Communication method, communication device, and communication system

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method, a communication device, and a communication system. The communication method comprises: determining a first radio frame, wherein the first radio frame comprises first identification information, and the first identification information identifies: a first duration during which a first device occupies a non-primary channel access mechanism (NPCA) primary channel after switching to the NPCA primary channel, and / or a first switching time at which the first device switches from the NPCA primary channel to a basic service set (BSS) primary channel, wherein the first switching time is an end time of the first device occupying the NPCA primary channel; and sending the first radio frame. In this way, the first device can switch back to the BSS primary channel in a timely manner, thereby further improving an NPCA operation procedure and satisfying UHR transmission requirements.

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] Currently, research on Wi-Fi technology includes topics such as Ultra High Reliability (UHR), with the vision of improving the reliability of Wireless Local Area Networks (WLAN) connections, reducing latency, improving manageability, increasing throughput at different signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) levels, and reducing device-level power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This disclosure provides a communication method, communication device, and communication system to further improve the channel access mechanism.

[0004] On one hand, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method applied to a first device, the method comprising:

[0005] A first radio frame is determined; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel;

[0006] Send the first wireless frame.

[0007] On the other hand, this disclosure also provides a communication method applied to a second device, the method comprising:

[0008] When the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and acts as the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device, the second device receives a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration of time after the first device switches to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0009] On the other hand, this disclosure also provides a communication device, which is a first device, the first device comprising:

[0010] A determining module is used to determine a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel;

[0011] The transmitting module is used to transmit the first wireless frame.

[0012] On the other hand, this disclosure also provides a communication device, which is a second device, the second device comprising:

[0013] A receiving module is configured to receive a first radio frame when the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and the second device acts as the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration of time the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0014] On the other hand, this disclosure also provides a communication device, which is a first device, comprising:

[0015] One or more processors;

[0016] The first device is used to execute the communication method described in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0017] On the other hand, this disclosure also provides a communication device, which is a second device, comprising:

[0018] One or more processors;

[0019] The second device is used to execute the communication method described in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0020] This disclosure also provides a communication system, including a first device and a second device;

[0021] The first device determines a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel; and transmits the first radio frame;

[0022] When the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and acts as the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device, it receives a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0023] This disclosure also provides a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the communication method as described in this disclosure.

[0024] In this embodiment of the disclosure, a first radio frame is determined; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the Non-Main Channel Access Mechanism (NPCA) main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel; sending the first radio frame enables the first device to switch back to the BSS main channel in a timely manner, further improving the NPCA operation process and meeting the UHR transmission requirements.

[0025] 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

[0026] 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.

[0027] Figure 1 is an exemplary schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2A is one of the exemplary interaction diagrams of the method provided according to the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of a communication scenario of the method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 2C is a communication schematic diagram of the method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 3 is a second exemplary interactive schematic diagram of the method provided according to the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0032] Figure 4 is a third exemplary interactive schematic diagram of the method provided according to the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0033] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating one of the communication methods provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 6 is a second schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in this embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the terminal proposed in the embodiment of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the chip structure proposed in the embodiments of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0039] This disclosure presents a communication method, communication device, and communication system.

[0040] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method applied to a first device, the method comprising:

[0041] A first radio frame is determined; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel;

[0042] Send the first wireless frame.

[0043] In the above embodiments, by explicitly identifying the time when the device switches back to the BSS primary channel and the duration of the device's occupation on the NPCA primary channel in the first radio frame, the duration of the device's occupation on the NPCA channel and the timing of the switchover are effectively standardized. This mechanism ensures that the device accurately switches back to the BSS primary channel, improves the efficiency of the first NPC device switching from the NPCA primary channel back to the BSS primary channel, further refines the NPCA operation process, and also ensures reliable transmission of the first NPC device on the NPCA primary channel, meeting the UHR transmission requirements.

[0044] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first switching time is the same as, or earlier than, the end time at which the first other basic service set protocol data unit (inter-BSS PPDU) that triggered the first device to switch to the NPCA main channel occupies the BSS main channel.

[0045] In the above embodiments, it is ensured that the first device can switch back to the BSS main channel immediately after performing the NPCA operation, avoiding channel conflicts or improper resource occupation caused by delayed switching. At the same time, this synchronization mechanism can improve communication reliability, avoid transmission delays or packet loss caused by improper switching timing, and improve the overall communication efficiency of the system.

[0046] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following:

[0047] Receive a second wireless frame sent by a second device; the second wireless frame is used to respond to the first wireless frame.

[0048] Exchange frames with the second device;

[0049] At the first switching moment, the system switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0050] Switch to the BSS main channel and compete for channel space in the BSS main channel.

[0051] In the above embodiments, by receiving the response frame from the second device, the first device can promptly obtain the status feedback from the second device and then make subsequent operational decisions. This mechanism ensures signal reliability and avoids communication failures due to lack of acknowledgment. After receiving the second wireless frame sent by the second device, the first device exchanges frames with the second device. For example, it exchanges control frames or data frames to complete the necessary negotiation process and ensure the smooth progress of protocol negotiation and information exchange between devices. By switching back to the BSS main channel in a timely manner, communication conflicts and packet loss problems are reduced, and the resource utilization efficiency among devices within the BSS is improved. After the first device switches to the BSS main channel, it needs to compete with other devices for the right to use the channel. For example, after switching to the BSS main channel, the first device participates in channel competition through the EDCA mechanism to ensure that devices can use the channel fairly and maximize communication efficiency.

[0052] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the first handover time includes:

[0053] The first device completes the channel handover within a first handover delay calculated from the first handover time; wherein, the first handover delay is the time required for the first device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0054] In the above embodiments, the first device completes the channel switching within the first switching delay, ensuring that the first device can switch back to the BSS main channel in a timely manner, thereby reducing communication conflicts and packet loss issues.

[0055] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0056] The first device stops transmitting and receiving operations within the time specified by the first switching delay indicator.

[0057] In the above embodiments, it is ensured that the device will not continue to occupy the NPCA main channel for communication before switching to the BSS main channel, thereby avoiding channel resource contention and unnecessary signal interference.

[0058] Secondly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method applied to a second device, the method comprising:

[0059] When the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and acts as the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device, the second device receives a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration of time after the first device switches to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0060] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following:

[0061] Send a second wireless frame to the first device, the second wireless frame being used in response to the first wireless frame;

[0062] Exchange frames with the first device;

[0063] Determine a second handover time from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; the second handover time is the later of the first handover time and the end time when the second inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device to handover to the NPCA main channel occupies the BSS main channel.

[0064] At the second handover moment, the system switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel;

[0065] Switch to the BSS main channel and compete for channel space in the BSS main channel.

[0066] In the above embodiments, by sending a second wireless frame, the first device can obtain the status feedback of the second device in a timely manner, and then make subsequent operational decisions. After sending the second wireless frame to the first device, the second device exchanges frames with the first device. For example, it exchanges control frames or data frames to complete the necessary negotiation process, ensuring the smooth progress of protocol negotiation and information exchange between the devices, and further improving the reliability of the system. The second switching time will be the later time to switch back to the BSS main channel, that is, to switch back to the BSS main channel at the end of the trigger event of the second device B. Setting the later time as the second switching time can ensure that device B switches back to the BSS main channel at a reasonable time, avoiding transmission failure or packet loss problems caused by inconsistent channel switching timing.

[0067] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the second handover time includes:

[0068] The second device completes the channel handover within a second handover delay calculated from the second handover time; wherein the second handover delay is the time required for the second device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0069] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second device stops transmitting and receiving operations during the time specified by the second switching delay indicator.

[0070] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, when the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and does not receive the first radio frame, the method further includes at least one of the following:

[0071] Determine the third handover time for switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; the third handover time is: the end time when the third inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device to switch to the NPCA main channel ends its occupation of the BSS main channel;

[0072] At the third handover moment, the switch is made from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel;

[0073] Switch to the BSS main channel and compete for channel space in the BSS main channel.

[0074] In the above embodiments, by using the end time of the trigger event as the switching time, the second device can ensure that it switches back to the BSS main channel at the appropriate time, avoiding untimely switching due to different signal durations, thereby avoiding inconsistent channel contention or resource waste.

[0075] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the third handover time includes:

[0076] The second device completes the channel handover within a third handover delay calculated from the third handover time; wherein the third handover delay is the time required for the second device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0077] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second device stops transmitting and receiving operations during the time specified in the third switching delay identifier.

[0078] In the above embodiment, the second device completes the channel handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the third handover time, ensuring accurate handover timing so as to allow sufficient time for subsequent channel contention.

[0079] Thirdly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication device, which is a first device, including at least one of a determining module and a sending module; wherein the first device is used to execute an optional implementation of the first aspect.

[0080] Fourthly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication device, which is a second device, including: a receiving module; wherein the second device is used to execute an optional implementation of the second aspect.

[0081] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication device, which is a first device, comprising:

[0082] One or more processors;

[0083] The first device is used to execute an optional implementation of the first aspect.

[0084] Sixthly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication device, which is a second device, comprising:

[0085] One or more processors;

[0086] The second device is used to execute an optional implementation of the second aspect.

[0087] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a communication system, including a first device and a second device;

[0088] The first device determines a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel; and transmits the first radio frame;

[0089] When the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and acts as the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device, it receives a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0090] Eighthly, 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 optional implementations described in the first and second aspects.

[0091] Ninthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product that, when executed by a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the method as described in the optional implementations of the first and second aspects.

[0092] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in the optional implementations of the first and second aspects.

[0093] Eleventhly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a chip or chip system. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry configured to perform the methods described according to optional implementations of the first and second aspects above.

[0094] It is understood that the first device, the second device, the communication system, the storage medium, the program product, the computer program, the chip, or the chip system described above are all used to perform the methods proposed in the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here.

[0095] This disclosure provides communication methods, communication devices, and communication systems. In some embodiments, the terms "communication method" and "signal transmission method," "wireless frame transmission method," etc., can be used interchangeably, as can the terms "information processing system" and "communication system."

[0096] 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.

[0097] 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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] In the embodiments of this disclosure, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0105] In some embodiments, terms such as "time / frequency" and "time-frequency domain" refer to the time domain and / or frequency domain.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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”.

[0108] 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.

[0109] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0110] 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.

[0111] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0112] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0113] 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.

[0114] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 includes a first device 101 and a second device 102; wherein, the first device is, for example, an access point (AP); when the first device is an AP, the second device is a station (STA).

[0116] In some embodiments, the second device 102 includes, 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, and a wireless terminal device in a smart home.

[0117] Specifically, the second device 102 can be a terminal device or network device with a Wi-Fi chip. Optionally, the second device 102 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.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first device 101 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.

[0119] 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 multi-link communication functions, and non-AP MLD can represent a site that supports multi-link communication functions. For example, in this embodiment of the disclosure, link can represent connection or link; in various embodiments, connection and link can be interchanged.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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 with some association within a specific coverage area. 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 the Access Point (AP) device, and all other STAs in the network are associated with it. Other sites in the BSS network that are not the central site are called terminals, also known as non-AP STAs; terminals and non-AP STAs are collectively referred to as STAs. When describing STAs, it is not necessary to distinguish between terminals and non-AP STAs. Within the same BSS network, due to distance, transmission power, etc., a STA cannot detect other STAs that are far away; they are each other's hidden nodes.

[0123] Figure 2A is one of the interactive schematic diagrams of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2A, the method includes:

[0124] Step 201, the first device 101 determines a first radio frame; wherein, the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: the first duration for which the first device 101 occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the Non-Main Channel Access Mechanism (NPCA) main channel, and / or, the first switching time when the first device 101 switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein, the first switching time is the end time when the first device 101 occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0125] In WLANs, channel busyness or idleness is determined using two methods: Physical Carrier Sensing (PCS) and Virtual Carrier Sensing (VCS). A channel is considered idle only if both PCS and VCS indicate it is. VCS determines idleness by using the Network Allocation Vector (NAV) maintained by the device. The NAV can be understood as a timer defining the duration the channel needs to be occupied. During data communication, the device occupying the channel informs other devices of the occupied channel time via the Duration field in the packet. Devices not acquiring 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 idle. For example, a High Efficiency Station (HE STA) typically maintains two NAVs: the Intra-BSS NAV and the Basic NAV. VCS considers the current channel idle only if both NAV values ​​are 0; otherwise, it considers the channel busy.

[0126] In WLANs, channels are typically divided into primary channels and secondary channels (also called auxiliary channels or secondary channels). 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, for transmission within a BSS with an operating bandwidth greater than 20MHz, the transmission channel for physical protocol data units (PPDUs) includes a 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.

[0127] In the UHR (Unified Network Controller), to further improve channel access and frequency utilization efficiency and transmission efficiency in broadband systems, a Non-Primary Channel Access (NPCA) mechanism is proposed. Channel access refers to the process by which nodes in the network acquire the right to use a channel. 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, there is one primary channel with a bandwidth of 20MHz, and the remaining one or more 20MHz channels are non-primary channels. The primary 20MHz channel is the common channel of operation for stations that are members of the basic service set (BSS). Stations in the BSS can compete for channel resources on the primary 20MHz channel. During channel contention, if an inter-BSS PPDU (Programmable Component Distributed Unit) is detected on the primary channel, it indicates that the primary channel is currently in a busy state (OBSS interference) due to overlapping basic service sets (BSS). In this scenario, devices within the BSS can switch to a non-primary channel and compete for access on the non-primary channel. Devices that successfully acquire the channel can perform frame switching on the non-primary channel to improve the communication system throughput and maximize channel resource utilization.

[0128] Under the NPCA mechanism, on the one hand, an AP supporting NPCA can only advertise one NPCA Primary Channel. The NPCA Primary Channel can be understood as a temporary primary channel under the NPCA mechanism; that is, when the primary channel is busy, NPCA-enabled devices can switch to the temporary primary channel (NPCA Primary Channel) for communication. On the other hand, after switching to the NPCA Primary Channel, NPCA-enabled devices can participate in channel contention through the enhanced distributed channel access (EDCA) mechanism. During this process, the EDCA parameters used by the NPCA Primary Channel in participating in channel contention will be consistent with the EDCA parameters of the BSS Primary Channel, ensuring fair contention and communication efficiency on different channels, thereby optimizing overall channel utilization and transmission performance. For NPCA-enabled site equipment (NPCA STA), after switching to the NPCA Primary Channel, the initial control frame sent during initial frame switching must conform to a specific format specification. Specifically, ICF will transmit in non-high-throughput (non-HT) PPDU or non-high-throughput duplicate (non-HT duplicate) PPDU format, and the data transmission rate will be limited to 4Mb / s, 6Mb / s, 12Mb / s, or 24Mb / s. Furthermore, events that trigger a Wi-Fi device to switch to the NPCA Primary channel include at least two of the following: first, the detection of OBSS control frame exchange on the BSS Primary channel; and second, the detection of OBSS HE PPDU, OBSS EHT PPDU, or OBSS UHRPPDU on the BSS Primary channel.

[0129] However, although the NPCA mechanism can improve channel resource utilization efficiency and avoid competition when the primary channel is busy by switching to the NPCA Primary channel, some problems still exist in practical applications. In particular, when the various devices switching to the NPCA Primary channel occupy the NPCA Primary channel for different durations, if there is a lack of appropriate signaling and procedure specifications, the devices may not be able to accurately synchronize and switch back to the BSS primary channel, resulting in data transmission failure or packet loss.

[0130] In this embodiment, the first device is the Transmission Opportunity Holder (TXOP holder) who switches to the NPCA Primary channel and participates in channel contention to obtain a Transmission Opportunity (TXOP). Specifically, after detecting BSS PPDUs being transmitted in other BSSs, the first device switches from the BSS Primary channel to the NPCA Primary channel and participates in channel contention on the NPCA Primary channel. After obtaining a TXOP, the first device determines and sends a first radio frame, which can be a management frame or an Initial Control Frame (ICF). Management frames include, but are not limited to, beacon frames and probe response frames. Initial control frames include, but are not limited to, Multi-User Request Transmission Trigger (MU-RTS Trigger) frames and Buffer Status Report Poll (BSRP Trigger) frames. The first device carries first identification information in the first radio frame. This identification information indicates the duration (first duration) of the NPCA Primary channel occupied by the first device after switching to the NPCA Primary channel, and / or the first handover time when the first device switches back to the BSS primary channel from the NPCA Primary channel. Specifically, the first handover time refers to the end time when the first device ends its occupation of the NPCA primary channel, that is, the time when the device ends its occupation of the NPCA primary channel.

[0131] This embodiment effectively regulates the duration of device occupancy on the NPCA channel and the timing of handover by explicitly identifying the moment the device switches back to the BSS primary channel and the duration the device occupies on the NPCA primary channel in the first radio frame. This mechanism ensures accurate handover back to the BSS primary channel, improves the efficiency of the first NPC device switching back to the BSS primary channel from the NPCA primary channel, further refines the NPCA operation process, and also ensures reliable transmission of the first NPC device on the NPCA primary channel, meeting UHR transmission requirements.

[0132] In step 202, the first device 101 sends the first radio frame; correspondingly, the second device 102, which has switched to the NPCA Primary channel and is the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device, receives the first radio frame.

[0133] By sending the first radio frame, other devices can be effectively notified of their occupied time on the NPCA Primary channel and the timing of switching back to the BSS Primary channel. This signaling mechanism ensures coordination among multiple devices, avoiding channel contention and communication conflicts caused by inconsistent device switching timing. Especially in the allocation of NPCA Primary channel time, it reduces data transmission failures or packet loss caused by devices failing to return to the BSS Primary channel in a timely manner during switching. Therefore, this embodiment improves timing synchronization during device switching by sending the first radio frame, ensures interoperability between devices, and thus enhances the transmission efficiency and reliability of the entire communication system.

[0134] In some embodiments, the first switching time is the same as, or earlier than, the end time when the first other basic service set protocol data unit (inter-BSS PPDU) that triggered the first device to switch to the NPCA main channel occupies the BSS main channel.

[0135] Specifically, the first handover time is the same as or earlier than the end time of the first Other Basic Service Set Protocol Data Unit (inter-BSS PPDU) that triggered the first device to switch to the NPCA Primary channel and occupy the BSS Primary channel. This means that the first device switches back to the BSS Primary channel before the time when the PPDU that triggered the handover to the NPCA Primary channel occupies the BSS Primary channel, or synchronized with its end time. This ensures that the first device can switch back to the BSS Primary channel promptly after performing the NPCA operation, avoiding channel conflicts or improper resource occupation due to delayed handover. At the same time, this synchronization mechanism can improve communication reliability, avoid transmission delays or packet loss caused by improper handover timing, and improve the overall communication efficiency of the system.

[0136] Step 203: After sending the first wireless frame, the first device may also perform one or more of the following steps 2021 to 2024:

[0137] Step 2021: The first device receives a second wireless frame sent by the second device; the second wireless frame is used to respond to the first wireless frame.

[0138] In this embodiment of the disclosure, by receiving the response frame from the second device, the first device can promptly obtain the status feedback from the second device and then make subsequent operational decisions. This mechanism ensures the reliability of the signal and avoids communication failures due to lack of confirmation.

[0139] Step 2022: After receiving the second wireless frame sent by the second device, the first device exchanges frames with the second device.

[0140] In this embodiment of the disclosure, after receiving the second wireless frame sent by the second device, the first device exchanges frames with the second device. For example, it exchanges control frames or data frames to complete the necessary negotiation process, ensuring smooth protocol negotiation and information exchange between the devices, further improving system reliability. Specifically, during the frame exchange process between the devices, both parties can confirm each other's operating status or data requirements, ensuring smooth communication and avoiding information loss or synchronization problems.

[0141] Step 2023: The first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the first switching time.

[0142] In this embodiment of the disclosure, by switching back to the BSS main channel in a timely manner, communication conflicts and packet loss problems are reduced, thereby improving the resource utilization efficiency among devices within the BSS.

[0143] Step 2024: After switching to the BSS main channel, the first device engages in channel contention in the BSS main channel.

[0144] In this embodiment of the disclosure, after the first device switches to the BSS main channel, the first device needs to compete with other devices for the right to use the channel. For example, after switching to the BSS main channel, the first device participates in channel contention through the EDCA mechanism to ensure that devices can use the channel fairly and maximize communication efficiency.

[0145] In some embodiments, the handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the first handover time includes:

[0146] After the first handover time arrives, the first device completes the channel handover within a first handover delay calculated from the first handover time; wherein, the first handover delay is the time required for the first device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0147] As shown in Figure 2C, the first device is device B. After detecting OBSS PPDU_B (TXOP_B), the first device switches to the NPCA Primary channel (NPCA_P) and exchanges frames with device A. The first radio frame sent by the first device carries first identification information, which indicates the first duration the first device occupies the NPCA primary channel and / or the first handover time when the first device switches from the NPCA primary channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) primary channel; wherein the first handover time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA primary channel. For example, the first identification information is carried in the Duration field of the first radio frame. That is, the first device performs the channel handover operation after the duration indicated in the Duration field of the initial control frame ends. Optionally, the channel handover operation is completed within the time indicated by the first handover delay (switch back delay_B) specified by the first device.

[0148] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0149] The first device stops transmitting and receiving operations within the time specified by the first switching delay indicator.

[0150] In other words, the transmit and receive operations are stopped within the time period marked by the first switchback delay (B) in Figure 2C. This ensures that the device will not continue to occupy the NPCA main channel for communication before switching to the BSS main channel, thereby avoiding channel resource contention and unnecessary signal interference.

[0151] 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", "symbol", "codebook", "codeword", "codepoint", "bit", "data", "program", and "chip" can be used interchangeably.

[0152] 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.”

[0153] In some embodiments, terms such as wireless access scheme and waveform can be used interchangeably.

[0154] 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.

[0155] 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.

[0156] 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.

[0157] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps 201 to 203. For example, step 201 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, step 202 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, step 203 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, steps 201+202 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, steps 202+203 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, and steps 202+202+203 may be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0158] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0159] 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 embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method, which includes:

[0160] Step 301: The first device 101 sends the first wireless frame.

[0161] By sending the first radio frame, other devices can be effectively notified of their occupied time on the NPCA Primary channel and the timing of switching back to the BSS Primary channel. This signaling mechanism ensures coordination among multiple devices, avoiding channel contention and communication conflicts caused by inconsistent device switching timing.

[0162] Step 302: When the second device 102 switches to the NPCA main channel and the second device 102 acts as the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device 101, the second device 102 receives a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration of time after the first device 101 switches to the NPCA main channel, and / or the first switching time when the first device 101 switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device 101 occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0163] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first device and the second device belong to the same BSS, and their NPCA Primary channels are the same after handover. The second device, in order to handover to the NPCA Primary channel and participate in channel contention, becomes the receiving device (TXOP responder) of the TXOP held by the first device (TXOP holder). As a TXOP responder, the second device can receive the first radio frame sent by the first device on the NPCA Primary channel.

[0164] Step 303: After receiving the first wireless frame, the second device 102 may also perform one or more of the following steps 3031 to 3034:

[0165] Step 3031: The second device sends a second wireless frame to the first device, the second wireless frame being used in response to the first wireless frame.

[0166] In this embodiment of the disclosure, by sending a second wireless frame, the first device can obtain the status feedback of the second device in a timely manner, and then make subsequent operational decisions. This mechanism ensures the reliability of the signal and avoids communication failures due to lack of confirmation.

[0167] Step 3032: After sending the second wireless frame to the first device, the second device exchanges frames with the first device.

[0168] In this embodiment of the disclosure, after the second device sends a second wireless frame to the first device, it exchanges frames with the first device. For example, it exchanges control frames or data frames to complete the necessary negotiation process, ensuring the smooth progress of protocol negotiation and information exchange between the devices, and further improving the reliability of the system.

[0169] Step 3033: Determine the second handover time from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; the second handover time is the later of the first handover time and the end time when the second inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device 102 to handover to the NPCA main channel occupies the BSS main channel.

[0170] In existing technologies, after a device switches to the NPCA Primary channel, the asymmetry in device distribution, hidden node phenomena, and differences in signal perception may lead to inconsistent signal perception among different devices within the same BSS. As shown in Figure 2B, devices A and B are closer to the BSS2 device, and device C is closer to the BSS3 device. Devices A and B can perceive the BSS2 PPDU being transmitted within BSS2 on the BSS1 Primary channel, while device C, being farther from BSS2, does not perceive the BSS2 PPDU but does perceive the BSS3 PPDU being transmitted within BSS3. Similarly, devices 1 and 2, being farther from BSS3, do not perceive the BSS3 PPDU. Alternatively, device B may not support NPCA operation, while devices A and C support NPCA operation. However, devices A and C may switch to the NPCA Primary channel on the BSS1 Primary channel due to the detection of BSS2 PPDU and BSS3 PPDU, respectively. After successfully competing for the channel on the NPCA Primary channel, either device A or device C may send an initial control frame to the other for initial frame exchange. However, since the events (OBSS PPDU) that trigger their respective NPCA operations are different, the time that each OBSS PPDU occupies the BSS1 Primary channel may also be different. This phenomenon can lead to interoperability issues between transceivers on the NPCA Primary channel. For example, device A switches to the NPCA Primary channel due to trigger event 1, and device B switches to the NPCA Primary channel due to trigger event 2, with the duration of trigger event 1 occupying the BSS Primary channel longer than that of trigger event 2. When device B acts as a TXOP Responder, without proper signaling specifications, it may switch back to the BSS Primary channel directly after the duration of event 2 expires, causing NPCA Primary channel transmission failure or packet loss. On the other hand, even if device B switches back to the BSS Primary channel, it still cannot communicate on the BSS Primary channel due to OBSS signal interference, especially when device A is an access device. Therefore, for devices supporting the NPCA mechanism that switch to the NPCA Primary channel as TXOP Responders, how to ensure reliable transmission on the NPCA Primary channel and how to switch back to the BSS Primary channel in a timely manner without causing NPCA Primary channel transmission failure or packet loss require further specification in signaling and procedures.

[0171] In this embodiment of the disclosure, after the second device receives the first radio frame sent by the first device, it determines a second handover time from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel. This time is determined by the later of two times: the first handover time and the end time of the second inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device's handover to the NPCA main channel, whichever is later. For example, suppose the first device A, after handover to the NPCA main channel, sends the first radio frame, indicating that it will switch back to the BSS main channel at the first handover time (e.g., the end time of device A's occupation of the NPCA main channel). The second device B also handovers to the NPCA main channel, but its triggering event (e.g., the second device B detects an OBSS PPDU from BSS2) ends later than the first device A's first handover time. In this case, the later time will be used to switch back to the BSS main channel, that is, the end time of the second device B's triggering event. Setting the later time as the second handover time ensures that device B switches back to the BSS main channel at a reasonable time, avoiding transmission failures or packet loss caused by inconsistent channel handover timing. This standard enables more precise coordination between devices in complex signal environments, ensuring the reliability of data transmission.

[0172] Step 3034: At the second switching moment, the second device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0173] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the second device switches from the NPCA main channel back to the BSS main channel according to a previously determined second switching time. Precise timing control ensures that the second device can complete the channel switch at the appropriate time, avoiding channel contention or data transmission problems caused by inaccurate switching timing.

[0174] Step 3035: After switching to the BSS main channel, the second device engages in channel contention on the BSS main channel.

[0175] In this embodiment of the disclosure, after successfully switching back to the BSS primary channel, the second device begins channel contention to ensure it can obtain appropriate transmission opportunities on the BSS primary channel. This process helps the device effectively manage the resources of the BSS primary channel, ensuring smooth subsequent communication. For example, after switching back to the BSS primary channel, the second device participates in channel contention through the EDCA mechanism.

[0176] In some embodiments, the second handover time, switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel, includes:

[0177] After the second handover time arrives, the second device completes the channel handover within a second handover delay calculated from the second handover time; wherein, the first handover delay is the time required for the first device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0178] As shown in Figure 2C, the second device is device A. After detecting OBSS PPDU_A (TXOP_A), the second device switches to the NPCA Primary channel (NPCA_P) and exchanges frames with device B. Device A switches back to the BSS channel at the later of the first handover time of device B and the end time of OBSS PPDU_A (TXOP_A) duration (TXOP_A Edn). Optionally, the channel handover operation is completed at the time indicated by the second handover delay (switch back delay_A) specified by the second device.

[0179] In some embodiments, the second device stops transmitting and receiving operations during the time specified by the second switching delay indicator.

[0180] In other words, the transmission and reception operations are stopped within the time period indicated by the second switching delay (switch back delay_A) in Figure 2C. This ensures that the device will not continue to occupy the NPCA main channel for communication before switching to the BSS main channel, thereby avoiding channel resource contention and unnecessary signal interference.

[0181] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps 301 to 303. For example, step 301 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, step 302 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, step 303 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, steps 301+302 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, steps 302+303 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, and steps 302+302+303 may be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0182] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0183] Figure 4 is a third interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4, the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method, which includes:

[0184] Step 401: The first device 101 and the second device 102 switch to the NPCA main channel to compete for channel.

[0185] In this embodiment, there can be multiple second devices. After switching to the NPCA Primary channel, the second device may act as the TXOP responder of the first device, or it may not receive a TXOP and may not receive any radio frames. Furthermore, the inter-BSS PPDU that triggers the first and second devices to switch to the NPCA Primary channel may be the same PPDU or they may be different. When the inter-BSS PPDUs are different, the order in which each device detects its own inter-BSS PPDU is not restricted.

[0186] Step 402, the first device 101 determines the first wireless frame.

[0187] Wherein, after the first device switches to the NPCA Primary channel, it participates in channel contention, obtains a TXOP, and determines the first radio frame as the TXOP holder; wherein, the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: the first duration for which the first device occupies the NPCA Primary channel after switching to the Non-Primary Channel Access Mechanism (NPCA) Primary channel, and / or, the first handover time when the first device switches from the NPCA Primary channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) Primary channel; wherein, the first handover time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA Primary channel.

[0188] In step 403, the first device 101 sends the first radio frame; correspondingly, the second device 102, which has switched to the NPCA Primary channel and is the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device, receives the first radio frame.

[0189] By sending the first radio frame, other devices can be effectively notified of their occupied time on the NPCA Primary channel and the timing of switching back to the BSS Primary channel. This signaling mechanism ensures coordination among multiple devices, avoiding channel contention and communication conflicts caused by inconsistent device switching timing.

[0190] Step 404: If the second device 102 does not receive the first wireless frame, perform one or more of the following steps 4041 to 4043:

[0191] Step 4041, the second device determines the third handover time when switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; the third handover time is: the end time when the third inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device to switch to the NPCA main channel ends its occupation of the BSS main channel.

[0192] In this embodiment of the disclosure, if the second device does not obtain a TXOP or receive any radio frames after switching to the NPCA Primary channel, the second device determines a third handover time, where the third handover time is the time when the duration of the inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device's current NPCA operation arrives. At this time, the second device is not participating in TXOP contention, so it chooses to determine the handover time based on the duration of the triggering event (PPDU). By using the end time of the triggering event as the handover time, the second device can ensure that it switches back to the BSS Primary channel at the appropriate time, avoiding untimely handover due to different signal durations, thereby avoiding inconsistent channel contention or resource waste.

[0193] Step 4042: At the third switching moment, the second device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0194] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the second device completes the channel handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the third handover time, ensuring accurate handover timing so as to allow sufficient time for subsequent channel contention.

[0195] Step 4043: After switching to the BSS main channel, the second device engages in channel contention on the BSS main channel.

[0196] In this embodiment of the disclosure, after the second device switches to the BSS main channel, it begins to participate in channel contention in the BSS main channel through the EDCA mechanism to ensure that it can successfully obtain a transmission opportunity on the BSS main channel.

[0197] In some embodiments, the switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the third handover time includes:

[0198] After the third handover time arrives, the second device completes the channel handover within a third handover delay calculated from the third handover time; wherein, the first handover delay is the time required for the first device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0199] As shown in Figure 2C, the second device is device C. After detecting OBSS PPDU_C (TXOP_C), the second device switches to the NPCA Primary channel (NPCA_P). Device C switches back to the BSS Primary channel at the end of the OBSS PPDU_C duration (TXOP_C End). Optionally, the channel handover operation is completed at the time indicated by the third handover delay (switch back delay_C) specified by the second device.

[0200] In some embodiments, the second device stops transmitting and receiving operations within the time specified by the third switching delay identifier.

[0201] In other words, the transmission and reception operations are stopped within the time period indicated by the third switching delay (switch back delay_C) in Figure 2C. This ensures that the device will not continue to occupy the NPCA main channel for communication before switching to the BSS main channel, thereby avoiding channel resource contention and unnecessary signal interference.

[0202] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps 401 to 404. For example, step 401 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, step 402 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, step 403 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, step 404 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, steps 401+402 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, steps 402+403 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, steps 403+404 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, and steps 401+402+403+404 may be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0203] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0204] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating one of the communication methods according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0205] As shown in Figure 5, the above method can be applied to the first device 101, and the method includes:

[0206] Step 501, determine the first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: the first duration for which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the Non-Main Channel Access Mechanism (NPCA) main channel, and / or the first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0207] Step 502: Send the first wireless frame.

[0208] Optionally, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the first switching time is the same as or earlier than the end time when the first other basic service set protocol data unit (inter-BSS PPDU) that triggers the first device to switch to the NPCA main channel occupies the BSS main channel.

[0209] Optionally, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the method further includes at least one of the following:

[0210] Receive a second wireless frame sent by a second device; the second wireless frame is used to respond to the first wireless frame.

[0211] After receiving the second wireless frame sent by the second device, a frame exchange is performed with the second device;

[0212] At the first switching moment, the system switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0213] After switching to the BSS main channel, channel contention occurs in the BSS main channel.

[0214] Optionally, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the step of switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the first handover time includes:

[0215] After the first handover time arrives, the first device completes the channel handover within a first handover delay calculated from the first handover time; wherein, the first handover delay is the time required for the first device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0216] Optionally, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the method further includes:

[0217] The first device stops transmitting and receiving operations within the time specified by the first switching delay indicator.

[0218] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include step 501 or step 502. For example, step 501 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, step 502 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, and steps 501+502 may be implemented as standalone embodiments.

[0219] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0220] Figure 6 is a second schematic flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0221] As shown in Figure 6, the above method can be applied to the second device 102, and the method includes:

[0222] Step 601: When the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and the second device acts as the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device, the second device receives a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration of time after the first device switches to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0223] Optionally, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the method further includes at least one of the following:

[0224] Send a second wireless frame to the first device, the second wireless frame being used in response to the first wireless frame;

[0225] After sending the second wireless frame to the first device, a frame exchange is performed with the first device;

[0226] Determine a second handover time from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; the second handover time is the later of the first handover time and the end time when the second inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device to handover to the NPCA main channel occupies the BSS main channel.

[0227] At the second handover moment, the system switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel;

[0228] After switching to the BSS main channel, channel contention occurs in the BSS main channel.

[0229] Optionally, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the step of switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the second handover time includes:

[0230] After the second handover time arrives, the second device completes the channel handover within a second handover delay calculated from the second handover time; wherein, the second handover delay is the time required for the second device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0231] Optionally, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, the second device stops transmitting and receiving operations during the time specified by the second switching delay identifier.

[0232] Optionally, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the method further includes:

[0233] If the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and the second device does not obtain a TXOP, the second device performs at least one of the following operations:

[0234] Determine the third handover time for switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; the third handover time is: the end time when the third inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device to switch to the NPCA main channel ends its occupation of the BSS main channel;

[0235] At the third handover moment, the switch is made from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel;

[0236] After switching to the BSS main channel, channel contention occurs in the BSS main channel.

[0237] Optionally, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the step of switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the third handover time includes:

[0238] After the third handover time arrives, the second device completes the channel handover within a third handover delay calculated from the third handover time; wherein, the third handover delay is the time required for the second device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

[0239] Optionally, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, the second device stops transmitting and receiving operations during the time specified in the third switching delay identifier.

[0240] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0241] In this embodiment of the disclosure, during NPCA operation, a device that switches to the NPCA Primary channel and successfully competes for the channel sends an initial control frame for initial frame exchange and determines the time to switch back to the BSS Primary channel based on the duration of the received OBSS PPDU. A device that receives the initial frame exchange determines the time to switch back to the BSS Primary channel based on the duration indicated in the initial control frame and the duration the OBSS PPDU that triggered its NPCA operation occupied the BSS Primary channel. A device that does not receive the initial control frame determines the time to switch back to the BSS Primary channel based on the duration of the OBSS PPDU that triggered the current NPCA operation. This ensures reliable transmission on the NPCA Primary channel and improves the efficiency of NPCA devices switching back to the BSS Primary channel, further refining the NPCA operation process.

[0242] For example, when device A detects inter-BSS PPDU_A on the BSS Primary channel, and the duration of PPDU_A exceeds the threshold for performing NPCA operation (pre-notification or negotiation), device A switches from the BSS Primary channel to the NPCA Primary channel (pre-notification or negotiation). Similarly, devices B and C switch to the NPCA Primary channel due to inter-BSS PPDU_B and inter-BSS PPDU_C, respectively. Devices A, B, and C belong to the same BSS, and their switched NPCA Primary channels are identical. It can be understood that device A is equivalent to the second device capable of receiving the initial control frame described in the above embodiments, device B is equivalent to the first device described in the above embodiments, and device C is equivalent to the second device that does not receive the initial control frame described in the above embodiments.

[0243] This disclosure uses the following examples: Device B obtains a TXOP after switching to the NPCA Primary channel and acts as the TXOP Holder; Device A, after switching to the NPCA Primary channel, acts as the receiver of the TXOP held by Device B; and Device C, after switching to the NPCA Primary channel, neither obtains a TXOP nor receives any radio frames. Multiple Device A and multiple Device C may exist. Inter-BSS PPDU_B and inter-BSS PPDU_C may be the same PPDU as inter-BSS PPDU_A, or they may be different. When the inter-BSS PPDUs are different, the order in which each device detects its own inter-BSS PPDU is not restricted.

[0244] In some embodiments, device B switches to the NPCA Primary channel and successfully competes for the channel, then sends an initial control frame (first radio frame) to device A. The Duration field in the first radio frame is set to a first duration. Optionally, the end time of the first duration does not exceed the end time of the inter-BSS PPDU duration that triggered this NPCA operation, i.e., the expiration time of the inter-BSS PPDU_B occupying the BSS Primary channel.

[0245] In some embodiments, after receiving the first wireless frame, device A may perform one or more of the following operations:

[0246] Send an initial response frame (second radio frame) to device B;

[0247] After sending the second wireless frame, a frame exchange is performed with device B;

[0248] Determine the first handover time from the NPCA Primary channel to the BSS Primary channel. The first handover time is the later of the two times: the end time of the first duration in the received first radio frame and the expiration time of the Inter-BSS PPDU_A duration that triggered device A's current NPCA operation.

[0249] At the first handover time, the system initially switches from the NPCA Primary channel to the BSS Primary channel. It then switches back to the BSS Primary channel within the time specified by switch back delay_A indicated by device A. No transmit or receive operations are performed between the first handover time and the end of the switch back delay_A indicated time.

[0250] After switching to the BSS Primary channel, you can participate in channel contention on the BSS Primary channel.

[0251] In some embodiments, after device B sends the first wireless frame, it may perform one or more of the following operations:

[0252] The second wireless frame sent by receiving device A;

[0253] Upon receiving the second wireless frame, a frame exchange is performed with device A;

[0254] At the second handover time, the device switches from the NPCA Primary channel to the BSS Primary channel within the time specified by switch back delay_B indicated by device B. No transmit or receive operations are performed between the second handover time and the end of the time specified by switch back delay_B. The second handover time is the time at which the first duration in the first radio frame ends.

[0255] After switching to the BSS Primary Channel, you can participate in channel contention on the BSS Primary Channel.

[0256] In some embodiments, after device C switches to the NPCA Primary channel, it may perform one or more of the following operations:

[0257] Participating in channel contention;

[0258] Participate in frame switching;

[0259] At the third handover time, the device switches from the NPCA Primary channel to the BSS Primary channel within the time specified by switch back delay_C indicated by device C. No transmit or receive operations are performed between the third handover time and the end of the switch back delay_C indicated time. The third handover time is defined as the time when the duration of the Inter-BSS PPDU_C that triggered this NPCA operation of device C reaches its end.

[0260] After switching to the BSS Primary Channel, you can participate in channel contention on the BSS Primary Channel.

[0261] 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.

[0262] 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.

[0263] 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).

[0264] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The first device is used to perform any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 7, the first device 700 may include at least one of a determining module 701, a sending module 702, etc.

[0265] In some embodiments, the determining module 701 is configured to determine a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel; and the sending module 702 is configured to send the first radio frame.

[0266] Optionally, the determining module 701 is used to execute at least one of the communication steps (e.g., steps 201, 402, and 501, but not limited thereto) executed by the first device 101 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. The sending module 702 is used to execute at least one of steps 202, 301, 403, and 502, which will not be described in detail here.

[0267] In some embodiments, the determining module can be replaced by the processing module or the processor, and the sending module can be replaced by the transceiver module or the transceiver.

[0268] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The second device is used to perform any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 8, the second device 800 may include a receiving module 801.

[0269] In some embodiments, the receiving module 801 is configured to receive a first radio frame when the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and the second device is the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration of time after the first device switches to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

[0270] Optionally, the receiving module 801 is used to perform at least one of the communication steps (e.g., steps 202, 302, 403, 601, but not limited thereto) performed by the second device 102 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0271] In some embodiments, the receiving module can be interchanged with the transceiver module or transceiver.

[0272] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal 900 (e.g., a user equipment) proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The terminal 900 may be a chip, chip system, or processor that supports network devices in implementing any of the above methods, or it may be a chip, chip system, or processor that supports a terminal in implementing any of the above methods. The terminal 900 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.

[0273] As shown in Figure 9, terminal 900 includes one or more processors 901. Processor 901 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU can 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. Terminal 900 is used to execute any of the above methods.

[0274] In some embodiments, the terminal 900 further includes one or more memories 902 for storing instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 902 may be located outside the terminal 900.

[0275] In some embodiments, the terminal 900 further includes one or more transceivers 904. When the terminal 900 includes one or more transceivers 904, the transceivers 904 perform at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps 202, 301, 302, 403, 502, 601, but not limited thereto), and the processor 901 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., steps 201, 203, 303, 401, 402, 404, but not limited thereto).

[0276] In some embodiments, a transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, etc., may be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc., may be used interchangeably; and the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0277] In some embodiments, terminal 900 may include one or more interface circuits 903. Optionally, interface circuit 903 is connected to memory 902, and interface circuit 903 can be used to receive signals from memory 902 or other devices, and can be used to send signals to memory 902 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 903 can read instructions stored in memory 902 and send the instructions to processor 901.

[0278] The terminal 900 described in the above embodiments may be a user equipment or other communication device, but the scope of the terminal 900 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the terminal 900 may not be limited by FIG. 9. The communication device may be an independent device or a part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) an independent integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a set of one or more ICs, optionally, the IC set may also include storage components for storing data and programs; (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.

[0279] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the chip 1000 proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. For cases where the terminal 900 can be a chip or a chip system, the schematic diagram of the chip 1000 shown in Figure 10 can be referenced, but is not limited thereto.

[0280] Chip 1000 includes one or more processors 1001, which are used to perform any of the above methods.

[0281] In some embodiments, chip 1000 further includes one or more 1003s. Optionally, interface circuitry 1003 is connected to memory 1002. Interface circuitry 1003 can be used to receive signals from memory 1002 or other devices, and interface circuitry 1003 can be used to send signals to memory 1002 or other devices. For example, interface circuitry 1003 can read instructions stored in memory 1002 and send the instructions to processor 1001.

[0282] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 1003 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps 202, 301, 302, 403, 502, 601, but not limited thereto), and the processor 1001 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., steps 201, 203, 303, 401, 402, 404, but not limited thereto).

[0283] In some embodiments, the terms interface circuit, interface, transceiver pin, transceiver, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0284] In some embodiments, chip 1000 further includes one or more memories 1002 for storing instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 1002 may be located outside of chip 1000.

[0285] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a terminal 900, cause the terminal 900 to perform any of the methods described above. 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.

[0286] This disclosure also proposes a program product that, when executed by terminal 900, causes terminal 900 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product.

[0287] 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 applied to a first device, characterized in that, include: A first radio frame is determined; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel; Send the first wireless frame.

2. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first handover time is the same as, or earlier than, the end time when the first other basic service set protocol data unit (inter-BSS PPDU) that triggered the first device to switch to the NPCA main channel occupies the BSS main channel.

3. The communication method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes at least one of the following: Receive a second wireless frame sent by a second device; the second wireless frame is used to respond to the first wireless frame. Exchange frames with the second device; At the first switching moment, the system switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel. Switch to the BSS main channel and compete for channel space in the BSS main channel.

4. The communication method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the first switching time includes: The first device completes the channel handover within a first handover delay after the first handover time; wherein the first handover delay is the time required for the first device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

5. The communication method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first device stops transmitting and receiving operations within the time specified by the first switching delay indicator.

6. A communication method applied to a second device, characterized in that, include: When the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and the second device acts as the receiver of the transmission opportunity TXOP held by the first device, the second device receives a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration of time after the first device switches to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

7. The communication method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes at least one of the following: Send a second wireless frame to the first device, the second wireless frame being used in response to the first wireless frame; Exchange frames with the first device; Determine a second handover time from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; the second handover time is the later of the first handover time and the end time when the second inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device to handover to the NPCA main channel occupies the BSS main channel. At the second handover moment, the system switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; Switch to the BSS main channel and compete for channel space in the BSS main channel.

8. The communication method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the second handover time includes: The second device completes the channel handover within a second handover delay calculated from the second handover time; wherein the second handover delay is the time required for the second device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

9. The communication method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second device stops transmitting and receiving operations within the time specified by the second switching delay indicator.

10. The communication method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and the second device does not obtain a TXOP, the second device performs at least one of the following operations: Determine the third handover time for switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; the third handover time is: the end time when the third inter-BSS PPDU that triggered the second device to switch to the NPCA main channel ends its occupation of the BSS main channel; At the third handover moment, the switch is made from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; Switch to the BSS main channel and compete for channel space in the BSS main channel.

11. The communication method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The switching from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel at the third handover time includes: The second device completes the channel handover within a third handover delay calculated from the third handover time; wherein the third handover delay is the time required for the second device to handover from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel.

12. The communication method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The second device stops transmitting and receiving operations within the time specified in the third switching delay indicator.

13. A communication device, wherein the communication device is a first device, characterized in that, include: One or more processors; The first device is used to perform the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

14. A communication device, wherein the communication device is a second device, characterized in that, include: One or more processors; The second device is used to perform the communication method according to any one of claims 6 to 12.

15. A communication system, characterized in that, Including the first device and the second device; The first device determines a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the Basic Service Set (BSS) main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel; and transmits the first radio frame; When the second device switches to the NPCA main channel and acts as the receiver of the TXOP held by the first device, it receives a first radio frame; wherein the first radio frame includes first identification information, the first identification information identifying: a first duration during which the first device occupies the NPCA main channel after switching to the NPCA main channel, and / or a first switching time when the first device switches from the NPCA main channel to the BSS main channel; wherein the first switching time is the end time when the first device occupies the NPCA main channel.

16. 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 5, or performs the communication method as described in any one of claims 6 to 12.

17. 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 a communication device, it implements the communication method of any one of claims 1 to 5, or the communication method of any one of claims 6 to 12.

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