Communication method and communication device

Abstract

Provided are a communication method and a communication device. The method comprises: a first station determining a first trigger frame set, wherein the first trigger frame set corresponds to the first station or a first station group in which the first station is located.

Description

Communication methods and communication equipment Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to a communication method and a communication device. Background Technology

[0002] In some scenarios, the access point cannot know in advance the number of stations that need to transmit data. Therefore, the access point continuously sends trigger frames to trigger or schedule potential stations to use the resources allocated by the access point for data transmission. In this case, how to avoid resource collisions between stations is a problem that needs to be solved.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and a communication device. The various aspects covered by this application are described below.

[0005] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided, comprising: a first station determining a first set of trigger frames; wherein the first set of trigger frames corresponds to the first station or a first group of stations to which the first station is located.

[0006] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided, comprising: a first access point sending a first set of trigger frames; wherein the first set of trigger frames corresponds to a first site or a first site group to which the first site is located.

[0007] Thirdly, a communication device is provided, the communication device being a first station, the first station comprising: a determining unit, configured to determine a first set of trigger frames; wherein the first set of trigger frames corresponds to the first station or a first station group to which the first station is located.

[0008] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, the communication device being a first access point, the first access point comprising: a communication unit for sending a first set of trigger frames; wherein the first set of trigger frames corresponds to a first site or a first site group to which the first site is located.

[0009] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, including a transceiver, a memory, and a processor, wherein the memory is used to store a program, the processor is used to invoke the program in the memory, and to control the transceiver to receive or transmit signals, so that the communication device performs the method as described in the first or second aspect.

[0010] A sixth aspect provides an apparatus including a processor for calling a program from a memory to cause the apparatus to perform the method as described in the first or second aspect.

[0011] A seventh aspect provides a chip including a processor for calling a program from memory, causing a device on which the chip is mounted to perform the method as described in the first or second aspect.

[0012] Eighthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a program stored thereon that causes a computer to perform the method as described in the first or second aspect.

[0013] Ninth aspect, a computer program product is provided, characterized in that it includes a program that causes a computer to perform the method as described in the first or second aspect.

[0014] In a tenth aspect, a computer program is provided that causes a computer to perform the method as described in the first or second aspect.

[0015] This application establishes a correspondence between a site or site group and a set of trigger frames, enabling the site or site group to detect the corresponding set of trigger frames, which helps to reduce resource collisions between sites. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 is a system architecture example diagram of a wireless communication system applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0017] Figure 2 shows an example diagram of a zero-power network.

[0018] Figure 3 is an example diagram of energy harvesting methods for zero-power devices.

[0019] Figure 4 is an example diagram of the backscatter communication method of zero-power devices.

[0020] Figure 5 shows an example of load modulation methods for zero-power devices.

[0021] Figure 6 is an example diagram of the encoding method for zero-power devices.

[0022] Figure 7 is an example of resource collision phenomena in a communication system.

[0023] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0024] Figure 9A is an example diagram of the method for sending trigger frames provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 9B is another example of the method for sending trigger frames provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0026] Figure 10 is an example diagram of the detection process of the trigger frame provided in the application embodiment.

[0027] Figure 11 is another example diagram of the trigger frame detection process provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0028] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus applicable to embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0031] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. For ease of understanding, the communication terms and processes that may be involved in the embodiments of this application will first be introduced with reference to Figures 1 to 6.

[0032] Communication system

[0033] The technical solutions of this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as wireless local area networks (WLAN), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), high-performance radio local area networks (HIPELAN), wide area networks (WAN), cellular networks, or other communication systems. For example, the technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to communication systems using the 802.11 standard. Exemplarily, the 802.11 standard includes, but is not limited to, the 802.11a standard, the 802.11g standard, the 802.11ba standard, the 802.11bp standard, and next-generation 802.11 standards.

[0034] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the communication devices in the communication system 100 may include a first device 110 and a second device 120.

[0035] In some scenarios, such as in a Wi-Fi system, the first device 110 can be a station (STA), and the second device 120 can be an access point (AP). The AP is used to create a wireless network and provide wireless network services to the STA. STAs can access the network through the AP.

[0036] In this context, the Access Point (AP) can be a device in a wireless network. An AP can be a communication entity such as a communication server, router, switch, or bridge; alternatively, it can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations, or relay stations. Of course, an AP can also be a chip, circuit, or processing system within these various types of devices to implement the methods and functions of the embodiments described in this application. APs can be applied in various scenarios, such as sensor nodes in smart cities (e.g., smart water meters, smart electricity meters, smart air quality monitoring nodes); smart devices in smart homes (e.g., smart cameras, projectors, displays, televisions, speakers, refrigerators, washing machines); nodes in the Internet of Things (IoT); entertainment terminals (e.g., AR / VR wearable devices); smart devices in smart offices (e.g., printers, projectors); vehicle-to-everything (V2X) devices; and infrastructure in everyday life scenarios (e.g., vending machines, supermarket self-service navigation kiosks, self-checkout machines, self-service ordering machines).

[0037] A STA can be a device with wireless transceiver capabilities, such as supporting the 802.11 series of protocols, and communicating with an AP or other STAs. For example, an STA is any user communication device that allows a user to communicate with an AP and thus with a WLAN network. STAs include, for example, user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device.

[0038] STA can also be a device that provides users with voice and / or data connectivity, such as a handheld device or in-vehicle device with wireless connectivity. Examples include mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving vehicles, wireless terminals in remote medical surgery, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, cellular phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, terminal devices in 5G networks, or future evolution of public land mobile communication networks. Terminal devices in a network (PLMN), etc., are not limited to this in the embodiments of this application.

[0039] STA can also refer to wearable devices. Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that utilize wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Examples include smartwatches or smart glasses, as well as devices focused on a specific application function that require interaction with other devices like smartphones, such as various smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0040] STA can also be a terminal device in the Internet of Things (IoT) system. IoT is an important part of the future development of information technology. Its main technical feature is to connect objects to the network through communication technology, thereby realizing an intelligent network for human-machine interconnection and object-to-object interconnection.

[0041] STA can also refer to devices within a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) system. The communication methods within a V2X system are collectively referred to as V2X, where X can represent anything. For example, V2X communication includes vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication, vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P) communication, and vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication.

[0042] In addition, STA can also include sensors such as smart printers, train detectors, and gas stations. Its main functions include collecting data, receiving control information and downlink data from the AP, and sending electromagnetic waves to transmit data to the AP.

[0043] In this application embodiment, the AP can be a device used to communicate with the STA. The AP can be a network device or a terminal device in a wireless local area network. The AP can be used to communicate with the STA through a wireless local area network.

[0044] From the perspective of the communication standards supported by the AP, in some implementations, the AP is a device that supports the 802.11 standard. Furthermore, the AP can also be a device that supports various current and future 802.11 family WLAN standards, including 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b, 802.11ba, and 802.11a.

[0045] From the perspective of the communication standards supported by the STA, in some implementations, the STA is a device that can support the 802.11 standard. The STA can also support various current and future 802.11 family WLAN standards, such as 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b, 802.11ba, and 802.11a.

[0046] It should be understood that the specific forms of STA and AP are not specifically limited in the embodiments of this application, and are merely illustrative examples.

[0047] Furthermore, the technical solution implemented in this application can also be extended to other scenarios beyond Wi-Fi systems. For example, in some other scenarios, the first device 110 can be a terminal device, and the second device 120 can be a network device. The network device can be a device that communicates with the terminal device. The network device can provide communication coverage for a specific geographical area and can communicate with terminal devices located within that coverage area.

[0048] In this context, terminal equipment can also be referred to as user equipment (UE), access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal equipment, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device. Terminal equipment can be, for example, a device that provides voice and / or data connectivity to a user, and can be used to connect people, objects, and machines, such as home appliances, sensors, and electronic tags with wireless connectivity. Terminal equipment can also be a wireless terminal in a smart home, a wireless terminal in an IWSN (Internet Wireless Network), a wireless terminal in smart logistics and smart warehousing, a wireless terminal in self-driving vehicles, a wireless terminal in remote medical surgery, a wireless terminal in a smart grid, a wireless terminal in transportation safety, and a wireless terminal in a smart city, etc.

[0049] A network device can be a device used to communicate with a terminal device. A network device can also be an access network device or a radio access network device; for example, a network device can be a base station. In the embodiments of this application, the network device can refer to a radio access network (RAN) node or device that connects a terminal device to a wireless network. A base station can broadly encompass various names listed below, or can be replaced by names such as: NodeB, evolved NodeB (eNB), next-generation NodeB (gNB), relay station, access point, transmitting and receiving point (TRP), transmitting point (TP), master station (MeNB), secondary station (SeNB), multi-mode radio (MSR) node, home base station, network controller, access node, wireless node, access point (AP), transmission node, transceiver node, baseband unit (BBU), remote radio unit (RRU), active antenna unit (AAU), remote radio head (RRH), central unit (CU), distributed unit (DU), positioning node, etc. A base station can be a macro base station, micro base station, relay node, donor node, or similar entities, or combinations thereof. A base station can also refer to a communication module, modem, or chip installed within the aforementioned equipment or apparatus. A base station can also be a mobile switching center, or a device that performs base station functions in device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications, a network-side device in a 6G network, or a device performing base station functions in future communication systems. Base stations can support networks using the same or different access technologies. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technologies or device forms used in the network equipment.

[0050] Base stations can be fixed or mobile. For example, a helicopter or drone can be configured to act as a mobile base station, and one or more cells can move depending on the location of the mobile base station. In other examples, a helicopter or drone can be configured as a device to communicate with another base station.

[0051] In some deployments, the network device in this application embodiment may refer to a CU or a DU; or, the network device may include both a CU and a DU. The gNB may also include an AAU.

[0052] Network devices and terminal devices can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; they can also be deployed on water; and they can also be deployed in the air on airplanes, balloons, and satellites. This application does not limit the scenario in which the network devices and terminal devices are located.

[0053] It should be understood that all or part of the functions of the communication device in this application can also be implemented by software functions running on hardware, or by virtualization functions instantiated on a platform such as a cloud platform.

[0054] Figure 1 illustrates two first devices 110 and one second device 120. Optionally, the communication system 100 may include a plurality of second devices 120, and the communication system 100 may also include other numbers of first devices 110.

[0055] Zero-power communication technology

[0056] Zero-power communication networks can employ power harvesting and backscattering communication technologies. A zero-power communication network consists of a network device 110 and a zero-power device 120, as shown in Figure 2. The network device 110 sends wireless power signals and downlink communication signals to the zero-power device 120, and receives backscattered signals from the zero-power device. A basic zero-power device 120 may include a power harvesting module, a backscattering communication module, and a low-power computing module. Furthermore, the zero-power device 120 may also have a memory or sensor to store basic information (such as object identification) or acquire sensor data such as ambient temperature and humidity. The power harvesting and backscattering communication technologies in zero-power communication are described below.

[0057] As shown in Figure 3, the energy harvesting module harvests electromagnetic wave energy from space based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, thereby obtaining the energy required to drive the zero-power device. For example, the energy harvesting module can be used to drive low-power demodulation and modulation modules, sensors, and memory modules within the zero-power device. Therefore, the zero-power device does not require a traditional battery.

[0058] As shown in Figure 4, the zero-power device 120 receives a wireless signal sent by the network device 110. After receiving the wireless signal, the zero-power device 120 modulates the wireless signal to load the information to be transmitted. Then, the zero-power device 120 radiates the modulated signal from the antenna. The above information transmission process is called backscatter communication. Backscatter and load modulation functions are inseparable. Load modulation is achieved by adjusting and controlling the circuit parameters of the oscillation circuit of the zero-power device according to the rhythm of the data stream, thereby changing parameters such as the impedance. Load modulation technology mainly includes two methods: resistive load modulation and capacitive load modulation. In resistive load modulation, a resistor is connected in parallel with the load. This resistor is turned on or off based on the control of the binary data stream, as shown in Figure 5. The switching on and off of the resistor causes a change in the circuit voltage, thereby realizing amplitude shift keying (ASK), that is, the modulation and transmission of the signal are achieved by adjusting the amplitude of the backscatter signal of the zero-power device. Similarly, in capacitive load modulation, the resonant frequency of the circuit can be changed by switching the capacitor on and off, realizing frequency shift keying (FSK), that is, the modulation and transmission of the signal is achieved by adjusting the operating frequency of the backscattered signal of the zero-power device.

[0059] As can be seen, zero-power devices achieve backscatter communication by modulating the incoming signal using load modulation. Therefore, zero-power devices have the following significant advantages:

[0060] First: Zero-power devices do not actively transmit signals, therefore they do not require complex RF links, such as power amplifiers (PA) and RF filters;

[0061] Second: Zero-power devices do not need to actively generate high-frequency signals, therefore they do not need high-frequency crystal oscillators;

[0062] Third: With the help of backscatter communication, the signal transmission of zero-power devices does not require the zero-power devices to consume their own energy.

[0063] Zero-power devices, due to their significant advantages such as low cost, zero power consumption, and small size, can be widely used in various industries. For example, they can be applied to logistics, smart warehousing, smart agriculture, energy and power, and the industrial internet. Alternatively, they can be used in smart wearables and smart homes.

[0064] The following provides examples of encoding methods that may be used in zero-power communication.

[0065] Zero-power communication systems can encode signals using one of the following coding schemes: non-return-to-zero (NRZ) coding, Manchester coding, unipolar RZ coding, differential binary phase (DBP) coding, Miller coding, and differential coding.

[0066] (1) Reverse Non-Return-to-Zero Encoding

[0067] Inverted non-return-to-zero encoding uses a high level to represent binary "1" and a low level to represent binary "0", as shown in Figure 6(a).

[0068] (2) Manchester encoding

[0069] Manchester coding is also known as split phase coding. In Manchester coding, the value of a bit is represented by the change in level (rising / falling) over half a bit period within that bit length. A negative transition over half a bit period represents a binary "1", and a positive transition over half a bit period represents a binary "0", as shown in Figure 6(b).

[0070] (3) Unipolar Return-to-Zero (RZ) Encoding

[0071] In unipolar return-to-zero (UNZ) encoding, a high level during the first half-bit cycle represents a binary "1", while a low level signal throughout the entire bit cycle represents a binary "0", as shown in Figure 6(c). UNZ encoding can be used to extract bit synchronization signals.

[0072] (4) Differential biphase encoding

[0073] In differential biphase coding, any edge within half a bit cycle represents a binary "0", and the absence of an edge represents a binary "1", as shown in Figure 6(d). Furthermore, the voltage levels are inverted at the beginning of each bit cycle. Therefore, the bit clock is relatively easy to reconstruct for the receiver.

[0074] (5) Miller coding

[0075] Miller encoding uses any edge within half a bit cycle to represent a binary "1", while a constant level in the next bit cycle represents a binary "0". A level alternation occurs at the beginning of a bit cycle, as shown in Figure 6(e). Therefore, the bit clock is relatively easy for the receiver to reconstruct.

[0076] (6) Differential coding

[0077] In differential coding, each binary "1" to be transmitted will cause a change in the signal level, while for a binary "0", the signal level remains unchanged.

[0078] The following section describes the classification of zero-power devices.

[0079] In zero-power communication technology, based on the energy source and energy usage of zero-power devices, they can be divided into three categories: passive zero-power devices, semi-passive zero-power devices, and active zero-power devices.

[0080] Passive zero-power devices (ZEPDs) typically do not require an internal battery. When a ZEPD approaches a network device, it falls within the near-field range of the network device's antenna radiation. At this point, the ZEPD's antenna can generate an induced current through electromagnetic induction. This induced current powers the ZEPD, driving its low-power chip circuitry to demodulate forward link signals and modulate backward link signals. For backscatter links, ZEPDs can use backscattering to transmit signals.

[0081] As can be seen from the above introduction, passive zero-power devices do not require an internal battery to drive them, whether the transmission process is based on the forward link or the reverse link, making them truly zero-power devices.

[0082] In some implementations, the aforementioned passive zero-power device can be an electronic tag, and correspondingly, the network device can be a reader / writer of a radio frequency identification (RFID) system, used to read the contents of the electronic tag and / or to change the contents of the electronic tag.

[0083] Semi-passive zero-power devices do not have conventional batteries installed, but they can use energy harvesting modules, such as RF energy harvesting modules, to harvest radio wave energy and store the harvested energy in an energy storage unit, such as a capacitor. Once the energy storage unit has acquired energy, it can power the zero-power device to drive low-power chip circuits. This enables the demodulation of forward link signals and the modulation of backward link signals. For backscatter links, zero-power devices use backscattering to transmit signals.

[0084] As can be seen from the above introduction, semi-passive zero-power devices do not require a built-in battery to drive either the forward link transmission process or the reverse link transmission process. Although they use energy stored in capacitors during operation, the energy comes from the radio energy collected by the energy harvesting module, so they are also a true zero-power device.

[0085] Active zero-power devices can have a built-in battery. The battery powers the device, driving its low-power chip circuitry to demodulate the forward link signal and modulate the backward link signal. For the backscatter link, the active zero-power device uses backscattering for signal transmission. Therefore, the zero power consumption of this type of terminal is mainly reflected in the fact that the signal transmission in the backward link does not consume the terminal's own power, but instead uses backscattering.

[0086] Active zero-power devices can be powered by an internal battery, thus increasing their communication range and improving communication reliability. Therefore, they are used in scenarios with relatively high requirements for communication distance and read latency.

[0087] In some implementations, the aforementioned active zero-power device can be an electronic tag, and the network device can be a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader. In this case, the built-in battery can power the RFID chip inside the electronic tag, thereby increasing the read / write distance between the RFID reader and the electronic tag. On the other hand, the built-in battery can also power the RFID chip inside the electronic tag, thereby reducing the read / write latency of the RFID reader and improving communication reliability.

[0088] In addition to classifying zero-power devices based on their energy source and how they are used, they can also be classified based on their transmitter type.

[0089] First, zero-power devices based on backscattering.

[0090] These zero-power devices transmit uplink data using the backscattering method described above. These devices do not have an active transmitter for active transmission, but only a backscattering transmitter. Therefore, when this type of terminal transmits data, a network device needs to provide a carrier wave, and the terminal device uses this carrier wave for backscattering to achieve data transmission.

[0091] Second, zero-power devices based on active transmitters.

[0092] These zero-power devices use active transmitters with active transmission capabilities for uplink data transmission. Therefore, when sending data, these devices can transmit data using their own active transmitters without requiring a carrier wave from network equipment. Suitable active transmitters for zero-power devices include, for example, ultra-low-power ASK or ultra-low-power FSK transmitters. Based on current implementations, these transmitters can reduce overall power consumption to 400–600 µW when transmitting a 100 µW signal.

[0093] Third, a zero-power device that simultaneously possesses backscattering and an active transmitter.

[0094] These zero-power devices can support both backscatter and active transmitters. The device can determine which uplink transmission method to use based on different conditions (such as battery level and available ambient energy) or network device scheduling: whether to use backscatter or an active transmitter for active transmission.

[0095] Cellular Passive Internet of Things

[0096] With the application of 5G technology, the types of connected devices and application scenarios in the Internet of Things (IoT) are increasing, placing higher demands on the price and power consumption of communication equipment. Therefore, the application of battery-free, low-cost passive IoT devices has become a key technology for cellular IoT. Passive IoT devices can be based on zero-power devices and extended to suit cellular IoT.

[0097] Devices based on ambient energy

[0098] In communication systems (such as NR or WiFi systems), the battery-free and low-cost nature of communication devices is highly advantageous for deployment and maintenance. Current standards are investigating how to support ambient-powered IoT devices in NR and WiFi systems, referred to as ambient IoT devices, ambient-powered devices (AMP devices), or AMP IoT devices. For ease of description, these devices will be collectively referred to as AMP devices below. The energy required for AMP devices to operate is ambient energy, such as wireless signals, solar energy, and thermal energy. AMP devices are similar to passive or semi-passive devices in zero-power communication.

[0099] The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) RAN conducted research on AMP devices, broadly categorizing them into three types: Device A, Device B, and Device C. These three types of AMP devices differ in complexity and communication capabilities.

[0100] Device A does not have energy storage capabilities, and it cannot transmit signals independently. In other words, Device A uses backscattering for signal transmission.

[0101] Device B has energy storage capabilities, but it cannot transmit signals independently. In other words, Device B uses backscattering for signal transmission, and it can amplify the backscattered signal using the stored energy.

[0102] Device C has energy storage capabilities and can independently transmit signals. In other words, Device C has active signal transmission capabilities.

[0103] As can be seen from the above capability definitions, Device A has the lowest complexity and power consumption compared to Device B and Device C. For example, Device A's power consumption can be as low as 1μW, but its communication distance is limited, typically only a few meters. Device A generally requires a network device to provide a carrier signal for backscatter transmission. Device C generally has a large-capacity capacitor to store energy from the environment. Device C's power consumption can reach several hundred μW. Furthermore, Device C can actively transmit signals and has a longer communication distance. Device C can actively transmit, therefore it does not require a network device to provide a carrier signal. Device B's complexity and power consumption fall between those of Device A and Device C.

[0104] Based on the discussion of AMP equipment application scenarios in 3GPP SA1, AMP equipment can be applied to at least the following four scenarios:

[0105] Scenario 1: Object recognition, such as logistics, production line product management, and supply chain management;

[0106] Scenario 2: Environmental monitoring, such as monitoring of temperature, humidity, and harmful gases in the work environment and natural environment;

[0107] Scenario 3: Location services, such as indoor positioning, smart item finding, and production line item location.

[0108] Scenario 4: Intelligent control, such as the intelligent control of various electrical appliances in smart homes (turning on and off air conditioners, adjusting temperature), and the intelligent control of various facilities in agricultural greenhouses (automatic irrigation, fertilization).

[0109] Time synchronization mechanism in WiFi systems

[0110] In a WiFi system, in addition to the internal timing of each workstation, each workstation in the basic service set must maintain a timing synchronization function (TSF) timer. The TSF timer is an internal timer synchronized with the TSFs of all other STAs in the basic service set. The TSF timer counts in microseconds. To ensure time synchronization among all STAs in the basic service set, the AP uses a timestamp field in the beacon frame to indicate the number of microseconds that have elapsed since the network began operating. The timestamp field consists of 8 bytes, totaling 64 bits. STAs in the basic service set can adjust their local TSF timers using the timestamp. By aligning their TSFs with the AP, STAs achieve time synchronization with the AP and other STAs.

[0111] In certain communication scenarios, network devices (such as access points) need to communicate with a large number of terminal devices (such as station-based terminals), but the network devices cannot know the number of terminal devices that need to communicate in advance. One possible solution for this scenario is to configure the network device with a large resource pool, allowing terminal devices to select resources from the pool according to certain rules. However, this solution may lead to resource collision issues.

[0112] Let's take AMP devices as an example. AMP devices can be applied to logistics and warehousing scenarios. In such scenarios, a large number of goods need to be transferred, stored, loaded, unloaded, and inventoried at logistics stations or warehouses. With warehouse ordering, goods receiving, goods management, and goods issuing, AMP devices need to communicate centrally with network devices, such as reporting goods information and location information stored on the AMP device. Furthermore, the network device cannot know in advance the number of AMP devices that need to report information. Assuming the network device configures a large resource pool for the AMP devices, the AMP devices can select resources from the pool for transmission according to certain rules. However, multiple AMP devices may select the same resource, leading to resource collisions. When resource collisions occur, the AMP devices can use multiple retransmissions to transmit information, but this reduces communication efficiency.

[0113] The following example uses a WiFi system to demonstrate in more detail the resource collision phenomenon that may occur when the AP schedules AMP STAs.

[0114] In WiFi systems, due to the low complexity of AMP STAs, their receivers typically only support simple modulation and demodulation methods, such as amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), and phase shift keying (PSK), but not orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM). Therefore, AMP STAs do not support traditional channel access mechanisms and cannot coexist with traditional devices. To transmit data in a WiFi system, the AP needs to indicate available channel resources to the AMP STA by sending trigger frames. These channel resources can be obtained by the AP, for example, through clear channel assessment (CCA). During the process of AP triggering AMP STA to transmit data, since there may be a large number of AMP STAs, a more efficient approach is for the AP to allocate a certain amount of resources through a trigger frame. Multiple AMP STAs can then use the resources allocated by the AP to transmit data in a multi-user multiplexing manner (such as time division multiplexing (TDM), frequency division multiplexing (FDM), or code division multiplexing (CDM)).

[0115] Taking TDM as an example, the AP can allocate a certain number of time-domain resources, such as time slots, through a trigger frame. The AMP STAs receiving this trigger frame can determine the target time-domain resource within the time-domain resources allocated by the AP for transmission according to certain rules. Figure 7 shows a typical triggering process. The AP sends resource scheduling information through the trigger frame, which can include four time slots. When AMP STAs 1-4 select time slots, different AMP STAs may select the same time slot, resulting in resource collisions. Alternatively, a time slot may not be selected by any AMP STA, leading to resource waste.

[0116] As the previous example showed, resource collisions may occur between STAs after a trigger frame is received. Therefore, it is necessary to design certain rules to distribute different STAs across different resources, thereby minimizing the probability of resource collisions.

[0117] To address the aforementioned issues, the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figure 8.

[0118] Figure 8 is a schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The method in Figure 8 can be executed by a first STA. The first STA mentioned here can be any type of STA that transmits data based on a trigger frame. For example, the first STA can be the AMP device mentioned above, i.e., an APM STA.

[0119] Referring to Figure 8, in step S810, the first STA determines the first set of trigger frames. The first set of trigger frames may be a set of trigger frames formed by some of the trigger frames sent by the first AP.

[0120] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames may correspond to a first STA. Alternatively, the trigger frames in the first set of trigger frames may be trigger frames specific to the first STA. For example, the first set of trigger frames may be used to trigger or schedule (e.g., solely for triggering or scheduling) data transmission by the first STA. Alternatively, the trigger frames in the first set of trigger frames may contain resource scheduling information for the first STA or resource information allocated to the first STA.

[0121] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames may correspond to a first STA group (the first STA group mentioned in the various embodiments of this application refers to the STA group to which the first STA belongs). Alternatively, the trigger frames in the first set of trigger frames may be trigger frames specific to the first STA group. For example, the first set of trigger frames may be used to trigger or schedule (e.g., only for triggering or scheduling) data transmission within the first STA group. Alternatively, the trigger frames in the first set of trigger frames may contain resource scheduling information for the first STA group or resource information allocated to the first STA group.

[0122] In some implementations, the trigger frames sent by the first AP can form a second set of trigger frames. The first set of trigger frames mentioned above can be a subset of this second set of trigger frames.

[0123] This application does not specifically limit the method by which the first AP sends trigger frames. For example, the first AP may send trigger frames periodically or non-periodically. The information in the trigger frames sent by the first AP may be the same or different. For example, each trigger frame sent by the first AP may be used to schedule or allocate a set of the same resources. Or, multiple trigger frames sent by the first AP may be used to schedule or allocate multiple different sets of resources.

[0124] The following example illustrates how the first STA is an AMP STA, and the AP allocates multiple resources for multiple users through trigger frames. The AP can trigger potential AMP STAs to perform data transmission through trigger frames. The trigger frame sent by the AP can contain resource information (or resource scheduling information), which can indicate multiple resources for multiple users. In scenarios such as logistics, since the AP cannot know in advance how many AMP STAs need resources for data transmission, the AP will continuously send trigger frames. The process of the AP sending trigger frames can be periodic. As shown in Figure 9A, the interval between periodic trigger frames can be called the trigger interval. Of course, the process of the AP sending trigger frames can also be non-periodic. For example, as shown in Figure 9B, the AP can send multiple trigger frames within a single trigger window. These multiple trigger frames can indicate the same information, thereby scheduling a set of resources for the AP STA's data transmission. Alternatively, these multiple trigger frames can also indicate different information, thereby scheduling separate sets of resources for the AP STA's data transmission.

[0125] In some implementations, the set of trigger frames sent by the first AP (i.e., the second set of trigger frames mentioned above) may also include a third set of trigger frames. Similar to the first set of trigger frames, this third set of trigger frames can be a subset of the second set of trigger frames. This third set of trigger frames can correspond to a second STA or a group of second STAs. In other words, the first and third sets of trigger frames can be two subsets of the second set of trigger frames, used respectively to trigger or schedule different STAs or groups of STAs for data transmission. Having different sets of trigger frames for different STAs or different groups of STAs can reduce the probability of resource collisions between different STAs or different groups of STAs.

[0126] The first and third trigger frame sets are different, which can refer to differences in one or more parameters associated with them. For example, the periods (also called trigger intervals) of the trigger frames associated with the first and third trigger frame sets may differ. Alternatively, the time windows (hereinafter referred to as trigger windows, one of which can transmit one or more trigger frames) associated with the first and third trigger frame sets may differ. Furthermore, the periods of the trigger windows associated with the first and third trigger frame sets may differ. Finally, the time windows (hereinafter referred to as detection windows, one of which the STA can detect one or more trigger frames) associated with the first and third trigger frame sets may differ. For example, the time intervals between adjacent trigger frames associated with the first trigger frame set and the third trigger frame set are different (for example, the time interval between adjacent trigger frames in the first trigger frame set is T1, and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames in the third trigger frame set is T2, where T1 is not equal to T2).

[0127] After determining the first set of trigger frames, the first STA can perform detection according to a certain period (this period can be called the duty cycle or detection period) based on the first set of trigger frames. That is, after determining the first set of trigger frames, the first STA does not need to continuously perform blind detection on the trigger frames sent by the first AP, but can periodically detect the trigger frames according to the transmission timing of the trigger frames within the first set, thereby achieving energy saving for the STA. This energy-saving effect is particularly important for AMP STAs. An example is given below to illustrate this.

[0128] When the distance between the AP and the AMP STA is long, the AMP STA needs to store the collected energy using its energy storage module because the energy acquisition speed is lower than the energy consumption rate from receiving downlink signals. This allows it to support the reception of trigger frames for a certain period. In other words, the process of the AMP STA detecting trigger frames can include energy acquisition, followed by trigger frame detection once sufficient energy has been acquired. If the AMP STA cannot determine its corresponding trigger frame set during trigger frame detection, blind detection is typically required. In this embodiment, the AMP STA can determine its corresponding trigger frame set, allowing for periodic detection of trigger frames sent by the AP based on a specific duty cycle, as shown in Figure 10, without the need for continuous blind detection. The AMP STA can perform energy acquisition even when not detecting trigger frames, thus achieving energy saving. The time window for each AMP STA detection can include the transmission time of one trigger frame or the transmission time of multiple trigger frames.

[0129] The following section provides a detailed example illustrating how the first set of trigger frames is determined.

[0130] In some implementations, the first trigger frame set is determined based on the configuration information of the first trigger frame set. As mentioned earlier, the first trigger frame set can be a subset of the second trigger frame set sent by the first AP; therefore, the configuration information of the first trigger frame set can also be called the local configuration information of the trigger frames. The configuration information of the first trigger frame set may include one or more of the following: the period of the trigger frame, the configuration information (such as the length of the time window) of the time window used to transmit the trigger frame (hereinafter referred to as the trigger window, which can be used to transmit one or more trigger frames), the period of the trigger window, the configuration information (such as the length of the time window) of the time window used to detect the trigger frame (hereinafter referred to as the detection window, which can be used by the STA to detect one or more trigger frames), the period of the detection window, the time interval between adjacent trigger frames, the time interval between adjacent trigger windows, and the time interval between adjacent detection windows.

[0131] This application does not specifically limit the method for obtaining the configuration information of the first trigger frame set. For example, the configuration information of the first trigger frame set can be pre-configured information or configuration information sent by the first AP. Assuming that the configuration information of the first trigger frame set is configuration information sent by the first AP, the first AP can send the configuration information of the first trigger frame set to the STA through any type of frame. As an example, the first AP can send a first trigger frame (which can be any trigger frame sent by the first AP) and carry the configuration information of the first trigger frame set in the first trigger frame. Alternatively, the first AP can also carry the configuration information of the first trigger frame set through other types of frames.

[0132] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames is determined based on the configuration information of the second set of trigger frames. The second set of trigger frames mentioned here refers to the set of trigger frames sent by the first AP. The first set of trigger frames can be a subset of the second set of trigger frames. For example, the second set of trigger frames can include all trigger frames sent by the first AP. Accordingly, the configuration information of the second set of trigger frames can be referred to as the global configuration information of the trigger frames.

[0133] Alternatively, the second set of trigger frames may be a subset of trigger frames sent by the first AP that differs from the first set of trigger frames. That is, the trigger frames included in the second set of trigger frames may be partially the same as or completely different from those included in the first set of trigger frames. For example, the second set of trigger frames and the first set of trigger frames may correspond to different STAs or STA groups (or be used to trigger or schedule different STAs or STA groups).

[0134] The configuration information of the second set of trigger frames may include one or more of the following: the period of the trigger frame, the configuration information of the time window (hereinafter referred to as the trigger window, which can be used to transmit one or more trigger frames) (such as the length of the time window), the period of the trigger window, the configuration information of the time window (hereinafter referred to as the detection window, which can be used by the STA to detect one or more trigger frames) (such as the length of the time window), the period of the detection window, the time interval between adjacent trigger frames, the time interval between adjacent trigger windows, and the time interval between adjacent detection windows.

[0135] Taking a first set of trigger frames as a subset of a second set of trigger frames as an example, the first STA can first determine the second set of trigger frames based on its configuration information. Then, the first STA can determine a subset of trigger frames (those associated with the identifiers of the first STA or the first STA group) from the second set of trigger frames, based on its own identifier or the identifier of the first STA group (the STA group to which the first STA belongs), as the first set of trigger frames. For example, the first STA can determine parameters associated with the first set of trigger frames based on the identifiers of the first STA or the first STA group, such as the interval / period of trigger frames, the length of the time window used to transmit trigger frames (hereinafter referred to as the trigger window, which can be used to transmit one or more trigger frames), and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames. Then, the first STA can determine the first set of trigger frames based on these parameters.

[0136] Taking the example where both the first and second trigger frame sets are two different subsets of trigger frames sent by the first AP (neither set belongs to the other; for example, the first and second trigger frame sets correspond to different STAs or STA groups), the first STA can determine the first trigger frame set based on the configuration information of the second trigger frame set and the first information. The first information mentioned here can be, for example, an offset parameter, which can be used to determine the configuration information of the first trigger frame set based on the configuration information of the second trigger frame set. For example, the configuration information of the second trigger frame set may include the period Ta of the trigger frames, where the offset parameter indicates that the period Tb of the first trigger frame set is two or four times Ta. Alternatively, the configuration information of the second trigger frame set may include the time interval Pa between adjacent trigger frames, where the offset parameter indicates that the time interval Pb between adjacent trigger frames in the first trigger frame set is half of Pa. A detailed description of the first information can be found below and will not be elaborated here.

[0137] This application does not specifically limit the method for obtaining the configuration information of the second trigger frame set. For example, the configuration information of the second trigger frame set can be pre-configured information or configuration information sent by the first AP. Assuming that the configuration information of the second trigger frame set is configuration information sent by the first AP, the first AP can send the configuration information of the second trigger frame set to the STA through any type of frame. As an example, the first AP can send a first trigger frame (which can be any trigger frame sent by the first AP) and carry the configuration information of the second trigger frame set in the first trigger frame. Alternatively, the first AP can also carry the configuration information of the second trigger frame set through other types of frames.

[0138] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames can be determined based on the identifier of the first STA. For example, the first STA can determine the trigger frames associated with the identifier from the trigger frames sent by the first access point, based on the identifier of the first STA, and use this as the first set of trigger frames. Alternatively, the first STA can determine the identifier of the first STA group based on the identifier of the first STA, and then determine the trigger frames associated with the identifier from the trigger frames sent by the first access point, based on the identifier of the first STA group, and use this as the first set of trigger frames.

[0139] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames can be determined based on the identifier of the first STA group. For example, the first STA can determine the trigger frames associated with the identifier from the trigger frames sent by the first access point based on the identifier of the first STA group, and use this as the first set of trigger frames.

[0140] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames can be determined based on first information. This first information can be any type of information used to determine the first set of trigger frames. In one embodiment, the first information can be used to determine the STA group to which the first STA belongs. The first information can, for example, indicate the grouping rules or grouping parameters of the STA. Exemplarily, the first STA can first determine the STA group to which it belongs, i.e., the first STA group, based on the first information. Then, the first STA can use the trigger frames associated with the first STA group as the first set of trigger frames. In another embodiment, the first information can be the offset parameter mentioned above, which can be used to determine the first set of trigger frames. For example, the offset parameter can indicate the offset relationship between the second set of trigger frames and the trigger frames in the first set of trigger frames. This application does not specifically limit the method of obtaining the first information. The first information can be predefined information, preconfigured information, or indication information sent by the first AP. Taking the first information as indication information sent by the first AP as an example, the first AP can send the first information through any type of frame. Exemplarily, the first AP can send a first trigger frame to the first STA, and the first trigger frame can include the first information. Of course, the first AP can also send the first information to the first STA through other types of frames.

[0141] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames can be determined based on second information. This second information can be used to indicate or determine the STA or STA group corresponding to the first set of trigger frames (or the configuration information of the first set of trigger frames). For example, the second information can be identification information used to identify the STA or STA group corresponding to the first set of trigger frames (or the configuration information of the first set of trigger frames). As a more specific example, the second information can be information that corresponds to the identifier of the first STA or the identifier of the first STA group; for example, the second information is the identifier of the first STA or the identifier of the first STA group.

[0142] Furthermore, in some implementations, the second information mentioned above can be used in conjunction with the configuration information of the first trigger frame set. In one embodiment, the first STA can receive a frame from the first AP, which carries the configuration information and second information of the first trigger frame set. After receiving the second information, the first STA can determine whether it belongs to the STA or STA group corresponding to the first trigger frame set (or the configuration information of the first trigger frame set) based on the second information. If it does, the first STA can determine the first trigger frame set as its own trigger frame set.

[0143] This application does not specifically limit the method of obtaining the second information. The second information can be predefined information, preconfigured information, or indication information sent by the first AP. Taking the second information as indication information sent by the first AP as an example, the first AP can send the second information through any type of frame. For example, the first AP can send a first trigger frame to the first STA, and the first trigger frame can include the second information. Of course, the first AP can also send the second information to the first STA through other types of frames. When sending the second information to the first STA through a certain frame, the configuration information of the first trigger frame set can be carried simultaneously through that frame.

[0144] As described above, the first trigger frame set can be determined based on the configuration information of the first trigger frame set, the configuration information of the second trigger frame set, the identifier of the first STA, the identifier of the first STA group, the first information, or the second information. This information can be used individually or in combination. Several possible combinations are given below.

[0145] Implementation Method 1

[0146] In implementation method one, the first AP can send configuration information of the second trigger frame set and first information to the first STA through a frame (such as the first trigger frame mentioned above). After receiving the frame, the first STA can determine the second trigger frame set based on the configuration information of the second trigger frame set carried in the frame. Furthermore, the first STA can determine its own STA group based on the first information. After determining its own STA group, the first STA can select trigger frames associated with that STA group from the second trigger frame set based on its STA group identifier (such as the STA group identifier), thereby forming the first trigger frame set. For example, the first STA can determine the information associated with the first trigger frame set based on the identifier of the first STA or the first STA group, such as the interval / period of the trigger frames, the length of the time window (or trigger window, which can be used to transmit one or more trigger frames) used to transmit trigger frames, the time interval between adjacent trigger frames, etc. Then, the first STA can determine the first trigger frame set based on this information. Alternatively, the first STA can determine the offset relationship between the trigger frames in the second trigger frame set and the trigger frames in the first trigger frame set based on the first information, thereby determining the first trigger frame set based on this offset relationship.

[0147] Implementation Method Two

[0148] In implementation method two, the first AP can send configuration information and second information of the first trigger frame set to the first STA through a certain frame (such as the first trigger frame mentioned above). After receiving the frame, the first STA can determine the first trigger frame set based on the configuration information of the first trigger frame set carried in the frame. In addition, the first STA can determine whether the first trigger frame set is its own trigger frame set based on the second information, or the first STA can determine whether the configuration information of the first trigger frame set is its own configuration information based on the second information.

[0149] The identifier of the first STA mentioned in the preceding embodiments can be one of the following: the device identifier of the first STA, the media access control (MAC) identifier of the first STA, the electronic product code (EPC) of the first STA, the session ID of the first STA, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first STA and the first AP. For example, the identifier of the first STA can be an EPC, or it can be an identifier obtained by encoding methods defined by other standards.

[0150] The identifier of the first STA group (the STA group to which the first STA belongs) mentioned in the preceding embodiments can be one of the following: the MAC identifier of the first STA, the session identifier of the first STA, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first STA and the first AP. For example, the identifier of the first STA group can be a MAC identifier, and multiple STAs, including the first STA, can have the same MAC identifier. Alternatively, the identifier of the first STA group can be a session identifier, and multiple STAs, including the first STA, can have the same session identifier.

[0151] There are several ways to determine the session identifier of the first STA mentioned above. For example, the session identifier of the first STA can be an identifier determined based on preset rules. Alternatively, the session identifier of the first STA can be a preset identifier. Or, the session identifier of the first STA can be an identifier negotiated and determined between the first STA and the first AP.

[0152] In some of the preceding embodiments, it was mentioned that the first STA belongs to the first STA group. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the grouping method of STAs. For example, STAs can be grouped based on their identifiers. That is, the first STA can determine that it belongs to the first STA group based on its identifier.

[0153] For example, STAs can be grouped based on their service type. That is, a first STA can determine its group affiliation based on its service type. The service type mentioned here can indicate or include sensor type, logistics type, and the type of data stream transmitted. The type of data stream transmitted can include one or more of the following: background traffic, best effort traffic, voice traffic, and video traffic.

[0154] For example, STAs can be grouped based on their device type. That is, a first STA can determine its group affiliation based on its device type. The device type of a first STA indicates or includes one or more of the following: the first STA supports signal transmission based on backscatter, the first STA supports signal transmission based on active transmission, the first STA is an AMP device, or the first STA is an AMP auxiliary device.

[0155] It should be noted that the trigger frames mentioned in the various embodiments of this application refer to frames used to schedule or trigger data transmission by STAs, or frames used to allocate transmission resources to STAs. The specific names of trigger frames are not limited in the embodiments of this application; any frame that can achieve the above functions can be understood as a "trigger frame." For example, the trigger frames mentioned in the embodiments of this application can refer to trigger frames, polling frames, grant frames, query frames, and paging frames.

[0156] It should also be noted that the above embodiments are described from the perspective of a WiFi system, specifically from the viewpoints of the STA, AP, and frame. However, the embodiments of this application can also be applied to cellular networks. In this case, the STA can be referred to as a terminal device, and the AP can be referred to as a network device. The trigger frame mentioned above can be referred to as information, signal, or channel used to trigger or schedule data transmission by the terminal device. For example, a trigger frame can be referred to as trigger information or trigger signal, paging information or paging signal, scheduling information or scheduling signal, etc.

[0157] As mentioned earlier, the first STA can be an AMP STA. This AMP STA can be a device that operates based on ambient energy. The ambient energy mentioned here can include one or more of the following: radio frequency energy, solar energy, thermal energy, mechanical energy, etc.

[0158] The embodiments of this application are described in more detail below using the communication between the AMP STA and AP as an example. It should be noted that the examples below are merely to help those skilled in the art understand the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this application to the specific numerical values ​​or specific scenarios illustrated. Those skilled in the art can obviously make various equivalent modifications or variations based on the examples given below, and such modifications or variations also fall within the scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0159] First, the AP sends a trigger frame, which carries the configuration information of the trigger frame.

[0160] This explanation uses the example of an AP allocating multiple resources for multiple users via trigger frames. An AP can trigger potential AMP STAs to perform data transmission via trigger frames. The trigger frame sent by the AP can contain resource information (or resource scheduling information), which can indicate multiple resources for multiple users. In scenarios such as logistics, since the AP cannot know in advance how many AMP STAs need resources for data transmission, the AP will continuously send trigger frames. The process of the AP sending trigger frames can be periodic. As shown in Figure 9A, the interval between periodic trigger frames can be called the trigger interval. The process of the AP sending trigger frames can also be non-periodic. For example, as shown in Figure 9B, the AP can send multiple trigger frames within a single trigger window. These multiple trigger frames can indicate the same information, thereby scheduling a set of resources for data transmission by the AP STA. Alternatively, these multiple trigger frames can also indicate different information, thereby scheduling separate sets of resources for data transmission by the AP STAs.

[0161] When the distance between the AP and the AMP STA is long, the AMP STA needs to store the collected energy using its energy storage module because the energy acquisition speed is slower than the energy consumption rate from receiving downlink signals. This allows it to support the reception of trigger frames within a certain time period. In other words, the process of the AMP STA detecting trigger frames can include energy acquisition, followed by trigger frame detection once sufficient energy has been acquired. If the AMP STA cannot determine its corresponding trigger frame set during trigger frame detection, blind detection is typically required. In this embodiment, the AMP STA can determine its corresponding trigger frame set, allowing for periodic detection of trigger frames sent by the AP based on a specific duty cycle, as shown in Figure 10, without the need for continuous blind detection. The AMP STA can perform energy acquisition when not detecting trigger frames, thus achieving energy saving. The time window for each detection by the AMP STA can include the transmission time of one trigger frame or the transmission time of multiple trigger frames.

[0162] To implement the duty cycle operation of AMP STA, the trigger frame needs to carry configuration information about the trigger frame. The configuration information of the trigger frame can be global configuration information or local configuration information, which will be explained below.

[0163] • Global configuration information for trigger frames

[0164] The AP can indicate the global configuration information of the trigger frames to the AMP STA through any trigger frame. This configuration information can include information about all trigger frames sent by the AP, such as the interval / period of the trigger frames, the length of the trigger window, and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

[0165] The trigger frame can further carry indication information (corresponding to the first information mentioned above). This indication information can be used to indicate the grouping rules or grouping parameters of the trigger frame. Since the number of AMP STAs may be relatively large, different trigger frames in the trigger frame are used to trigger different AMP STAs or AMP STA groups, thereby distributing the transmission of AMP STAs in time to reduce resource collisions between different AMP STAs. Through this indication information, AMP STAs can be grouped according to certain rules, and the group identifier after grouping can be associated with a subset of the trigger frames in the trigger frame. This subset of trigger frames is a subset of all trigger frames, and the AMP STA group only needs to check the set of trigger frames corresponding to this AMP STA group, thereby saving power.

[0166] • Local configuration information of the trigger frame

[0167] The trigger frame sent by the AP can indicate the configuration information of the target trigger frame for a specific AMP STA or a group of AMP STAs (the target trigger frame corresponds to the trigger frame in the first trigger frame set mentioned above). This configuration information may include the interval / period of the trigger frame, the length of the trigger window, the time interval between adjacent trigger frames, etc. The trigger frame is used to trigger AMP STAs to transmit data. Since the number of AMP STAs may be relatively large, a single trigger frame may only trigger a subset of AMP STAs to transmit data.

[0168] The trigger frame can further carry identification information (corresponding to the second information mentioned above). This identification information can be used by the AMP STA to determine the AMP STA or AMP STA group corresponding to the configuration information of the trigger frame or the trigger frame it carries. For example, AMP STAs can be grouped according to certain rules, such as taking the modulo of the AMP STA's identifier according to the grouping parameters, and the result of the modulo is used as the identifier of the AMP STA group. This identifier can correspond to the identification information in the trigger frame. The AMP STA can calculate whether the currently received trigger frame belongs to its AMP STA group. If so, it can determine the target trigger frame set corresponding to the AMP STA group based on the local configuration information of the trigger frame. After determining the target trigger frame set, the AMP STAs within the AMP STA group only need to check the trigger frame set corresponding to the AMP STA group, thereby saving power.

[0169] After the AMP STA determines the configuration information of its corresponding trigger frame, it can perform a duty cycle operation.

[0170] For example, for an AMP STA, when the trigger frame carries global configuration information for the trigger frame, the AMP STA can determine the set of target trigger frames based on this configuration information. Then, the AMP STA can detect the target trigger frames to obtain resources for data transmission, and thus perform uplink transmission based on those resources.

[0171] During implementation, the AMP STA can determine the target trigger frame set according to certain rules. For example, the AMP STA can take the modulo of its identifier according to grouping parameters, and use the result as the identifier of the AMP STA group. This rule or grouping parameter can be preset or pre-configured, or it can be indicated by the trigger frame. The identifier of the AMP STA group is associated with the configuration of the target trigger frame set. Then, the AMP STA can determine the parameters of the target trigger frame set associated with the ID of the AMP STA group, such as the interval / period of the trigger frames, the length of the trigger window, the time interval between adjacent trigger frames, etc., thereby determining the target trigger frame set. After determining the target trigger frame set, the AMP STA can perform a duty cycle operation to detect the target trigger frames non-continuously.

[0172] For an AMP STA, when the trigger frame carries local configuration information, the AMP STA can determine the target trigger frame set based on this configuration information. Then, the AMP STA can detect the target trigger frames to obtain resources for data transmission and perform uplink transmission based on these resources. For example, the AMP STA can determine identification information according to certain rules. This identification information may be related to the AMP STA's identifier, for example. Exemplarily, the AMP STA can take the modulo of its identifier according to grouping parameters, and the result can be used as the identifier of the AMP STA group. There is a correspondence between the identifier of the AMP STA group and the identification information. The rules or grouping parameters mentioned here can be preset or pre-configured, or they can be indicated by the trigger frame.

[0173] After receiving a trigger frame, the AMP STA can obtain the configuration information (local configuration information) and identification information within the trigger frame. Then, the AMP STA can compare the obtained identification information with its own identification information. If they match, the set of trigger frames corresponding to that AMP STA group can be determined based on the local configuration information of the trigger frame. The AMP STA can then perform a duty cycle operation, meaning it only needs to check the set of trigger frames corresponding to that AMP STA group, thereby saving power.

[0174] As a more concrete example, as shown in Figure 11, AMP STAs 1 through 4 belong to different AMP STA groups. Using the method described above, AMP STAs 1 through 4 each determine their corresponding target trigger frame sets, and thus perform duty cycle operations according to their respective trigger frame sets. Specifically, the trigger interval of the target trigger frame sets for AMP STAs 1 and 2 is twice the trigger interval of the trigger frames sent by the AP, but the transmission times of the trigger frames for AMP STAs 1 and 2 do not overlap, thereby reducing the possibility of resource collisions between AMP STAs 1 and 2. The intervals of the target trigger frame sets for AMP STAs 3 and 4 are three and four times the trigger intervals of the trigger frames sent by the AP, respectively.

[0175] Therefore, in this example, different AMP STAs or AMP STA groups can correspond to different sets of target trigger frames. These sets of target trigger frames can be subsets of the set of trigger frames sent by the AP. The configurations of different sets of target trigger frames can be different. For example, one or more of the following may be different: the interval / period of trigger frames, the length of the trigger window, the time interval before the next trigger frame, etc.

[0176] This example proposes a method for triggering AMP STAs to transmit data. By using the indication information carried in the trigger frame, the AMP STA can determine its target trigger frame set, thereby enabling duty cycle operation and energy saving. Furthermore, by determining the target trigger frame set, different AMP STAs or groups of AMP STAs can be assigned different trigger frame sets, reducing the likelihood of collisions caused by different AMP STAs or groups using the same resources and improving the success rate of AMP STA data transmission.

[0177] The method embodiments of this application have been described in detail above with reference to Figures 1 to 11. The apparatus embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 12 to 14. It should be understood that the descriptions of the method embodiments correspond to the descriptions of the apparatus embodiments; therefore, any parts not described in detail can be referred to the preceding method embodiments.

[0178] Figure 12 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1200 shown in Figure 12 can be the first station mentioned above. The communication device 1200 may include a determining unit 1210. The determining unit 1210 is used to determine a first trigger frame set; wherein, the first trigger frame set corresponds to the first station or the first station group to which the first station is located.

[0179] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames is used to trigger the first site or the first group of sites to transmit data.

[0180] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames is determined based on one or more of the following: configuration information of the first set of trigger frames; configuration information of the second set of trigger frames; the identifier of the first site; the identifier of the first site group; first information for determining the first set of trigger frames; and second information for determining the site or site group corresponding to the first set of trigger frames.

[0181] In some implementations, the first trigger frame set is determined based on a first trigger frame sent by the first access point. The first trigger frame includes configuration information of the first trigger frame set, configuration information of the second trigger frame set, the first information, and one or more of the second information.

[0182] In some implementations, the configuration information of the first set of trigger frames includes one or more of the following: the period of the trigger frame, the configuration information of the time window used to transmit the trigger frame, and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

[0183] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point; or, the first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of a first site group from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point, wherein the first site group includes the first site.

[0184] In some implementations, the identifier of the first site is one of the following: the device identifier of the first site, the MAC identifier of the first site, the EPC of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

[0185] In some implementations, the identifier of the first site group to which the first site belongs is one of the following: the MAC identifier of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

[0186] In some implementations, the session identifier of the first site is one of the following: an identifier determined based on preset rules, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, a preset identifier, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

[0187] In some implementations, the first site group to which the first site belongs is determined based on one or more of the following: the identifier of the first site; the service type of the first site; and the device type of the first site.

[0188] In some implementations, the service type of the first site is used to indicate one or more of the following: the sensor type of the first site, the logistics type corresponding to the first site, the type of data stream transmitted by the first site; and / or, the device type of the first site is used to indicate one or more of the following: the first site supports signal transmission based on backscattering, the first site supports signal transmission based on active transmission, the first site is an AMP device, and the first site is an AMP auxiliary device.

[0189] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames is a subset of the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

[0190] In some implementations, the second set of trigger frames may further include a third set of trigger frames, which corresponds to the second station or the second group of stations.

[0191] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames and the third set of trigger frames may differ in one or more of the following information: the period of the trigger frames; configuration information for the time window used to transmit the trigger frames; and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

[0192] In some implementations, the first site is an AMP device.

[0193] Figure 13 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1300 shown in Figure 13 can be the first access point mentioned above. The communication device 1300 may include a communication unit 1310. The communication unit 1310 is used to send a first set of trigger frames; wherein, the first set of trigger frames corresponds to a first station or a first station group to which the first station is located.

[0194] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames is used to trigger the first site or the first group of sites to transmit data.

[0195] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames is determined based on one or more of the following: configuration information of the first set of trigger frames; configuration information of the second set of trigger frames; the identifier of the first site; the identifier of the first site group; first information for determining the first set of trigger frames; and second information for determining the site or site group corresponding to the first set of trigger frames.

[0196] In some implementations, the first trigger frame set is determined based on a first trigger frame sent by the first access point. The first trigger frame includes configuration information of the first trigger frame set, configuration information of the second trigger frame set, the first information, and one or more of the second information.

[0197] In some implementations, the configuration information of the first set of trigger frames includes one or more of the following: the period of the trigger frame, the configuration information of the time window used to transmit the trigger frame, and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

[0198] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point; or, the first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of a first site group from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point, wherein the first site group includes the first site.

[0199] In some implementations, the identifier of the first site is one of the following: the device identifier of the first site, the MAC identifier of the first site, the EPC of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

[0200] In some implementations, the identifier of the first site group to which the first site belongs is one of the following: the MAC identifier of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

[0201] In some implementations, the session identifier of the first site is one of the following: an identifier determined based on preset rules, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, a preset identifier, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

[0202] In some implementations, the first site group to which the first site belongs is determined based on one or more of the following: the identifier of the first site; the service type of the first site; and the device type of the first site.

[0203] In some implementations, the service type of the first site is used to indicate one or more of the following: the sensor type of the first site, the logistics type corresponding to the first site, the type of data stream transmitted by the first site; and / or, the device type of the first site is used to indicate one or more of the following: the first site supports signal transmission based on backscattering, the first site supports signal transmission based on active transmission, the first site is an AMP device, and the first site is an AMP auxiliary device.

[0204] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames is a subset of the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

[0205] In some implementations, the second set of trigger frames may further include a third set of trigger frames, which corresponds to the second station or the second group of stations.

[0206] In some implementations, the first set of trigger frames and the third set of trigger frames may differ in one or more of the following information: the period of the trigger frames; configuration information for the time window used to transmit the trigger frames; and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

[0207] In some implementations, the first site is an AMP device.

[0208] Figure 14 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device applicable to embodiments of this application. The dashed lines in Figure 14 indicate that the unit or module is optional. This device 1400 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments. Device 1400 can be a chip, a station, or an access point.

[0209] Apparatus 1400 may include one or more processors 1410. The processor 1410 may support apparatus 1400 in implementing the methods described in the preceding method embodiments. The processor 1410 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor. For example, the processor may be a central processing unit (CPU). Alternatively, the processor may be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0210] The apparatus 1400 may further include one or more memories 1420. The memories 1420 store a program that can be executed by the processor 1410, causing the processor 1410 to perform the methods described in the preceding method embodiments. The memories 1420 may be independent of the processor 1410 or integrated within the processor 1410.

[0211] The device 1400 may also include a transceiver 1430. The processor 1410 can communicate with other devices or chips via the transceiver 1430. For example, the processor 1410 can send and receive data with other devices or chips via the transceiver 1430.

[0212] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing a program. This computer-readable storage medium can be applied to the communication device provided in this application, and the program causes a computer to execute the methods performed by the communication device in various embodiments of this application.

[0213] This application also provides a computer program product. The computer program product includes a program. The computer program product can be applied to the communication device provided in this application embodiment, and the program causes a computer to execute the methods performed by the communication device in various embodiments of this application.

[0214] This application also provides a computer program. This computer program can be applied to the communication device provided in this application, and causes the computer to execute the methods performed by the communication device in various embodiments of this application.

[0215] It should be understood that the terms "system" and "network" in this application can be used interchangeably. Furthermore, the terminology used in this application is only for explaining specific embodiments of the application and is not intended to limit the application. The terms "first," "second," "third," and "fourth," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. In addition, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0216] In the embodiments of this application, the term "instruction" can be a direct instruction, an indirect instruction, or an indication of a relationship. For example, A instructing B can mean that A directly instructs B, such as B being able to obtain information through A; it can also mean that A indirectly instructs B, such as A instructing C, so B can obtain information through C; or it can mean that there is a relationship between A and B.

[0217] In the embodiments of this application, "B corresponding to A" means that B is associated with A, and B can be determined based on A. However, it should also be understood that determining B based on A does not mean that B is determined solely based on A; B can also be determined based on A and / or other information.

[0218] In the embodiments of this application, the term "correspondence" can indicate a direct or indirect correspondence between two things, or an association between two things, or a relationship such as instruction and being instructed, configuration and being configured.

[0219] In this application embodiment, "predefined" or "preconfigured" can be implemented by pre-storing corresponding codes, tables, or other means that can be used to indicate relevant information in the device (e.g., including terminal devices and network devices). This application does not limit the specific implementation method. For example, predefined can refer to what is defined in the protocol.

[0220] In this application embodiment, the "protocol" may refer to a standard protocol in the field of communication, such as the LTE protocol, the NR protocol, and related protocols applied to future communication systems. This application does not limit this.

[0221] In the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0222] In the various embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned processes does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0223] 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.

[0224] 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.

[0225] 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.

[0226] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can read or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media may be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., digital video discs, DVDs) or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs), etc.

[0227] 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 communication method, characterized in that, include: The first site determines the first set of trigger frames; The first set of trigger frames corresponds to the first site or the first site group to which the first site is located.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is used to trigger the first site or the first group of sites to transmit data.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is determined based on one or more of the following: Configuration information of the first trigger frame set; Configuration information for the second trigger frame set; The identifier of the first station; The identifier of the first site group; The first information is used to determine the first set of trigger frames; The second piece of information is used to determine the site or site group corresponding to the first set of trigger frames.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first trigger frame set is determined based on the first trigger frame sent by the first access point. The first trigger frame includes configuration information of the first trigger frame set, configuration information of the second trigger frame set, the first information, and one or more of the second information.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The configuration information of the first set of trigger frames includes one or more of the following: the period of the trigger frame, the configuration information of the time window used to transmit the trigger frame, and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point; or, The first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site group from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The identifier of the first site is one of the following: the device identifier of the first site, the media access control (MAC) identifier of the first site, the electronic product code (EPC) of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The identifier of the first site group is one of the following: the MAC identifier of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

9. The method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The session identifier of the first site is one of the following: an identifier determined based on preset rules, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, a preset identifier, or an identifier determined through negotiation between the first site and the first access point.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The first group of sites is determined based on one or more of the following: The identifier of the first station; The business type of the first site; The device type of the first site.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that: The service type of the first station is used to indicate one or more of the following: the sensor type of the first station, the logistics type corresponding to the first station, and the type of data stream transmitted by the first station; And / or, The device type of the first site is used to indicate one or more of the following: the first site supports signal transmission based on backscattering, the first site supports signal transmission based on active transmission, the first site is an ambient power AMP device, and the first site is an AMP auxiliary device.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is a subset of the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The second set of trigger frames also includes a third set of trigger frames, which corresponds to the second station or the second group of stations.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, One or more of the following information associated with the first set of trigger frames differs from that associated with the third set of trigger frames: The period of the trigger frame; Configuration information for the time window used to transmit trigger frames; The time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The first site is an AMP device.

16. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The first access point sends the first set of trigger frames; The first set of trigger frames corresponds to the first station or the first station group to which the first station is located.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is used to trigger the first site or the first group of sites to transmit data.

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is determined based on one or more of the following: Configuration information of the first trigger frame set; Configuration information for the second trigger frame set; The identifier of the first station; The identifier of the first site group; The first information is used to determine the first set of trigger frames; The second piece of information is used to determine the site or site group corresponding to the first set of trigger frames.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first trigger frame set is determined based on the first trigger frame sent by the first access point. The first trigger frame includes configuration information of the first trigger frame set, configuration information of the second trigger frame set, the first information, and one or more of the second information.

20. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that, The configuration information of the first set of trigger frames includes one or more of the following: the period of the trigger frame, the configuration information of the time window used to transmit the trigger frame, and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

21. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 20, characterized in that: The first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point; or, The first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site group from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

22. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 21, characterized in that, The identifier of the first site is one of the following: the device identifier of the first site, the media access control (MAC) identifier of the first site, the electronic product code (EPC) of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

23. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 22, characterized in that, The identifier of the first site group is one of the following: the MAC identifier of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

24. The method according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that, The session identifier of the first site is one of the following: an identifier determined based on preset rules, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, a preset identifier, or an identifier determined through negotiation between the first site and the first access point.

25. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 24, characterized in that, The first site group to which the first site belongs is determined based on one or more of the following: The identifier of the first station; The business type of the first site; The device type of the first site.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that: The service type of the first station is used to indicate one or more of the following: the sensor type of the first station, the logistics type corresponding to the first station, and the type of data stream transmitted by the first station; And / or, The device type of the first site is used to indicate one or more of the following: the first site supports signal transmission based on backscattering, the first site supports signal transmission based on active transmission, the first site is an ambient power AMP device, and the first site is an AMP auxiliary device.

27. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 26, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is a subset of the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The second set of trigger frames also includes a third set of trigger frames, which corresponds to the second station or the second group of stations.

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, One or more of the following information associated with the first set of trigger frames differs from that associated with the third set of trigger frames: The period of the trigger frame; Configuration information for the time window used to transmit trigger frames; The time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

30. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 29, characterized in that, The first site is an AMP device.

31. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is a first station, and the first station includes: The determining unit is used to determine the first set of trigger frames; The first set of trigger frames corresponds to the first site or the first site group to which the first site is located.

32. The communication device according to claim 31, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is used to trigger the first site or the first group of sites to transmit data.

33. The communication device according to claim 31 or 32, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is determined based on one or more of the following: Configuration information of the first trigger frame set; Configuration information for the second trigger frame set; The identifier of the first station; The identifier of the first site group; The first information is used to determine the first set of trigger frames; The second piece of information is used to determine the site or site group corresponding to the first set of trigger frames.

34. The communication device according to claim 33, characterized in that, The first trigger frame set is determined based on the first trigger frame sent by the first access point. The first trigger frame includes configuration information of the first trigger frame set, configuration information of the second trigger frame set, the first information, and one or more of the second information.

35. The communication device according to any one of claims 31 to 34, characterized in that, The configuration information of the first set of trigger frames includes one or more of the following: the period of the trigger frame, the configuration information of the time window used to transmit the trigger frame, and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

36. The communication device according to any one of claims 31 to 35, characterized in that: The first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point; or, The first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site group from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

37. The communication device according to any one of claims 31 to 36, characterized in that, The identifier of the first site is one of the following: the device identifier of the first site, the media access control (MAC) identifier of the first site, the electronic product code (EPC) of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

38. The communication device according to any one of claims 31 to 37, characterized in that, The identifier of the first site group is one of the following: the MAC identifier of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

39. The communication device according to claim 37 or 38, characterized in that, The session identifier of the first site is one of the following: an identifier determined based on preset rules, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, a preset identifier, or an identifier determined through negotiation between the first site and the first access point.

40. The communication device according to any one of claims 31 to 39, characterized in that, The first site group to which the first site belongs is determined based on one or more of the following: The identifier of the first station; The business type of the first site; The device type of the first site.

41. The communication device according to claim 40, characterized in that: The service type of the first station is used to indicate one or more of the following: the sensor type of the first station, the logistics type corresponding to the first station, and the type of data stream transmitted by the first station; And / or, The device type of the first site is used to indicate one or more of the following: the first site supports signal transmission based on backscattering, the first site supports signal transmission based on active transmission, the first site is an ambient power AMP device, and the first site is an AMP auxiliary device.

42. The communication device according to any one of claims 41 to 41, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is a subset of the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

43. The communication device according to claim 42, characterized in that, The second set of trigger frames also includes a third set of trigger frames, which corresponds to the second station or the second group of stations.

44. The communication device according to claim 43, characterized in that, One or more of the following information associated with the first set of trigger frames differs from that associated with the third set of trigger frames: The period of the trigger frame; Configuration information for the time window used to transmit trigger frames; The time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

45. The communication device according to any one of claims 31 to 44, characterized in that, The first site is an AMP device.

46. ​​A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is a first access point, and the first access point includes: The communication unit is used to send the first set of trigger frames; The first set of trigger frames corresponds to the first station or the first station group to which the first station is located.

47. The communication device according to claim 46, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is used to trigger the first site or the first group of sites to transmit data.

48. The communication device according to claim 46 or 47, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is determined based on one or more of the following: Configuration information of the first trigger frame set; Configuration information for the second trigger frame set; The identifier of the first station; The identifier of the first site group; The first piece of information is used to determine the set of trigger frames; The second piece of information is used to determine the site or site group corresponding to the first set of trigger frames.

49. The communication device according to claim 48, characterized in that, The first trigger frame set is determined based on the first trigger frame sent by the first access point. The first trigger frame includes configuration information of the first trigger frame set, configuration information of the second trigger frame set, the first information, and one or more of the second information.

50. The communication device according to any one of claims 46 to 49, characterized in that, The configuration information of the first set of trigger frames includes one or more of the following: the period of the trigger frame, the configuration information of the time window used to transmit the trigger frame, and the time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

51. The communication device according to any one of claims 46 to 49, characterized in that: The first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point; or, The first set of trigger frames includes trigger frames associated with the identifier of the first site group from the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

52. The communication device according to any one of claims 46 to 51, characterized in that, The identifier of the first site is one of the following: the device identifier of the first site, the media access control (MAC) identifier of the first site, the electronic product code (EPC) of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

53. The communication device according to any one of claims 46 to 52, characterized in that, The identifier of the first site group is one of the following: the MAC identifier of the first site, the session identifier of the first site, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, or an identifier negotiated and determined by the first site and the first access point.

54. The communication device according to claim 52 or 53, characterized in that, The session identifier of the first site is one of the following: an identifier determined based on preset rules, an identifier determined based on standard predefined information, a preset identifier, or an identifier determined through negotiation between the first site and the first access point.

55. The communication device according to any one of claims 46 to 54, characterized in that, The first site group to which the first site belongs is determined based on one or more of the following: The identifier of the first station; The business type of the first site; The device type of the first site.

56. The communication device according to claim 55, characterized in that: The service type of the first station is used to indicate one or more of the following: the sensor type of the first station, the logistics type corresponding to the first station, and the type of data stream transmitted by the first station; And / or, The device type of the first site is used to indicate one or more of the following: the first site supports signal transmission based on backscattering, the first site supports signal transmission based on active transmission, the first site is an ambient power AMP device, and the first site is an AMP auxiliary device.

57. The communication device according to any one of claims 46 to 56, characterized in that, The first set of trigger frames is a subset of the second set of trigger frames sent by the first access point.

58. The communication device according to claim 57, characterized in that, The second set of trigger frames also includes a third set of trigger frames, which corresponds to the second station or the second group of stations.

59. The communication device according to claim 58, characterized in that, One or more of the following information associated with the first set of trigger frames differs from that associated with the third set of trigger frames: The period of the trigger frame; Configuration information for the time window used to transmit trigger frames; The time interval between adjacent trigger frames.

60. The communication device according to any one of claims 46 to 59, characterized in that, The first site is an AMP device.

61. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a transceiver, a memory, and a processor. The memory stores a program, and the processor invokes the program in the memory and controls the transceiver to receive or transmit signals so that the communication device performs the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 30.

62. An apparatus, characterized in that, Includes a processor for calling a program from memory to cause the apparatus to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 30.

63. A chip, characterized in that, Includes a processor for calling a program from memory, causing a device on which the chip is mounted to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 30.

64. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It contains a program that causes a computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 30.

65. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes a program that causes a computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 30.

66. A computer program, characterized in that, The computer program causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 30.

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