Communication method, communication device and communication system

Abstract

The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method, a communication device and a communication system. The communication method comprises: when detecting an inter-basic service set physical layer protocol data unit (inter-BSS PPDU), a first device switching from a first channel to a second channel at a first moment, wherein the first moment is the moment at which it has been determined that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to a non-primary channel access minimum duration threshold (NPCA minimum duration threshold); the first channel is a primary channel of a BSS where the first device is located; and the second channel is a temporary primary channel on which the first device executes a non-primary channel access operation. The embodiments of the present disclosure can improve the timing at which a communication device executes a non-primary channel access operation, helping to improve the access efficiency of a temporary primary channel in the non-primary channel access operation, thereby improving the communication quality and efficiency.

Description

Communication methods, communication equipment and communication systems Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method, communication device and communication system. Background Technology

[0002] To further improve channel access or frequency utilization efficiency and transmission efficiency in broadband systems, existing technologies have proposed the concept of Non-primary Channel Access (NPCA). Specifically, when a communication device detects that the primary channel is busy, it can switch to a non-primary channel and compete for access within the non-primary channel. After successfully competing for the channel, frame switching can be performed within the non-primary channel. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This disclosure provides a communication method, communication device, and communication system, which can improve the timing of communication devices performing non-main channel access operations and enhance communication efficiency.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method, the method comprising:

[0005] When a first device detects an inter-BSS PPDU (Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between basic service sets, it switches from a first channel to a second channel at a first moment. The first moment is the moment when it is determined that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the NPCA (Minimum Duration Threshold) for non-primary channel access. The first channel is the primary channel of the BSS in which the first device is located. The second channel is a temporary primary channel for the first device to perform non-primary channel access operations.

[0006] Secondly, this disclosure also provides a communication device for performing the communication method provided in the first aspect.

[0007] Thirdly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication device, including:

[0008] One or more processors;

[0009] The aforementioned communication device is used to execute the communication method provided in the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0010] Fourthly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication system, including a first device;

[0011] The first device is configured to implement the communication method provided in the first aspect.

[0012] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the communication method provided in the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0013] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a program product, including at least one of a program and instructions, wherein when the at least one of the program and instructions is executed by a communication device, it implements the communication method provided in the first aspect.

[0014] This disclosure provides the timing for communication devices to perform non-primary channel access operations, which is beneficial for completing the relevant processes of non-primary channel access and improving the access efficiency of temporary primary channels during non-primary channel access operations, thereby improving communication quality and efficiency.

[0015] Additional aspects and advantages of embodiments of this disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will become apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings required for the description of the embodiments are introduced below. The following drawings are only some embodiments of this disclosure and do not impose specific limitations on the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0017] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 2 is one of the interactive schematic diagrams of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0019] Figure 3 is a second interactive schematic diagram of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a channel switching scenario provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0021] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the chip structure proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0025] This disclosure provides a communication method, communication device, and communication system, clarifying the timing for the communication device to perform non-main channel access operations, which is beneficial for completing the relevant processes of non-main channel access.

[0026] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method, the method comprising:

[0027] When the first device detects an inter-BSS PPDU (Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between basic service sets, it switches from the first channel to the second channel at a first moment. The first moment is the moment when it is determined that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the NPCA (Minimum Duration Threshold) for non-primary channel access. The first channel is the primary channel of the BSS in which the first device is located. The second channel is a temporary primary channel for the first device to perform non-primary channel access operations.

[0028] In the above embodiments, upon detecting an inter-BSS Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit (PPDU), the device can effectively switch from the primary channel of its BSS to a non-primary channel (temporary primary channel). This facilitates rapid adjustment of the operating channel by the first device in the event of channel congestion or interference, thereby maintaining communication stability and effectiveness. Furthermore, by setting a minimum duration threshold, the timing of the switchover is ensured to be more reasonable and timely, avoiding unnecessary channel switching while clearly defining the execution timing of non-primary channel access operations.

[0029] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments the above method further includes:

[0030] At the second moment, determine whether the aforementioned duration is greater than or equal to the aforementioned NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold;

[0031] Wherein, the second moment is the moment when the first device determines the duration, or the second moment is the moment when the first device detects information containing the duration.

[0032] In the above embodiments, it is possible to clearly determine the specific timing when whether the duration is greater than or equal to the minimum duration threshold of non-primary channel access, which helps the first device to quickly determine whether to perform non-primary channel access operation, avoid time waste, and improve the efficiency of non-primary channel access switching.

[0033] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the above-described inter-BSS PPDU includes at least one of the following:

[0034] Inter-BSS HE PPDU (High-Efficiency Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between Basic Service Sets;

[0035] Inter-BSS EHT PPDU (Extremely High Throughput Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between Basic Service Sets;

[0036] Inter-BSS UHR PPDU (Ultra-Reliable Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit)

[0037] Inter-BSS non-HT PPDU, a non-high-throughput physical layer protocol data unit associated with control frame exchange.

[0038] In the above embodiments, the first AP can perform non-main channel access operation when different types of inter-BSS PPDUs are detected, which enhances the flexibility of the communication method and the compatibility of PPDU types, and is conducive to adapting to different network environments and needs.

[0039] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the above-described inter-BSS non-HT PPDU includes at least one of the following:

[0040] Non-HT PPDU for control frames;

[0041] A non-HT PPDU containing a response frame that responds to the control frame mentioned above.

[0042] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, when the inter-BSS PPDU includes the inter-BSS HE PPDU, the inter-BSS EHT PPDU, or the inter-BSS UHR PPDU, the duration is the transmission duration indicated by the transmission opportunity TXOP field included in the inter-BSS PPDU.

[0043] In the case where the aforementioned inter-BSS PPDU includes the aforementioned inter-BSS non-HT PPDU, the aforementioned duration is the duration jointly indicated by the Rate field and the Length field included in the aforementioned inter-BSS PPDU.

[0044] In the above embodiments, the first device can accurately determine the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU according to the different PPDU types, ensuring the rationality of the handover timing and avoiding unnecessary channel handover.

[0045] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments the above method further includes:

[0046] The first device does not communicate between the first moment and the end of the non-primary channel access switching delay (NPCA Switching Delay); wherein, the NPCA Switching Delay indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the first channel to the second channel.

[0047] After the first device switches to the second channel and successfully competes for the channel, it communicates with the second device that has switched to the second channel before the first device switches to the first channel; wherein the second device is associated with the first device.

[0048] In the above embodiments, the first device does not communicate until the non-primary channel access handover delay arrives, which helps reduce communication interference. After switching to the second channel and successfully competing for the channel, communication can begin immediately, improving the continuity and efficiency of communication.

[0049] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments the above method further includes:

[0050] The first device switches from the second channel to the first channel at a third time; wherein the third time is not later than the end of the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU.

[0051] In the above embodiments, by specifying the timing of the channel switchback, it can be ensured that the first device can switch back to the BSS main channel, thus guaranteeing communication quality.

[0052] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments the above method further includes:

[0053] The first device sends a first wireless frame, the first wireless frame including first identification information, wherein when the first device is an access point device (AP), the first identification information includes at least one of the following:

[0054] The aforementioned second channel;

[0055] The aforementioned NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold;

[0056] The aforementioned first device's NPCA Switching Delay;

[0057] The non-primary channel access back-switching delay (NPCA) of the first device; wherein, the NPCA Switching Back Delay indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the second channel to the first channel;

[0058] When the first device is a site STA device, the first identification information includes at least one of the following:

[0059] The aforementioned first device's NPCA Switching Delay;

[0060] The non-main channel access back-switching delay (NPCA) of the first device mentioned above.

[0061] In the above embodiments, when the first device is an AP, the first AP can synchronously send information about non-main channel access operations to associated devices, which helps to coordinate communication behavior.

[0062] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, when the first device is a STA, the method further includes:

[0063] Obtain a second wireless frame sent by the second device, wherein the second wireless frame includes second identification information, and the second identification information includes at least one of the following:

[0064] The aforementioned second channel;

[0065] The aforementioned NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold.

[0066] In the above embodiments, when the first device is in STA mode, the first device can also obtain other information such as the second channel and the minimum duration threshold for non-primary channel access from the second device. This is beneficial to enhance the coordination and cooperation between devices, optimize the overall network performance, and ensure that the first device can accurately and effectively implement non-primary channel access operations.

[0067] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first radio frame and the second radio frame include a Non-Main Channel Access Operation Information (NPCA) field.

[0068] The NPCA Operation Information field in the first radio frame includes the first identification information, and the NPCA Operation Information field in the second radio frame includes the second identification information.

[0069] In the above embodiments, the first and second wireless frames define the wireless frame structure including non-master channel access operation information, which helps to achieve standardization and interoperability of communication methods.

[0070] Secondly, this disclosure also provides a communication device for implementing the optional implementation of the first aspect.

[0071] In a third aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a communication device, including:

[0072] One or more processors;

[0073] Wherein, the above communication device is used to execute the optional implementation manners of the first aspect.

[0074] In a fourth aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a communication system, including a first device; wherein, the above first device is configured to execute the optional implementation manners as described in the first aspect above.

[0075] In a fifth aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a storage medium. The above storage medium stores instructions. When the above instructions run on a communication device, the communication device is caused to execute the optional implementation manners as described in the first aspect above.

[0076] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure propose a program product. When the above program product is executed by a communication device, the communication device is caused to execute the method described in the optional implementation manners of the first aspect.

[0077] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure propose a computer program. When it runs on a computer, the computer is caused to execute the method described in the optional implementation manners of the first aspect.

[0078] In an eighth aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a chip or a chip system. The chip or the chip system includes a processing circuit configured to execute the method described in the optional implementation manners according to the first aspect above.

[0079] It can be understood that the above communication device, communication system, storage medium, program product, computer program, chip or chip system are all used to execute the method proposed by embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved can refer to the beneficial effects in the corresponding method, which will not be elaborated here.

[0080] Embodiments of the present disclosure propose a communication method, a communication device and a communication system. In some embodiments, terms such as the communication method and the signal sending method, the wireless frame sending method, etc. can be replaced with each other, and terms such as the information processing system, the communication system, etc. can be replaced with each other.

[0081] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments.

[0082] In each of the disclosed embodiments, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of the embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0083] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0084] In the embodiments disclosed herein, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0085] In some embodiments, the terms “at least one of A or B, at least one of A and B”, “one or more”, “a plurality of”, “multiple”, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0086] In some embodiments, the notation "at least one of A and B", "A and / or B", "A in one case, B in another", "in response to one case A, in response to another case B", etc., may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether there is a branch B); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether there is a branch A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed); in some embodiments, both A and B are executed. The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.

[0087] In some embodiments, the notation "A or B" may include the following technical solutions, depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether a branch B exists); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether a branch A exists); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed). The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, and C.

[0088] The prefixes "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely for distinguishing different descriptive objects and do not impose restrictions on the position, order, priority, quantity, or content of the descriptive objects. The description of the descriptive objects is found in the claims or the context of the embodiments, and the use of prefixes should not constitute unnecessary restrictions. For example, if the descriptive object is a "field," the ordinal numbers preceding "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not restrict the position or order of the "fields." "First" and "second" do not restrict whether the "fields" they modify are in the same message, nor do they restrict the order of "first field" and "second field." Similarly, if the descriptive object is a "level," the ordinal numbers preceding "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not restrict the priority between "levels." Furthermore, the number of descriptive objects is not limited by ordinal numbers and can be one or more. For example, in "first device," the number of "devices" can be one or more. Furthermore, the objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the object being described is "device", then "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different. Similarly, if the object being described is "information", then "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their content can be the same or different.

[0089] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0090] In some embodiments, terms such as "time / frequency" and "time-frequency domain" refer to the time domain and / or frequency domain.

[0091] In some embodiments, terms such as “in response to…”, “in response to determining…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “when…”, “if…”, etc. can be used interchangeably. These descriptions all refer to the device making a corresponding action under certain objective circumstances. They do not necessarily limit the time, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when implementing it, nor do they mean that there must be other limitations.

[0092] In some embodiments, the terms “greater than,” “greater than or equal to,” “not less than,” “more than,” “more than or equal to,” “not less than,” “higher than,” “higher than or equal to,” “not lower than,” and “above” can be used interchangeably, as can the terms “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not greater than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not more than,” “lower than,” “lower than or equal to,” “not higher than,” and “below”.

[0093] In some embodiments, devices, etc., may be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to those described in the embodiments. Terms such as “device,” “equipment,” “circuit,” “network element,” “network function,” “network device,” “function,” “node,” “unit,” “section,” “system,” “network,” “chip,” “chip system,” “entity,” and “subject” are interchangeable.

[0094] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0095] In addition, terms such as "uplink" and "downlink" can be replaced with terms corresponding to inter-terminal communication (e.g., "side"). For example, uplink channel and downlink channel can be replaced with side channel, and uplink link and downlink link can be replaced with side link.

[0096] In some embodiments, "link" can mean "connection" or "link"; in various embodiments, "connection" and "link" can be used interchangeably.

[0097] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0098] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0099] Furthermore, each element, each row, or each column in the table of this disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0100] In existing technologies, two methods, physical carrier sensing (PCS) and virtual carrier sensing (VCS), are used to determine whether a channel is busy or idle. The channel is considered idle only if both PCS and VCS indicate that the channel is idle. VCS determines idleness by using the Network Allocation Vector (NAV) maintained by the device. The NAV can be understood as a timer that defines the duration the channel needs to be occupied. During data communication, the device occupying the channel informs other devices of the occupied channel time through the Duration field in the packet. Devices that have not acquired channel resources maintain or update their own NAV value by comparing the Duration field value in the received packet. When the NAV value is 0, VCS considers the current channel to be idle.

[0101] High Efficiency (HE) STAs typically maintain two NAVs: Intra-BSS NAV and Basic NAV. Virtual Carrier Sense (CS) indicates that the medium is idle if both NAV timers are 0, and busy if at least one of the two NAV timers is nonzero.

[0102] When a device detects that the Primary Channel is busy, it considers the channel busy, fails to compete for the channel, and cannot perform frame switching. Generally, within a Basic Service Set (BSS) with an operating bandwidth greater than 20MHz, the transmission channel for Physical Protocol Data Units (PPDUs) includes the 20MHz Primary Channel. When the Primary Channel is busy, even if the Secondary Channel within the BSS is idle, the device cannot perform frame switching on the Secondary Channel. This mechanism limits spectrum utilization and throughput improvement to some extent and is detrimental to low-latency service transmission.

[0103] To further improve channel access and frequency utilization efficiency and transmission efficiency in broadband systems, a concept called Non-primary Channel Access (NPCA) is proposed. Specifically, when a Wi-Fi device detects channel congestion on the primary channel due to overlapping Basic Service Set (OBSS) service communication, it can switch to a non-primary channel and compete for channel access. After successfully competing for the channel, frame switching can be performed within the non-primary channel.

[0104] Regarding NPCA operations, the following considerations apply to the target channel (i.e., the NPCA Primary channel) to which communication equipment switches from the primary channel: all Access Points (APs) in a multiple Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID) set advertise the same NPCA Primary channel; an AP supporting NPCA advertises at most one NPCA Primary channel, which must be within the AP's BSS operation bandwidth and not within the 20MHz punctured subchannel. In other words, when an event triggering an NPCA Operation occurs, APs and STAs with NPCA Operation enabled will switch from the Primary Channel to the NPCA Primary Channel, and then participate in channel contention and / or frame switching on the NPCA Primary Channel. Currently, there is no unified conclusion regarding the exact time at which communication equipment begins Primary Channel switching after detecting an NPCA trigger event. For example, the switching capabilities of APs and individual non-AP STAs within a BSS may differ. For instance, the time required for an AP to switch from the BSS Primary Channel to the temporary Primary Channel may be less than the switching time required for a non-AP STA; and the switching time for each non-AP STA may also differ. In addition, the events that trigger NPCA Operations may also be different.

[0105] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0106] As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 includes a first device 101.

[0107] When the first device detects an inter-BSS PPDU, it can switch from the first channel to the second channel at the first moment.

[0108] The first moment is the moment when the duration of the determined inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the non-primary channel access minimum duration threshold (NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold).

[0109] The first channel is the primary channel of the BSS where the first device is located, also known as the BSS Primary Channel.

[0110] The second channel is a temporary primary channel through which the first device performs non-primary channel access operations. The temporary primary channel can also be called the non-primary channel access primary channel (NPCA Primary Channel).

[0111] The first device can be either an AP or a STA, and a STA can also be called a Non-AP STA.

[0112] In some embodiments, an AP can be an access point for mobile terminals to access a wired network. An AP acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, its main function being to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to an Ethernet network. Specifically, an AP can be a terminal device or network device equipped with a Wi-Fi chip. Optionally, the AP can support various WLAN standards such as 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11bf, and 802.11bn, as well as the next-generation 802.11 protocol, but is not limited to these.

[0113] In some embodiments, a Non-AP STA (STA) may include, for example, a wireless communication chip, a wireless sensor, or a wireless communication terminal that supports Wi-Fi communication. Optionally, the wireless communication terminal may be at least one of, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, a wearable device, an IoT device that supports Wi-Fi communication, a car with Wi-Fi communication capabilities, a smart car, a tablet computer, a computer with wireless transceiver capabilities, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal device in industrial control, a wireless terminal device in self-driving, a wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, a wireless terminal device in a smart grid, a wireless terminal device in transportation safety, a wireless terminal device in a smart city, or a wireless terminal device in a smart home.

[0114] Specifically, the STA can be a terminal device or network device with a Wi-Fi chip. Optionally, the site device can support various WLAN standards such as 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11ac, 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b, 802.11a, 802.11bf, and 802.11bn, as well as the next-generation 802.11 protocol, but is not limited to these.

[0115] Optionally, in this embodiment of the disclosure, AP and STA can be devices that support multiple links. For example, they can be represented as Access Point Multi-Link Device (AP MLD) and Non-Access Point Multi-Link Device (Non-AP MLD), respectively. AP MLD can represent an access point that supports multiple link communication functions, and Non-AP MLD can represent a site that supports multiple link communication functions.

[0116] It is understood that the communication system described in this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0117] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1, or to some of the main bodies, but are not limited thereto. The main bodies shown in FIG1 are illustrative. The communication system may include all or some of the main bodies in FIG1, or may include other main bodies outside of FIG1. ​​The number and form of each main body are arbitrary. Each main body may be physical or virtual. The connection relationship between the main bodies is illustrative. The main bodies may not be connected or may be connected. The connection can be in any way, it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection, it can be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0118] The embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs), such as LANs using the 802.11 series of protocols. In a WLAN, a Basic Service Set (BSS) is a fundamental component. An BSS network consists of site devices within a specific coverage area that have some kind of association. One type of association is where sites communicate directly with each other in a self-organizing network; this is called an Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS). Another more common scenario is that in a BSS network, there is only one central site dedicated to managing the BSS, called an Access Point (AP), while other sites in the BSS network that are not APs are called terminals, also known as Non-AP STAs.

[0119] In WLANs, a non-primary channel can contain one or more sub-channels. For example, if the basic bandwidth unit is 20MHz, when the channel bandwidth is 20MHz, there is only one primary channel with a bandwidth of 20MHz; when the channel bandwidth is greater than 20MHz, one primary channel with a bandwidth of 20MHz is included, and the remaining one or more 20MHz channels are non-primary channels. Stations in a BSS can compete for channel resources on the primary 20MHz channel. During channel competition, if the primary channel is in an OBSS busy state (OBSS interference), for example, when a device detects other devices in the BSS sending physical protocol data units (PPDUs), i.e., inter-BSS PPDUs, on the primary channel, it is considered busy. If the primary channel is in an OBSS busy state, in order to fully utilize channel resources, it can switch to a secondary channel to improve the communication system throughput and maximize channel resource utilization.

[0120] Optionally, the NPCA main channel includes the channel among the non-main channels accessed when accessing via a non-main channel. This channel serves as the NPCA main channel, i.e., the aforementioned second channel. For example, the bandwidth information of the second channel may include 20MHz, 40MHz, or 80MHz.

[0121] As a specific example, if the STA's operating bandwidth is 80MHz, then when the primary 20MHz (P20) channel is detected to be busy in the OBSS, it will access the system through a 40MHz secondary channel (S40), for example, by selecting one of the 20MHz sub-channels of the 40MHz secondary channel as the second channel.

[0122] Figure 2 is one of the interactive schematic diagrams of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2, the method includes:

[0123] S21, the first device sends the first radio frame.

[0124] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first device can be an access point (AP), and there is no limitation thereto.

[0125] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first device may send parameter information related to non-main channel access to the second device with which it communicates in advance.

[0126] Specifically, the first device sends a first wireless frame, which includes first identification information.

[0127] When the first device is an AP, the first identification information includes at least one of the following:

[0128] The second channel is a temporary primary channel switched when the first device and the second device perform a non-primary channel access operation;

[0129] Non-primary channel access minimum duration threshold (NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold);

[0130] The Non-Primary Channel Access Switching Delay (NPCA Switching Delay) of the first device indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the first channel to the second channel. The first channel is the primary channel of the BSS where the first device is located.

[0131] The Non-Primary Channel Access Back Delay (NPCA Switch Back Delay) of the first device indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the second channel to the first channel.

[0132] In other words, before performing a non-primary channel access operation, the AP needs to inform the STA of at least one of the following: the second channel, the minimum duration of non-primary channel access, the AP's non-primary channel access switching delay (NPCA Switching Delay), and the AP's non-primary channel access switchback delay (NPCA Switch Back Delay).

[0133] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first radio frame includes a Non-Main Channel Access Operation Information (NPCA) field, which includes first identification information.

[0134] Optionally, the first radio frame includes an Ultra-High Reliability Operation element (UHR), which includes a Non-Main Channel Access Operation Information (NPCA) field, and the NPCA field includes first identification information.

[0135] As an example, the NPCA Operation Information field can be shown as follows:

[0136] S22, when the first device detects an inter-BSS PPDU, it switches from the first channel to the second channel at the first moment.

[0137] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the first device detects an inter-BSS PPDU, it determines whether the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is less than the Non-Main Channel Access Minimum Duration Threshold (NPCA).

[0138] If it is determined that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is less than the minimum duration threshold for non-primary channel access (NPCA), and a non-primary channel access operation is performed, the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU will have ended after the non-primary channel access operation is completed. Therefore, if it is determined that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is less than the minimum duration threshold for non-primary channel access (NPCA), a non-primary channel access operation will not be performed.

[0139] If it is determined that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the minimum duration of non-primary channel access, then the user can switch from the first channel to the second channel at the first moment when the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is determined to be greater than or equal to the minimum duration of non-primary channel access.

[0140] Among them, the first channel is the main channel of the BSS where the first device is located, and the second channel is the temporary main channel for performing non-main channel access operations, which can also be called the non-main channel access main channel (NPCA Primary Channel).

[0141] The duration of the inter-BSS PPDU can be indicated by the inter-BSS PPDU through relevant information (such as relevant information fields, fields, or identification information), and there are no restrictions on this.

[0142] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the inter-BSS PPDU includes at least one of the following:

[0143] Inter-BSS HE PPDU (High-Efficiency Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between Basic Service Sets;

[0144] Inter-BSS EHT PPDU (Extremely High Throughput Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between Basic Service Sets;

[0145] Inter-BSS UHR PPDU (Ultra-Reliable Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit)

[0146] Inter-BSS non-HT PPDU, a non-high-throughput physical layer protocol data unit associated with control frame exchange.

[0147] Among them, the inter-BSS non-HT PPDU associated with control frame exchange is the inter-BSS PPDU that includes control frame exchange (control frame or its response frame).

[0148] In other words, when the first device detects any inter-BSS PPDU among inter-BSS HE PPDU, inter-BSS EHT PPDU, inter-BSS UHR PPDU, or inter-BSS non-HT PPDU, the first device needs to determine whether the duration of the detected inter-BSS PPDU is less than the Non-Main Channel Access Minimum Duration Threshold (NPCA). If it is determined that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is not less than the Non-Main Channel Access Minimum Duration Threshold (NPCA), the first device switches from the first channel to the second channel.

[0149] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the inter-BSS PPDU includes the inter-BSS HE PPDU, the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is the transmission duration indicated by the transmission opportunity TXOP information field included in the inter-BSS HE PPDU.

[0150] Optionally, the inter-BSS HE PPDU includes a High-Efficiency Signal (HE-SIG) field, which includes a TXOP information field used to identify the duration of the inter-BSS HE PPDU.

[0151] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the inter-BSS PPDU includes an inter-BSS EHT PPDU, the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is the transmission duration indicated by the transmission opportunity TXOP information field included in the inter-BSS EHT PPDU.

[0152] Optionally, the inter-BSS EHT PPDU includes a Universal Signal (U-SIG) field, which includes a TXOP information field used to identify the duration of the inter-BSS RHT PPDU.

[0153] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the inter-BSS PPDU includes an inter-BSS UHR PPDU, the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is the transmission duration indicated by the transmission opportunity TXOP information field included in the inter-BSS UHR PPDU.

[0154] Optionally, the inter-BSS UHR PPDU includes a Universal Signal (U-SIG) field, which includes a TXOP information field used to identify the duration of the inter-BSS UHR PPDU.

[0155] In embodiments of this disclosure, where the inter-BSS PPDU includes an inter-BSS non-HT PPDU related to control frame exchange, the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is the duration jointly indicated by the rate domain and length domain included in the inter-BSS non-HT PPDU.

[0156] Optionally, the inter-BSS non-HT PPDU includes a Legacy Signal (L-SIG) field, which includes a Rate field and a Length field. The Rate field identifies the communication rate, and the Length field identifies the PPDU length information. The duration of the inter-BSS non-HT PPDU can be determined based on the communication rate and length information.

[0157] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the first device detects an inter-BSS PPDU, it can also determine at a second time whether the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the Non-Main Channel Access Minimum Duration Threshold (NPCA).

[0158] At a second moment, the first device can immediately determine whether the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold for non-primary channel access. At the first moment after determining that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold, the device switches from the first channel to the second channel.

[0159] The second moment is the moment when the first device determines the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU, or the second moment is the moment when the first device detects information containing the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU.

[0160] Among them, the information related to duration includes, but is not limited to, fields containing duration, information fields, and identification information used to identify the relevant information, etc., without limitation.

[0161] The moment when the first device determines the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU can be equivalent to the moment when the first device learns the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU, and terms such as determine, learn, resolve, and detect can be used interchangeably.

[0162] This includes information related to the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU, which can be related information fields, fields, or identification information used to indicate the duration in the inter-BSS PPDU, etc., without limitation. Furthermore, this related information can be equivalent to signals, identifications, indications, etc., without limitation.

[0163] Optionally, if the inter-BSS PPDU is an inter-BSS HE PPDU and the inter-BSS HE PPDU indicates the duration through the TXOP field, the second moment can be the moment when the first device determines the transmission duration indicated by the TXOP field, or the second moment can be the moment when the first device resolves the TXOP field in the inter-BSS HE PPDU.

[0164] In the case where the inter-BSS HE PPDU includes the HE-SIG field and the HE-SIG field includes the TXOP information field, the second moment can be determined by the first device at the moment when the transmission duration indicated by the TXOP field in the HE-SIG field is determined, or the second moment can be determined by the moment when the first device resolves the HE-SIG field.

[0165] Optionally, if the inter-BSS PPDU is an inter-BSS EHT PPDU and the inter-BSS EHT PPDU indicates the duration through the TXOP field, the second moment can be the moment when the first device determines the transmission duration indicated by the TXOP field, or the second moment can be the moment when the first device resolves the TXOP field in the inter-BSS EHT PPDU.

[0166] In the case where the inter-BSS EHT PPDU includes a U-SIG field and the U-SIG field includes a TXOP information field, the second moment can be the moment when the first device determines the transmission duration indicated by the TXOP field in the U-SIG field, or the second moment can be the moment when the first device parses the U-SIG field.

[0167] Optionally, if the inter-BSS PPDU is an inter-BSS UHR PPDU and the inter-BSS UHR PPDU indicates the duration through the TXOP field, the second moment can be the moment when the first device determines the transmission duration indicated by the TXOP field, or the second moment can be the moment when the first device resolves the TXOP field in the inter-BSS UHR PPDU.

[0168] In the case where the inter-BSS UHR PPDU includes a U-SIG field and the U-SIG field includes a TXOP information field, the second moment can be used to determine the transmission duration indicated by the TXOP field in the U-SIG field for the first device, or the second moment can be used to parse the HE-SIG field for the first device.

[0169] Optionally, if the inter-BSS PPDU is an inter-BSS non-HT PPDU related to control frame exchange and the inter-BSS non-HT PPDU jointly indicates the duration through the Rate field and the Length field, the second moment can be the moment when the first device determines the duration jointly indicated by the Rate field and the Length field, or the second moment can be the moment when the first device resolves to the Rate field and the Length field.

[0170] In the case where the inter-BSS non-HT PPDU related to control frame exchange includes an L-SIG field, and the L-SIG field includes a Rate field and a Length field, the second moment can determine the moment when the duration jointly indicated by the Rate field and the Length field in the L-SIG field is determined for the first device, or the second moment can resolve the moment when the first device resolves the moment when the Rate field, the Length field, and the L-SIG field are included.

[0171] S23, the first device does not communicate between the first moment and the end of the non-primary channel access switching delay (NPCA Switching Delay).

[0172] In this embodiment of the disclosure, during the process of the first device switching from the first channel to the second channel at the first moment, that is, during the process of the first device performing the non-primary channel access operation, no communication is performed between the first moment and the end of the non-primary channel access switching delay (NPCA Switching Delay).

[0173] S24, after the first device switches to the second channel and successfully competes for the channel, it communicates with the second device that has switched to the second channel before the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU ends.

[0174] In this embodiment of the disclosure, after the first device switches to the second channel, it will compete for the channel. After successfully competing for the channel, it can perform a send or receive operation.

[0175] Specifically, after successfully competing for the second channel, the first device can communicate with the second device that has switched to the second channel before switching back to the first channel.

[0176] The first device and the second device are associated, such as the first device being an AP and the second device being a STA associated with the AP.

[0177] The first device communicates with the second device, including but not limited to at least one of the following:

[0178] Send PPDU to the second device;

[0179] Receive PPDU sent by the second device;

[0180] Receive response frames sent by the second device;

[0181] Send a response frame to the second device;

[0182] Receive an acknowledgment frame sent by the second device;

[0183] Send an acknowledgment frame to the second device.

[0184] S25, the first device switches from the second channel to the first channel at the third moment.

[0185] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first device can switch back from the second channel to the first channel at a third time.

[0186] The third time is no later than the end of the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU.

[0187] As an example, the first device switches back from the second channel to the first channel at the end of the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU.

[0188] As an example, the first device switches back from the second channel to the first channel at any time after the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU has ended.

[0189] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include the foregoing steps and at least one of the embodiments. For example, S21 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, S22 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, S23 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, S24 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, S25 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of one or more steps of S21 to S25 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0190] Figure 3 is a second interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3, the method includes:

[0191] S31, transmit the first radio frame.

[0192] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first device can be a STA, and there is no limitation thereto.

[0193] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first device may send parameter information related to non-main channel access to the second device with which it communicates in advance.

[0194] Specifically, the first device sends a first wireless frame, which includes first identification information.

[0195] When the first device is a STA, the first identification information includes at least one of the following:

[0196] The Non-Primary Channel Access Switching Delay (NPCA Switching Delay) of the first device indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the first channel to the second channel. The first channel is the primary channel of the BSS where the first device is located.

[0197] The Non-Primary Channel Access Back Delay (NPCA Switch Back Delay) of the first device indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the second channel to the first channel.

[0198] In other words, before performing a non-primary channel access operation, the STA needs to inform the AP of at least one of the STA's non-primary channel access switching delay (NPCA Switching Delay) and the SAT's non-primary channel access back delay (NPCA Switch Back Delay).

[0199] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first radio frame includes a Non-Main Channel Access Operation Information (NPCA) field, and the NPCA field includes first identification information.

[0200] Optionally, the first radio frame includes an Ultra-High Reliability Operation element (UHR), which includes a Non-Main Channel Access Operation Information (NPCA) field.

[0201] S32 receives the second radio frame.

[0202] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the first device is a STA, the STA also needs to obtain from the associated AP (i.e., the second device) at least one of the Temporary Primary Channel (NPCA Primary Channel) or the Minimum Duration Threshold for Non-Primary Channel Access Operation.

[0203] Specifically, the first device may receive a second radio frame sent by the second device before performing a non-main channel access operation.

[0204] In the case where the first device is a STA, the second radio frame includes second identification information, which includes at least one of the second channel or the non-main channel access minimum duration threshold (NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold).

[0205] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the second radio frame includes a Non-Main Channel Access Operation Information (NPCA) field, which includes second identification information.

[0206] Optionally, the second radio frame includes an Ultra-High Reliability Operation element (UHR), which includes a Non-Main Channel Access Operation Information (NPCA) field, and the NPCA field includes second identification information.

[0207] It should be noted that the execution order of S32 and S31 is not limited in this embodiment.

[0208] S33, upon detecting an inter-BSS PPDU, switches from the first channel to the second channel at the first instant.

[0209] S34. No communication shall be conducted from the first moment until the end of the Non-Master Channel Access Switching Delay (NPCA Switching Delay).

[0210] S35, after switching to the second channel and successfully contending for the channel, communicates with the second device that has switched to the second channel before the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU ends.

[0211] S36, at the third moment, switches from the second channel to the first channel.

[0212] In this embodiment, the specific implementation of S33 to S36 can be found in the implementation shown in S22 to S25 in Figure 2, and will not be repeated here.

[0213] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include the foregoing steps and at least one of the embodiments. For example, S31 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, S32 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, S33 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, S34 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, S35 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, S36 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any one or more steps of S31 to S36 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0214] The communication method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure will be further described below with reference to Figure 4.

[0215] 1. The first device sends a first wireless frame, the first wireless frame containing first identification information, wherein the first identification information may include:

[0216] Non-primary channel access switching delay (NPCA Switching Delay): This indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the BSS Primary Channel (i.e., the aforementioned first channel) to the NPCA Primary Channel (i.e., the aforementioned second channel);

[0217] Non-primary channel access switchback delay (NPCA Switch Back Delay): Indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the NPCA Primary Channel to the BSS Primary Channel;

[0218] NPCA Primary Channel: Identifies the target temporary Primary Channel that NPCA APs and their associated NPCA non-AP STAs within the BSS switch from the BSS Primary Channel when performing NPCA Operations;

[0219] The Non-Main Channel Access Minimum Duration Threshold (NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold) indicates the minimum duration for which an NPCA AP and its associated NPCA non-AP STA will execute an NPCA Operation when they detect an NPCA trigger event on the BSS's main channel. Specifically, if the duration of the NPCA trigger event PPDU is less than the threshold, the NPCA AP and NPCA non-AP STA will not execute an NPCA Operation; otherwise, they will execute an NPCA Operation.

[0220] If the first device is an Access Point (AP), the first identification information includes all the above-mentioned information. If the first AP is a Non-AP STA, the first identification information includes the Non-Primary Channel Access Back Delay (NPCA Switch Back Delay) and the Non-Primary Channel Access Switching Delay (NPCA Switching Delay). In this case, the first device also needs to receive a second radio frame sent by the associated AP. The second radio frame includes the second identification information, which includes the NPCA Primary Channel and Non-Primary Channel Access Minimum Duration Threshold.

[0221] Optionally, the first identification information and the second identification information can be carried in the UHR Operation element. For example, the UHR Operation element contains an NPCA Operation Information field, and the first identification information (the first device is an AP) is contained in the NPCA Operation Information field.

[0222] 2. The first device executes NPCA Operation to determine the first moment of the initial switch from BSS Primary Channel (the first channel in Figure 4) to NPCA Primary Channel (the second channel in Figure 4).

[0223] Specifically, if the event that triggers NPCA Operation is: the first device detects an inter-BSS HE PPDU in the BSS Primary Channel and resolves that the indication duration of the TXOP field in the HE-SIG field carried by the inter-BSS HE PPDU is not less than the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold, then the moment when it is determined that the indication duration of the TXOP field in the HE-SIG field is not less than the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold is determined as the first moment of executing NPCA Operation.

[0224] Specifically, if the event that triggers NPCA Operation is: the first device detects an inter-BSS EHT PPDU in the BSS Primary Channel and resolves that the indication duration of the TXOP field in the U-SIG field carried by the inter-BSS HE PPDU is not less than the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold, then the moment when it is determined that the indication duration of the TXOP field in the U-SIG field is not less than the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold is determined as the first moment of executing NPCA Operation.

[0225] If the event that triggers NPCA Operation is: the first device detects an inter-BSS UHR PPDU in the BSS Primary Channel and resolves that the indication duration of the TXOP field in the U-SIG field carried by the inter-BSS UHR PPDU is not less than the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold, then the moment when the indication duration of the TXOP field in the U-SIG field is determined to be not less than the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold is determined as the first moment of executing NPCA Operation.

[0226] If the event that triggers NPCA Operation is: the first device detects an inter-BSS non-HT PPDU of control frame exchange (control frame and its response frame) in the BSS Primary Channel, and resolves that the duration jointly indicated by the Rate and Length fields in the L-SIG field carried by the inter-BSS non-HT PPDU is not less than the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold, then the moment when the duration jointly indicated by the Rate and Length fields is not less than the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold is determined as the first moment of executing NPCA Operation.

[0227] Among them, the inter-BSS PPDU in Figure 4 includes at least one of inter-BSS HE PPDU, inter-BSS EHT PPDU, inter-BSS UHR PPDU, and inter-BSS non-HT PPDU.

[0228] 3. The first device begins to perform one or more of the following operations at the first moment:

[0229] Switch from BSS Primary Channel to NPCA Primary Channel immediately;

[0230] From the first moment until the Non-Master Channel Access Switching Delay (NPCA Switching Delay) arrives, the first device does not perform a transmission operation;

[0231] From the first moment until the Non-Main Channel Access Switching Delay (NPCA Switching Delay) arrives, the first device can perform a send or receive operation.

[0232] 4. After the first device switches to the NPCA Primary Channel (when the NPCA Switching Delay arrives from the first moment), it can perform at least one of the following operations:

[0233] After successfully competing for the channel after switching to the NPCA Primary Channel, it sends a PPDU to its associated second device that has also switched to the NPCA Primary Channel, and / or receives a response frame or an acknowledgment frame.

[0234] After switching to the NPCA Primary Channel, receive PPDUs sent by its associated second device that has also switched to the NPCA Primary Channel, and / or send response frames or acknowledgment frames;

[0235] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 5, the method includes:

[0236] S51, upon detecting an inter-BSS PPDU, switches from the first channel to the second channel at the first instant.

[0237] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first moment is the moment when the duration of the determined inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the minimum duration threshold (NPCA) for non-master channel access; the first channel is the master channel of the BSS where the first device is located; and the second channel is the temporary master channel for the first device to perform non-master channel access operation.

[0238] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the method further includes:

[0239] At the second moment, determine whether the duration is greater than or equal to the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold;

[0240] The second moment is the moment when the first device determines the duration, or the second moment is the moment when the first device detects information related to the duration.

[0241] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the inter-BSS PPDU includes at least one of the following:

[0242] Inter-BSS HE PPDU (High-Efficiency Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between Basic Service Sets;

[0243] Inter-BSS EHT PPDU (Extremely High Throughput Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between Basic Service Sets;

[0244] Inter-BSS UHR PPDU (Ultra-Reliable Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit)

[0245] Inter-BSS non-HT PPDU, a non-high-throughput physical layer protocol data unit associated with control frame exchange.

[0246] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the inter-BSS PPDU includes an inter-BSS HE PPDU, an inter-BSS EHT PPDU, or an inter-BSS UHR PPDU, the duration is the transmission duration indicated by the transmission opportunity TXOP field included in the inter-BSS PPDU.

[0247] In the case of an inter-BSS PPDU including an inter-BSS non-HT PPDU, the duration is the duration jointly indicated by the Rate field and the Length field included in the inter-BSS PPDU.

[0248] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the method further includes:

[0249] The first device does not communicate between the first moment and the end of the non-primary channel access switching delay (NPCA Switching Delay); where NPCA Switching Delay indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the first channel to the second channel.

[0250] After the first device switches to the second channel and successfully competes for the channel, it communicates with the second device, which has already switched to the second channel, before the first device switches back to the first channel; wherein the second device is associated with the first device.

[0251] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the method further includes:

[0252] The first device switches from the second channel to the first channel at a third time; wherein the third time is no later than the end of the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU.

[0253] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the method further includes:

[0254] The first device sends a first radio frame, the first radio frame including first identification information, wherein when the first device is an access point device (AP), the first identification information includes at least one of the following:

[0255] second channel;

[0256] Non-primary channel access minimum duration threshold (NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold);

[0257] Non-primary channel access switching delay (NPCA Switching Delay) of the first device;

[0258] The non-primary channel access back-switching delay (NPCA) of the first device; where NPCA Switching Back Delay indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the second channel to the first channel;

[0259] When the first device is a site STA device, the first identification information includes at least one of the following:

[0260] The first device's NPCA Switching Delay;

[0261] The non-main channel access back-switching delay (NPCA) of the first device.

[0262] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the first device is a STA, the method further includes:

[0263] Acquire a second wireless frame sent by a second device, the second wireless frame including second identification information, the second identification information including at least one of the following:

[0264] second channel;

[0265] Non-primary channel access minimum duration threshold (NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold).

[0266] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first radio frame and the second radio frame include the Non-Main Channel Access Operation Information (NPCA) field.

[0267] The NPCA Operation Information field in the first radio frame includes first identification information, and the NPCA Operation Information field in the second radio frame includes second identification information.

[0268] In some embodiments, the names of information, etc., are not limited to the names described in the embodiments. Terms such as "information", "message", "signal", "signaling", "report", "configuration", "indication", "instruction", "command", "channel", "parameter", "domain", "field", "symbol", "bit", "data", "program", and "chip" can be used interchangeably.

[0269] In some embodiments, terms such as “moment,” “point in time,” “time,” and “time location” can be used interchangeably, as can terms such as “duration,” “segment,” “time window,” “window,” and “time.”

[0270] In some embodiments, terms such as wireless access scheme and waveform can be used interchangeably.

[0271] In some embodiments, terms such as "certain," "preset," "default," "set," "indicated," "a certain," "any," and "first" can be used interchangeably. "Certain A," "preset A," "default A," "set A," "indicated A," "a certain A," "any A," and "first A" can be interpreted as A pre-defined in a protocol or the like, or as A obtained through setting, configuration, or instruction, or as specific A, a certain A, any A, or first A, but are not limited thereto.

[0272] In some embodiments, the determination or judgment can be made by a value represented by 1 bit (0 or 1), or by a true or false value (boolean), or by a comparison of numerical values ​​(e.g., a comparison with a predetermined value), but is not limited thereto.

[0273] In some embodiments, "not expecting to receive" can be interpreted as not receiving on time domain resources and / or frequency domain resources, or as not performing subsequent processing on the data after receiving it; "not expecting to send" can be interpreted as not sending, or as sending but not expecting the receiver to respond to the sent content.

[0274] This disclosure also proposes an apparatus (also referred to as a communication device, etc.) for implementing any of the above methods. For example, an apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. Furthermore, another apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by a network device (e.g., an access network device, a core network functional node, a core network device, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0275] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, the first device 600 may include a processing module 601.

[0276] In some embodiments, the processing module 601 is configured to switch from a first channel to a second channel at a first moment when an inter-BSS PPDU is detected, wherein the first moment is the moment when it is determined that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the Non-Main Channel Access Minimum Duration Threshold (NPCA); the first channel is the main channel of the BSS in which the first device is located; and the second channel is a temporary main channel for the first device to perform a non-main channel access operation.

[0277] Optionally, the processing module 601 is used to execute at least one of the processing steps (e.g., S22, S23, S25, S33, S34, S36, S51, but not limited thereto) executed by the first device in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here.

[0278] The first device 600 further includes a transceiver module 602, which is used to perform at least one of the transceiver steps (e.g., S21, S24, S31, S32, S35, but not limited thereto) performed by the first device in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0279] In some embodiments, the transceiver module can be interchanged with the transceiver, the sending module, and the receiving module.

[0280] It should be understood that the division of units or modules in the above device is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, the units or modules in the device can be implemented by a processor calling software: for example, the device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of the units or modules in the above device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all of the units or modules can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The functionality of some or all of the units or modules is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD). Taking a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) as an example, it can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the units or modules. All units or modules of the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining parts implemented through hardware circuits.

[0281] In this embodiment, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), or a digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. The logical relationships of the aforementioned hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the process of the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU), a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), or a Deep Learning Processing Unit (DPU).

[0282] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device 700 proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The communication device 700 can be a network device (e.g., access network device, core network device, etc.), a terminal (e.g., user equipment, etc.), a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing any of the above methods. The communication device 700 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0283] As shown in Figure 7, the communication device 700 is used to execute any of the above methods. In some embodiments, the communication device 700 includes one or more processors 701. The processor 701 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor may be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit may be used to control communication devices (e.g., base stations, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. Optionally, the communication device 700 is used to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 701 are used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 700 to execute any of the above methods.

[0284] In some embodiments, the communication device 700 further includes one or more transceivers 702. When the communication device 700 includes one or more transceivers 702, the transceiver 702 performs at least one of the communication steps (e.g., S21, S24, S31, S32, S35, but not limited thereto) in the above method, and the processor 701 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., S22, S23, S25, S33, S34, S36, S51, but not limited thereto). In optional embodiments, the transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated together. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0285] In some embodiments, the communication device 700 further includes one or more memories 703 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, one or more processors 701 are used to invoke instructions stored in the memory 703 to cause the communication device 700 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, all or part of the memory 703 may also be located outside the communication device 700. In an optional embodiment, the communication device 700 may include one or more interface circuits 704. Optionally, the interface circuit 704 is connected to the memory 702, and the interface circuit 704 can be used to receive data and / or instructions from the memory 702 or other devices, and can be used to send data and / or instructions to the memory 702 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 704 can read data and / or instructions stored in the memory 702 and send the data and / or instructions to the processor 701.

[0286] The communication device 700 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 700 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 700 may not be limited by FIG. 7. The communication device may be a standalone device or a part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection of one or more ICs, optionally, the IC collection may also include storage components for storing data, programs and / or instructions; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, terminal device, smart terminal device, cellular phone, wireless device, handheld device, mobile unit, vehicle device, network device, cloud device, artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) others, etc.

[0287] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the chip 800 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. For cases where the communication device 1200 can be a chip or a chip system, the schematic diagram of the chip 800 shown in Figure 8 can be referenced, but is not limited thereto.

[0288] Chip 800 includes one or more processors 801. Chip 800 is used to perform any of the above methods.

[0289] In some embodiments, chip 800 further includes one or more interface circuits 802. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, and transceiver pin can be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, chip 800 further includes one or more memories 803 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 803 may be located outside chip 800. Optionally, interface circuit 802 is connected to memory 803, and interface circuit 802 can be used to receive data and / or instructions from memory 803 or other devices, and interface circuit 802 can be used to send data and / or instructions to memory 803 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 802 can read data and / or instructions stored in memory 803 and send the data and / or instructions to processor 801.

[0290] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 802 performs at least one of the communication steps (e.g., S21, S24, S31, S32, S35, but not limited thereto) in the above-described method, such as sending and / or receiving. For example, the interface circuit 802 performing the communication steps (e.g., sending and / or receiving) in the above-described method means that the interface circuit 802 performs data and / or instruction interaction between the processor 801, the chip 800, the memory 803, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 801 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., S22, S23, S25, S33, S34, S36, S51, but not limited thereto).

[0291] The modules and / or devices described in the various embodiments, such as virtual devices, physical devices, and chips, can be combined or separated arbitrarily as needed. Optionally, some or all steps can also be performed collaboratively by multiple modules and / or devices, which is not limited here.

[0292] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a temporary storage medium.

[0293] This disclosure also proposes a program product, including a program and / or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product. Optionally, the program product is stored on the storage medium.

[0294] This disclosure also proposes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: When a first device detects an inter-BSS PPDU (Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between basic service sets, it switches from a first channel to a second channel at a first moment. The first moment is the moment when it is determined that the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU is greater than or equal to the NPCA (Minimum Duration Threshold) for non-primary channel access. The first channel is the primary channel of the BSS in which the first device is located. The second channel is a temporary primary channel for the first device to perform non-primary channel access operations.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: At the second moment, determine whether the duration is greater than or equal to the NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold; Wherein, the second moment is the moment when the first device determines the duration, or the second moment is the moment when the first device detects information containing the duration.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The inter-BSS PPDU includes at least one of the following: Inter-BSS HE PPDU (High-Efficiency Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between Basic Service Sets; Inter-BSS EHT PPDU (Extremely High Throughput Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) between Basic Service Sets; Inter-BSS UHR PPDU (Ultra-Reliable Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) Inter-BSS non-HT PPDU, a non-high-throughput physical layer protocol data unit associated with control frame exchange.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inter-BSS non-HT PPDU includes at least one of the following: Non-HT PPDU for control frames; A non-HT PPDU containing a response frame that responds to the control frame.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, When the inter-BSS PPDU includes the inter-BSS HE PPDU, the inter-BSS EHT PPDU, or the inter-BSS UHR PPDU, the duration is the transmission duration indicated by the transmission opportunity TXOP field included in the inter-BSS PPDU; In the case where the inter-BSS PPDU includes the inter-BSS non-HT PPDU, the duration is the duration jointly indicated by the Rate field and the Length field included in the inter-BSS PPDU.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first device does not communicate between the first time point and the end of the Non-Main Channel Access Switching Delay (NPCA Switching Delay); wherein, the NPCA Switching Delay indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the first channel to the second channel. After the first device switches to the second channel and successfully competes for the channel, it communicates with the second device, which has already switched to the second channel, before the first device switches to the first channel; wherein the second device is associated with the first device.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first device switches from the second channel to the first channel at a third time; wherein the third time is no later than the end time of the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first device sends a first wireless frame, the first wireless frame including first identification information, wherein when the first device is an access point device (AP), the first identification information includes at least one of the following: The second channel; The NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold; The first device's NPCA Switching Delay; The non-primary channel access back-switching delay (NPCA) of the first device; wherein, the NPCA Switching Back Delay indicates the time required for the first device to switch from the second channel to the first channel; When the first device is a site STA device, the first identification information includes at least one of the following: The first device's NPCA Switching Delay; The non-main channel access back-switching delay (NPCA) of the first device.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the first device is a STA, the method further includes: Acquire a second wireless frame sent by the second device, the second wireless frame including second identification information, the second identification information including at least one of the following: The second channel; The NPCA Minimum Duration Threshold.

10. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first radio frame and the second radio frame include the Non-Main Channel Access Operation Information (NPCA) field; The NPCA OperationInformation field in the first radio frame includes the first identification information, and the NPCA Operation Information field in the second radio frame includes the second identification information.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is used to perform the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A communication system, characterized in that, Including the first piece of equipment; The first device is configured to implement the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. A storage medium storing instructions, characterized in that, When the instruction is executed on the communication device, the communication device performs the communication method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

14. A program product comprising at least one of a program and instructions, characterized in that, When at least one of the programs or instructions is executed by the communication device, it implements the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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