it indicates that the length of the CAS control information has been extended. When the CAS Extension field is in its second value, it indicates that the length of the CAS control information has not been extended.

[0423] The RDG / More PPDU field indicates whether an RDG or more PPDUs need to be transmitted, occupying 1 bit. When the CAS Extension field indicates the length of the extended CAS control information (e.g., the CAS Extension field value is 1), the RDG / More PPDU field indicates that a TXOP is shared with the peer site.

[0424] The first field, occupying 1 bit, indicates whether the NPCA procedure should be executed. For example, a first value indicates no NPCA execution, and a second value indicates NPCA execution. For example, when the CAS Extension field indicates the length of the extended CAS control information (e.g., the CAS Extension field value is 1), the first field is used to indicate whether to share the TXOP or execute NPCA. For instance, a first value indicates sharing the TXOP, and a second value is a reserved value. For example, a first value indicates NPCA execution, and a second value indicates no NPCA execution. For example, a first value indicates NPCA execution, and a second value is a reserved value. For example, a first value indicates sharing the TXOP, and a second value indicates NPCA execution.

[0425] The Control ID field occupies 4 bits and can take the value 6.

[0426] The descriptions of the other fields in the first frame are shown in Figures 12 and 13, and will not be repeated here.

[0427] The fields, number of bytes, and number of bits shown in Figure 14 are optional examples. This application supports any adaptive modifications to the frame format of the first frame based on Figure 14, such as adding fields, removing some fields, recombining some fields, changing the number of bytes, changing the number of bits, changing the field names, etc.

[0428] As mentioned earlier, the second frame may include a data frame and / or a management frame and / or a QoS Null frame carrying the A-Control field.

[0429] Figure 15 illustrates a schematic diagram of the format of a second frame provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The second frame includes one or more of the following fields: Frame Control, Duration, Address 1, Address 2, Address 3, Sequence Control (Seqctl), Address 4, Quality of Service Control (QoS Control), High Throughput Control (HT Control), Data, and Frame Check Sequence (FCS). The numbers below each field indicate the number of bytes it occupies.

[0430] The HT Control field occupies 0 or 4 bytes and includes one or more of the following fields: VHT, HE, and A-Control. For example, the VHT field has a value of 1, occupying 1 bit. For example, the HE field has a value of 1, occupying 1 bit.

[0431] The A-Control field occupies 30 bits and includes a control list and / or a padding field. The number of bits used by the control list is variable, while the padding field occupies 0 or more bits. Therefore, the A-Control field may or may not include a padding field, corresponding to the description of the "second padding field" above.

[0432] The Control List includes a Control Identifier (Control ID) and / or Control Information (Control Info). The Control ID field occupies 4 bits and can take a currently reserved value, such as 11.

[0433] The Control Info field occupies 26 bits and carries the second handover information for the first site. For example, the Control Info field includes a Switch Start Time field, and optionally, the Control Info field also includes a Reserved field.

[0434] The Switch Start Time field is used to indicate the time when the first station begins adjusting the working channel, or the time when the first station begins switching from the first sub-channel to the main channel, or the end time of the NPCA (Non-Standardized Interchange), or a partial timing synchronization function timer value indicating the time when the first station begins adjusting the working channel, or the offset (in microseconds) between the time when the first station begins adjusting the working channel and the current time, or a partial timing synchronization function timer value indicating the time when the first station begins switching from the first sub-channel to the main channel and the current time, or a partial timing synchronization function timer value indicating the end time of the NPCA, or an offset (in microseconds) between the end time of the NPCA. The partial timing synchronization time value can represent truncated data of the timing synchronization time value, for example, taking the lowest valid 12 bits from the 64 bits of the TSF Timer, in microseconds. The Switch Start Time field occupies 12 bits, less than 12 bits, or more than 12 bits. The Switch Start Time field can also be renamed, such as Start Time field, Switch Time field, etc. That is to say, this application does not limit the number of bits or the name of the Switch Start Time field.

[0435] The fields, number of bytes, and number of bits shown in Figure 15 are optional examples. This application supports any adaptive modifications to the frame format of the second frame based on Figure 15, such as adding fields, removing some fields, recombining some fields, changing the number of bytes, changing the number of bits, changing the field names, etc.

[0436] As previously mentioned, the first response frame can be implemented as a BA frame, carrying a response to sharing TXOP and / or performing NPCA. The second response frame can also be implemented as a BA frame, carrying a response instructing the first station to switch to the primary channel or remain on the first sub-channel.

[0437] Figure 16 illustrates a schematic diagram of the BA frame format provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The BA frame includes one or more of the following fields: Frame Control, Duration, Receiver Address (RA), Transmitter Address (TA), Block Acknowledgment Control (BA Control), Block Acknowledgment Information (BA Information), and Frame Check Sequence (FCS). The numbers below each field indicate the number of bytes it occupies.

[0438] The BA Control field occupies 2 bytes and includes one or more of the following fields: Reservation, Block Acknowledgment Type (BA Type), No Memory Kept, Memory Configuration Tag, Management Ack, and Traffic Identifier Information (TID_Info).

[0439] The BA Type field occupies 4 bits and is used to indicate different variants of the BA frame. For example, a value of 1 indicates an Extended Compressed variant of the BA frame, a value of 2 indicates a Compressed variant, a value of 6 indicates a Groupcast with Retries (GCR) variant, a value of 7 indicates an Enhanced Directional Multi-Gigabit Multi-TID (EDMG Multi-TID) variant, a value of 8 indicates an EDMG Compressed variant, a value of 10 indicates a General Link Groupcast with Retries (GLK-GCR) variant, and a value of 11 indicates a Multi-STA variant.

[0440] For example, in the compressed variant of the BA frame, one of the five reserved bits in the BA Control field can be used to indicate whether to accept or reject TXOP sharing. The first value of this bit indicates that TXOP sharing is accepted, and the second value indicates that TXOP sharing is rejected.

[0441] Of the five reserved bits in the BA Control field, one reserved bit can be used to indicate whether to accept or reject the execution of NPCA. If the first value of this bit indicates acceptance of the execution of NPCA, and if the second value of this bit indicates rejection of the execution of NPCA.

[0442] Of the five reserved bits in the BA Control field, one reserved bit can be used to indicate whether the first station switches back to the main channel or continues to stay on the first sub-channel. If the first value of this bit indicates switching back to the main channel, and if the second value of this bit indicates continuing to stay on the first sub-channel.

[0443] For example, taking a compressed variant of the BA frame, some or all of the five reserved bits in the BA Control field are implemented as two fields: one field indicates acceptance or rejection of NPCA, and the other field indicates acceptance or rejection of TXOP sharing. Alternatively, one field indicates acceptance or rejection of NPCA, and the other field indicates switching back to the primary channel or remaining on the first sub-channel. Or, one field indicates acceptance or rejection of TXOP sharing, and the other field indicates switching back to the primary channel or remaining on the first sub-channel.

[0444] For example, taking the compressed variant of the BA frame as an example, some or all of the five reserved bits in the BA Control field are implemented as three fields, one field is used to indicate whether to accept or reject NPCA, one field is used to indicate whether to accept or reject TXOP sharing, and another field is used to indicate whether to switch back to the main channel or continue to stay on the first sub-channel.

[0445] The BA Information field includes Block Ack Starting Sequence Control and / or Block Ack Bitmap. The number of bytes in the BA Bitmap is variable, and it can occupy 8, 32, 64, or 128 bytes.

[0446] As mentioned above, the first handover delay and / or the third handover delay can be communicated to the second station by the first station, and the second handover delay and / or the fourth handover delay can be communicated to the first station by the second station.

[0447] Taking the example of the first station and / or the second station informing the peer station of the handover delay through the Ultra-High Reliability Capabilities (UHR Capabilities) element, the first station and / or the second station carry their own NPCA Capabilities in the UHR Capabilities element. The NPCA Capabilities include the delay information of the channel handover.

[0448] UHR Capabilities elements can be carried in one or more of the following frames: Beacon Frame, Probe Request Frame, Probe Response Frame, Association Request Frame, Association Response Frame, Reassociation Request Frame, Reassociation Response Frame, and other management frames.

[0449] For multi-link devices, the latency information of the switching channels for different links may be the same or different. Therefore, NPCA Capabilities can also be carried in the Per-STA Profile Subelement in the Probe Request Multi-Link Element and / or Basic Multi-Link Element and / or Reconfiguration Multi-Link Element.

[0450] Figure 17 illustrates a frame format diagram containing NPCA capability elements provided by an exemplary embodiment of this application. The numbers below the fields indicate the number of bytes or bits occupied by that field.

[0451] The NPCA capability element includes one or more of the following subfields: NPCA Support, NPCA Padding Delay, and NPCA Transition Delay.

[0452] The NPCA Support subfield occupies 1 bit and is used to indicate whether NPCA functionality is supported. If the NPCA Support subfield is the first value, it indicates that NPCA functionality is supported; if the NPCA Support subfield is the second value, it indicates that NPCA functionality is not supported.

[0453] The NPCA Padding Delay subfield occupies 3 bits and indicates the minimum MAC padding duration of the initial control frame requested by the STA. The values ​​for the NPCA Padding Delay subfield are shown in Table 1.

[0454] Table 1. Values ​​of the NPCA Padding Delay subfield

[0455] The NPCA Transition Delay subfield occupies 4 bits and indicates the transition delay time required by a STA to switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel or to switch from the NPCA channel to the primary channel. The values ​​for the NPCA Transition Delay subfield can be found in Table 2.

[0456] Table 2 Values ​​of the NPCA Transition Delay subfield

[0457] In addition to NPCA capability elements, it may also include one or more fields such as Element ID, Length, Element ID Extension, UHR MAC Capabilities Information, UHR PHY Capabilities Information, and Support UHR Modulation and Coding Scheme and Number of Spatial Streams Set, Support UHR-MCS and NSS Set.

[0458] The UHR MAC Capabilities Information field includes one or more of the following fields: TXOP sharing mode 3 support, UHR link adaptation support, coordinated space reuse (C-SR support), coordinated beamforming support (C-BF support), coordinated restricted target wake-up time (C-rTWT support), coordinated time division multiple address support (C-TDMA support), low capability mode support (LCM support), and reserved.

[0459] To reiterate, the frame formats, element formats, and field formats shown in the above embodiments are merely examples and not limitations. This application supports modifications to the formats of each frame, element, and field based on the format design described above, such as changing the order of fields / elements, changing the number of bytes in fields / elements, changing the number of bits in fields / elements, changing the names of fields / elements / frames, etc. It also supports setting some fields / elements as reserved fields.

[0460] Taking the first frame as an example of sharing TXOP, the first station as STA 1, and the second station as AP, Figures 18 to 22 show schematic diagrams of the communication method for switching working channels provided by the exemplary embodiments of this application.

[0461] STA 1 is the Transmission Opportunity Holder (TXOP holder), meaning that STA 1 has acquired a TXOP. Within this TXOP, STA 1 can share the TXOP with the AP by carrying the first frame via the first uplink PPDU, and / or report to the AP information (including the handover time) regarding its switch from the primary channel to the first sub-channel via the first frame via the first PPDU, and / or report expected interference to the AP. The AP uses Non-HT PPDUs or Non-HT Duplicate PPDUs for transmission within the shared TXOP.

[0462] In Figure 18, before STA 1 prepares to switch from the primary channel to the target sub-channel, it indicates to the AP in the first control frame that it will share the TXOP. In its response to the first control frame, the AP indicates to STA 1 that it will accept the TXOP sharing. Then, to give STA 1 sufficient time to switch from the primary channel to the target sub-channel, the AP schedules other stations (such as STA 2) to transmit by sending one or more of the following frames: MU-RTS Trigger Frame (TF), BSRP Trigger Frame, NDP Feedback Report Poll (NFRP) Trigger Frame, and Basic Trigger Frame. Before STA 1 prepares to switch back from the target sub-channel to the primary channel, it carries second handover information in the data frame and / or the second control frame, indicating that it will switch back to the primary channel, which may include the timing of the switchback. The AP instructs STA 1 to switch back from the target sub-channel to the primary channel in the response to the Multi-STA BA frame and / or the second control frame. Then, in order to give STA 1 enough time to switch from the target sub-channel to the main channel, the AP transmits a Basic trigger frame to schedule other stations to transmit.

[0463] In Figure 19, before STA 1 prepares to switch from the primary channel to the target sub-channel, it indicates to the AP in a data frame that it will share the TXOP. The AP instructs STA 1 in a BA to accept the sharing of the TXOP. Then, to give STA 1 sufficient time to switch from the primary channel to the target sub-channel, the AP schedules other stations (such as STA 2) to transmit by sending one or more of the following frames: MU-RTS trigger frame, BSRP trigger frame, NFRP trigger frame, and Basic trigger frame. Before STA 1 prepares to switch back from the target sub-channel to the primary channel, it carries second handover information in a data frame and / or a second control frame, indicating that it will switch back to the primary channel, which may include the timing of the handover. The AP instructs STA 1 to switch back from the target sub-channel to the primary channel in the response to the Multi-STA BA frame and / or the second control frame. Then, to give STA 1 sufficient time to switch back to the primary channel, the AP transmits a Basic trigger frame to schedule other stations to transmit.

[0464] In Figure 20, before STA 1 prepares to switch from the primary channel to the target sub-channel, it indicates to the AP in the first control frame and / or data frame that it will share the TXOP. The AP, in its response to the first control frame and / or BA frame, indicates to STA 1 that it will accept the TXOP sharing. Then, to give STA 1 sufficient time to switch from the primary channel to the target sub-channel, the AP schedules other stations (such as STA 2) to transmit by sending one or more of the following frames: MU-RTS trigger frame, BSRP trigger frame, NFRP trigger frame, and Basic trigger frame. Before STA 1 prepares to switch back from the target sub-channel to the primary channel, it carries second handover information in the data frame and / or the second control frame, indicating that it will switch back to the primary channel, which may include the timing of the handover. In its response to the Multi-STA BA frame and / or the second control frame, the AP instructs STA 1 to remain on the target sub-channel until the current TXOP ends. The AP then continues to transmit Basic trigger frames to schedule STA 1 and other stations to transmit.

[0465] In some embodiments, before interference begins, the first station forces or defaults to share the TXOP, and when interference ends, the first station forces or defaults to switch back from the target sub-channel to the main channel. As shown in Figure 21, before STA 1 prepares to switch from the main channel to the target sub-channel, it indicates to the AP in the first control frame and / or data frame that it will share the TXOP. The AP accepts the sharing of the TXOP by default. Then, to give STA 1 sufficient time to switch from the main channel to the target sub-channel, the AP schedules other stations (such as STA 2) to transmit by sending one or more of the following frames: MU-RTS trigger frame, BSRP trigger frame, NFRP trigger frame, and Basic trigger frame. If STA 1 does not receive a response to the first control frame and / or BA within the expected period of receiving the response to the first control frame and / or BA, STA 1 considers communication to have failed and can terminate the current TXOP early. Before STA 1 prepares to switch back from the target sub-channel to the main channel, it carries second handover information in the data frame and / or the second control frame. The AP instructs STA 1 to switch back from the target sub-channel to the main channel in the response to the Multi-STA BA frame and / or the second control frame. Then, in order to give STA 1 enough time to switch from the target sub-channel to the main channel, the AP transmits a Basic trigger frame to schedule other stations to transmit.

[0466] In some embodiments, the AP must not schedule STA 1 to transmit during a first handover delay (Delay1) before and after the start of interference on the main channel, and / or the AP must not schedule STA 1 to transmit during a second handover delay (Delay2) before and after the end of interference on the main channel. As shown in Figure 22, before STA 1 prepares to switch from the main channel to the target sub-channel, it indicates to the AP in the first control frame and / or data frame to share the TXOP. The AP accepts the sharing of the TXOP by default. Then, in order to give STA 1 sufficient time to switch from the main channel to the target sub-channel, the AP schedules other stations (such as STA 2) to transmit by sending one or more of the following frames: MU-RTS trigger frame, BSRP trigger frame, NFRP trigger frame, Basic trigger frame. The AP does not schedule STA 1 to transmit during Delay1 before and after the start of interference on the main channel. Before STA 1 prepares to switch back from the target sub-channel to the main channel, it carries second handover information in the data frame and / or the second control frame. In its response to the Multi-STA BA frame and / or the second control frame, the AP instructs STA 1 to switch back from the target sub-channel to the primary channel. Then, to give STA 1 sufficient time to switch back to the primary channel, the AP transmits a Basic trigger frame to schedule transmissions from other stations. The AP does not schedule STA 1 transmissions before and during Delay 2 after the end of interference on the primary channel.

[0467] Taking the first frame as an example to trigger the second station to execute NPCA, where the first station is STA 1 and the second station is AP, Figures 23 to 26 show schematic diagrams of the communication method provided by the exemplary embodiments of this application.

[0468] STA 1 is the Transmission Opportunity Holder (TXOP holder), meaning STA 1 has acquired a TXOP. Within this TXOP, STA 1 can carry a first frame in the uplink PPDU indicating its intention to switch operating channels and / or instructing itself to transmit and receive only on non-primary channels, and / or report anticipated interference to the AP. After transmitting the first PPDU uplink, STA 1 can switch its operating channel to an interference-free sub-channel and / or transmit and receive only on the secondary channel. In this case, the AP uses a Non-HT PPDU, Non-HT Duplicate PPDU, or MU PPDU for downlink transmission, covering the target operating channel indicated by STA 1. This ensures that STA 1 can also receive the downlink transmission on the indicated target operating channel, and also maintains channel coverage across multiple sub-channels.

[0469] If the operating bandwidth of STA 1 is less than that of AP, STA 1 cannot switch to a sub-channel outside its own operating bandwidth because it did not occupy those sub-channels when acquiring TXOP.

[0470] In Figure 23, before STA 1 prepares to switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel, it triggers the AP to execute NPCA via the first control frame. In its response to the first control frame, the AP instructs STA 1 to execute NPCA. Then, to provide STA 1 with sufficient time to switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel and to effectively occupy the channel, the AP sends one or more PPDUs carrying the first CTS-to-self frame. STA 1 completes the switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel before the transmission time of the first CTS-to-self frame ends. STA 1 also sends one or more PPDUs carrying the second CTS-to-self frame to provide the AP with sufficient time to switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel. The AP completes the switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel before the transmission time of the second CTS-to-self frame ends.

[0471] Before STA 1 prepares to switch back to the primary channel from the NPCA primary channel, it carries second handover information in the data frame and / or the second control frame, indicating that it will switch back to the primary channel, which may include the timing of the handover. The AP instructs STA 1 to switch back to the primary channel from the NPCA primary channel in the response to the Multi-STA BA frame and / or the second control frame. Then, to give STA 1 sufficient time to switch back to the primary channel from the NPCA primary channel, the AP sends one or more PPDUs carrying a third CTS-to-self frame. STA 1 completes the handover from the NPCA primary channel to the primary channel before the transmission time of the third CTS-to-self frame ends. STA 1 also sends one or more PPDUs carrying a fourth CTS-to-self frame to give the AP sufficient time to switch back to the primary channel from the NPCA primary channel. The AP completes the handover from the NPCA primary channel to the primary channel before the transmission time of the fourth CTS-to-self frame ends.

[0472] In Figure 24, before STA 1 prepares to switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel, it triggers the AP to execute NPCA via the first control frame. In its response to the first control frame, the AP instructs STA 1 to execute NPCA. Then, to provide STA 1 with sufficient time to switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel and to effectively occupy the channel, the AP sends one or more PPDUs carrying the first CTS-to-self frame. STA 1 completes the switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel before the transmission time of the first CTS-to-self frame ends. STA 1 also sends one or more PPDUs carrying the second CTS-to-self frame to provide the AP with sufficient time to switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel. The AP completes the switch from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel before the transmission time of the second CTS-to-self frame ends.

[0473] Before STA 1 prepares to switch back to the primary channel from the NPCA primary channel, it carries second handover information in the data frame and / or the second control frame, namely, indication information that it will switch back to the primary channel, which may include the timing of the handover from the NPCA primary channel. In the response of the Multi-STA BA frame and / or the second control frame, the AP instructs STA 1 to remain on the NPCA primary channel until the current TXOP ends.

[0474] In some embodiments, the site forces or defaults to perform NPCA (Non-Standardized Interference) before the interference begins, and forces or defaults to switch back to the main channel from the NPCA main channel when the interference ends. As shown in Figure 25, before STA 1 prepares to switch from the main channel to the NPCA main channel, it triggers the AP to perform NPCA via a first control frame. The AP performs NPCA by default. Then, to provide STA 1 with sufficient time to switch from the main channel to the NPCA main channel and to occupy the channel, the AP sends one or more PPDUs carrying a first CTS-to-self frame. STA 1 completes the switch from the main channel to the NPCA main channel before the transmission time of the first CTS-to-self frame ends. STA 1 also sends one or more PPDUs carrying a second CTS-to-self frame to provide the AP with sufficient time to switch from the main channel to the NPCA main channel. The AP completes the switch from the main channel to the NPCA main channel before the transmission time of the second CTS-to-self frame ends. Before STA 1 prepares to switch back to the primary channel from the NPCA primary channel, it carries second handover information in the data frame and / or the second control frame, indicating that it will switch back to the primary channel, which may include the timing of the handover. The AP instructs STA 1 to switch back to the primary channel from the NPCA primary channel in the response to the Multi-STA BA frame and / or the second control frame. Then, to give STA 1 sufficient time to switch back to the primary channel from the NPCA primary channel, the AP sends one or more PPDUs carrying a third CTS-to-self frame. STA 1 completes the handover from the NPCA primary channel to the primary channel before the transmission time of the third CTS-to-self frame ends. STA 1 also sends one or more PPDUs carrying a fourth CTS-to-self frame to give the AP sufficient time to switch back to the primary channel from the NPCA primary channel. The AP completes the handover from the NPCA primary channel to the primary channel before the transmission time of the fourth CTS-to-self frame ends.

[0475] In some embodiments, STA 1 and AP know the start and / or start and end times of interference and / or NPCA, and therefore can determine when to send CTS-to-self frames and estimate the end time of the CTS-to-self frames sent by each other, thus ensuring that the next PPDU is sent after SIFS. After completing the switching of the working channel, STA 1 and AP need to perform Physical Channel Detection (PCS) or Net Channel Assessment (CCA) for at least SIFS before sending the next PPDU, and can only send the next PPDU if the channel is idle.

[0476] In some embodiments, if STA 1 and / or AP fail to receive a PPDU sent by the other party after a CTS-to-self frame due to possible timing errors and other interference, STA 1 and / or AP use the retransmission mechanism in the existing standard to continue transmission.

[0477] In some embodiments, CTS-to-self frames are not required to protect the channel during NPCA. For example, if the handover delay of the working channel is less than a certain threshold, the peer station does not need to send CTS-to-self frames to occupy the channel. As shown in Figure 26, the first handover delay of STA 1 switching from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel is less than or equal to the first threshold. STA 1 completes the handover within SIFS or PIFS after the end of the uplink PPDU, or within SIFS or PIFS after the end of the response PPDU of the UL PPDU. The second handover delay of AP switching from the primary channel to the NPCA primary channel is less than or equal to the second threshold. AP completes the handover within SIFS or PIFS after the end of the uplink PPDU, or within SIFS or PIFS after the end of the response PPDU of the UL PPDU. The first threshold is SIFS, PIFS, DIFS, or several microseconds. The second threshold is SIFS, PIFS, DIFS, or several microseconds. The first threshold may be the same as or different from the second threshold.

[0478] In some embodiments, the third handover delay of STA 1 from the NPCA primary channel to the primary channel is less than or equal to the third threshold. STA 1 completes the handover within SIFS or PIFS after the end of the interference and / or the end of the NPCA, or within SIFS or PIFS after the end of the last PPDU transmitted on the NPCA primary channel. The fourth handover delay of AP from the NPCA primary channel to the primary channel is less than or equal to the fourth threshold. AP completes the handover within SIFS or PIFS after the end of the interference and / or the end of the NPCA, or within SIFS or PIFS before the end of the last PPDU transmitted on the NPCA primary channel, or within SIFS or PIFS after the end of the last PPDU transmitted on the NPCA primary channel. The third threshold is SIFS, PIFS, DIFS, or a number of microseconds. The fourth threshold is SIFS, PIFS, DIFS, or a number of microseconds. The third threshold may be the same as or different from the fourth threshold, the third threshold may be the same as or different from the first threshold, and the second threshold may be the same as or different from the fourth threshold.

[0479] Figure 27 shows a structural block diagram of a communication device 3000 provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The communication device 3000 can be implemented as the first station described above, or as part of the first station described above, such as as an MLD containing the first station. Optionally, the communication device 3000 is a wireless communication device / wireless device that supports WLAN / Wi-Fi protocols (such as the 802.11 protocol). The communication device 3000 includes a transmitting module 3010. Optionally, the communication device 3000 also includes a receiving module 3030 and / or a processing module 3050.

[0480] The sending module 3010 is used to send a first frame to the second station, the first frame being used to share transmission opportunities with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform NPCA.

[0481] In some embodiments, the first frame also carries one or more of the following information: first switching information of the device; information indicating that the device transmits only on a non-primary channel; and channel interference information.

[0482] In some embodiments, the first switching information of the device includes one or more of the following: the time when the device switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel, the first sub-channel, the start time of NPCA, and the end time of NPCA.

[0483] In some embodiments, the channel interference information includes one or more of the following: the start time of interference in the main channel, the end time of interference in the main channel, the duration of interference in the main channel, and the bitmap of the interfered sub-channel.

[0484] In some embodiments, the first frame is further configured to: instruct the second station to schedule the transmission of the device in the transmission opportunity and in the available sub-channel; instruct the second station to schedule the transmission of the device in the transmission opportunity and in the available resource unit; instruct the second station not to schedule the transmission of the device in the transmission opportunity; instruct the second station not to schedule the transmission of the device within a first handover delay in the transmission opportunity, wherein the first handover delay refers to the delay in which the device switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0485] In some embodiments, the receiving module 3030 is configured to receive a first response frame, the first response frame being configured to indicate one or more of the following: the second station accepts the sharing of the transmission opportunity; the second station performs NPCA; the second station rejects the sharing of the transmission opportunity; the second station refuses to perform NPCA.

[0486] In some embodiments, the first response frame includes a first padding field, the transmission time of which is used for the device to switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0487] In some embodiments, the processing module 3050 is used to: switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel; terminate the current transmission opportunity in advance; and require other radio frequencies within the device to refrain from transmitting or receiving.

[0488] In some embodiments, the processing module 3050 is configured to: complete a handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the start of interference on the main channel; complete a handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the start of NPCA; complete a handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the end of the first CTS-to-self frame transmission; complete a handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the start of interference on the main channel; complete a handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the start of NPCA; and complete a handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the end of the first CTS-to-self frame transmission.

[0489] In some embodiments, the first CTS-to-self frame is sent by the second station when the first handover delay is greater than or equal to a first threshold, the first handover delay referring to the delay when the device switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0490] In some embodiments, the receiving module 3030 is further configured to receive a first CTS-to-self frame.

[0491] In some embodiments, the sending module 3010 is further configured to send a second CTS-to-self frame.

[0492] In some embodiments, the sending module 3010 is further configured to send the second CTS-to-self frame when the second handover delay is greater than or equal to the second threshold; wherein the second handover delay refers to the delay at which the second station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0493] In some embodiments, the sending module 3010 is further configured to send a second frame to the second station, the second frame carrying second switching information of the device, the second switching information of the device including the time when the device switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0494] In some embodiments, the receiving module 3030 is further configured to receive a second response frame, the second response frame being configured to instruct the device to switch to the main channel or remain on the first sub-channel.

[0495] In some embodiments, the second response frame includes a second padding field, the transmission time of which is used for the device to switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0496] In some embodiments, the processing module 3050 is further configured to switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel; or, remain on the first sub-channel until the current transmission opportunity ends.

[0497] In some embodiments, the processing module 3050 is further configured to: complete the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of interference on the main channel; complete the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of NPCA; complete the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of transmission of the third CTS-to-self frame; complete the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of interference on the main channel; complete the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of NPCA; and complete the handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of transmission of the third CTS-to-self frame.

[0498] In some embodiments, the third CTS-to-self frame is sent by the second station when the third handover delay is greater than or equal to the third threshold, the third handover delay referring to the delay when the device switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0499] In some embodiments, the receiving module 3030 is further configured to receive a third CTS-to-self frame.

[0500] In some embodiments, the sending module 3010 is further configured to send a fourth CTS-to-self frame to the second station.

[0501] In some embodiments, the sending module 3010 is further configured to send a fourth CTS-to-self frame if the fourth switching delay is greater than or equal to a fourth threshold.

[0502] In some embodiments, the second frame includes any one or more of the following: a management frame, a control frame, a data frame carrying an A-Control field, a management frame carrying an A-Control field, and a QoS Null frame carrying an A-Control field.

[0503] In some embodiments, the first frame includes any one or more of the following: a management frame, a control frame, a data frame carrying an A-Control field, a management frame carrying an A-Control field, and a QoS Null frame carrying an A-Control field.

[0504] In some embodiments, the transmitting module 3010 is further configured to transmit the first frame to the second station when interference is present or expected to be present on the main channel; wherein the interference includes one or more of the following: intra-device interference, OBSS interference.

[0505] In some embodiments, interference on the main channel is periodic or aperiodic.

[0506] In some embodiments, the sending module 3010 is used to perform one or more of the following steps: step 1120, step 1210, step 1230d, and step 1240.

[0507] In some embodiments, the receiving module 3030 is configured to perform one or more of the following steps: step 1220, step 1250.

[0508] In some embodiments, the processing module 3050 is configured to perform one or more of the following steps: step 1230a, step 1230b, step 1230c, step 1260a, and step 1260b.

[0509] The content described in the preceding method embodiments is applicable to the communication device 3000 shown in Figure 27. For details not described in detail in this embodiment, please refer to the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0510] In summary, the apparatus provided in this application supports sharing a TXOP with the second station via the first frame and / or triggering the second station to execute NPCA, thereby inducing the second station to switch from the primary channel to a non-primary channel for transmission. Utilizing the non-primary channel to meet the transmission needs with the second station improves communication reliability, spectrum utilization, and system throughput through the interference-free non-primary channel. Particularly for scenarios with immediate interference, such as when interference on the primary channel is expected to occur very quickly (e.g., less than 1ms), timely transmission via the interference-free non-primary channel effectively reduces or even avoids the impact of interference on transmission.

[0511] Figure 28 shows a structural block diagram of a communication device 3100 provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application. The communication device 3100 can be implemented as the second station described above, or as part of the second station described above, such as as an MLD containing the second station. Optionally, the communication device 3100 can also be a wireless communication device / wireless device supporting WLAN / Wi-Fi protocols (such as the 802.11 protocol). The communication device 3100 includes a receiving module 3110. Optionally, the communication device 3100 also includes a transmitting module 3130 and / or a processing module 3150.

[0512] The receiving module 3110 is used to receive a first frame, which is used to share a transmission opportunity with the device and / or trigger the device to perform Non-Main Channel Access (NPCA).

[0513] In some embodiments, the first frame may also carry one or more of the following information: first switching information of the first station; information indicating that the first station transmits only on a non-primary channel; and channel interference information.

[0514] In some embodiments, the first handover information of the first station includes one or more of the following: the time when the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel, the first sub-channel, the start time of NPCA, and the end time of NPCA.

[0515] In some embodiments, the channel interference information includes one or more of the following: the start time of interference in the main channel, the end time of interference in the main channel, the duration of interference in the main channel, and the bitmap of the interfered sub-channel.

[0516] In some embodiments, the first frame is further configured to: instruct the apparatus to schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity and in the available sub-channel; instruct the apparatus to schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity and in the available resource unit; instruct the apparatus not to schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity; instruct the apparatus not to schedule the transmission of the first station within a first handover delay in the transmission opportunity, wherein the first handover delay refers to the delay in which the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0517] In some embodiments, the transmitting module 3130 is configured to: schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity and in the available sub-channel; schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity and in the available resource unit; not schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity; and not schedule the transmission of the first station during a first handover delay in the transmission opportunity, wherein the first handover delay refers to the delay during which the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0518] In some embodiments, the sending module 3130 is further configured to send a first response frame, the first response frame being configured to indicate one or more of the following: the device accepts the sharing of the transmission opportunity; the device performs NPCA; the device rejects the sharing of the transmission opportunity; the device refuses to perform NPCA.

[0519] In some embodiments, the first response frame includes a first padding field, the transmission time of which is used for the first station to switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0520] In some embodiments, the sending module 3130 is further configured to send a first CTS-to-self frame.

[0521] In some embodiments, the sending module 3130 is further configured to send the first CTS-to-self frame when the first switching delay is greater than or equal to the first threshold; wherein the first switching delay refers to the delay at which the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0522] In some embodiments, the receiving module 3110 is further configured to receive a second CTS-to-self frame.

[0523] In some embodiments, the processing module 3150 is used to switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0524] In some embodiments, the processing module 3150 is further configured to: complete the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the start of interference on the main channel; complete the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the start of NPCA; complete the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel before the end of the transmission of the second CTS-to-self frame; complete the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the start of interference on the main channel; complete the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the start of NPCA; and complete the handover from the main channel to the first sub-channel at the end of the transmission of the second CTS-to-self frame.

[0525] In some embodiments, the second CTS-to-self frame is sent by the first station when the second handover delay is greater than or equal to a second threshold, the second handover delay referring to the delay when the device switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

[0526] In some embodiments, the receiving module 3110 is further configured to receive a second frame, the second frame being configured to carry second handover information of the first station, the second handover information of the first station including the time when the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0527] In some embodiments, the sending module 3130 is further configured to send a second response frame, the second response frame being configured to instruct the first station to switch to the main channel or remain on the first sub-channel.

[0528] In some embodiments, the second response frame includes a second padding field, the transmission time of which is used for the first station to switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0529] In some embodiments, the processing module 3150 is further configured to: switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel; remain on the first sub-channel until the current transmission opportunity ends.

[0530] In some embodiments, the sending module 3130 is further configured to send a third CTS-to-self frame.

[0531] In some embodiments, the transmitting module 3130 is further configured to transmit the third CTS-to-self frame when the third handover delay is greater than or equal to the third threshold; wherein the third handover delay refers to the delay at which the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0532] In some embodiments, the processing module 3150 is further configured to: complete a handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of interference on the main channel; complete a handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of NPCA; complete a handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of transmission of the fourth CTS-to-self frame; complete a handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of interference on the main channel; complete a handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of NPCA; and complete a handover from the first sub-channel to the main channel before the end of transmission of the fourth CTS-to-self frame.

[0533] In some embodiments, the fourth CTS-to-self frame is sent by the first station when the fourth handover delay is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold, where the fourth handover delay refers to the delay at which the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

[0534] In some embodiments, the receiving module 3110 is further configured to receive a fourth CTS-to-self frame.

[0535] In some embodiments, the second frame includes any one or more of the following: a management frame, a control frame, a data frame carrying an A-Control field, a management frame carrying an A-Control field, and a QoS Null frame carrying an A-Control field.

[0536] In some embodiments, the first frame includes any one or more of the following: a management frame, a control frame, a data frame carrying an A-Control field, a management frame carrying an A-Control field, and a QoS Null frame carrying an A-Control field.

[0537] In some embodiments, the first frame is transmitted by a first station in the presence or anticipated presence of interference on the main channel; wherein the interference includes one or more of the following: in-device interference, OBSS interference.

[0538] In some embodiments, interference on the main channel is periodic or aperiodic.

[0539] In some embodiments, the receiving module 3110 is used to perform one or more of the following steps: step 1320, step 1410, step 1440.

[0540] In some embodiments, the sending module 3130 is used to perform one or more of the following steps: step 1420, step 1430a, and step 1450.

[0541] In some embodiments, the processing module 3150 is configured to perform one or more of the following steps: step 1430b, step 1460a, and step 1460b.

[0542] The content described in the preceding method embodiments is applicable to the communication device 3100 shown in FIG28. For details not described in detail in this embodiment, please refer to the above embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0543] In summary, the apparatus provided in this application supports obtaining the shared TXOP through the first frame and / or being triggered to execute NPCA, thereby enabling a switch from the primary channel to a non-primary channel for transmission. The non-primary channel is used to meet the transmission requirements with the first station, improving communication reliability, spectrum utilization, and system throughput through the interference-free non-primary channel. Particularly for scenarios with immediate interference, such as when interference on the primary channel is expected to occur very quickly (e.g., less than 1ms), timely transmission via the interference-free non-primary channel effectively reduces or even avoids the impact of interference on transmission.

[0544] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in the above embodiments is only illustrated by the division of the above functional modules. In practical applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the communication device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above. In addition, the apparatus and method embodiments provided in the above embodiments belong to the same concept.

[0545] Figure 29 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device 3200 provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application, including at least one of the following: receiver 3201, transmitter 3202, processor 3203, memory 3204, and bus (not shown in the figure).

[0546] In this design, receiver 3201 is used to implement the receiving function, and transmitter 3202 is used to implement the transmitting function. Optionally, receiver 3201 and transmitter 3202 can be implemented as a communication component, which can be a communication chip, and can be called a transceiver. Optionally, receiver 3201 and transmitter 3202 can be implemented as a wireless communication component and / or a wired communication component. Optionally, the wireless communication component includes a wireless communication chip and / or a radio frequency antenna. Optionally, the wired communication component includes a wired communication chip and / or a wired interface.

[0547] The processor 3203 includes one or more processing cores, and the processor 3203 executes various functional applications and information processing by running software programs and modules.

[0548] The memory 3204 can be used to store a computer program executed by the processor 3203, which executes the computer program to implement the various steps in the above method embodiments.

[0549] In some embodiments, the communication device 3200 is used to perform some or all of the steps performed by the first station. The receiver 3201 can be used to implement the functions and steps of the receiving module 3030, the transmitter 3202 can be used to implement the functions and steps of the sending module 3010, and the processor 3203 can be used to implement the functions and steps of the processing module 3050.

[0550] In some embodiments, the communication device 3200 is used to perform some or all of the steps performed by the second station. The receiver 3201 can be used to implement the functions and steps of the receiving module 3110, the transmitter 3202 can be used to implement the functions and steps of the sending module 3130, and the processor 3203 can be used to implement the functions and steps of the processing module 3150.

[0551] In some embodiments, the memory 3204 may be connected to the processor 3203, the receiver 3201, and the transmitter 3202.

[0552] Furthermore, the memory 3204 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, including but not limited to: magnetic disks or optical disks, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), static random access memory (SRAM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, and programmable read-only memory (PROM).

[0553] In some embodiments, the receiver 3201 independently receives signals / data, or the processor 3203 controls the receiver 3201 to receive signals / data, or the processor 3203 requests the receiver 3201 to receive signals / data, or the processor 3203 cooperates with the receiver 3201 to receive signals / data.

[0554] In some embodiments, the transmitter 3202 independently transmits signals / data, or the processor 3203 controls the transmitter 3202 to transmit signals / data, or the processor 3203 requests the transmitter 3202 to transmit signals / data, or the processor 3203 cooperates with the transmitter 3202 to transmit signals / data.

[0555] For details not described in this embodiment, please refer to the embodiments above, which will not be repeated here.

[0556] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a chip is also provided, the chip including programmable logic circuits and / or program instructions, which, when the chip is run on a communication device, is used to implement the communication methods provided in the above-described method embodiments.

[0557] In some embodiments, the chip includes a transmitting module 3010. Optionally, the chip further includes a receiving module 3030 and / or a processing module 3050. Optionally, each module can be implemented as a circuit structure. Related details can be found above and will not be repeated here.

[0558] In some embodiments, the chip includes a receiving module 3110. Optionally, the chip further includes a transmitting module 3130 and / or a processing module 3150. Optionally, each module can be implemented as a circuit structure. Related details can be found above and will not be repeated here.

[0559] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a computer-readable storage medium is also provided, which stores at least one program that is loaded and executed by a processor to implement the communication methods provided in the above-described method embodiments.

[0560] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a computer program product is also provided, which includes computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium. A processor retrieves the computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the computer instructions to implement the communication methods provided in the above-described method embodiments.

[0561] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a computer program is also provided. The computer program includes computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium. A processor retrieves the computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium and executes the computer instructions to implement the communication methods provided in the above-described method embodiments.

[0562] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the steps of the above embodiments can be implemented by hardware or by a program instructing related hardware. The program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, such as a read-only memory, a disk, or an optical disk.

[0563] The above are merely optional embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method is performed by a first site, and the method includes: Send a first frame to the second station. The first frame is used to share transmission opportunities with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform Non-Main Channel Access (NPCA).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first frame also carries one or more of the following information: first handover information of the first station; information indicating that the first station only transmits on a non-primary channel; and channel interference information.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, The first handover information of the first station includes one or more of the following: the time when the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel, the first sub-channel, the start time of NPCA, and the end time of NPCA.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The channel interference information includes one or more of the following: the start time of interference on the main channel, the end time of interference on the main channel, the duration of interference on the main channel, and the bitmap of the affected sub-channel.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first frame is also used for one or more of the following: instructing the second station to schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity and in the available sub-channels; instructing the second station to schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity and in the available resource units; instructing the second station not to schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity; The second station is instructed not to schedule the transmission of the first station during a first handover delay in the transmission opportunity, whereby the first handover delay refers to the delay during which the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: receiving a first response frame; The first response frame is used to indicate one or more of the following: the second station accepts the sharing of the transmission opportunity; the second station performs NPCA; the second station rejects the sharing of the transmission opportunity; the second station refuses to perform NPCA.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first response frame includes a first padding field, the transmission time of which is used for the first station to switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The method further includes one or more of the following: Switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel; Prematurely terminate the current transmission opportunity; It is required that other radio frequencies within the equipment at the first site not transmit or receive.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel satisfies one or more of the following: completed before the start of interference on the main channel; completed before the start of NPCA; completed before the end of the first CTS-to-self frame transmission; completed at the start of interference on the main channel; completed at the start of NPCA; completed at the end of the first CTS-to-self frame transmission.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first CTS-to-self frame is sent by the second station when the first handover delay is greater than or equal to a first threshold, where the first handover delay refers to the delay when the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

11. The method according to claim 8, 9, or 10, characterized in that, Sending the second CTS-to-self frame includes: If the second handover delay is greater than or equal to the second threshold, the second CTS-to-self frame is sent; Wherein, the second switching delay refers to the delay at which the second station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: A second frame is sent to the second station. The second frame carries the second handover information of the first station, which includes the time when the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a second response frame, which is used to instruct the first station to switch to the main channel or remain on the first sub-channel.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The second response frame includes a second padding field, the transmission time of which is used for the first station to switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel; or remain on the first sub-channel until the current transmission opportunity ends.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel satisfies one or more of the following conditions: it is completed before the end of the interference on the main channel; it is completed before the end of the NPCA; it is completed before the end of the third CTS-to-self frame transmission; it is completed at the end of the interference on the main channel; it is completed at the end of the NPCA; it is completed at the end of the third CTS-to-self frame transmission.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The third CTS-to-self frame is sent by the second station when the third handover delay is greater than or equal to the third threshold, where the third handover delay refers to the delay when the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the fourth CTS-to-self frame.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The transmission of the fourth CTS-to-self frame includes: If the fourth handover delay is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold, the fourth CTS-to-self frame is sent; The fourth switching delay refers to the delay at which the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

20. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 19, characterized in that, The second frame includes any one or more of the following: Management frames, control frames, data frames carrying the A-Control field, management frames carrying the A-Control field, and QoS null frames carrying the A-Control field.

21. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that, The first frame includes any one or more of the following: Management frames, control frames, data frames carrying the A-Control field, management frames carrying the A-Control field, and QoS null frames carrying the A-Control field.

22. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that, Sending the first frame to the second station includes: If interference is present or anticipated in the main channel, the first frame is sent to the second station; The interference includes one or more of the following: intra-device interference, and overlapping basic service set (OBSS) interference.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The interference is either periodic or non-periodic.

24. A communication method, characterized in that, The method is performed by a second site, and the method includes: Receive a first frame, which is used to share a transmission opportunity with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform Non-Main Channel Access (NPCA).

25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that, The first frame also carries one or more of the following information: first handover information of the first station; information indicating that the first station only transmits on a non-primary channel; and channel interference information.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that, The first handover information of the first station includes one or more of the following: the time when the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel, the first sub-channel, the start time of NPCA, and the end time of NPCA.

27. The method according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that, The channel interference information includes one or more of the following: the start time of interference on the main channel, the end time of interference on the main channel, the duration of interference on the main channel, and the bitmap of the affected sub-channel.

28. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 27, characterized in that, The first frame is also used for one or more of the following: instructing the second station to schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity and in the available sub-channels; instructing the second station to schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity and in the available resource units; instructing the second station not to schedule the transmission of the first station in the transmission opportunity; The second station is instructed not to schedule the transmission of the first station during a first handover delay in the transmission opportunity, whereby the first handover delay refers to the delay during which the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

29. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 28, characterized in that, The method further includes one or more of the following: The transmission of the first station is scheduled during the transmission opportunity and in the available sub-channels; The transmission of the first station is scheduled within the transmission opportunity and within the available resource units; Transmissions from the first station are not scheduled during the transmission opportunity; The transmission of the first station is not scheduled during the first handover delay in the transmission opportunity, where the first handover delay refers to the delay during which the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

30. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 29, characterized in that, The method further includes: sending a first response frame; The first response frame is used to indicate one or more of the following: the second station accepts the sharing of the transmission opportunity; the second station performs NPCA; the second station rejects the sharing of the transmission opportunity; the second station refuses to perform NPCA.

31. The method according to claim 30, characterized in that, The first response frame includes a first padding field, the transmission time of which is used for the first station to switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

32. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 31, characterized in that, The method further includes one or more of the following: Switch from the main channel to the first sub-channel; Send the first CTS-to-self frame.

33. The method according to claim 32, characterized in that, The switching from the main channel to the first sub-channel satisfies one or more of the following: completed before the start of interference on the main channel; completed before the start of NPCA; completed before the end of the second CTS-to-self frame transmission; completed at the start of interference on the main channel; completed at the start of NPCA; completed at the end of the second CTS-to-self frame transmission.

34. The method according to claim 33, characterized in that, The second CTS-to-self frame is sent by the first station when the second handover delay is greater than or equal to the second threshold, where the second handover delay refers to the delay when the second station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

35. The method according to claim 32, 33, or 34, characterized in that, Sending the first CTS-to-self frame includes: If the first handover delay is greater than or equal to the first threshold, the first CTS-to-self frame is sent; Wherein, the first switching delay refers to the delay at which the first station switches from the main channel to the first sub-channel.

36. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 35, characterized in that, The method further includes: A second frame is received, which carries the second handover information of the first station. The second handover information of the first station includes the time when the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

37. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 36, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second response frame, which is used to instruct the first station to switch to the main channel or remain on the first sub-channel.

38. The method according to claim 37, characterized in that, The second response frame includes a second padding field, the transmission time of which is used for the first station to switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

39. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 38, characterized in that, The method further includes one or more of the following: Switch from the first sub-channel to the main channel; Remain on the first sub-channel until the current transmission opportunity ends; Send the third CTS-to-self frame.

40. The method according to claim 39, characterized in that, The transmission of the third CTS-to-self frame includes: If the third handover delay is greater than or equal to the third threshold, the third CTS-to-self frame is sent; The third switching delay refers to the delay at which the first station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

41. The method according to claim 39 or 40, characterized in that, The switching from the first sub-channel to the main channel satisfies one or more of the following: completed before the end of interference on the main channel; completed before the end of NPCA; completed before the end of the fourth CTS-to-self frame transmission; completed at the end of interference on the main channel; completed at the end of NPCA; completed at the end of the fourth CTS-to-self frame transmission.

42. The method according to claim 41, characterized in that, The fourth CTS-to-self frame is sent by the first station when the fourth handover delay is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold, where the fourth handover delay refers to the delay when the second station switches from the first sub-channel to the main channel.

43. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 42, characterized in that, The second frame includes any one or more of the following: Management frames, control frames, data frames carrying the A-Control field, management frames carrying the A-Control field, and QoS null frames carrying the A-Control field.

44. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 43, characterized in that, The first frame includes any one or more of the following: Management frames, control frames, data frames carrying the A-Control field, management frames carrying the A-Control field, and QoS null frames carrying the A-Control field.

45. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 44, characterized in that, The first frame is transmitted by the first station in the presence of or anticipated interference on the main channel; The interference includes one or more of the following: intra-device interference, and overlapping basic service set (OBSS) interference.

46. ​​The method according to claim 45, characterized in that, The interference is either periodic or non-periodic.

47. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes: a transmitting module for transmitting a first frame to a second station, the first frame being used to share a transmission opportunity with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform Non-Main Channel Access (NPCA).

48. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes: a receiving module for receiving a first frame, the first frame being used to share a transmission opportunity with the second station and / or trigger the second station to perform Non-Main Channel Access (NPCA).

49. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes: a processor; a transceiver connected to the processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to load and execute the executable instructions to implement the communication method as described in any one of claims 1 to 23.

50. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes: a processor; a transceiver connected to the processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to load and execute the executable instructions to implement the communication method as described in any one of claims 24 to 46.

51. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores at least one program, which is loaded and executed by a processor to implement the communication method as described in any one of claims 1 to 23, or the communication method as described in any one of claims 24 to 46.

52. A computer program product or computer program, characterized in that, The computer program product or the computer program includes computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium, a processor retrieving the computer instructions from the computer-readable storage medium, and the processor executing the computer instructions to implement the communication method as described in any one of claims 1 to 23, or the communication method as described in any one of claims 24 to 46.

53. A chip, characterized in that, The chip includes a programmable logic circuit and / or at least a program, and the chip is used to implement the communication method as described in any one of claims 1 to 23, or the communication method as described in any one of claims 24 to 46, based on the programmable logic circuit and / or the at least one program.

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