Channel switching method, apparatus, and device

Abstract

The present application provides a channel switching method, an apparatus, and a device. The method comprises: when a first channel is interfered, an access point sends a first frame on a second channel, the first frame comprising channel switching information of the first channel.

Description

Channel switching methods, apparatus and equipment

[0001] Please cross-reference related applications.

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411520111.5, filed on October 29, 2024, entitled “Channel Switching Method, Apparatus and Device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of communications, and more specifically, to a channel switching method, apparatus, and device. Background Technology

[0004] In related technologies, access points or stations can transmit data through the primary channel or the non-primary channel access (NPCA) primary channel. However, when the primary channel or the NPCA primary channel is interfered with, the station cannot access the network, affecting data transmission. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a channel switching method, apparatus, and device, which helps to ensure data transmission at access points or sites.

[0006] Firstly, a channel switching method is provided, including:

[0007] In the event of interference on the first channel, the access point transmits a first frame on the second channel, the first frame including channel switching information for the first channel.

[0008] Secondly, a channel switching method is provided, including:

[0009] In the event of interference on the first channel, the station receives a first frame on the second channel, wherein the first frame includes channel switching information for the first channel.

[0010] In some implementations, the first channel is the primary channel, and the second channel includes non-primary channels accessing the NPCA primary channel; or,

[0011] The first channel is the NPCA main channel, and the second channel includes the main channel.

[0012] In some implementations, when the first channel is the primary channel and the second channel is the NPCA primary channel, the first frame also includes channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel.

[0013] In some implementations, the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel includes at least one of the following:

[0014] Information about the target channel to which the NPCA main channel is switched;

[0015] The effective time information of the NPCA main channel switching to the target channel;

[0016] The bandwidth information after the NPCA main channel is switched.

[0017] In some implementations, there are multiple links between the access point and the site, including a primary link and secondary links;

[0018] Wherein, the first channel is the main channel of the main link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following:

[0019] The NPCA main channel of the main link;

[0020] The main channel of the auxiliary link;

[0021] The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

[0022] In some implementations, the first frame may also include channel switching information for the NPCA main channel of the main link.

[0023] In some implementations, there are multiple links between the access point and the site, including a primary link and secondary links;

[0024] Wherein, the first channel is the main channel of the secondary link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following:

[0025] The main channel of the main link;

[0026] The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

[0027] In some implementations, the first frame also includes channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link.

[0028] Thirdly, a communication device is provided, comprising:

[0029] The transmitting module is configured to transmit a first frame on a second channel when the first channel is interfered with, the first frame including channel switching information of the first channel.

[0030] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, comprising:

[0031] The receiving module is configured to receive a first frame on a second channel when the first channel is interfered with, the first frame including channel switching information of the first channel.

[0032] Fifthly, an access point is provided, including a processor and a memory. The memory is used to store computer programs, and the processor is used to call and run the computer programs stored in the memory, performing the methods described in the first aspect or its various implementations.

[0033] In a sixth aspect, a site is provided, including a processor and a memory. The memory is used to store computer programs, and the processor is used to invoke and run the computer programs stored in the memory, performing the methods of the second aspect or its implementations described above.

[0034] In a seventh aspect, a chip is provided for implementing the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations. Specifically, the chip includes: a processor for calling and running a computer program from a memory, causing a device on which the chip is installed to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0035] Eighthly, a readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program that causes a computer to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0036] Ninthly, a computer program product is provided, including computer program instructions that cause a computer to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0037] In a tenth aspect, a computer program is provided that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0038] With the above technical solution, the access point can send the first frame carrying the channel switching information of the first channel through the second channel, which is not affected by interference, when the first channel is interfered with. Thus, the station can obtain the channel switching information of the first channel by listening to the second channel, and then perform the channel switching of the first channel, so as to ensure that the station and the access point access through the first channel, and thus ensure the data transmission of the station and the access point based on the first channel. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0040] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a channel based on preamble punching technology.

[0041] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the setup of a main channel and an NPCA main channel.

[0042] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a channel switching method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0043] Figure 5 illustrates two main channel switching schemes provided in embodiments of this application.

[0044] Figure 6 shows a schematic interaction diagram of a station carrying first interference information via ICF frames on the NPCA main channel when the main channel is interfered with.

[0045] Figure 7 shows a schematic format diagram of an interference information element provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0046] Figure 8 shows a schematic format diagram of a CSA provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0047] Figure 9 shows a schematic format diagram of an NPCA CSA provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0048] Figure 10 is a flowchart of a channel switching method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 11 is a flowchart of another channel switching method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0050] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 14 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0053] Figure 15 is a schematic block diagram of a chip provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0054] Figure 16 is a schematic block diagram of a communication system provided according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0055] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort regarding the embodiments of this application are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0056] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second," etc., used herein are used only to distinguish different objects and not to describe a particular order.

[0057] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, "at least one item" refers to one item or more items, "more items" refers to two items or more, and "at least two items" refers to two items or more. "At least one of the following items" or similar expressions can refer to any combination of these items. For example, at least one item of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c".

[0058] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, "and / or" indicates that the connected objects can have three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three scenarios: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects have an "or" relationship.

[0059] It should be understood that the "instruction" mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a direct instruction or an indirect instruction. For example, A instructing B can mean that A directly instructs B, such as B being obtainable through A; or it can mean that A indirectly instructs B, such as A instructing C, where B is obtainable through C, for example, B and C are related.

[0060] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to wireless local area network (WLAN) systems, and specifically to any of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 series protocols used in WLANs, such as 802.11a / b / g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11bn, and future 802.11 protocols. The methods provided in this application can be implemented by communication devices in a wireless communication system or by chips or processors within those devices. Accordingly, the communication device supports communication using the IEEE 802.11 series protocols. Although the embodiments of this application are primarily illustrated using a network deploying IEEE 802.11 as an example, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the various aspects of this application can be extended to other networks employing various standards or protocols, such as Bluetooth, high-performance radio LAN (HIPERLAN) (a wireless standard similar to IEEE 802.11, primarily used in Europe), wide area network (WAN), WLAN, personal area network (PAN), ultra-wideband (UWB) based wireless PAN systems, sensing systems, or other networks now known or to be developed in the future. Therefore, regardless of the coverage area and wireless access protocol used, the various aspects provided in this application can be applied to any suitable wireless network.

[0061] In the WiFi protocol, a station (abbreviated as STA) includes access point stations (abbreviated as AP STA) and non-access point stations (abbreviated as non-AP station). For the sake of simplicity, access point stations are usually called access points (abbreviated as AP), and non-access point stations are called stations (abbreviated as STA).

[0062] Figure 1 shows a schematic structural diagram of a communication system 100 applicable to an embodiment of this application. The communication system 100 may include an access point 110 and a station 120. The station 120 can access the network through the access point 110.

[0063] Access points can support communication or sensing based on WiFi protocols, such as 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11bn, or next-generation or later protocols.

[0064] The site can support communication or sensing based on WiFi protocols, such as 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11bn, or next-generation or later protocols.

[0065] The communication in the communication system 100 can be communication between access points and stations, or communication between stations, or communication between access points.

[0066] An access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks. Its main function is to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet.

[0067] In some scenarios, access points and sites can be devices used in vehicle networking, IoT nodes and sensors in the Internet of Things (IoT), smart cameras, smart remote controls, smart water and electricity meters in smart homes, and sensors in smart cities.

[0068] In some scenarios, the access point can be a terminal device (such as a mobile phone) with a WiFi chip or a network device (such as a router).

[0069] In the embodiments of this application, the site may be a mobile phone, tablet computer, computer, virtual reality (VR) device, augmented reality (AR) device, wireless device in industrial control, set-top box, wireless device in self-driving, vehicle communication device, wireless device in remote medical care, wireless device in smart grid, wireless device in transportation safety, wireless device in smart city or smart home, wireless device, wireless communication chip, etc. that support WLAN or WiFi technology.

[0070] It should be understood that Figure 1 only illustrates one access point and two sites. Optionally, the communication system 100 may include multiple access points or other numbers of sites, which is not limited in this application embodiment.

[0071] Optionally, the communication system 100 may also include other devices, such as network controllers, gateways, and other network entities, which are not limited in this application.

[0072] In some scenarios, such as densely populated areas, access points may interfere with each other, affecting the user experience.

[0073] In systems prior to 802.11ax, all sub-channels could only be used when they were consecutive and in an idle state; if some sub-channels detected interference signals, only the contiguous sub-channels containing the primary channel (PC) could be used.

[0074] 802.11ax supports the use of discontinuous downlink channels. This means that if downlink interference occurs in subchannels, signals can be transmitted through unaffected, idle discontinuous subchannels, including the main channel, as shown in Figure 2. This use of discontinuous channels is achieved through preamble puncturing.

[0075] 802.11be supports preamble puncturing for both uplink and downlink, making it increasingly flexible in handling interference channels. However, preamble puncturing does not support puncturing the main channel. If the main channel is busy, the entire channel becomes unusable.

[0076] In some scenarios, when the primary channel is interfered with, the AP and STA can switch to the non-primary channel access (NPCA) primary channel for access, thereby extending the reliance on the primary channel and making better use of transmission opportunities on idle non-primary channels, thus improving spectrum utilization.

[0077] For an IEEE 802.11bn Ultra High Reliability (UHR) system, any bandwidth consists of a master channel and a slave channel, as shown in Figure 3. The 160MHz channel is divided into channel 1 to channel 8, where channel 1 is set as the master channel and channel 5 is set as the NPCA master channel.

[0078] However, interference exists between wireless devices. When the main channel or NPCA main channel is interfered with, it will affect the user's access experience, causing the user to be unable to access the network, and thus affecting data transmission.

[0079] The technical solutions of this application are described in detail below through specific embodiments. The above-mentioned related technologies are optional solutions and can be combined with the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application in any way, all of which fall within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0080] Figure 4 is a schematic interactive diagram of a channel switching method 200 according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 4, the method 200 includes at least the following:

[0081] S210, in the event of interference to the first channel, the access point transmits a first frame on the second channel, the first frame including channel switching information of the first channel.

[0082] In some embodiments, the second channel is an interference-free channel.

[0083] In some embodiments, the first channel may be the main channel, and the second channel may include the NPCA main channel.

[0084] In this case, the first frame includes channel switching information for the primary channel.

[0085] In other embodiments, the first channel may be the NPCA main channel, and the second channel may include the main channel.

[0086] In this case, the first frame includes channel switching information for the NPCA main channel.

[0087] It should be understood that this application does not limit the type of interference received by the first channel, and may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following types of interference: OBSS PPDU interference (or OBSS frame interference), radar interference, Bluetooth interference, UWB interference, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) interference, 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) signal interference, such as 5G NR (5G New Radio in Unlicensed Spectrum, 5G NR-U) interference operating in unlicensed spectrum, etc.

[0088] Specifically, the 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands used by the WiFi standard are unlicensed frequency bands. On the 2.4GHz band, there's been an increase in the number of WiFi routers and devices, as well as the application of non-WiFi devices such as microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices, and smart home devices supporting the ZigBee protocol in the Internet of Things (IoT). Therefore, interference from these devices is increasing, affecting the user experience of WiFi connections. The 5GHz band (5150MHz-5825MHz) offers higher data transmission efficiency than the 2.4GHz band, but it also faces interference from sources such as radar, digital satellites, cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, and 5G NR-U devices. For example, radar interference exists on the 5GHz band. When WiFi devices operate on Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) channels, to avoid interfering with radar systems, the WiFi device must check for radar signals during startup and operation. If a radar signal is detected, the channel must be switched to avoid interference. Furthermore, the DFS channel requires a minimum inactivity period of 30 minutes. During the switch to a new channel, the WiFi device needs to stop transmitting signals on the original DFS channel and re-associate on the new channel. During this process, the WiFi device signal transmission is interrupted, which leads to the interruption of data services and other services. As a result, user terminals cannot connect to the AP and thus cannot access the network, affecting the user experience.

[0089] In some embodiments, interference with the first channel may include at least one of the following:

[0090] The site is interfered with on the first channel and the access point is interfered with on the first channel;

[0091] The site was not interfered with on the first channel, but the access point was interfered with on the first channel;

[0092] The site was interfered with on the first channel, but the access point was not interfered with on the first channel.

[0093] In some embodiments, interference to the first channel may include:

[0094] Interference signals were detected on the first channel; or

[0095] The strength of the interference signal detected on the first channel is greater than a preset threshold.

[0096] Optionally, the interference signal can be an Overlapping Basic Service Set (OBSS) signal, or it can be other interference signals, such as Bluetooth signals, Zigbee signals, radar signals, UWB signals, or 5G NR-U signals.

[0097] In some embodiments, the access point being interfered with on the first channel can be determined by the access point performing channel monitoring on the first channel. For example, the access point detects an interference signal on the first channel, or determines that the access point is being interfered with on the first channel when the strength of the interference signal detected on the first channel is greater than a preset threshold.

[0098] In some embodiments, if a site is interfered with on the first channel, the site may determine this by listening to the first channel and reporting it to the access point. Alternatively, the site may report the interference information detected on the first channel to the access point, which will then determine whether the site is being interfered with on the first channel based on the interference information, thereby determining whether a switch to the first channel is necessary.

[0099] In some embodiments of this application, if the site is interfered with on the main channel and the access point is not interfered with on the main channel, the access point sends a first frame on both the main channel and the NPCA main channel.

[0100] In other words, when only the site is interfered with on the main channel, the access point can simultaneously send the first frame on both the main channel and the NPCA main channel. This first frame carries channel switching information for the main channel. Sending the first frame via the NPCA main channel allows the site to detect the channel switching information by monitoring the NPCA main channel. Sending the first frame via the main channel allows other sites whose main channel is not interfered with to obtain the channel switching information by monitoring the main channel, and further, based on this information, switch to a new main channel for channel monitoring.

[0101] The channel switching information in the embodiments of this application may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0102] Information about the target channel to which the switch is made, such as the channel number of the target channel to which the switch is made;

[0103] The effective time information for switching to the target channel;

[0104] Bandwidth information after the switch.

[0105] The following uses the channel switching information of the first channel as an example to illustrate the specific implementation of channel switching information. The implementation of channel switching information of other channels (such as the NPCA main channel) is similar and will not be repeated here.

[0106] In some embodiments of this application, the channel switching information of the first channel includes at least one of the following:

[0107] Information about the target channel to which the first channel is switched, for example, the channel number of the target channel to which the first channel is switched;

[0108] Information on the effective time of the first channel switching to the target channel;

[0109] The bandwidth information after the first channel is switched.

[0110] In some embodiments, the effective time information for the first channel switching to the target channel may be countdown time information for the first channel switching to the target channel. For example, the countdown time information may be countdown time information in units of Target Beacon Transmission Time (TBTT) intervals.

[0111] In some embodiments, the target channel and the first channel are in the same frequency band. That is, the access point can select a new first channel in the current frequency band to perform channel switching, or in other words, the first channel before and after the switching are in the same frequency band. For example, when there are few channels affected by interference in the current frequency band, the access point can select a new channel as the first channel in the current frequency band. In this case, the bandwidth of the interfered sub-channels in the current frequency band can be combined to form a new bandwidth. This bandwidth can be configured as a static, non-contiguous bundled bandwidth, and the access point can continue to use this bandwidth in the current frequency band for data transmission.

[0112] In other embodiments, the target channel and the first channel are in different frequency bands. That is, the access point can select a new first channel in other frequency bands to perform channel switching, or in other words, the first channel before switching and the first channel after switching are in different frequency bands. For example, when there are many channels under interference in the current frequency band, the access point can scan other frequency bands and select an uninterrupted channel in other frequency bands as the new first channel. In this case, the bandwidth information after the first channel switching is the bandwidth information of other frequency bands.

[0113] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of two main channel switching schemes provided in the embodiments of this application. In the first main channel switching scheme, when the main channel is interfered with, the access point can switch the main channel to the channel where the NPA main channel is located (i.e., channel 3). That is, the target channel is the channel where the NPA main channel is located (i.e., channel 3). In this case, the NPA main channel needs to be switched to other channels, such as channel 2. In the second main channel switching scheme, when the main channel is interfered with, the access point can switch the main channel to other channels that are not interfered with (e.g., channel 2) other than the NPA main channel. That is, the target channel is channel 2. In this case, channel switching of the NPA main channel can be omitted.

[0114] In some embodiments, the bandwidth information after the first channel switch can be the available bandwidth information of the frequency band after the first channel switch.

[0115] In some cases, the frequency band after the first channel switch is the same as the frequency band before the first channel switch, that is, the target channel is selected on the current frequency band. In this case, the bandwidth information after the first channel switch can indicate the new bandwidth formed after puncturing the interfered sub-channels on the current frequency band.

[0116] In other cases, the frequency band after the first channel switch is a different frequency band than the frequency band before the first channel switch, that is, the target channel is selected on a frequency band other than the current frequency band. In this case, the bandwidth information after the first channel switch can indicate the available bandwidth on other frequency bands.

[0117] Optionally, if the first channel is the main channel and the second channel is the NPA main channel, the first frame may also include channel switching information for the NPA main channel.

[0118] That is, when switching the main channel, the NPCA main channel may not need to be switched. In this case, the first frame may only include the channel switching information of the main channel. Alternatively, the NPCA main channel may be switched. In this case, the first frame may include both the channel switching information of the main channel and the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel.

[0119] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel includes at least one of the following:

[0120] Information about the target channel to which the NPCA main channel is switched;

[0121] The effective time information of the NPCA main channel switching to the target channel;

[0122] The bandwidth information after the NPCA main channel is switched.

[0123] The specific implementation of the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel is similar to the implementation of the channel switching information of the first channel, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0124] In some embodiments, if the first channel is a channel on a first link (i.e., the first link is an interfered link), then the second channel is an uninterrupted channel on the first link. Optionally, the first link is a link between an access point and a site.

[0125] For example, if the main channel of the first link is interfered with, the access point can send the first frame through the NPCA main channel on the first link. The first frame carries the channel switching information of the main channel.

[0126] For example, if the NPCA main channel of the first link is interfered with, the access point can send the first frame through the main channel of the first link. The first frame can carry the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel.

[0127] In some embodiments, the access point and the site are multi-link devices (MLDs), that is, the access point is an AP MLD and the site is a STA MLD. In other words, there can be multiple links between the access point and the site, such as synchronous multi-links, or nonsimultaneous transmit and receive (NSTR) multi-links, where the multiple links include a primary link and a secondary link, and the primary link and the secondary link transmit and receive simultaneously.

[0128] In some implementations, the first channel is the main channel of the main link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following:

[0129] The NPCA main channel of the main link;

[0130] The main channel of the auxiliary link;

[0131] The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

[0132] For example, if the main channel of the main link is interfered with, the access point transmits the first frame through the NPCA main channel of the main link and the main channel of the auxiliary link. In this case, the first frame may include channel switching information of the main channel of the main link. Optionally, it may also include channel switching information of the NPCA main channel of the main link.

[0133] For example, if the main channel of the main link is interfered with, the access point transmits the first frame through the NPCA main channel of the main link, the main channel of the secondary link, and the NPCA main channel of the secondary link. In this case, the first frame may include channel switching information of the main channel of the main link. Optionally, it may also include channel switching information of the NPCA main channel of the main link.

[0134] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the primary channel of the primary link may include at least one of the following:

[0135] Information about the target channel to which the main channel of the main link is switched, such as the channel number of the target channel to which the main channel of the main link is switched;

[0136] The effective time information of the main link's main channel switching to the target channel;

[0137] The bandwidth information after the main channel of the main link is switched.

[0138] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel of the main link may include at least one of the following:

[0139] Information about the target channel to which the NPCA main channel of the main link is switched, such as the channel number of the target channel to which the NPCA main channel of the main link is switched;

[0140] The effective time information of the NPCA main channel of the main link switching to the target channel;

[0141] The bandwidth information after the NPCA main channel of the main link is switched.

[0142] The specific implementation of the aforementioned channel switching information refers to the specific implementation of the channel switching information of the first channel, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0143] In some other implementations, the first channel is the main channel of the secondary link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following:

[0144] The main channel of the main link;

[0145] The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

[0146] For example, if the primary channel of the secondary link is interfered with, the access point transmits the first frame through the primary channel of the primary link. In this case, the first frame includes channel switching information of the primary channel of the secondary link; optionally, the first frame may also include channel switching information of the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link.

[0147] For example, if the primary channel of the secondary link is interfered with, the access point transmits the first frame through both the primary channel of the primary link and the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link. In this case, the first frame includes channel switching information for the primary channel of the secondary link; optionally, the first frame may also include channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link.

[0148] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the primary channel of the secondary link may include at least one of the following:

[0149] Information about the target channel to which the primary channel of the secondary link is switched, such as the channel number of the target channel to which the primary channel of the secondary link is switched;

[0150] The effective time information for the switching of the primary channel of the secondary link to the target channel;

[0151] The bandwidth information of the secondary link after the main channel is switched.

[0152] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link may include at least one of the following:

[0153] Information about the target channel to which the NPCA main channel of the secondary link is switched, such as the channel number of the target channel to which the NPCA main channel of the secondary link is switched;

[0154] The effective time information for the switching of the NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link to the target channel;

[0155] The bandwidth information of the auxiliary link after the NPCA main channel is switched.

[0156] The specific implementation of the aforementioned channel switching information refers to the specific implementation of the channel switching information of the first channel, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0157] In some embodiments, the access point may perform channel detection to obtain interference information received by the access point. For example, channel detection may be performed on the main channel to obtain interference information received by the main channel, or channel detection may be performed on the NPCA main channel to obtain interference information received by the main channel.

[0158] In other embodiments, the station can perform channel detection to obtain interference information received by the station. For example, channel detection can be performed on the main channel to obtain interference information received by the main channel, or channel detection can be performed on the NPCA main channel to obtain interference information received by the main channel. The station can report the obtained interference information to the access point, so that the access point can determine whether to perform channel switching on the main channel or the NPCA main channel, the target channel to which to switch, the bandwidth information after switching, etc.

[0159] In some embodiments of this application, the method 200 further includes:

[0160] The access point receives a second frame sent by the station, the second frame including first interference information.

[0161] In some embodiments, the first interference information may include, but is not limited to, in-device coexistence (IDC) information, or may include other interference information, which is not limited in this application.

[0162] In real-world environments, various forms of interference exist, such as data distribution centers (IDCs), which affect data transmission between sites and access points. When the interfered sub-channel appears on the main channel or the NPCA main channel, it can impact user access. In this embodiment, sites can proactively report interference information to the access point. This allows the access point to monitor interference within its coverage area and promptly perform channel switching based on the interference received by the site, thereby improving the user's transmission experience.

[0163] Optionally, the first interference information may include interference information experienced by the site on the main channel and / or interference information experienced by the site on the NPCA main channel.

[0164] In some embodiments, the first interference information includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0165] The type of interference the site is experiencing;

[0166] The intensity (or level) of interference experienced by the site;

[0167] The station is subject to interference with channel information;

[0168] The interference status of the site;

[0169] The time information of when the site was interfered with.

[0170] In some embodiments, the type of interference experienced by the site may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0171] OBSS PPDU interference, radar interference, Bluetooth interference, UWB interference, BLE interference, 5G NR-U interference.

[0172] In some embodiments, the intensity of interference experienced by the site can be characterized by the intensity of the interference signal received by the site, for example by the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) of the interference signal.

[0173] In some embodiments, the channel information of the site being interfered with may include indication information of the interfered sub-channels (e.g., channel number), that is, which sub-channels of the site are interfered with.

[0174] In some embodiments, the interference state of the site may include the interference state of the site's interfered channel (or sub-channel), such as a long-term unavailability state (i.e., the channel (or sub-channel) is interfered with for a long time), a periodic unavailability state (i.e., the channel (or sub-channel) is interfered with periodically), or the channel is being interfered with.

[0175] Optionally, for each interfered channel (or sub-channel) of a site, an interference state can be assigned. That is, the interference state can be indicated separately for each interfered channel (or sub-channel), so that different interfered channels (or sub-channels) can correspond to different interference states.

[0176] In some embodiments, the time information of the site being interfered with can be used to determine during which time the site was interfered with. For example, the time information may include at least one of the following:

[0177] The start time of the interference to the site;

[0178] The duty cycle of a site during a period of interference (the ratio of the time under interference to the time without interference);

[0179] The duration of interference to a site within a cycle.

[0180] Optionally, the period of interference experienced by the site can be the beacon frame period.

[0181] Optionally, for each interfered channel (or sub-channel) of a site, there can be a corresponding interference time information. That is, the time information can be indicated separately for each interfered channel (or sub-channel), so that different interfered channels (or sub-channels) can correspond to different time information.

[0182] In some embodiments, the second frame may be a management frame, a data frame, or a control frame. As a specific example, the second frame may be an initial control frame (ICF) sent by the station to the access point. Figure 6 shows a schematic interaction diagram of a station carrying first interference information through an ICF frame on the NPCA main channel when the main channel is interfered with.

[0183] In some embodiments, the second frame may include a first element, also known as an interference information element or an IDC element. Figure 7 shows a schematic format diagram of an interference information element provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 7, the interference information element may include, but is not limited to, at least one field:

[0184] Interference type field, such as IDC type field, is used to indicate the type of interference the site is experiencing;

[0185] Interference intensity fields, such as the IDC level field, are used to indicate the intensity or level of interference experienced by the site;

[0186] Interference channel fields, such as the IDC Bandwidth Query Report (BQR) control field, are used to indicate the channel or sub-channel that the site is affected by;

[0187] Interference status fields, such as IDC status fields, are used to indicate the interference status of the site;

[0188] Interference time fields, such as IDC Start Time / Duty Cycle and / or IDC Burst Length, wherein the IDC Start Time / Duty Cycle field is used to indicate the start time or duty cycle of the interference received by the site, and the IDC Burst Length field is used to indicate the duration of the interference received by the site within one cycle.

[0189] In some embodiments of this application, the method 200 further includes:

[0190] The access point determines, based on the first interference information, whether the first channel of the site is interfered with, whether channel switching of the primary first channel is required, or channel switching information of the first channel, etc.

[0191] For example, if the interference intensity of the main channel of a site exceeds a certain threshold, it is determined that the main channel of the site is being interfered with, and a switchover of the main channel is required.

[0192] For example, if the interference intensity of the NPCA main channel of a site exceeds a certain threshold, it is determined that the NPCA main channel of the site is being interfered with, and the NPCA main channel needs to be switched.

[0193] For example, the access point can also select the target channel of the switched main channel or NPCA main channel based on the channel information of the site being interfered with, such as selecting an uninterrupted channel as the new main channel or NPCA main channel.

[0194] In some embodiments, the first frame may be a management frame, such as a beacon frame, a probe response frame, or an action frame. The following description uses a beacon frame as the first frame, but this application does not limit it.

[0195] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the primary channel can be carried by one element or by multiple elements. This application does not limit this. For example, information other than bandwidth information in the channel switching information of the primary channel can be carried by a Channel Switch Announcement Element (CSA), and the bandwidth information after the primary channel is switched can be carried by a Channel Switch Wrapper Element.

[0196] Figure 8 shows a schematic format diagram of a CSA provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 8, the CSA may include at least one of the following fields:

[0197] The Channel Switch Mode field indicates whether the station can continue to use the first channel to be switched to for data transmission;

[0198] The New Channel Number field indicates the channel number of the target channel to which the primary channel is switched.

[0199] The Channel Switch Count field indicates the time information for switching from the primary channel to the target channel, such as countdown time information.

[0200] Optionally, setting the channel switching mode field to a first value (e.g., 1) indicates that after receiving the first frame, the primary channel before the switch cannot be used for data transmission; data transmission can only be performed using the new primary channel after the first channel switch is completed. Setting the channel switching mode field to a second value (e.g., 0) indicates that after receiving the first frame, the primary channel before the switch can be used for data transmission.

[0201] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel can be carried by one element or by multiple elements. This application does not limit this. For example, information other than bandwidth information in the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel can be carried by the NPCA CSA element (this name is only an example and can be other names, this application does not limit this). The bandwidth information after the NPCA main channel is switched can be carried by the Channel Switch Wrapper Element (this name is only an example and can be other names, this application does not limit this).

[0202] Figure 9 shows a schematic format diagram of an NPCA CSA provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 9, the CSA may include the following fields:

[0203] The Channel Switch Mode field indicates whether the station can continue to use the first channel to be switched to for data transmission;

[0204] The new NPCA Channel Number field indicates the channel number of the target channel to which the NPCA primary channel is switched.

[0205] The Channel Switch Count field indicates the time information for the NPA main channel to switch to the target channel, such as countdown time information.

[0206] Optionally, setting the channel switching mode field to the third value (e.g., 1) indicates that after receiving the first frame, the NPA main channel before the switch cannot be used for data transmission; data transmission can only be used through the new main channel after the first channel switch is completed. Setting the channel switching mode field to the fourth value (e.g., 0) indicates that after receiving the first frame, the NPA main channel before the switch can be used for data transmission.

[0207] In some embodiments of this application, the method 200 further includes:

[0208] If the first channel is interfered with, the station will perform channel monitoring on the second channel and receive the first frame to obtain channel switching information of the first channel.

[0209] For example, if the main channel is interfered with, the station performs channel monitoring on the NPCA main channel and receives the first frame to obtain the channel switching information of the main channel.

[0210] For example, if the NPCA main channel is interfered with, the station will perform channel monitoring on the main channel and receive the first frame to obtain the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel.

[0211] In some embodiments of this application, the method 200 further includes:

[0212] Before the first channel is switched to the target channel, the access point and the site transmit data through the interference-free second channel.

[0213] For example, before the primary channel is switched to the target channel, access points and sites transmit data through the undisturbed NPCA primary channel.

[0214] For example, before the NPCA primary channel is switched to the target channel, the access point and the site transmit data through the primary channel, which is free from interference.

[0215] In some embodiments of this application, the method 200 further includes:

[0216] The access point performs channel switching based on the channel switching information of the first channel;

[0217] The station performs the handover based on the channel handover information in the first information.

[0218] In some embodiments of this application, the method 200 further includes:

[0219] After the first channel is switched to the target channel, the access point and the site switch to the new first channel for channel monitoring and data transmission.

[0220] For example, after the primary channel is switched to the target channel, the access point and the site switch to the new primary channel for channel monitoring and data transmission.

[0221] After the NPCA main channel is switched to the target channel, the access point and site switch to the switched NPCA main channel for channel monitoring and data transmission.

[0222] The overall flow of the channel switching method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to Figures 10 and 11.

[0223] As shown in Figure 10, the channel switching method may include the following steps:

[0224] S301, the access point performs channel detection on the first channel and determines that the first channel is being interfered with, or the site performs channel detection on the first channel, determines that the first channel is being interfered with, and reports the interference information to the access point.

[0225] Furthermore, the access point determines that the first channel is being interfered with based on the interference information obtained from its own channel detection or the interference information reported by the site, and therefore needs to perform channel switching.

[0226] S302, the access point determines the target channel to which the first channel is switched based on the detected interference information or the interference information reported by the site.

[0227] For example, an access point can select an uninterrupted channel in the current frequency band as the new first channel.

[0228] For example, an access point can select an uninterrupted channel in other frequency bands as the new first channel.

[0229] S303, the access point sends a first frame (e.g., a beacon frame) on the second channel, the first frame including channel switching information for the first channel.

[0230] For example, the access point can perform channel puncturing on the first channel in the current frequency band that is being interfered with, and then send the first frame through the second channel in the current frequency band after puncturing.

[0231] S304, the station performs channel listening on the second channel and receives the first frame to obtain channel switching information for the first channel.

[0232] For example, when the main channel of a site and an access point is interfered with, the access point can send the first frame on the NPCA main channel, and the site can perform channel listening on the NPCA main channel to obtain channel switching information of the main channel.

[0233] For example, when only the main channel of a site is interfered with, the access point can send the first frame on the main channel and the NPCA main channel. The site whose main channel is interfered with can perform channel listening on the NPCA main channel to obtain the channel switching information of the main channel. The site whose main channel is not interfered with can perform channel listening on the main channel and / or the NPCA main channel to obtain the channel switching information of the main channel.

[0234] S305: When the effective time of the target channel of the first channel is reached, the first channel switching takes effect. After that, the access point and the site can perform channel listening and data transmission through the switched first channel.

[0235] Unlike the example shown in Figure 10, in the example of Figure 11, both the site and the access point are multi-link devices, and there are multiple links between the site and the access point, such as synchronous multi-links. The synchronous multi-links may include a primary link and a secondary link, wherein the secondary link and the primary link transmit data synchronously. Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 11, the access point can send the first frame notification channel switching information through the multi-links.

[0236] As shown in Figure 11, the channel switching method may include the following steps:

[0237] S401, the access point determines the channel switching information for the first channel.

[0238] For example, an access point can perform channel detection and determine the channel switching information for the first channel based on the detected interference information or the interference information reported by the site.

[0239] Optionally, the first channel can be the main channel of the main link, or it can be the main channel of the auxiliary link.

[0240] S402, the access point broadcasts a first frame (e.g., a beacon frame) on the second channel, the first frame including channel switching information for the first channel.

[0241] For example, the first channel is the primary channel of the main link, and the access point can transmit the first frame on the NPCA primary channel of the main link and the primary channel of the secondary link. Alternatively, the first frame can be transmitted on the NPCA primary channel of the main link, the primary channel of the secondary link, and the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link. The first frame may include channel switching information for the primary channel of the main link, or it may include channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel of the main link.

[0242] For example, if the first channel is the primary channel of the secondary link, the access point can send the first frame on the primary channel of the primary link. Alternatively, it can send the first frame on both the primary channel of the primary link and the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link. The first frame may include channel switching information for the primary channel of the secondary link, or it may include channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link.

[0243] S403, the station performs channel listening on the second channel and receives the first frame to obtain channel switching information for the first channel.

[0244] For example, the first channel is the main channel of the primary link, and the station can receive the first frame on the NPCA main channel of the primary link and the main channel of the secondary link. Alternatively, the first frame can be received on the NPCA main channel of the primary link, the main channel of the secondary link, and the NPCA main channel of the secondary link.

[0245] For example, if the first channel is the primary channel of the secondary link, the receiving station can receive the first frame on the primary channel of the primary link. Alternatively, it can receive the first frame on both the primary channel of the primary link and the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link.

[0246] S404 When the effective time of the target channel of the first channel is reached, the first channel switch takes effect. After that, the access point and the site can perform channel listening and data transmission through the switched first channel.

[0247] In summary, the embodiments of this application provide a channel switching scheme. When the first channel is interfered with, the access point can send a first frame carrying the channel switching information of the first channel through a second channel that is not interfered with. Thus, the station can obtain the channel switching information of the first channel by listening to the second channel, and then perform channel switching of the first channel, ensuring that the station and the access point access through the first channel, thereby ensuring data transmission between the station and the access point based on the first channel.

[0248] Furthermore, the station can perform channel detection to determine the interference information of the first channel, and then report the interference information to the access point. This helps the access point determine whether the first channel needs to be switched, enabling timely switching of the channel when the first channel is interfered with, and ensuring subsequent data transmission based on the first channel.

[0249] The method embodiments of this application have been described in detail above with reference to Figures 4 to 11. The device embodiments of this application have been described in detail below with reference to Figures 12 to 16. It should be understood that the device embodiments correspond to the method embodiments, and similar descriptions can be referred to the method embodiments.

[0250] Figure 12 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 500 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 500 can be an access point, or a component within the access point, such as a chip, circuit, or module. The communication device 500 of Figure 12 includes:

[0251] The transmitting module 510 is used to transmit a first frame on a second channel when the first channel is interfered with, the first frame including channel switching information of the first channel.

[0252] In some embodiments, the channel switching information includes at least one of the following:

[0253] Information about the target channel to which the switch is made;

[0254] The effective time information for switching to the target channel;

[0255] Bandwidth information after the switch.

[0256] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the first channel includes at least one of the following:

[0257] Information about the target channel to which the first channel is switched;

[0258] Information on the effective time of the first channel switching to the target channel;

[0259] The bandwidth information after the first channel is switched.

[0260] In some embodiments, the first channel is the primary channel, and the second channel includes a non-primary channel accessing the NPCA primary channel; or...

[0261] The first channel is the NPCA main channel, and the second channel includes the main channel.

[0262] In some embodiments, when the first channel is the primary channel and the second channel is the NPCA primary channel, the first frame may also include channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel.

[0263] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel includes at least one of the following:

[0264] Information about the target channel to which the NPCA main channel is switched;

[0265] The effective time information of the NPCA main channel switching to the target channel;

[0266] The bandwidth information after the NPCA main channel is switched.

[0267] In some embodiments, there are multiple links between the access point and the site, including a primary link and a secondary link;

[0268] Wherein, the first channel is the main channel of the main link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following:

[0269] The NPCA main channel of the main link;

[0270] The main channel of the auxiliary link;

[0271] The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

[0272] In some embodiments, the first frame may further include channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel of the primary link.

[0273] In some embodiments, there are multiple links between the access point and the site, including a primary link and a secondary link;

[0274] Wherein, the first channel is the main channel of the secondary link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following:

[0275] The main channel of the main link;

[0276] The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

[0277] In some embodiments, the first frame may further include channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link.

[0278] In some embodiments, the sending module 510 is further configured to:

[0279] If the site is interfered with on the main channel and the access point is not interfered with on the main channel, the first frame is transmitted on both the main channel and the NPCA main channel.

[0280] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0281] The access point receives a second frame sent by the station, the second frame including first interference information;

[0282] The first interference information includes at least one of the following:

[0283] The type of interference the site is experiencing;

[0284] The intensity of interference experienced by the site;

[0285] The interference status of the site;

[0286] The station is subject to interference with channel information;

[0287] The time information of when the site was interfered with.

[0288] In some embodiments, the second frame includes a first element, the first element including at least one of the following fields:

[0289] The interference type field indicates the type of interference the site is experiencing;

[0290] The interference intensity field indicates the intensity of interference experienced by the site.

[0291] The interference channel field indicates the channel through which the site is being interfered with;

[0292] The interference status field indicates the interference status experienced by the site.

[0293] The Interference Time field indicates the time information when the site was affected by interference.

[0294] In some embodiments, the device 500 further includes:

[0295] The processing module is used to determine the channel switching information of the first channel based on the first interference information.

[0296] Optionally, in some embodiments, the transmitting module may be a communication interface or transceiver, or an input / output interface of a communication chip or system-on-a-chip. The processing module may be one or more processors.

[0297] It should be understood that the device 500 according to the embodiments of this application may correspond to the access point in the method embodiments of this application, and the above and other operations and / or functions of each unit in the device 500 are respectively to implement the corresponding process of the access point in the method embodiments shown in FIG4 to FIG11. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0298] Figure 13 shows a schematic block diagram of a communication device 600 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 600 can be a station, or a component within a station, such as a chip, circuit, or module.

[0299] As shown in Figure 13, the communication device 600 includes:

[0300] The receiving module 610 is configured to receive a first frame on a second channel when the first channel is interfered with, wherein the first frame includes channel switching information of the first channel.

[0301] In some embodiments, the channel switching information includes at least one of the following:

[0302] Information about the target channel to which the switch is made;

[0303] The effective time information for switching to the target channel;

[0304] Bandwidth information after the switch.

[0305] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the first channel includes at least one of the following:

[0306] Information about the target channel to which the first channel is switched;

[0307] Information on the effective time of the first channel switching to the target channel;

[0308] The bandwidth information after the first channel is switched.

[0309] In some embodiments, the first channel is the primary channel, and the second channel includes a non-primary channel accessing the NPCA primary channel; or...

[0310] The first channel is the NPCA main channel, and the second channel includes the main channel.

[0311] In some embodiments, when the first channel is the primary channel and the second channel is the NPCA primary channel, the first frame may also include channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel.

[0312] In some embodiments, the channel switching information of the NPCA main channel includes at least one of the following:

[0313] Information about the target channel to which the NPCA main channel is switched;

[0314] The effective time information of the NPCA main channel switching to the target channel;

[0315] The bandwidth information after the NPCA main channel is switched.

[0316] In some embodiments, there are multiple links between the access point and the site, including a primary link and a secondary link;

[0317] Wherein, the first channel is the main channel of the main link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following:

[0318] The NPCA main channel of the main link;

[0319] The main channel of the auxiliary link;

[0320] The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

[0321] In some embodiments, the first frame may further include channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel of the primary link.

[0322] In some embodiments, there are multiple links between the access point and the site, including a primary link and a secondary link;

[0323] Wherein, the first channel is the main channel of the secondary link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following:

[0324] The main channel of the main link;

[0325] The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

[0326] In some embodiments, the first frame may further include channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel of the secondary link.

[0327] In some embodiments, the apparatus 600 further includes: a transmitting module, configured to transmit a second frame to an access point, the second frame including first interference information;

[0328] The first interference information includes at least one of the following:

[0329] The type of interference the site is experiencing;

[0330] The intensity of interference experienced by the site;

[0331] The interference status of the site;

[0332] The station is subject to interference with channel information;

[0333] The time information of when the site was interfered with.

[0334] In some embodiments, the second frame includes a first element, the first element including at least one of the following fields:

[0335] The interference type field indicates the type of interference the site is experiencing;

[0336] The interference intensity field indicates the intensity of interference experienced by the site.

[0337] The interference channel field indicates the channel through which the site is being interfered with;

[0338] The interference status field indicates the interference status experienced by the site.

[0339] The Interference Time field indicates the time information when the site was affected by interference.

[0340] Optionally, in some embodiments, the aforementioned transmitting or receiving module unit may be a communication interface or transceiver, or an input / output interface of a communication chip or system-on-a-chip.

[0341] It should be understood that the apparatus 600 according to the embodiments of this application may correspond to the station in the method embodiments of this application, and the above and other operations and / or functions of each unit in the apparatus 600 are respectively to implement the corresponding process of the station in the embodiments of FIG4 to FIG11. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0342] Figure 14 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device 700 provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 700 shown in Figure 14 includes a processor 710, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0343] Optionally, as shown in FIG14, the communication device 700 may further include a memory 720. The processor 710 can call and run a computer program from the memory 720 to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application. For example, when the communication device 700 is a station, the processor 710 can call and run a computer program from the memory 720 to implement the various steps of the method embodiments executed by the station, achieving the same technical effect. When the communication device 700 is an access point, the processor 710 can call and run a computer program from the memory 720 to implement the various steps of the method embodiments executed by the access point, achieving the same technical effect.

[0344] Alternatively, the memory 720 may be a separate device independent of the processor 710, or it may be integrated into the processor 710.

[0345] Optionally, as shown in FIG14, the communication device 700 may further include a transceiver 730, and the processor 710 may control the transceiver 730 to communicate with other devices. Specifically, it may send information or data to other devices or receive information or data sent by other devices.

[0346] Optionally, transceiver 730 may include a transmitter and a receiver. Transceiver 730 may further include antennas, and the number of antennas may be one or more.

[0347] Figure 15 is a schematic structural diagram of a chip according to an embodiment of this application. The chip 800 shown in Figure 15 includes a processor 810, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0348] Optionally, as shown in FIG15, chip 800 may further include memory 820. Processor 810 can retrieve and run computer programs from memory 820 to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0349] Alternatively, the memory 820 may be a separate device independent of the processor 810, or it may be integrated into the processor 810.

[0350] Optionally, the chip 800 may also include an input interface 830. The processor 810 can control the input interface 830 to communicate with other devices or chips, for example, to acquire information or data sent by other devices or chips.

[0351] Optionally, the chip 800 may also include an output interface 840. The processor 810 can control the output interface 840 to communicate with other devices or chips, for example, to output information or data to other devices or chips.

[0352] Optionally, the chip can be applied to the access point in the embodiments of this application, and the chip can implement the corresponding processes implemented by the access point in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0353] Optionally, the chip can be applied to the site in the embodiments of this application, and the chip can implement the corresponding processes implemented by the site in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0354] It should be understood that the chip mentioned in the embodiments of this application may also be referred to as a system-on-a-chip, system chip, chip system, or system-on-a-chip, etc.

[0355] Figure 16 is a schematic block diagram of a communication system 900 provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 16, the communication system 900 includes a station 910 and an access point 920.

[0356] The site 910 can be used to implement the corresponding functions implemented by the site in the above method, and the access point 920 can be used to implement the corresponding functions implemented by the access point in the above method. For the sake of brevity, these will not be elaborated here.

[0357] It should be understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, the steps of the above method embodiments can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software form. The processor described above can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly embodied in the execution of a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules can be located in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. The storage medium is located in memory, and the processor reads information from the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0358] It is understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), Double Data Rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), Enhanced Synchronous DRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and Direct Rambus RAM (DR RAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0359] It should be understood that the above-described memory is exemplary and not a limiting description. For example, the memory in the embodiments of this application may also be static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous link dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct memory bus RAM (DR RAM), etc. That is to say, the memory in the embodiments of this application is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0360] This application also provides a readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the various processes of the above method embodiments.

[0361] Optionally, the readable storage medium can be applied to the access point in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the access point in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0362] Optionally, the readable storage medium can be applied to the site in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the site in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0363] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the various processes of the above-described method embodiments.

[0364] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the access point in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the access point in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0365] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the site in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the site in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0366] This application also provides a computer program. When executed by a processor, this computer program implements the various processes of the above-described method embodiments.

[0367] Optionally, the computer program can be applied to the access point in the embodiments of this application. The computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the access point in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0368] Optionally, the computer program can be applied to the site in the embodiments of this application. The computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the site in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0369] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0370] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0371] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0372] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0373] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0374] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0375] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A channel switching method, wherein, include: In the event of interference on the first channel, the access point transmits a first frame on the second channel, the first frame including channel switching information for the first channel.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The channel switching information includes at least one of the following: Information about the target channel to which the switch is made; Switch to the effective time information of the target channel; or, Bandwidth information after the switch.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first channel is the primary channel, and the second channel includes non-primary channels accessing the NPCA primary channel; or... The first channel is the NPCA main channel, and the second channel includes the main channel.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The first channel is the primary channel, the second channel is the NPCA primary channel, and the first frame also includes channel switching information for the NPCA primary channel.

5. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, Multiple links are configured between the access point and the site, including a primary link and a secondary link; Wherein, the first channel is the main channel of the main link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following: The NPCA main channel of the main link; The main channel of the secondary link; or... The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, The first frame also includes channel switching information for the NPCA main channel of the main link.

7. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, There are multiple links between the access point and the site, including a main link and a secondary link; Wherein, the first channel is the main channel of the secondary link, and the second channel includes at least one of the following: The main channel of the main link; or... The NPCA main channel of the auxiliary link.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, The first frame also includes channel switching information for the NPCA main channel of the secondary link.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein, When the first channel is interfered with, the access point transmits the first frame on the second channel, including: If the site is interfered with on the main channel and the access point is not interfered with on the main channel, the access point transmits the first frame on both the main channel and the NPCA main channel.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein, The method further includes: The access point receives a second frame sent by the station, the second frame including first interference information; The first interference information includes at least one of the following: The type of interference the site is experiencing; The intensity of interference experienced by the site; The interference status of the site; The station is experiencing channel interference; or... The time information of when the site was interfered with.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The method further includes: The access point determines the channel switching information of the first channel based on the first interference information.

12. A channel switching method, wherein, include: In the event of interference on the first channel, the station receives a first frame on the second channel, wherein the first frame includes channel switching information for the first channel.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The method further includes: The station sends a second frame to the access point, the second frame including the first interference information; The first interference information includes at least one of the following: The type of interference the site is experiencing; The intensity of interference experienced by the site; The interference status of the site; The station is experiencing channel interference; or... The time information of when the site was interfered with.

14. A communication device, wherein, include: The transmitting module is configured to transmit a first frame on a second channel when the first channel is interfered with, the first frame including channel switching information of the first channel.

15. A communication device, wherein, include: The receiving module is configured to receive a first frame on a second channel when the first channel is interfered with, the first frame including channel switching information of the first channel.

16. A communication device, wherein, include: A processor and a memory for storing a computer program, the processor for calling and running the computer program stored in the memory to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, or the method as claimed in claim 12 or 13.

17. A chip, wherein, include: A processor for retrieving and running a computer program from memory, causing a device having the chip mounted to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, or the method as claimed in claim 12 or 13.

18. A readable storage medium, wherein, Used to store a computer program that causes a computer to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, or the method as claimed in claim 12 or 13.

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