Method and apparatus for time-division parallel operation in wi-fi aware communication

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for time-division parallel operation in Wi-Fi aware communication. An operating method of a first electronic device supporting Wi-Fi aware communication, according to one embodiment of the disclosure, may comprise the steps of: generating an SDF registration message; transmitting the SDF registration message on a first channel; and providing a data service function on a second channel to a second electronic device that has received the SDF registration message.

Description

Method and device for time-division parallel operation in Wi-Fi Aware communication

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for time-division parallel operation in Wi-Fi-aware communication.

[0002] The Internet is evolving from a human-centered network where humans generate and consume information into an IoT (Internet of Things) network where distributed components, such as objects, exchange and process information. IoE (Internet of Everything) technology, which combines IoT with Big Data processing technologies through connections with cloud servers, is also emerging. Implementing IoT requires technological elements such as sensing technology, wired and wireless communication and network infrastructure, service interface technology, and security technology. Recently, technologies such as sensor networks, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication, and Machine-Type Communication (MTC) are being researched for connecting objects.

[0003] In an IoT environment, intelligent IT (Internet Technology) services that create new value for human life by collecting and analyzing data generated from connected objects can be provided. Through the convergence and integration of existing IT (Information Technology) with various industries, IoT can be applied to fields such as smart homes, smart buildings, smart cities, smart or connected cars, smart grids, healthcare, smart home appliances, and advanced medical services.

[0004] Wi-Fi Aware refers to a technology that extends Wi-Fi capabilities by enabling rapid discovery, connection, and data exchange with other Wi-Fi devices without traditional network infrastructure, internet connections, or GPS signals. A UE that supports Wi-Fi Aware can provide the ability to discover and directly connect with each other without other types of connections. A UE that supports Wi-Fi Aware may also be referred to as NAN (neighbor awareness networking).

[0005] The present disclosure provides a method and apparatus for time-division parallel operation in Wi-Fi-aware communication.

[0006] A method of operation of a first electronic device supporting Wi-Fi aware communication according to an embodiment of the present disclosure for achieving the above objective may include the step of transmitting a neighbor awareness networking (NAN) service discovery frame (SDF) message containing information regarding a service period of mobile AP-based communication in a first channel supporting Wi-Fi aware communication, and the step of transmitting and receiving data with a second electronic device in a time interval set based on the information regarding the service period in a second channel supporting the mobile AP-based communication.

[0007] A first electronic device supporting Wi-Fi aware communication according to one embodiment of the present disclosure for achieving the above objective may include a transceiver and a control unit, and the control unit may be configured to transmit a neighbor awareness networking (NAN) service discovery frame (SDF) message containing information regarding the service period of mobile AP-based communication on a first channel supporting Wi-Fi aware communication, and to transmit and receive data with a second electronic device in a time interval set based on the information regarding the service period on a second channel supporting the mobile AP-based communication.

[0008] A method of operation of a second electronic device supporting Wi-Fi aware communication according to an embodiment of the present disclosure for achieving the above objective may include the steps of: receiving a neighbor awareness networking (NAN) service discovery frame (SDF) message containing information regarding a service period of mobile AP-based communication in a first channel supporting Wi-Fi aware communication; and transmitting and receiving data with a first electronic device in a time interval set based on the information regarding the service period in a second channel supporting mobile AP-based communication.

[0009] A second electronic device supporting Wi-Fi aware communication according to one embodiment of the present disclosure for achieving the above objective includes a transceiver and a control unit, wherein the control unit may be configured to receive a neighbor awareness networking (NAN) service discovery frame (SDF) message containing information regarding a service period of mobile AP-based communication in a first channel supporting Wi-Fi aware communication, and to transmit and receive data with a first electronic device in a time interval set based on the information regarding the service period in a second channel supporting mobile AP-based communication.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an electronic device can utilize enhanced wireless channel and time resources during Wi-Fi Aware communication.

[0011] In addition, the method and device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can reduce power consumption during Wi-Fi Aware communication.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of an environment in which a mobile AP and Wi-Fi Aware are used in parallel.

[0013] FIG. 2a is a flowchart illustrating an example of access point (AP) operation and station (STA) operation for establishing a Wi-Fi connection.

[0014] FIG. 2b is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a first station and a second station for a Wi-Fi Aware connection.

[0015] Figure 3 shows an example of device and service discovery of a Wi-Fi aware device.

[0016] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment for explaining the USD (unsynchronized service discovery) operation of Wi-Fi aware devices.

[0017] Figure 5a is a block diagram illustrating the MLSR (Multi-Link Single Radio) method.

[0018] Figure 5b is a block diagram illustrating MLMR (Multi-Link Multi Radio).

[0019] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an embodiment of a multi-link operation (MLO).

[0020] Figure 7 is a conceptual diagram illustrating one embodiment of MLO.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method for using AP.

[0022] FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method in which a UE provides a mobile AP.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an embodiment of a method in which a UE uses a mobile AP.

[0024] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating the structure of an electronic device (sender) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating the structure of an electronic device (receiver) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0027] In describing the embodiments, technical details that are well known in the technical field to which this disclosure belongs and are not directly related to this disclosure are omitted. This is intended to convey the essence of this disclosure more clearly without obscuring it by omitting unnecessary explanations.

[0028] For the same reason, some components in the attached drawings have been exaggerated, omitted, or schematically depicted. Additionally, the size of each component does not entirely reflect its actual dimensions. Identical or corresponding components in each drawing have been assigned the same reference number.

[0029] The advantages and features of the present disclosure and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but may be implemented in various different forms. The embodiments of the present disclosure are provided merely to make the present disclosure complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the disclosure, and the present disclosure is defined only by the scope of the claims. Throughout the specification, like reference numerals refer to like components.

[0030] At this point, it will be understood that each block of the process flow diagrams and combinations of the flow diagrams can be executed by computer program instructions. Since these computer program instructions can be loaded into the processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing equipment, the instructions executed through the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing equipment create means to perform the functions described in the flow diagram block(s). Since these computer program instructions can also be stored in computer-available or computer-readable memory that can be directed toward the computer or other programmable data processing equipment to implement the function in a specific way, the instructions stored in computer-available or computer-readable memory can also produce a manufactured item containing means of instruction to perform the function described in the flow diagram block(s). Since computer program instructions can be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing equipment, instructions that execute a computer or other programmable data processing equipment by performing a series of operation steps on the computer or other programmable data processing equipment to create a process executed by the computer may also provide steps for executing the functions described in the flowchart block(s).

[0031] Additionally, each block may represent a module, segment, or part of code containing one or more executable instructions for executing a specific logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative execution examples, the functions mentioned in the blocks may occur out of order. For instance, two blocks described in succession may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or the blocks may be executed in reverse order depending on the corresponding function.

[0032] In this disclosure, the term “part” as used refers to a software or hardware component, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), and the “part” performs certain roles. However, the “part” is not limited to software or hardware. The “part” may be configured to reside in an addressable storage medium or may be configured to run one or more processors. Accordingly, according to some embodiments, the “part” includes components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, as well as processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The functions provided within the components and “parts” may be combined into a smaller number of components and “parts” or further separated into additional components and “parts.” In addition, the components and 'parts' may be implemented to utilize one or more CPUs within the device or secure multimedia card. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, the 'parts' may include one or more processors.

[0033] The operating principles of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. In describing the present disclosure below, specific descriptions of related known functions or configurations will be omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions would unnecessarily obscure the essence of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined in consideration of their functions in the present disclosure, and these may vary depending on the intentions or practices of the user or operator. Therefore, their definitions should be based on the content throughout this specification.

[0034] Each of the station (STA), transmitting device, receiving device, and electronic device used in this disclosure may be referred to as a terminal, mobile station (MS), user equipment (UE), user terminal (UT), wireless terminal, access terminal (AT), terminal, subscriber unit, subscriber station (SS), wireless device, wireless communication device, wireless transmit / receive unit (WTRU), mobile node, mobile, or other terms. Each of the station, transmitting device, receiving device, and electronic device may include a cellular telephone, a smartphone with wireless communication capabilities, a personal digital assistant (PDA) with wireless communication capabilities, a wireless modem, a portable computer with wireless communication capabilities, a shooting device such as a digital camera with wireless communication capabilities, a gaming device with wireless communication capabilities, a music storage and playback device with wireless communication capabilities, an internet consumer device capable of wireless internet access and browsing, as well as portable units or terminals integrating combinations of such capabilities. Additionally, each of the station, transmitting device, receiving device, and electronic device may include, but is not limited to, a Machine-to-Machine (M2M) terminal or a Machine-Type Communication (MTC) terminal / device. In this disclosure, each of the station, transmitting device, receiving device, and electronic device may simply be referred to as a device.

[0035] In this disclosure, "Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)" and "Wi-Fi" may be used interchangeably. For convenience of explanation, this disclosure describes a WLAN system comprising at least one Access Point (AP) and at least one Station (STA); however, the embodiments of this disclosure are applicable to other WLAN systems, such as, for example, multiple WLANs, peer-to-peer (or independent basic service set) systems, Wi-Fi Direct systems, and / or hotspots.

[0036] Wi-Fi Aware (Wi-Fi Aware) refers to a technology that extends Wi-Fi capabilities by enabling rapid discovery, connection, and data exchange with other Wi-Fi devices without traditional network infrastructure, internet connectivity, or GPS signals. A UE that supports Wi-Fi Aware can provide the ability for devices to discover and directly connect with each other without other types of connections. A UE that supports Wi-Fi Aware may also be referred to as NAN (neighbor awareness networking).

[0037] Wi-Fi Aware networking can operate by forming clusters with nearby devices or creating a new cluster if a device is the first device in the area. Applications can use the Wi-Fi Aware API (Application Programming Interface) to communicate with Wi-Fi Aware system services that manage the device's Wi-Fi Aware hardware. For example, Wi-Fi Aware network connections can support higher processing speeds over long distances where Bluetooth connections do not reach. For instance, Wi-Fi Aware network connections can be useful for apps that share large amounts of data between users, such as photo sharing apps.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of an environment in which a mobile AP and Wi-Fi Aware are used in parallel.

[0039] Mobile APs can provide improved performance compared to NDP (NAN Data Path) (e.g., based on Wi-Fi Aware R4), and the probability that multiple terminals constituting a NAN cluster will connect to the mobile AP instead of the NDP may increase. Consequently, in environments where mobile APs and Wi-Fi Aware are operated together, the performance of the mobile AP may gradually degrade as the number of connected terminals increases.

[0040] In environments where mobile APs and Wi-Fi Aware are operated together, there is a growing need for an Admission Control method to guarantee the Quality of Service (QoS) of mobile APs.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 1(a), when the first electronic device (110) operates as a mobile AP and NAN device, the second to fifth electronic devices (120 to 150) can be connected to the first electronic device (110) via a Mobile AP Link to connect to a mobile AP that provides enhanced performance. In the absence of an Admission Control process for the mobile AP, each of the second to fifth electronic devices (120 to 150) can attempt to connect to the first electronic device (110) via the Mobile AP Link regardless of the performance of the service to be supported (e.g., traffic delay).

[0042] Referring to FIG. 1(b), if the first electronic device (110) operates as a mobile AP and NAN device and there is an Admission Control for the mobile AP, the second electronic device (120) that has been accepted for connection to the mobile AP is connected to the first electronic device (110) via a Mobile AP Link, and the third to fifth electronic devices (150) that have not been accepted for connection to the mobile AP can be connected to the first electronic device (110) via an Aware NDL (NAN Data Link) (or Aware NDP). For example, if the traffic delay required for the service that the second electronic device (120) intends to provide is less than a threshold value, the connection to the mobile AP for the second electronic device (120) may be accepted. For example, if the traffic delay required for the service that the third electronic device (130) intends to provide is greater than a threshold value, the connection to the mobile AP for the third electronic device (130) may not be accepted.

[0043] FIG. 2a is a flowchart illustrating an example of access point (AP) operation and station (STA) operation for establishing a Wi-Fi connection.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 2a, the station (220) can transmit or broadcast a probe request message to the access point (210) (S201). According to one embodiment, the probe request message may include information regarding at least one communication capability supported by the station (220).

[0045] The access point (210) can transmit a probe response message in response to the probe request message (S202). Upon receiving the probe response message, the station (220) can transmit an authentication request message to the access point (210) (S203). The access point (210) transmits an authentication response message to the station (220) in response to the authentication request message (S204), and the authentication procedure between the access point (210) and the station (220) can be completed.

[0046] When the authentication process is completed, the station (220) can send an association request message to the access point (210) (S205). According to one embodiment, the association request message may include information regarding at least one capability (e.g., according to IEEE 802.11 standards) to be used for data communication between the station (220) and the access point (210). The access point (210) can generate an association ID for the station (220) and send an association response message to the station (220) (S206).

[0047] FIG. 2b is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a first station and a second station for a Wi-Fi Aware connection.

[0048] Each of the first station (230) and the second station (240) may also be referred to as a Wi-Fi Aware device or an electronic device.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2b, when the first station (230) and the second station (240) decide to proceed with a Wi-Fi Aware (or NAN) connection, the first station (230) may transmit at least one discovery beacon to the second station (240) for synchronization (S211, S212). The first station (230) may transmit a synchronization beacon to the second station (240) (S213). The second station (240) may scan at least one discovery beacon and one synchronization beacon and perform a synchronization procedure (or operation) with the first station (230).

[0050] The first station (230) transmits a service discovery frame (SDF) publish message to the second station (240) for service discovery (S214), and the second station (240) can transmit an SDF follow-up message corresponding to the SDF publish message to the first station (230) (S215).

[0051] The second station (240) sends a data path request message to the first station (230) for NDP (NAN data path) setup (S216), and the first station (230) can send a data path response message to the second station (240) (S217). The second station (240) sends a data path confirm message to the first station (230) (S218), and the first station (230) can send a data path key installment message to the second station (240) (S219). When the NDP setup is complete, the first station (230) and the second station (240) can establish a NAN connection (S220).

[0052] According to one embodiment, the first station (230) and the second station (240) may exchange information regarding quality of service (QoS) prior to the NDP setup procedure. According to one embodiment, the information regarding QoS may be included in the QoS field of an SDF message (e.g., an SDF Publish message, an SDF Subscribe message, and / or an SDF Follow-up message). An SDF message may include at least one of an SDF Publish message, an SDF Subscribe message, or an SDF Follow-up message.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the first station (230) and the second station (240) may exchange time synchronization function (TSF) information in a service discovery procedure (e.g., S214 and / or S215) to optimize AP and Wi-Fi Aware scheduling. According to one embodiment, the first station (230) and / or the second station (240) may use the exchanged TSF information to adjust and / or reduce the AP interval (or period) for communication with the access point (AP). For example, the AP interval may be reduced from 8 slots to 5 slots based on the TSF information.

[0054] According to one embodiment, when both the first station (230) and the second station (240) do not transmit and / or receive traffic requiring high QoS when communicating with an access point, more time resources may be allocated to Wi-Fi Aware communication between the first station (230) and the second station (240).

[0055] Figure 3 shows an example of device and service discovery of a Wi-Fi aware device.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3, at least one electronic device included in the cluster can transmit at least one discovery beacon (310) according to the NAN standard. At least one electronic device can transmit at least one synchronization beacon (320) and / or at least one service discovery frame (330) within a discovery window (DW) (340) that occupies 16 time units (TU) according to the NAN standard.

[0057] For example, DW (340) may occupy 16 TU, and DW interval (360), which is the time interval between DWs (340), may occupy 512 TU. For example, Discovery beacon interval (370), which indicates the transmission interval of at least one discovery beacon (310), may occupy 50 to 200 TU. The time it takes for an electronic device to perform discovery may depend on the DW interval (360).

[0058] According to one embodiment, at least one synchronization beacon (320) may be a signal for maintaining synchronization (e.g., time clock synchronization) between electronic devices included in a cluster. At least one synchronization beacon (320) may include at least one piece of information associated with synchronization between electronic devices.

[0059] According to one embodiment, at least one synchronization beacon (320) may include at least one of an FC (frame control) field indicating the function (e.g., beacon) of a signal, a broadcast address, a MAC (media access control) address of the electronic device that transmitted at least one synchronization beacon (320), a cluster identifier, a sequence control field, a time stamp for a beacon frame, a beacon interval field indicating the interval between the start points of synchronized communication intervals, or capability information of the electronic device that transmitted at least one synchronization beacon (320).

[0060] At least one sync beacon (320) may include an information element related to at least one proximity network, and may include, for example, service-related content that can be provided based on the proximity network. According to the NAN specification, at least one sync beacon (320) may be transmitted by an electronic device defined as an anchor master device, a master device, or a non-master sync device among at least one electronic device in a cluster.

[0061] According to one embodiment, at least one service discovery frame (330) may be a signal for advertising a service between at least one electronic device in a cluster and exchanging information related to said service based on a proximity network. According to the NAN specification, at least one service discovery frame (330) may be a vendor-specific public action frame and may include various fields. For example, at least one service discovery frame (330) may include an information element related to at least one proximity network.

[0062] According to one embodiment, at least one electronic device may transmit at least one discovery beacon (310) within a section other than the DW section (240). The at least one discovery beacon (310) may be a signal of a cluster advertisement function transmitted so that at least one electronic device that has not joined the cluster can discover the cluster.

[0063] According to one embodiment, at least one electronic device that is not participating in the cluster can discover the cluster and participate in the cluster by performing a passive scan to detect at least one discovery beacon (310) transmitted from at least one electronic device participating in the cluster.

[0064] According to one embodiment, at least one discovery beacon (310) may include at least one piece of information for synchronizing with a cluster. According to one embodiment, the discovery beacon (310) may include at least one of a frame control (FC) field indicating the function (e.g., beacon) of a signal, a broadcast address, a media access control (MAC) address of the electronic device that transmitted at least one discovery beacon (310), a cluster identifier, a sequence control field, a time stamp for a beacon frame, a discovery beacon interval field indicating the transmission interval of at least one discovery beacon (310), or capability information of the electronic device that transmitted at least one discovery beacon (310). According to one embodiment, at least one discovery beacon (310) may include at least one information element related to a proximity network.

[0065] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment for explaining the USD (unsynchronized service discovery) operation of Wi-Fi aware devices.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 4, the first electronic device (410) may be a Wi-Fi aware device that acts as a receiver, the second electronic device (420) may be a Wi-Fi aware device that acts as a sender, and the third electronic device (430) may be a Wi-Fi aware device that acts as a receiver.

[0067] In operation 401, the second electronic device (420) can transmit a BLE advertisement message containing provided service information (e.g., Vendor / Service Specific information, account and / or contact hashing information) to the first electronic device (410). In operation 403, the second electronic device (420) can transmit a BLE advertisement message containing provided service information (e.g., Vendor / Service Specific information, account and / or contact hashing information) to the third electronic device (430).

[0068] According to one embodiment, in operation 405, the second electronic device (420) can transmit a WUR (wake up radio) packet to the first electronic device (410). According to one embodiment, in operation 407, the second electronic device (420) can transmit a WUR packet to the third electronic device (430).

[0069] The second electronic device (420) can trigger the Wi-Fi Aware interface (receiver) of another electronic device using an OOB (out of band) message (e.g., a BLE advertisement message or a WUR packet).

[0070] In operation 409, the first electronic device (410) may trigger the Wi-Fi Aware interface within a random delay after receiving a BLE advertisement message or WUR packet from the second electronic device (420). In operation 411, the second electronic device (420) may trigger its own Wi-Fi Aware interface after transmitting a BLE advertisement message or WUR packet. In operation 413, the third electronic device (430) may trigger the Wi-Fi Aware interface within a random delay after receiving a BLE advertisement message or WUR packet from the second electronic device (420).

[0071] According to one embodiment, when the Wi-Fi Aware interface of the second electronic device (420) is activated, the second electronic device (420) can wait for the reception of an SDF subscribe message as an ACK for a previous OOB message.

[0072] The first electronic device (410) to the third electronic device (430) can support fast discovery between multiple devices by performing unsynchronized service discovery (USD) on a pre-specified channel (e.g., channel 149) after triggering a device-specific Wi-Fi Aware interface.

[0073] According to one embodiment, in operations 415 and 417, the second electronic device (420) may transmit an unsolicited service discovery frame (SDF) publish message containing synchronization information (sync). According to one embodiment, the synchronization information may include additional timing synchronization function (TSF) information for synchronization.

[0074] According to one embodiment, in operation 419 of the USD procedure on a pre-designated channel (e.g., channel 149), the first electronic device (410) may transmit an unsolicited SDF subscribe message to the second electronic device (420) as an ACK for a BLE advertisement message. As an active subscriber, the first electronic device (410) may transmit the unsolicited SDF subscribe message without receiving a message from the publisher.

[0075] In operation 421 of the USD procedure, the second electronic device (420) may transmit a solicited SDF publish message containing synchronization information (sync) to the first electronic device (410). The solicited SDF publish message may be a unicast message. According to one embodiment, the synchronization information may include additional timing synchronization function (TSF) information for synchronization. In operation 423, the first electronic device (410) and the second electronic device (420) may exchange NAN SDF Follow-up messages. According to one embodiment, the NAN SDF Follow-up message may be a service-specific message and may include schedule information for the next period and / or channel.

[0076] According to one embodiment, in operation 425 of the USD procedure on a pre-designated channel (e.g., channel 149), the third electronic device (430) may transmit an unsolicited SDF subscribe message to the second electronic device (420) as an ACK for a BLE advertisement message. As an active subscriber, the third electronic device (430) may transmit the unsolicited SDF subscribe message without receiving a message from the publisher.

[0077] In operation 427 of the USD procedure, the third electronic device (430) may transmit a solicited SDF publish message containing synchronization information (sync) to the first electronic device (410). The solicited SDF publish message may be a unicast message. According to one embodiment, the synchronization information may include additional timing synchronization function (TSF) information for synchronization. In operation 429, the third electronic device (430) and the second electronic device (420) may exchange NAN SDF Follow-up messages. According to one embodiment, the NAN SDF Follow-up message may be a service-specific message and may include schedule information for the next period and / or channel.

[0078] In operation 431, the first electronic device (410) and the second electronic device (420) can perform a NDP (NAN data path) setup procedure. The NDP setup procedure may include an authentication procedure. In operation 433, a NAN connection can be established between the first electronic device (410) and the second electronic device (420).

[0079] In operation 435, the third electronic device (430) transmits a Data Path Request message to the second electronic device (420), and in operation 437, the third electronic device (430) can receive a Data Path Response message from the second electronic device (420). In operation 439, the third electronic device (430) transmits a Data Path Request message to the second electronic device (420), and in operation 441, the third electronic device (430) can receive a Data Path Key Installment message from the second electronic device (420). In operation 443, a NAN connection can be established between the third electronic device (430) and the second electronic device (420).

[0080] In operation 445, the second electronic device (420) can transmit BLE advertisement messages and / or WUR packets to the first electronic device (410). In operation 447, the second electronic device (420) can transmit BLE advertisement messages and / or WUR packets to the third electronic device (430).

[0081] In operation 449 of the service discovery (SD) procedure on a pre-designated channel (e.g., channel 149), the second electronic device (420) may transmit an unsolicited SDF publish message containing synchronization information (sync) to the first electronic device (410). According to one embodiment, the synchronization information may include additional timing synchronization function (TSF) information for synchronization. In operation 451, the first electronic device (410) and the second electronic device (420) may exchange NAN SDF Follow-up messages.

[0082] In operation 453 of the SD procedure on a pre-designated channel (e.g., channel 149), the second electronic device (420) may transmit an unsolicited SDF publish message containing synchronization information (sync) to the third electronic device (430). According to one embodiment, the synchronization information may include additional timing synchronization function (TSF) information for synchronization. In operation 455, the third electronic device (430) and the second electronic device (420) may exchange NAN SDF Follow-up messages.

[0083] According to one embodiment, when NDP is established, data can be transmitted between Wi-Fi Aware devices included in the cluster. Depending on a specific service type, the next timing of the service discovery period, DW, and operation channel can be scheduled by SDF publish / subscribe and NAN SDF follow-up messages.

[0084] Figure 5a is a block diagram illustrating the MLSR (Multi-Link Single Radio) method.

[0085] Mobile Wi-Fi chipsets can support Multi-Link Operation (MLO), defined since Wi-Fi 7. They can support multi-band communication through a single Upper MAC and Lower MACs and PHYs separated for each band.

[0086] The MLSR illustrated in FIG. 5a may refer to a method in which links are established on multiple channels, and communication is possible only on one of the established links. Referring to FIG. 5a, the electronic device establishes links on the first radio channel (Radio Channel 1) and the second radio channel (Radio Channel 2), respectively, but can communicate through either the first radio channel (Radio Channel 1) or the second radio channel (Radio Channel 2).

[0087] In Wi-Fi Aware, mobile access points (APs) can be operated in parallel to complement the performance of NDP (NAN data path). In other words, the UE can perform at least one of Aware discovery operations using a Social Channel, data transmission and reception operations via NDP, and data transmission and reception operations via a Mobile AP. The UE can provide wireless technology suitable for other UEs by using one of the Social Channel, NDP, or Mobile AP. The UE can provide wireless technology suitable for the services used by the UE by using one of the Social Channel, NDP, or Mobile AP.

[0088] A UE can perform Multi-Link Operation (MLO). Multi-Link Operation (MLO) may include operations defined in Wi-Fi 7. Through MLO, the UE can use multiple channels in the aware mode. MLO may include Multi-Link Single Radio (MLSR) or Multi-Link Multi Radio (MLMR) methods. MLSR may be performed by at least one of an access point (AP) multi-link device (MLD) or a non-access point (non-AP) MLD.

[0089] Figure 5b is a block diagram illustrating MLMR (Multi-Link Multi Radio).

[0090] The MLMR illustrated in FIG. 5b may refer to a method in which links are established on multiple channels, and simultaneous communication is possible on two or more of the established links. Referring to FIG. 5b, the electronic device establishes links on a first radio channel (Radio Channel 1) and a second radio channel (Radio Channel 2), respectively, and can communicate simultaneously through the first radio channel (Radio Channel 1) and the second radio channel (Radio Channel 2).

[0091] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an embodiment of a multi-link operation (MLO).

[0092] Referring to FIG. 6, the UE can perform multi-link operations using a link for Wi-Fi-aware communication and a link for mobile AP communication. The UE can perform various functions using Wi-Fi-aware. The UE can provide optimized performance for each function performing awareness. The UE can use awareness on different channels. The first electronic device may include the UE. The first electronic device may include a mobile AP. The second electronic device may include the UE. The second electronic device may include a device utilizing the mobile AP.

[0093] When using Aware, the discovery channel may use a configured channel in the 2.4 GHz band (e.g., Channel 6). The discovery channel may be referred to as the first channel. For example, the first device may discover the second device based on beacons and / or messages transmitted and received through the discovery channel. For data transmission, the channel of the mobile access point (mobile AP) may use a 5 GHz and / or 6 GHz band channel. For data transmission, the channel for NDP may use a 5 GHz and / or 6 GHz band channel.

[0094] MLO can be performed on P2P (peer-to-peer) UEs. When a P2P UE transmits data, the UE may use a NAN slot or another band.

[0095] A NAN (neighbor awareness networking) slot can be defined as a wireless resource unit with a length of 16 TU (time units) in the time domain. For example, each TU can be 1024 μs long. One NAN slot can be allocated to each of the discovery windows (DW) (613, 615, 617).

[0096] At least one electronic device can transmit at least one synchronization beacon (e.g., 320 in FIG. 3) and / or at least one service discovery frame (e.g., 330 in FIG. 3) in each of the discovery windows (DW) (613, 615, 617) occupying 16 TUs according to the NAN standard.

[0097] The electronic device can perform discovery services through discovery window 0 (DW0) (613). The electronic device can perform discovery services through discovery window 1 (DW1) (615). The electronic device can perform discovery services through discovery window 2 (DW2) (617).

[0098] The UE can transmit signals (e.g., sync beacons) based on NAN-based communication methods in the DW section, and beacon signals based on direct-based communication methods can also be transmitted at timing synchronized with the NAN-based communication methods.

[0099] P2P MLO can use another band (620). A time interval (621) for mobile access point (AP) communication can be allocated in another band (620).

[0100] Figure 7 is a conceptual diagram illustrating one embodiment of MLO.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 7, the UE can perform at least one of the MLMR method or the MLSR method. MLMR may generate a large amount of current. MLMR may have disadvantages such as heat generation. The UE may need a method to reduce current consumption. The MLSR method may utilize an NDP, a mobile AP, and a discovery window. The NDP or the mobile AP may use the 5 GHz or 6 GHz band. The channel used by the mobile AP may be referred to as the second channel. The discovery window may use the 2.4 GHz band to increase the probability of discovery for communication with other UEs and / or other devices. Channel 6 may include the 2.4 GHz band. In other words, the discovery window may use channel 6 to communicate with other UEs and / or other devices.

[0102] When the UE uses the MLSR method, there may be periods during which the mobile AP cannot operate. In other words, when the UE uses the MLSR method, the UE may use channel 6 for the discovery window. When the UE uses channel 6 for the discovery window, the UE may use the MLSR method. When the UE uses channel 6 for the discovery window, the UE may use a different band (720) than the discovery window. When the UE uses the MLSR method, unavailable periods (723, 725, 727) may occur. The time intervals of the unavailable periods (723, 725, 727) may overlap with the time intervals used by the UE for the discovery window.

[0103] NIT (NAN IDP (IEEE Data Path) Time) is a wireless communication technology that may include a function to schedule time for data communication between a device and an access point.

[0104] A Non-Access Point STA (or Non-AP STA) refers to a general client device connected to a wireless network. STA can refer to a Station. STA may include devices capable of performing data communication in a wireless LAN. A Non-Access Point STA is a client device that communicates with an AP and may include all devices connected to a wireless network, such as smartphones, laptops, and IoT devices. A Non-AP STA can pre-schedule whether to communicate with an AP through the NIT function. NIT (NAN IDP Time) can set the sleep period for a Non-Access Point STA. NIT (NAN IDP Time) can set the service period for a Non-Access Point STA. NIT may include NHT (NAN Hotspot Time). Electronic devices supporting NIT may include electronic devices supporting Aware. When using a device supporting Aware, the first electronic device supporting the NIT function can set the period during which the second electronic device supporting Aware uses the mobile AP. In other words, the first electronic device supporting the NIT function can set the sleep period of the mobile AP when the second electronic device supporting the aware uses the mobile AP. The electronic device supporting the NIT can set the service period of the mobile AP when the second electronic device supporting the aware uses the mobile AP. The UE can perform aware using the mobile AP. To perform aware using the mobile AP, the UE can set a new attribute.

[0105] A UE that supports Wi-Fi Aware can provide the ability to discover and directly connect with each other without other types of connections between devices. A UE that supports Wi-Fi Aware may also be referred to as NAN (neighbor awareness networking). A UE can set NAN attributes to perform awareness or NAN. A NAN attribute may refer to an element that can be included in a NAN Service Discovery Frame. A NAN attribute may refer to an element that can be included in an Action Frame, etc. For example, a NAN attribute can be represented as shown in Table 1.

[0106]

[0107] Attribute ID may refer to an ID that identifies the type of NAN item. Length may include the length of the fields in the item. Attribute Body may include specific fields specific to each NAN item. For example, Attribute Body may include the contents of Table 2. In other words, a new item (attribute) for NAN may include the contents of Table 2.

[0108]

[0109] Attribute ID may represent an item ID. Attribute ID may include an Aware-Assisted IDP (IEEE Data Path) NIT item. An Aware-Assisted IDP (IEEE Data Path) NIT item may include an IDP NIT item that supports awareness. For example, an Aware-Assisted IDP NIT item may be represented as 0x2F through 0x4B, 0x4D through 0xDC, or 0xDE through 0xFF. The value of Attribute ID may be represented as 0x30.

[0110] Length may refer to the length of a field within an item. Length may include bytes. Instance ID may contain a value identical to the value in the Instance ID field of an associated service descriptor attribute. Instance ID may include an identifier to distinguish between a UE (publisher) providing a service and a UE (subscriber) subscribing to the service. Instance ID may include identifier information to distinguish it from other NAN devices. Instance ID may include a unique ID for the service it provides.

[0111] Control may include information regarding the current state of the field or the length of the field. Control may include information indicating whether the field exists. For example, Control may indicate whether a field exists for an NIT type. An electronic device supporting NIT may set the time during which it can provide services to a target UE. An electronic device supporting NIT may transmit information to notify the UE of periods during which it cannot provide services. The target UE may include a UE that receives a registration message. The target UE may include a terminal using a mobile AP.

[0112] The NIT Type may include at least one value. The NIT Type may include a first value or a second value. The first value of the NIT Type may include a value representing an individual transmission method. The second value of the NIT Type may include a value representing a broadcast transmission method. For example, the NIT Type may include at least one of value 0, value 1, value 2, or value 3. If the value of the NIT Type is 0, it may mean that the UE performs an individual transmission method. The individual transmission method may include a method for providing information to each target UE when the interval in which the UE can provide services to each target UE is different. If the value of the NIT Type is 1, it may mean that the UE performs a broadcast transmission method. The broadcast transmission method may include a method for providing information to all target UEs capable of communicating with the UE. For example, the first value may include at least one value from 0 to 2. The second value may include a value of 3. The first electronic device or the second electronic device may express the fact that it broadcasts through the first value of the NIT type as a value from 0 to 2. The first electronic device or the second electronic device may express the fact that it performs individual transmission through the second value of the NIT type as 3.

[0113] The Target Device NDI (NAN data interface) may represent an identifier for each target UE. If the NIT type is 'individual transmission mode', the Target Device NDI may include IDs for the interfaces connected to each target UE. If the NIT type is 'broadcast transmission mode', the Target Device NDI may not exist.

[0114] The NIT unit may include the value of NIT. For example, the value of the NIT unit can be represented as shown in Table 3.

[0115]

[0116] The NIT unit may include at least one of a NIT unit subfield value or a NIT unit time value. The NIT unit subfield value may include values ​​from 0 to 15. The NIT unit time value may include values ​​from 32 µs to 8589.934592 s. The NIT unit may be determined by considering the NIT unit subfield value and the NIT wake duration value. For example, if the NIT unit subfield value is 2 and the NIT wake duration value is 2, the NIT unit time value may be 2048 µs. If the NIT unit subfield value is 1 and the NIT wake duration value is 4, the NIT unit time value may be 1024 µs.

[0117] The NIT wake duration may be a unit expressed in NIT units. The NIT wake duration may refer to the minimum time a target NAN device must remain awake to complete a frame exchange sequence during the NIT wake interval. The NIT wake interval may include the average time expected to elapse between consecutive NIT service periods (NAN IDP time Service Periods, NIT SPs) for a STA requesting a NIT or a STA scheduled for a NIT.

[0118] The NIT Wake Interval Mantissa can refer to an integer value that determines the NIT wake interval. The NIT Wake Interval can refer to the duration between the time the device wakes up to transmit and receive data. The NIT Wake Interval Mantissa can refer to the interval between NIT wake durations.

[0119] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method for using AP.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 8, the UE can perform the MLSR method to perform awareness. The UE may include a NAN device. In other words, the UE may include a device that performs awareness. The UE may use the MLSR method for awareness. When the UE uses the MLSR method, the UE can use the awareness and the mobile AP in different bands. The NAN Social channel may include a channel for the UE to provide information to other terminals for awareness. The NAN Social channel may include Channel 6. When the UE uses the NAN Social channel, the UE may not be able to use the mobile AP. In other words, when the UE uses the NAN Social channel, an out-of-service phenomenon may occur. Out-of-service may refer to a phenomenon where the UE cannot use the mobile AP when the UE uses the NAN Social channel.

[0121] A peer device may include a UE. If the UE is unaware of an out-of-service state, it may perform unnecessary data transmission during the out-of-service period. If the UE is unaware of an out-of-service state, it may incur unnecessary energy consumption for data transmission during the out-of-service period. If the UE is unaware of an out-of-service state, it may experience a disconnection during the out-of-service period.

[0122] A UE can indicate an out-of-service period through a NAN item. A first electronic device can indicate an out-of-service period through a NAN item. A UE can transmit information about an out-of-service period to another device during an unsynchronized service discovery (USD) period or a synchronized service discovery (Synchronized Service Discovery) period. A UE can transmit a publish message during an unsynchronized service discovery (USD) period or a synchronized service discovery (Synchronized Service Discovery) period. A UE can transmit a new item by including it in a subscription procedure. In other words, a UE can transmit a new item to another UE by including a subscribe message. A second UE can transmit a new item to the first UE by including a subscribe message. A UE can reserve a specific time period in advance by transmitting a new item. A first electronic device may include a UE that provides the function of a mobile AP. The second electronic device may include a UE that uses a mobile AP. The first UE may include a UE that performs the functions of a mobile AP. The second UE may include a UE that uses a mobile AP.

[0123] A UE can broadcast USD information on a social channel. Peer UEs that support MLSR can perform social channels among peer UEs. A social channel may include a channel that performs USD procedures. A social channel may include channel 6.

[0124] The UE may perform a USD procedure to perform aware. The UE may transmit a publish message during the USD procedure. The UE may broadcast a publish message during the USD procedure. The UE may transmit a publish message to a specific device during the USD procedure. The UE may transmit a publish message during the publish message transmission interval. The publish message transmission interval may refer to the interval from USD0Start to USD0End. USD0Start may refer to the start of the asynchronous service discovery interval. Asynchronous service discovery may include a procedure to find other UEs performing aware. USD0End may refer to the end of the asynchronous service discovery interval. The publish message transmission interval may occur non-periodically. The asynchronous service discovery interval may occur non-periodically. During the asynchronous service discovery interval, the UE may use social channels. During the asynchronous service discovery interval, the UE may use channel 6. Social channels can refer to the channels that most NAN devices use.

[0125] A UE that supports MLSR cannot use a mobile AP during the period when a registration message is being transmitted from the USD. A UE that supports MLSR cannot perform the function of a mobile AP during the period when a registration message is being transmitted from the USD. The UE may include P2P (peer-to-peer).

[0126] A UE may transmit information regarding the transmission interval of its registration message to another UE. A UE may transmit information regarding the transmission interval of its registration message to a mobile AP. The information regarding the transmission interval of its registration message may include NIT items. A UE may transmit a registration message to notify information regarding the transmission interval of its registration message. The registration message may include at least one of length, NIT type, NIT unit, or NIT wake duration. A UE may notify a target UE of the wake time through the registration message. In other words, the UE may notify target UEs that it can perform data services as a mobile AP through the NIT wake duration included in the registration message. The registration message may include information regarding the transmission interval of the UE's registration message. The registration message may include NIT items. The information regarding the transmission interval of the UE's registration message may include NIT items.

[0127] The UE may include a NAN device. The first electronic device may include a NAN device. The NAN device may perform MLSR. The NAN device may use Link A (810) or Link B (820). Link A (810) may use a social channel. Link A (810) may perform USD procedures. Link A (810) may include Channel 6.

[0128] A NAN device can utilize a discovery window. A NAN device can generate NAN SDF messages. NAN SDF messages may be referred to as SDF messages. A NAN device can generate NAN SDF (service discovery frame) publish messages during the USD interval. NAN SDF publish messages may contain information about various services. A NAN device can transmit NAN SDF (service discovery frame) publish messages to a mobile AP during the USD interval. NAN SDF register messages may contain service information. NAN SDF register messages may include IDP (IEEE Data Path) NIT entries that support awareness. For example, a NAN device can transmit NAN SDF register messages during the USD0Start to USD0End interval. For example, NAN SDF register messages may include information such as that shown in Table 4.

[0129]

[0130] The NAN SDF registration message may include an item ID. The item ID may be represented as 0x30. The length may be 9. The NIT type may be 1. Since the NIT type is 1, the NAN device can transmit the message via broadcast. The NIT unit may be 2. Since the NIT unit is 2, the NIT may be 1024 us. The NIT wake duration may mean a value of USD1Start-USD0End. The NIT wake interval may include USD1End-USD1Start. The NIT wake interval may include an unavailable period.

[0131] Link B (820) may refer to a link without a discovery procedure. Link B (820) may include a 5 GHz or 6 GHz band. A NAN device may use Link B (820) through a mobile AP. Link B (820) may include a Wi-Fi hotspot service period, a Wi-Fi IDP (IEEE Data Path) service period, or an unavailable period. A mobile AP may use Link B (820). A mobile AP may receive a NAN SDF registration message transmitted by a NAN device. A NAN device may use Link B through a mobile AP during a Wi-Fi hotspot service period or a Wi-Fi IDP (IEEE Data Path) service period. A Wi-Fi hotspot service period or a Wi-Fi IDP (IEEE Data Path) service period may include a NIT wake duration. A Wi-Fi hotspot service period or a Wi-Fi IDP (IEEE Data Path) service period may refer to USD0End-USD1Start. The NAN device cannot use link B (820) during the unavailable period. The unavailable period may include the USD0Start-USD0End period.

[0132] FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram illustrating one embodiment of a method in which a UE provides a mobile AP.

[0133] Referring to FIG. 9, the UE can provide a mobile AP considering power efficiency. The NAN device can use MLSR. The NAN device can use Link A (910) or Link B (920). The NAN device can perform a discovery procedure registered on Link A (910). The NAN device can perform a discovery procedure on Link A (910). The NAN device can generate a NAN SDF registration message during the discovery window period. The NAN device can transmit a NAN SDF registration message during the discovery window period. The discovery window 0 (DW0) period may refer to the period from DW0Start to DW0End. The NAN SDF registration message may include service information. The service information may include an IDP (IEEE Data Path) NIT item that supports aware. For example, the NAN SDF registration message may include the contents of Table 5.

[0134]

[0135] The item ID can be represented as 0x30. The length can include a value of 9. The instance ID can include a value of 1. The Control can include a value of 0. The NIT type can be 1. Since the NIT type is 1, the NAN device can broadcast. When the NAN device broadcasts a registration message, the Target Device NDI presence can be 0 because there is no target device. The NIT unit can be 2. The NIT wake duration can include DW1Start-FAW0End. The NIT wake interval mantissa can include Log2(DW1End-DW0End). The NIT wake interval can include DW1End-DW1Start.

[0136] Link B (920) may refer to a link without a discovery procedure. Link B (920) may include a 5GHz or 6GHz band. A NAN device may use Link B (920) to provide a mobile AP. Link B (920) may include a Wi-Fi hotspot service period, a Wi-Fi IDP (IEEE Data Path) service period, or an unavailable period. A NAN device may not allocate a specific period to another NAN device. A first electronic device may not allocate a specific period to a second electronic device. A first electronic device may set a period to avoid unnecessary allocation requests from other NAN devices. A first electronic device may set a registration message to avoid unnecessary allocation requests from other NAN devices. A first electronic device may avoid unnecessary allocation requests from other NAN devices through the NIT wake duration included in the registration message. For example, a NAN device may set the NIT wake duration included in the registration message to DW1Start-FAW0End. If the NAN device sets the NIT wake duration to DW1Start-FAW0End, the second electronic device may use the first electronic device during the interval from DW0Start to FAW0End. In other words, if the first electronic device sets the NIT wake duration to DW1Start-FAW0End, the first electronic device may not provide Link B (920) to the second electronic device during the interval from DW1Start to FAW0End. The second electronic device, which wishes to connect to Link B provided by the first electronic device, may check the NIT wake duration for the first electronic device's Hotspot or IDP (IEEE Data Path).The second electronic device can check the NIT wake duration for the first electronic device's Hotspot or IDP (IEEE Data Path) and perform an allocation procedure for the interval provided by the first electronic device.

[0137] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an embodiment of a method in which a UE uses a mobile AP.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 10, the first electronic device may include a NAN device. The NAN device may use at least one of link A (1010) or link B (1020). Link A (1010) may mean a link for an unsynchronized service discovery (USD) procedure. Link A (1010) may mean a link for receiving subscription messages from the second electronic device. Link A (1010) may mean a link for sending follow-up messages to the second electronic device.

[0139] The second electronic device may transmit an SDF subscription message to the first electronic device. For example, NAN device 1 may transmit NAN device 1's SDF subscription message to the first electronic device. The SDF subscription message transmitted by NAN device 1 may include the information in Table 1. The first electronic device may receive NAN device 1's SDF subscription message transmitted by NAN device 1. The first electronic device may set an allocable interval to NAN device 1 through NAN device 1's SDF subscription message. The first electronic device may allocate and / or reserve time slots to NAN device 1. When the first electronic device allocates time slots to NAN device 1 through NAN device 1's SDF subscription message, the first electronic device may transmit an SDF follow-up message to NAN device 1.

[0140] NAN device 2 can transmit NAN device 2's SDF subscription message to the first electronic device. The SDF subscription message transmitted by NAN device 2 may include the information in Table 1. The first electronic device can receive NAN device 2's SDF subscription message transmitted by NAN device 2. The first electronic device can set an allocable interval to NAN device 2 through NAN device 2's SDF subscription message. The first electronic device can allocate and / or reserve time slots to NAN device 2. When the first electronic device allocates time slots to NAN device 2 through NAN device 2's SDF subscription message, the first electronic device can transmit an SDF follow-up message to NAN device 2.

[0141] NAN device 3 can transmit NAN device 3’s SDF subscription message to the first electronic device. The SDF subscription message transmitted by NAN device 3 may include the information in Table 1. The first electronic device can receive the SDF subscription message of NAN device 2 transmitted by NAN device 3. The first electronic device can set an allocable interval to NAN device 3 through NAN device 3’s SDF subscription message. The first electronic device can allocate and / or reserve a time slot to NAN device 3. If the time slot requested by NAN device 3 is already allocated to the first electronic device, the first electronic device may not allocate a time slot to NAN device 3. If the first electronic device cannot allocate a time slot to NAN device 3 through NAN device 3’s SDF subscription message, the first electronic device may not transmit an SDF follow-up message to NAN device 3.

[0142] The first electronic device can generate an SDF follow-up message. The SDF follow-up message may include the contents of Table 1. The first electronic device can broadcast the SDF follow-up message. The first electronic device can transmit the SDF follow-up message to the second electronic device. The first electronic device can transmit the SDF follow-up message to another second electronic device by broadcasting it. The second electronic device can receive the broadcasted SDF follow-up message. The second electronic device can receive the broadcasted SDF follow-up message and determine whether to use Link B provided by the first electronic device. The second electronic device can receive the broadcasted SDF follow-up message and generate an SDF subscription message.

[0143] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a first electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The first electronic device of FIG. 11 may be implemented as an electronic device performing the role of a mobile AP, a Wi-Fi Aware device, or an AP MLD as illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 10.

[0144] Referring to FIG. 11, the electronic device may include a transceiver (1102), a processor (1103), and a memory (1104). In the present disclosure, the control unit may be defined as a circuit or an application-specific integrated circuit or at least one processor.

[0145] The transceiver (1102) can transmit and receive signals with an external electronic device.

[0146] The processor (1103) can control the overall operation of the electronic device according to the embodiment proposed in the present disclosure. For example, the processor (1103) can control the signal flow between each block to perform operations according to the flowchart described above. Specifically, the processor (1103) can control the operation of the electronic device illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 10, for example.

[0147] The memory (1104) can store at least one of the information transmitted and received through the transceiver (1102) and the information generated through the processor (1103).

[0148] A method of operation of a first electronic device supporting Wi-Fi aware communication according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include the step of transmitting a neighbor awareness networking (NAN) service discovery frame (SDF) message containing information regarding a service period of mobile AP-based communication in a first channel supporting Wi-Fi aware communication, and the step of transmitting and receiving data with a second electronic device in a time interval set based on the information regarding the service period in a second channel supporting the mobile AP-based communication.

[0149] According to one embodiment, a NAN SDF message may include at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating the transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating the time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating the time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating the interval between the available times. The SDF message may include at least one of an SDF publish message or an SDF subscribe message.

[0150] According to one embodiment, the NIT type may include a first value indicating that the NAN SDF message is individually transmitted to the second electronic device, or a second value indicating that the NAN SDF message is broadcast.

[0151] According to one embodiment, a method of the first UE may include the step of receiving a subscribe message from the second electronic device comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between the times during which the device can use the device.

[0152] According to one embodiment, a method of the first UE may include the step of transmitting a follow-up message to the second electronic device comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between the times during which the device can use the device.

[0153] A NAN SDF message may include at least one of an SDF publish message or an SDF subscribe message.

[0154] According to one embodiment, a first electronic device supporting Wi-Fi aware communication may include a transceiver and a control unit, and the control unit may be configured to transmit a neighbor awareness networking (NAN) service discovery frame (SDF) message containing information regarding the service period of mobile AP-based communication on a first channel supporting Wi-Fi aware communication, and to transmit and receive data with a second electronic device in a time interval set based on the information regarding the service period on a second channel supporting the mobile AP-based communication.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the NAN SDF message may be configured to include at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating the transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating the time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating the time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating the interval between the times during which the device can use the device.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the NIT type may be configured to include a first value indicating that the NAN SDF message is individually transmitted to the second electronic device, or a second value indicating that the NAN SDF message is broadcast.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to receive a subscribe message from the second electronic device comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between said times of use.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to transmit a follow-up message to the second electronic device, the follow-up message comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating the transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating the time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating the time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating the interval between the times during which the device can use the device.

[0159] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the structure of a second electronic device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The second electronic device of FIG. 12 may be implemented as an electronic device using a mobile AP, a Wi-Fi Aware device, or a Non-AP MLD as illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 10.

[0160] Referring to FIG. 12, the electronic device may include a transceiver (1202), a processor (1203), and a memory (1204). In the present disclosure, the processor may be defined as a circuit or an application-specific integrated circuit or at least one processor.

[0161] The transceiver (1202) can transmit and receive signals with an external electronic device.

[0162] The processor (1203) can control the overall operation of the electronic device according to the embodiment proposed in the present disclosure. For example, the processor (1203) can control the signal flow between each block to perform operations according to the flowchart described above. Specifically, the processor (1203) can control the operation of the electronic device (receiver) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 10, for example.

[0163] The memory (1204) can store at least one of the information transmitted and received through the transceiver (1202) and the information generated through the processor (1220).

[0164] According to one embodiment, a method of operation of a second electronic device supporting Wi-Fi aware communication may include the steps of receiving a neighbor awareness networking (NAN) service discovery frame (SDF) message containing information regarding a service period of mobile AP-based communication in a first channel supporting Wi-Fi aware communication, and transmitting and receiving data with a first electronic device in a time interval set based on the information regarding the service period in a second channel supporting mobile AP-based communication.

[0165] According to one embodiment, the NAN SDF message may include at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating the transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating the time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating the time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating the interval between the times during which the device can use the device.

[0166] According to one embodiment, the NIT type may include a first value indicating that the NAN SDF message is individually transmitted to the second electronic device, or a second value indicating that the NAN SDF message is broadcast.

[0167] According to one embodiment, a method of the second UE may include the step of transmitting a subscribe message to the first electronic device comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between said available times.

[0168] According to one embodiment, the method of the second UE may include the step of receiving a follow-up message from the first electronic device comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between said times of use.

[0169] A NAN SDF message may include at least one of an SDF publish message or an SDF subscribe message.

[0170] According to one embodiment, a second electronic device supporting Wi-Fi aware communication may include a transceiver and a control unit, and the control unit may be configured to receive a neighbor awareness networking (NAN) service discovery frame (SDF) message containing information regarding a service period of mobile AP-based communication in a first channel supporting Wi-Fi aware communication, and to transmit and receive data with a first electronic device in a time interval set based on the information regarding the service period in a second channel supporting mobile AP-based communication.

[0171] According to one embodiment, the NAN SDF message may be configured to include at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between said available times.

[0172] According to one embodiment, the NIT type may be configured to include a first value indicating that the NAN SDF message is individually transmitted to the second electronic device, or a second value indicating that the NAN SDF message is broadcast.

[0173] According to one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to transmit a subscribe message to the first electronic device comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between said available times.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the control unit may be configured to receive a follow-up message from the first electronic device comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between the times during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device.

[0175] It should be noted that the system configuration diagrams, method example diagrams, device configuration diagrams, etc., illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 12 above are not intended to limit the scope of the rights of the present disclosure. That is, all configurations or operations described in FIGS. 1 to 12 above should not be interpreted as essential components for the implementation of the present disclosure, and may be implemented within a scope that does not impair the essence of the present disclosure even if only some components are included.

[0176] Methods according to the claims or embodiments described in the specification of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0177] When implemented in software, a computer-readable storage medium may be provided for storing one or more programs (software modules). One or more programs stored in the computer-readable storage medium are configured for execution by one or more processors within an electronic device. One or more programs may include instructions that cause the electronic device to execute methods according to the claims or embodiments described in the specification of this disclosure.

[0178] Such programs (software modules, software) may be stored in random access memory, non-volatile memory including flash memory, ROM (Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), magnetic disc storage devices, CD-ROM (Compact Disc-ROM), Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs), or other forms of optical storage devices, magnetic cassettes. Alternatively, they may be stored in memory composed of some or all of these. Additionally, each constituent memory may include multiple units.

[0179] Additionally, the program may be stored on an attachable storage device accessible via a communication network such as the Internet, Intranet, Local Area Network (LAN), Wide LAN (WLAN), or Storage Area Network (SAN), or a combination thereof. Such a storage device may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure through an external port. Additionally, a separate storage device on a communication network may be connected to a device performing an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] In the specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above, the components included in the present disclosure are expressed in a singular or plural form according to the specific embodiments presented. However, the singular or plural expression is selected to suit the situation presented for convenience of explanation, and the present disclosure is not limited to singular or plural components; even if a component is expressed in the plural, it may be composed of a singular form, and even if a component is expressed in the singular form, it may be composed of a plural form.

Claims

1. A method of operation of a first electronic device that supports Wi-Fi aware communication, A step of transmitting a Neighbor Aware Networking (NAN) Service Discovery Frame (SDF) message containing information regarding the service period of mobile AP-based communication in a first channel that supports Wi-Fi Aware communication; and A method comprising the step of transmitting and receiving data with a second electronic device in a time interval set based on information regarding the service period in a second channel that supports the mobile AP-based communication.

2. In paragraph 1, the above NAN SDF message is, A method comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the above NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between the times during which the devices can be used.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above NIT type is, A method comprising a first value indicating that the NAN SDF message is individually transmitted to the second electronic device, or a second value indicating that the NAN SDF message is broadcast.

4. In Paragraph 1, The method of the first electronic device above is, A method comprising the step of receiving a subscribe message from a second electronic device, the subscribe message comprising at least one of a NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between the times during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device.

5. In Paragraph 1, The method of the first electronic device above is, A method comprising the step of transmitting a follow-up message to a second electronic device, the follow-up message comprising at least one of a NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between the times during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above NAN SDF message is, A method comprising at least one of an SDF publish message or an SDF subscribe message.

7. In a first electronic device that supports Wi-Fi aware communication, Transmitter / receiver; and It includes a control unit, and the control unit, In a first channel supporting Wi-Fi Aware communication, a Neighbor Aware Networking (NAN) Service Discovery Frame (SDF) message containing information regarding the service period of mobile AP-based communication is transmitted, and In the second channel supporting the above mobile AP-based communication, configured to transmit and receive data with a second electronic device in a time interval set based on information regarding the service period, First electronic device.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above NAN SDF message is, A NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating the transmission method of the above NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating the time unit of the NIT, and at least one NIT wake duration indicating the time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating the interval between the available times, configured to include First electronic device 9. In Paragraph 7, The above control unit is, A subscribe message configured to receive from the second electronic device comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating the transmission method of the above NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating the time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating the time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating the interval between the available times. First electronic device.

10. In Paragraph 7, The above control unit is, A follow-up message configured to transmit to the second electronic device, comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating the transmission method of the above NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating the time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating the time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating the interval between the available times. First electronic device.

11. A method of operation of a second electronic device that supports Wi-Fi aware communication, A step of receiving a Neighbor Aware Networking (NAN) Service Discovery Frame (SDF) message containing information regarding the service period of a mobile AP-based communication in a first channel that supports Wi-Fi Aware communication; and A method comprising the step of transmitting and receiving data with a first electronic device in a time interval set based on information regarding the service period in a second channel supporting the above mobile AP-based communication.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above NAN SDF message is, A method comprising at least one NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the above NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between the times during which the devices can be used.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above NIT type is, A method comprising a first value indicating that the NAN SDF message is individually transmitted to the second electronic device, or a second value indicating that the NAN SDF message is broadcast.

14. In Paragraph 11, The method of the second electronic device above is, A method comprising the step of transmitting a subscribe message to a first electronic device, the subscribe message comprising at least one of a NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the NAN SDF message, a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT, a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device, or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between the times during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device.

15. In Paragraph 11, The method of the second electronic device above is, A method comprising the step of receiving a follow-up message from a first electronic device, the following: a NIT (NAN IDP Time) type indicating a transmission method of the above NAN SDF message; a NIT unit indicating a time unit of the NIT; a NIT wake duration indicating a time during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device; or a NIT wake interval indicating an interval between the times during which the second electronic device can use the first electronic device.

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