Information transmission method, communication apparatus, and storage medium

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of communications, and provides an information transmission method, a communication apparatus, and a storage medium, improving the flexibility of a station camping on a non-primary channel to jump back to a primary channel, so as to enable relatively reasonable use of channel resources. The method comprises: a first station receives a first frame from a second station camping on a primary channel, wherein the first frame comprises first information, and the first information is used for indicating that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and a station associated with the second station. In response to the first information, the first station is triggered to jump to the primary channel, and transmits a second frame to a station associated with the first station, wherein the second frame comprises the first information, and the first information is used for triggering the station receiving the first information to jump to the primary channel.

Description

Information transmission methods, communication devices and storage media

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510129533.8, filed on January 27, 2025, entitled "Information Transmission Method, Communication Device and Storage Medium", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, specifically to an information transmission method, communication device, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0003] With the development of communication technology, non-primary channel access (NPCA) can be combined with cooperative restricted-target wake time (C-rTWT). C-rTWT-based NPCA means that at the beginning of the rTWT, stations within the BSS hop to the non-primary channel; at the end of the rTWT, stations within the BSS hop back to the primary channel. Therefore, the time for stations within the BSS to hop back to the primary channel is fixed, i.e., the end of the rTWT. This can easily lead to unreasonable use of channel resources. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of this application provide an information transmission method, communication device, and storage medium, which improve the flexibility of stations residing on non-main channels to switch back to the main channel, thereby enabling more rational use of channel resources.

[0005] Firstly, an information transmission method is provided. This method can be executed by a first station, or by a component of the first station, such as a processor, chip, or chip system of the first station, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the first station. The first station is a station residing on a non-main channel. The following description uses the method executed by the first station as an example. The information transmission method includes: the first station receiving a first frame from a second station residing on the main channel, and sending a second frame to a station associated with the first station; wherein the first frame includes first information, and the second frame also includes first information, the first information indicating that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station, and the first information triggering the station receiving the first information to switch to the main channel. In response to the first information, the first station triggers itself to switch to the main channel.

[0006] In the information transmission method provided in this application embodiment, a second station residing on the main channel can promptly notify the first station via first information included in the first frame, even when there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated stations. The second station can also promptly notify its associated stations via first information included in the second frame. The first information triggers the station receiving the first information to switch to the main channel. Therefore, both the first station and its associated stations can respond to the first information and promptly switch back to the main channel. In other words, the information transmission method provided in this application embodiment can flexibly trigger the first station and its associated stations to switch back to the main channel via the first information, rather than requiring a fixed time (e.g., the end time of rTWT). This improves the flexibility of stations residing on non-main channels switching back to the main channel, enabling more efficient use of channel resources.

[0007] In conjunction with the first aspect above, in one possible implementation, the method provided in this application embodiment further includes: the first station sending a third frame to the second station, the third frame being used to query whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and a station associated with the second station.

[0008] In other words, the first station can actively query to trigger the second station to send the first frame to the first station. This allows the first station to actively trigger the process of obtaining the first frame, so that the first station can obtain the first frame as early as possible.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect above, in one possible implementation, a third frame is sent to the second station if a first condition is met. The first condition includes at least one of the following: the current time is later than the second time, where the second time is the earliest time at which the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station; the current time is later than the third time, where the third time is the end time of the sub-time period in which the earliest time at which the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station is located, where the sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station; and the current cumulative number of times the third frame has been sent is less than the maximum number of times the third frame is allowed to be sent.

[0010] In other words, the timing and number of times the second station sends the third frame can be limited by setting the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station, the end time of the sub-time period in which the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station, or the maximum number of times the third frame is allowed to be sent. This is to reduce the communication resources used by the first station when the second station and its associated stations transmit data, so as to minimize the impact on the data transmission between the second station and its associated stations.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the first station receives the first frame from the second station before a first moment, the first moment being determined based on the moment when the first station switches to the main channel, which is negotiated between the first station and the second station.

[0012] In other words, when the main channel is available (meaning there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated stations), and the first time has not yet arrived (meaning the time when the first station switches to the main channel based on the time determined by the negotiation between the first and second stations), the first station residing on the non-main channel and its associated stations are promptly notified to switch back to the main channel. This allows the first station residing on the non-main channel and its associated stations to use the main channel for data transmission as early as possible, minimizing the waste of main channel resources and thus maximizing NPCA benefits.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, before the first moment, receiving the first frame from the second station includes: the first station receiving the first frame from the second station at the fourth moment; wherein the fourth moment is determined based on the fifth moment, or the end of the sub-time period in which the fifth moment is located, or the moment when the second station receives the third frame, the fifth moment is the moment when the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed, the sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station, and the third frame is used to query whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station. This further specifies the specific moment when the second station sends the first frame to the first station, so as to facilitate timely cross-BSS signaling interaction and reduce the resource usage of cross-BSS signaling interaction in the BSS signaling interaction.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the first frame includes a buffer status report query frame, a multi-user request frame, a buffer status report frame, a quality of service (QoS) null value frame, or a multi-site block acknowledgment frame. Since the buffer status report query frame, multi-user request frame, buffer status report frame, QoS null value frame, or multi-site block acknowledgment frame have wide applications, reusing these frames in the design of the first frame can improve its applicability. Furthermore, reusing these frames in the design of the first frame requires minimal modification to the first frame and is simple to implement.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the first information is carried in a control information field, a first user information field, or a second user information field in the first frame. The first user information field is a common user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame, and the second user information field is a dedicated user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame. Alternatively, the first information can be carried in the A-control field of a buffer status report frame or a quality of service null value frame; or it can be carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field in a multi-site block acknowledgment frame. This implementation can reuse the implementation logic of other existing information in the control information field, user information field, A-control field, or single associated identifier transmission identifier information field, making it simple to implement.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the method provided in this application embodiment further includes: the first station sending a fourth frame to the second station, the fourth frame being used to indicate that the first frame has been received, so that the second station can clearly know whether the first station has received the first information sent by the second station.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect above, in one possible implementation, the method provided in this application embodiment further includes: the first station receiving a fifth frame from the second station at a sixth time; wherein the sixth time is determined based on the time when the second station receives the fourth frame or the time when the second station sends the first frame, and the fifth frame is used by the second station to restore media synchronization.

[0018] In other words, after the second station receives the fourth frame from the first station or after the second station sends the first frame to the first station, the second station can send the fifth frame to the first station to help the first station restore media synchronization, so that the first station can then reside on the main channel to quickly compete for TXOP for data transmission.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the fourth frame is a multi-site block acknowledgment frame, and the information included in the fourth frame is carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field within the multi-site block acknowledgment frame. Since the multi-site block acknowledgment frame has strong scalability, high compatibility, and requires minimal modification to existing implementations, reusing the multi-site block acknowledgment frame to design the fourth frame can improve its applicability and simplify implementation. Furthermore, the scalability of the multi-site block acknowledgment frame depends on the scalability of the single associated identifier transmission identifier information field; therefore, for the sake of the fourth frame's applicability and implementation simplicity, the information included in the fourth frame can be carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field within the multi-site block acknowledgment frame.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect above, in one possible implementation, the basic service set to which the first site belongs is different from the basic service set to which the second site belongs, so that the information transmission method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to communication scenarios across basic service sets.

[0021] Secondly, an information transmission method is provided. This method can be executed by a second station, or by a component of the second station, such as a processor, chip, or chip system of the second station, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the second station. The second station is a station residing on the main channel. The following description uses the method executed by the second station as an example. The information transmission method includes: the second station sending a first frame to a first station residing on a non-main channel; wherein the first frame includes first information, which indicates that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated stations, and triggers the station receiving the first information to switch to the main channel.

[0022] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the method provided in this application embodiment further includes: the second station receiving a third frame from the first station, the third frame being used to query whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and a station associated with the second station.

[0023] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the second station receives a third frame from the first station. The third frame is triggered for transmission under the condition that a first condition is met. The first condition includes at least one of the following: the current time is later than the second time, where the second time is the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station; the current time is later than the third time, where the third time is the end time of the sub-time period in which the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station is located, where the sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station; and the current cumulative number of times the third frame has been sent is less than the maximum number of times the third frame is allowed to be sent.

[0024] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the second station sends the first frame to the first station before the first moment, and the first moment is determined based on the moment when the first station switches to the main channel, which is agreed upon by the first station and the second station.

[0025] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, before the first moment, a first frame is sent to the first station, including: the second station sending the first frame to the first station at the fourth moment; wherein the fourth moment is determined based on the fifth moment, or the end of the sub-time period in which the fifth moment is located, or the moment when the second station receives the third frame, the fifth moment is the moment when the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed, the sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station, and the third frame is used to query whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station.

[0026] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first frame includes a buffer status report query frame, or a multi-user request frame, or a buffer status report frame, or a quality of service null value frame, or a multi-site block confirmation frame.

[0027] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first information is carried in the control information field, the first user information field, or the second user information field of the first frame. The first user information field is a common user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame, and the second user information field is a dedicated user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame. The first information is carried in the A-control field of the buffer status report frame or the quality of service null value frame. The first information is carried in the single associated identifier transmission identifier information field of the multi-site block acknowledgment frame.

[0028] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the method provided in this application embodiment further includes: the second station receiving a fourth frame from the first station, the fourth frame being used to indicate that the first station has received the first frame.

[0029] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the method provided in this application embodiment further includes: the second station sending a fifth frame to the first station at a sixth time; wherein the sixth time is determined based on the time when the second station receives the fourth frame or the time when the second station sends the first frame, and the fifth frame is used for the second station to restore media synchronization.

[0030] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the fourth frame is a multi-site block acknowledgment frame, and the information included in the fourth frame is carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field in the multi-site block acknowledgment frame.

[0031] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the basic service set to which the first site belongs is different from the basic service set to which the second site belongs.

[0032] The technical effects of the second aspect or any of its implementations can be found in the technical effects of the corresponding implementations of the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0033] Thirdly, an information transmission method is provided. This method can be executed by a station associated with a first station, or by a component of the station associated with the first station, such as a processor, chip, or chip system of the station associated with the first station, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the station associated with the first station. The first station is a station residing in a non-main channel. The following description uses the example of the method being executed by a station associated with the first station. The information transmission method includes: the station associated with the first station receiving a second frame from the first station, the second frame including first information, the first information indicating that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station residing in the main channel and the station associated with the second station; the station associated with the first station responding to the first information triggering the station associated with the first station to switch to the main channel, the first information being used to trigger the station receiving the first information to switch to the main channel.

[0034] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the second frame includes a buffer status report query frame, or a multi-user request frame, or a buffer status report frame, or a quality of service null value frame, or a multi-site block confirmation frame.

[0035] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the first information is carried in the control information field, the first user information field, or the second user information field in the second frame. The first user information field is a common user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame, and the second user information field is a dedicated user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame. The first information is carried in the A-control field of the buffer status report frame or the quality of service null value frame. The first information is carried in the single associated identifier transmission identifier information field of the multi-site block acknowledgment frame.

[0036] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the basic service set to which the first site belongs is different from the basic service set to which the second site belongs.

[0037] The technical effects of the third aspect or any of the implementation methods in the third aspect can be referred to the technical effects of the corresponding implementation methods in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0038] Fourthly, a communication device is provided for implementing the various methods described above. This communication device can be the first site in the first aspect, or any implementation thereof, or a device including the first site, or a device included in the first site, such as a chip; or, the communication device can be the second site in the second aspect, or any implementation thereof, or a device including the second site, or a device included in the second site, such as a chip; or, the communication device can be the third site, or a site associated with the first site in any implementation thereof, or a device including the site associated with the first site, or a device included in the site associated with the first site, such as a chip. The communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the methods described above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the functions described above.

[0039] In some possible designs, the communication device may include a processing module and a transceiver module. The transceiver module, also referred to as a transceiver unit, is used to implement the transmission and / or reception functions in any of the above aspects and their possible implementations. The transceiver module may consist of transceiver circuits, transceivers, transceivers, or communication interfaces. The processing module can be used to implement the processing functions in any of the above aspects and their possible implementations.

[0040] In some possible designs, the transceiver module includes a sending module and a receiving module, which are used to implement the sending and receiving functions in any of the above aspects and any possible implementation methods.

[0041] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor and a memory; the memory being used to store computer instructions, which, when executed by the processor, enable the communication device to be a first station in the first aspect or any implementation thereof, or a device including the first station, or a device included in the first station, such as a chip; or, the communication device to be a second station in the second aspect or any implementation thereof, or a device including the second station, or a device included in the second station, such as a chip; or, the communication device to be a station associated with a first station in the third aspect or any implementation thereof, or a device including a station associated with the first station, or a device included in the station associated with the first station, or a device included in the station associated with the first station, such as a chip.

[0042] A sixth aspect provides a communication device, comprising: a processor and a communication interface; the communication interface being used to communicate with a module outside the communication device; the processor being used to execute computer programs or instructions such that the communication device can be a first station in the first aspect or any implementation thereof, or a device including the first station, or a device included in the first station, such as a chip; or, the communication device can be a second station in the second aspect or any implementation thereof, or a device including the second station, or a device included in the second station, such as a chip; or, the communication device can be a station associated with a first station in the third aspect or any implementation thereof, or a device including a station associated with the first station, or a device included in a station associated with the first station, or a device included in a station associated with the first station, such as a chip.

[0043] A seventh aspect provides a communication device, comprising: at least one processor; the processor being configured to execute a computer program or instructions stored in a memory, such that the communication device may be a first station in the first aspect or any implementation thereof, or a device including the first station, or a device included in the first station, such as a chip; or, the communication device may be a second station in the second aspect or any implementation thereof, or a device including the second station, or a device included in the second station, such as a chip; or, the communication device may be a station associated with a first station in the third aspect or any implementation thereof, or a device including a station associated with the first station, or a device included in a station associated with the first station, or a device included in a station associated with the first station, such as a chip.

[0044] Eighthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a communication device, enable the communication device to perform the methods of any of the above aspects or any implementation thereof.

[0045] Ninthly, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a communication device, enables the communication device to execute any of the above aspects or any implementation thereof.

[0046] In a tenth aspect, a communication device (e.g., the communication device may be a chip or a chip system) is provided, the communication device including a processor for implementing the functions involved in any of the above aspects or any implementation thereof.

[0047] In some possible designs, the communication device includes a memory for storing necessary program instructions and data.

[0048] In some possible designs, when the device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or contain chips and other discrete components.

[0049] It is understood that when the communication device provided by any of the third to sixth aspects is a chip, the aforementioned sending action / function can be understood as an output, and the aforementioned receiving action / function can be understood as an input.

[0050] Eleventhly, an information transmission method is provided, which includes the method of the first aspect or any implementation thereof, and the method of the second aspect or any implementation thereof.

[0051] In a twelfth aspect, a communication system is provided, which includes a first station and a second station as described above.

[0052] In a thirteenth aspect, a computer program product is provided that, when run on a communication device, enables the communication device to execute the method of any of the above aspects or any implementation thereof.

[0053] The technical effects of any of the implementation methods in aspects four through thirteen can be found in the technical effects of the corresponding implementation method in aspect one, and will not be repeated here.

[0054] Among these, any possible implementation methods of any one of the above aspects can be combined, provided that the solutions do not contradict each other. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Figure 1 is an example diagram of a main channel and a non-main channel provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a CSMA / CA mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an interaction between sites provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a TXOP-level NPCA provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an SP-based NPCA provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a possible communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an information transmission method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of at least one sub-time period provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 10 is an example flowchart of an information transmission method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 11 is an example flowchart of another information transmission method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 12 is an example diagram of another information transmission method flow provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0067] Figure 13 is an example flowchart of another information transmission method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of another possible communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0069] To facilitate understanding of the technical solution of this application, the application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0070] The terms "first" and "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used only to distinguish different objects and not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or apparatuses.

[0071] The term "embodiment" as used herein means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0072] In this application, "at least one (item)" refers to one or more, "more than one" refers to two or more, "at least two (items)" refers to two or three or more, and "and / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. "Or" indicates that there can be two relationships, such as only A exists or only B exists; when A and B are not mutually exclusive, it can also mean that there are three relationships, such as only A exists, only B exists, or both A and B exist simultaneously. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c".

[0073] In this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as XX being the receiving end of the information, which can include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission via the air interface from other units or modules. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as YY being the sending end of the information, which can include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY via the air interface from other units or modules. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of a chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of a chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between two stations, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, trace, or interface.

[0074] The following describes the terms used in the embodiments of this application.

[0075] 1. Basic Service Set (BSS)

[0076] A basic service set (BSS) can include one access point (AP) and one or more non-access points (non-APs). In this case, the BSS is an infrastructure BSS. Furthermore, to improve network capacity, multiple BSSs can be deployed in the same area. If the coverage areas of BSSs using the same channel overlap, these multiple BSSs are called overlapping BSSs (OBSS).

[0077] Within an Infrastructure Base Station (BSS), there exists a special site that connects to the distribution system (DS). This special site is the Access Point (AP), while all other sites within the BSS besides the AP are non-APs. Non-APs are associated with APs; all non-APs must connect to the DS through their associated AP, and non-APs cannot communicate directly with each other by default.

[0078] In this application embodiment, the AP or non-AP can be a site not attached to any multi-link device (MLD) or a site attached to an MLD. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0079] 2. Main channel and non-main channel

[0080] The primary channel (PC) refers to the common channel of operation for all stations that members of the BSS. In this application, the primary channel refers to the primary 20MHz channel. Furthermore, the maximum bandwidth that a station in the BSS can transmit and receive can be called the primary operating bandwidth of that station, and the primary operating channel is the operating channel that can accommodate the primary operating bandwidth. For example, assuming the total bandwidth of the BSS is 160 MHz, and the primary operating bandwidth of a non-AP within the BSS is also 160 MHz (i.e., the total bandwidth of the BSS), then the primary operating channel of that non-AP is the operating channel that can accommodate the primary operating bandwidth (i.e., 160 MHz, the total bandwidth of the BSS). Moreover, the bandwidth of the primary operating channel covers the bandwidth of the primary channel.

[0081] Non-primary channels refer to channels other than the primary channels that a station in the BSS can operate. In this embodiment, a channel can also be called a medium, and this embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. For example, Figure 1 is an example diagram of primary and non-primary channels. As shown in Figure 1, taking a 160MHz high-bandwidth channel used by a station in the BSS as an example, this high-bandwidth channel can be divided into eight 20MHz sub-channels. Among these eight sub-channels, the AP can determine which sub-channel is the primary channel based on the BSS configuration information, and the remaining sub-channels are non-primary channels. For example, the third sub-channel in Figure 1 is the primary channel, while the other sub-channels are non-primary channels 1 to 7.

[0082] It should be understood that the channel can also be understood as the corresponding bandwidth, and the embodiments of this application do not impose any limitations on this.

[0083] 3. Carrier-Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance (CSMA / CA)

[0084] Multiple stations may have communication needs within the same space. If multiple stations transmit signals simultaneously, the signals will overlap, causing interference and preventing the receiver from receiving any signal. Therefore, the CSMA / CA mechanism can be used to solve the interference problem caused by multiple stations using the channel simultaneously.

[0085] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the CSMA / CA mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application. The CSMA / CA mechanism is as follows: A station listens to the channel to maintain synchronization with it. When a station has a transmission requirement, if the channel listening result is busy, the station cannot transmit at this time. When the channel listening result is idle, or after a period of time from busy to idle, the station performs random backoff (i.e., continues to wait for a random period of time), and after the random backoff is completed, it uses the channel to transmit data. In addition, if the station detects that the channel is busy again during the backoff period, the station pauses the backoff, that is, it still does not transmit, and continues random backoff after the channel becomes idle.

[0086] For example, Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the CSMA / CA mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, a station with transmission needs listens to the main channel. When the main channel is busy, the station cannot transmit. When the main channel is idle, the station can perform random backoff (i.e., continue to wait for a random period of time), and after the random backoff is completed, it uses the main channel to transmit data. Furthermore, if the station detects that the main channel is busy again during the backoff period, the station pauses the backoff, i.e., it still does not transmit, and continues random backoff after the main channel becomes idle. In addition, stations in the OBSS can transmit through non-main channel 4. Stations in this BSS occupy the main channel. Furthermore, for example, stations in this BSS can also occupy non-main channels 1 to 3, and non-main channels 5 to 7.

[0087] In this embodiment of the application, the listening channel can also be referred to as carrier sensing (CS), and this embodiment of the application does not impose any restrictions on it.

[0088] Furthermore, the aforementioned eavesdropping channels include physical carrier sensing (PCS) and virtual carrier sensing (PCS).

[0089] Physical CS can be implemented by performing energy detection (ED) on the channel. The process of performing ED on the channel is as follows: the station detects the energy generated during air interface transmission on the channel. When the detected energy is greater than the energy threshold, it is determined that air interface transmission exists on the channel, and the channel is thus determined to be busy; otherwise, the channel is determined to be idle.

[0090] Furthermore, for wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) transmission, the physical protocol data units (PPDUs) of other wireless technologies (such as Bluetooth, ZigBee, and cellular) and even the radiated energy may be captured during the channel ED implementation process. Therefore, when the detected energy is greater than the energy threshold, it cannot be determined that there is over-the-air transmission of Wi-Fi PPDUs on the channel. Thus, although ED has low hardware requirements, the accuracy of determining whether the channel is busy through ED is poor.

[0091] Virtual CS can be implemented by performing preamble detection (PD) on the channel. For Wi-Fi transmission, the process of performing PD on the channel can be as follows: The station detects whether there is an over-the-air transmission of Wi-Fi PPDUs on the channel based on the characteristics of Wi-Fi transmission. If an over-the-air transmission of Wi-Fi PPDUs is detected on the channel, the station determines that the channel is busy during the time period corresponding to the TXOP or duration field by decoding the PPDU; and determines that the channel is idle outside the time period corresponding to the TXOP or duration field.

[0092] Upon detecting the over-the-air transmission of a Wi-Fi PPDU on the channel, the Wi-Fi PPDU is decoded to extract necessary information. This necessary information may include a duration field and / or a transmission opportunity (TXOP) field. These two fields indicate how much time is required for the sending and receiving stations to complete frame exchange after the Wi-Fi PPDU transmission is complete. The station receiving the Wi-Fi PPDU can set the corresponding network allocation vector (NAV) based on the duration field and / or TXOP field to ensure that there is no channel contention within the time indicated by the NAV, thereby avoiding interference to both the sending and receiving stations.

[0093] Because PD (Power-On) is more difficult than ED (Engineer-On) , a station can perform ED on the main operating channel (i.e., the maximum bandwidth capable of transmission and reception), while performing PD on the main channel. For example, an 80MHz station performs ED on 80MHz and PD on the main 20MHz channel. A station considers the channel idle only if both the physical and virtual CS (Cycles Response System) results for the channel are idle; otherwise, the station considers the channel busy.

[0094] 4. TXOP

[0095] For WLAN systems, stations can transmit data in units of PPDUs. A station may need to transmit multiple PPDUs to complete a single service interaction. Before the introduction of TXOP, stations had to back off before each PPDU transmission, resulting in low transmission efficiency. The introduction of TXOP allows stations that have completed backoff to efficiently transmit multiple PPDUs.

[0096] The period of time gained after a station completes its backoff is called the TXOP (Turn-Off Period). During the TXOP, adjacent PPDUs (PPDUs received and transmitted by the station, or PPDUs transmitted and received by the station) can be spaced apart for a certain duration; no backoff is required between adjacent PPDUs. This interval between adjacent PPDUs can include, but is not limited to, the short interframe space (SIFS). A station can declare the length of the TXOP at the beginning so that other stations can resolve this length and avoid competing for the channel during that period.

[0097] The station that acquires a TXOP by avoiding contention is called the TXOP holder (i.e., the station that sends the first frame of the TXOP). The station that communicates with the TXOP holder within the TXOP is called the TXOP responder (i.e., the station other than the TXOP holder that participates in the transmission within the TXOP). Both the TXOP holder and the TXOP responder are participants in the TXOP.

[0098] For example, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an interaction between stations provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 3, station 1 is the TXOP holder, and station 2 is the TXOP responder. Within the time limit of the TXOP obtained by station 1, station 1 can send PPDU1 to station 2, and station 2 can reply with PPDU2. Subsequently, station 1 can continue to send PPDU3 and PPDU4 to station 2, and station 2 can reply with PPDU5. PPDU2 can carry an acknowledgement (ACK) frame or a block acknowledgment (BA) frame. PPDU5 can carry an ACK frame or a BA frame. There is a short interframe space (SIFS) between PPDU1 and PPDU2, and an SIFS between PPDU4 and PPDU5. Within the TXOP obtained by station 1, station 3 does not participate in the TXOP, that is, station 3 cannot send PPDUs to avoid interfering with station 1's TXOP. In other words, station 3 cannot actively send PPDUs to avoid interfering with station 1 or station 2. Within the TXOP obtained by site 1, site 4 does not participate in the TXOP, that is, site 4 cannot send PPDU, in order to avoid interfering with the TXOP of site 1.

[0099] 5. Main channel access

[0100] Master channel access refers to a channel access mechanism in which a site needs to access the site based on the virtual CS result of the master channel when performing a contention-based access procedure.

[0101] For example, referring to Figure 1, primary channel access refers to a channel access mechanism that requires access based on the virtual CS result of the primary channel (i.e., the third channel) when executing a contention-based access procedure. In this case, even if the physical CS results of the primary channel and non-primary channels 1 to 7 are idle, the site still needs to access based on the virtual CS result of the primary channel (i.e., the third channel).

[0102] 6. Non-primary channel access (NPCA)

[0103] Before the introduction of the NPCA mechanism, stations could not transmit when the primary channel was busy. However, as station deployments become denser and station bandwidth increases, the spectrum utilization efficiency caused by primary channel access is decreasing. For example, if a station detects the primary channel as busy while all other non-primary channels are detected as idle, the station cannot use the other non-primary channels and must wait until the transmission on the primary channel ends. To improve channel utilization, stations can adopt NPCA.

[0104] NPCA (Non-Primary Channel Access) refers to the ability of a station to switch to a non-primary channel for communication when the primary channel is occupied by the BSS (On-Board Service). For example, if the primary channel is busy, the station can communicate through an idle non-primary channel during the period when the primary channel is unavailable. Before communicating on a non-primary channel, the station can perform a virtual CS (Content Query) on that non-primary channel. The station then performs a physical CS on the NPCA operation channel. If both the virtual and physical CS results indicate that the channel is idle, the station can then connect to the non-primary channel for communication. Without considering P2P transmission, if the primary channel is occupied by the same BSS, the station cannot switch to a non-primary channel, or even if it does, it cannot communicate.

[0105] Furthermore, if the main channel is occupied by the OBSS, stations within the OBSS may communicate through a non-main channel; if the main channel is occupied by this BSS, stations within this BSS cannot switch to a non-main channel, or even if they switch to a non-main channel, they cannot communicate.

[0106] The non-primary channel used for executing virtual CS in NPCA can be called the non-primary channel access-primary channel (NPC), and the NPC can act as a temporary primary channel. The NPC can be within or outside the BSS operating bandwidth. The NPCA operating channel includes the NPC, and optionally, it also includes other non-primary channels. There can be only one NPC within a BSS; in this case, the NPC is the same for all stations within the BSS that have enabled NPCA functionality. Furthermore, in one possible implementation, the NPCA operating bandwidth and NPCA operating channel within a BSS can also be the same; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0107] Furthermore, after a site in the BSS switches to an NPC, the maximum bandwidth that can be used for transmission and reception on the NPC is called the NPCA Operating Bandwidth. The NPCA Operating Channel refers to the operating channel that can accommodate the NPCA Operating Bandwidth. For example, if the total bandwidth of the BSS is 160MHz, and the NPC of the BSS is located within the second 80MHz of the BSS: if the NPCA Operating Bandwidth of the non-AP is 80MHz, then the NPCA Operating Bandwidth of the non-AP is the second 80MHz of the BSS, and the NPCA Operating Channel of the non-AP site is the operating channel that accommodates the NPCA Operating Bandwidth (i.e., the second 80MHz of the BSS); if the NPCA Operating Bandwidth of the non-AP is 160MHz, then the NPCA Operating Bandwidth of the non-AP is the entire bandwidth of the BSS excluding the main channel, and the NPCA Operating Channel of the non-AP site is the operating channel that accommodates the NPCA Operating Bandwidth (i.e., the entire bandwidth of the BSS excluding the main channel).

[0108] Optionally, since "primary channel busy" can trigger a station to switch to a non-primary channel at the start of an OBSS PPDU / TXOP and switch back to the primary channel before the end of the OBSS PPDU / TXOP, the NPCA method of "station switching to a non-primary channel at the start of an OBSS PPDU and switching back to the primary channel before the end of the OBSS PPDU" is called PPDU-based (or level, which is not limited in this application embodiment) NPCA, and the NPCA method of "station switching to a non-primary channel at the start of an OBSS TXOP and switching back to the primary channel before the end of the OBSS TXOP" is called TXOP-based NPCA.

[0109] Alternatively, the NPCA method where "the station switches to a non-primary channel at the start of OBSS SP and switches back to the primary channel before the end of OBSS SP" can also be called SP-based NPCA.

[0110] Furthermore, the NPCA discussed in this application can be categorized into at least three types: PPDU-level NPCA, TXOP-level NPCA, and SP-based NPCA. PPDU-level NPCA refers to a site triggering a jump to the NPC upon detecting an OBSS PPDU on the main channel, but needing to jump back to the PC before the OBSS PPDU transmission ends. The length of the OBSS PPDU can be determined by the length field of the legacy signal (L-SIG) field. TXOP-level NPCA refers to a site triggering a jump to the NPC upon detecting an OBSS PPDU / TXOP on the main channel, but needing to jump back to the PC before the TXOP indicated by the OBSS PPDU / TXOP ends. The TXOP length can be determined by the TXOP field of the physical layer (PHY) header of the PPDU or the duration field of the media access control (MAC) header combined with the length field of the L-SIG field.

[0111] The aforementioned non-primary channels can be allocated by the AP or agreed upon by the sender and receiver. For non-primary channel access, the AP's bandwidth is greater than the non-AP's bandwidth, or the AP's bandwidth is less than the non-AP's bandwidth, or the AP's bandwidth is equal to the non-AP's bandwidth.

[0112] In this embodiment, a station switching from channel A to channel B, or jumping from channel A to channel B, means that the function performed by the station on channel A can also be performed on channel B. The bandwidths of channel A and channel B can be the same or different, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0113] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the TXOP-level NPCA provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 4, a station has transmission requirements. Since the station detects an OBSS TXOP and the main channel is busy, the station can switch to a non-main channel 6. The station performs a virtual CS on the non-main channel 6 and a physical CS on the non-main channel 6. Optionally, it also performs physical CS on other non-main channels. The result of both the virtual CS and physical CS is that the channel is idle. The station considers the channel to be idle and, after successfully backing off on the non-main channel 6, communicates on idle channels including the non-main channel 6. For example, before the TXOP on the main channel ends, the station can switch back to the main 20MHz channel.

[0114] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the SP-based NPCA provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 5, the station camps on non-primary channel 6 during the OBSS SP. The station performs virtual CS on non-primary channel 6 and physical CS on non-primary channel 6. Optionally, physical CS is also performed on other non-primary channels. The result of both virtual CS and physical CS is that the channel is idle. The station considers the channel to be idle and communicates on idle channels, including non-primary channel 6, when there is a transmission demand. For example, the station does not switch back to the primary 20MHz channel before the SP on the primary channel ends.

[0115] 7. Target wake time (TWT) mechanism

[0116] Typically, TWT-like mechanisms can include TWT mechanisms, restricted target wake-up time (rTWT) mechanisms, and cooperative restricted target wake-up time (C-rTWT) mechanisms. The above are exemplary descriptions of TWT-like mechanisms. These mechanisms may also include other mechanisms developed in the future based on TWT technology, and this application embodiment does not impose any limitations on them. The following provides a detailed description of these mechanisms.

[0117] The TWT (Time-Based Wake-Up) mechanism refers to limiting the time a site is in a wake-up state through TWTs. This means scheduling multiple sites to be woken up from power-saving mode at different times to achieve energy conservation. Generally, "TWT" refers to a TWT operation established after successful negotiation between two sites via the TWT mechanism. This can include individual TWTs and broadcast TWTs. Specifically, the TWT requester initiates a "establish TWT" request to the TWT responder, optionally suggesting parameters related to the TWT operation. The TWT responder then confirms these parameters, such as whether the TWT operation was successfully established, the number of Service Providers (SPs) included in the TWT, the start time of the first TWT service period (SP), and the TWT SP period (if needed). After successful TWT establishment, the TWT requester enters a doze state in power-saving mode until the first TWT SP begins. Within the TWT SP, the TWT requester and TWT responder exchange data. As can be seen, the TWT requester and the TWT responder negotiate a time and transmit data within the agreed time range. In this way, the TWT requester can enter a sleep state outside the negotiated time range to achieve energy saving.

[0118] The rTWT mechanism is based on the TWT mechanism. The difference between rTWT and TWT is that rTWT prioritizes the transmission of designated services to meet their low-latency requirements. Specifically, in the rTWT mechanism, the rTWT AP broadcasts an rTWT arrangement, which includes parameters related to the operation, such as the identifier of the service corresponding to the rTWT (i.e., the service prioritized for transmission via the rTWT mechanism), whether the rTWT operation was successfully established, the number of SPs included in the rTWT, the start time of the first rTWT SP, and the period of the rTWT SP. rTWT non-APs can choose to join one or more rTWT arrangements; successful joining signifies a successful establishment of the rTWT between the non-AP and the AP. After successful establishment, within the rTWT SP, the rTWT AP and rTWT non-AP exchange data related to the service corresponding to the rTWT. The C-rTWT AP and C-rTWT non-AP can be sites within the same BSS. It can be seen that the rTWT AP and rTWT non-AP negotiate a time, and then transmit the data for the specified service within the agreed time range.

[0119] In addition, before the start of rTWT SP, non-APs supporting rTWT need to stop preempting TXOPs, and rTWT APs may also stop preempting TXOPs, so that rTWT APs or rTWT non-APs can compete for channels more quickly to carry out data transmission related to the rTWT service.

[0120] The C-rTWT mechanism is based on the rTWT mechanism. The difference between C-rTWT and rTWT lies in that C-rTWT aims to help services corresponding to rTWTs transmitted between sites within an OBSS (Border Area Service) compete for channels more quickly for data transmission. Specifically, in the C-rTWT mechanism, the C-rTWT requester (e.g., the Access Point) initiates a "C-rTWT establishment" request to the C-rTWT responder (e.g., the OBSS AP). The C-rTWT responder then determines one or more parameters involved in the C-rTWT operation, such as the identifier of the service corresponding to the C-rTWT (i.e., the service prioritized for transmission via the C-rTWT mechanism), whether the C-rTWT operation was successfully established, the number of SPs included in the C-rTWT, the start time of the first C-rTWT SP, the period of the C-rTWT SP, and OBSS C-rTWT information. The C-rTWT requester and C-rTWT responder can be sites within different BSSs. It can be seen that the C-rTWT requester and the C-rTWT responder negotiate a time and then allocate communication resources based on cooperation within the agreed time frame.

[0121] After both parties successfully establish C-rTWT, at the start of the C-rTWT SP, one or more APs participating in C-rTWT need to stop preempting TXOPs that were acquired before the start of the first C-rTWT SP. Optionally, the non-APs associated with that AP also need to stop preempting TXOPs, so that one or more other APs participating in C-rTWT and their associated non-AP sites can compete for the channel more quickly to carry out data transmission related to the C-rTWT service.

[0122] It is understood that the known start time and end time (or start time and duration) time periods described in the embodiments of this application can all be referred to as SPs, and the mechanism that can define one or more SPs can be referred to as a TWT-like mechanism. For example, an SP can be a TWT SP used for a large number of business interactions between various sites within OBSS.

[0123] 8. Buffer status report poll (BSRP) / buffer status report (BSR) interaction

[0124] BSRP / BSR interaction refers to a situation where a station can send a BSRP to another station, and the other station can reply with a BSR. Taking one station as an AP and the other as a non-AP as an example, in an AP-non-AP interaction scenario, the AP can send a BSRP to the non-AP, and the non-AP can reply with a BSR to the AP, thus assisting the AP in allocating RUs (Responding Units). The following details the implementation process of BSRP / BSR interaction between the AP and non-AP.

[0125] S101, the AP sends a BSRP to the non-AP. Correspondingly, the non-AP receives the BSRP from the AP.

[0126] For example, the format of BSRP can be as shown in Table 1 below. BSRP may include a frame control field, a duration field, a receiver address (RA) field, a transmitter address (TA) field, a common info field, a user info list field, a padding field, and a frame check sequence (FCS) field. Specifically, the frame control field is 2 bytes long, the duration field is 2 bytes long, the RA field is 6 bytes long, the TA field is 6 bytes long, the common info field is at least 8 bytes long, the user info list field has a variable length, the padding field has a variable length, and the FCS field has a 4-byte length.

[0127] Table 1

[0128] Furthermore, for example, the format of the common info field can be as shown in Table 2 below. The common info field may include the trigger type.

[0129] The following fields are listed: (trigger type) field, uplink length (UL length) field, more trigger frames (more TF) field, CS required field, uplink bandwidth (UL BW) field, guard interval and efficient long training field type (GI and HE-LTF type) field, multi-user multiple-input multiple-output efficient long training field mode (MU-MIMO HE-LTF mode) field, number of HE-LTF symbols and midamble periodicity field, uplink space-time block coding (UL STBC) field, low-density parity extra symbol segment (LDPC) field, access point transmit power (AP Tx power) field, pre-FEC padding factor field, phase coding disambiguity field, uplink spatial reuse (UL spatial reuse) field, doppler field, and uplink efficient signal A2 reservation (UL). One or more of the following fields: HE-SIG-A2reserved, reserved, and trigger dependent common info.For example, the trigger type field is 4 bits long, the UL length field is 12 bits long, the more TF field is 1 bit long, the CS required field is 1 bit long, the UL BW field is 2 bits long, the GI and HE-LTF type field is 2 bits long, the MU-MIMO HE-LTF mode field is 1 bit long, the number of HE-LTF symbols and midamble periodicity field is 3 bits long, the UL STBC field is 1 bit long, the LDPC extra symbol segment field is 1 bit long, the AP Tx power field is 6 bits long, the pre-FEC padding factor field is 2 bits long, the PE disambiguity field is 1 bit long, the UL spatial reuse field is 16 bits long, the doppler field is 1 bit long, the UL HE-SIG-A2 reserved field is 9 bits long, the reserved field is 1 bit long, and the trigger dependent common info field has a variable length.

[0130] Table 2

[0131] Furthermore, the value of the `trigger type` field corresponds to the type of the trigger frame in which the `trigger type` field resides. In other words, the `trigger type` field can indicate whether the trigger frame is a BSRP frame, a multi-user request to send (MU-RTS) frame, or another type of trigger frame. As shown in Table 3 below, when the value of the `trigger type` field is 4, it indicates that the trigger frame in which the `trigger type` field resides is a BSRP frame.

[0132] Table 3

[0133] Furthermore, for example, the format of the user Info field can be as shown in Table 4 below. The user Info field may include associated identifiers.

[0134] The fields include the Association Identifier (AID) 12 field, the Space Stream Allocation / RA-RU Information field, and the Reserved field. The AID 12 field is 12 bits long, the SS Allocation / RA-RU Information field is 6 bits long, and the Reserved field is 1 bit long.

[0135] Table 4

[0136] In addition, BSRP frames and MU-RTS frames have specific requirements for certain fields in the unified format of trigger frames. For example, the common info field of BSRP frames and MU-RTS frames does not carry the trigger dependent common info field, and the user info field does not carry the trigger dependent user info field.

[0137] S102. If the AID value indicated by the AID12 field included in the BSRP field is the AID value of the non-AP, or if the AID value indicated by the AID12 field included in the BSRP field is 0, reply with a TB PPDU on the RU indicated by the BSRP field, or reply with a TB PPDU on the RU obtained through contention.

[0138] The TB PPDU includes at least one frame with a null QoS value. The QoS null frame includes an HT Control field, which in turn includes an A-Control field. The A-Control field can be used for non-AP reporting of BSRs. The HT Control field is 4 bytes long.

[0139] Furthermore, the HT Control field is 32 bits, and with the first and second bits of the HT Control field both being 1, the third to 32nd bits are the A-Control field (30 bits in length). The A-Control field contains a control list field and a padding field.

[0140] The control list field can include one or more control fields. The format of the control field is shown in Table 5 below. The control field can include a control ID field and a control information field.

[0141] Table 5

[0142] 9. BSRP / Multi-Station Block Acknowledgment (Multi-STA blockack) frame interaction

[0143] BSRP / Multi-STA blockack interaction refers to a situation where a station can send a BSRP to another station, and the other station replies with a Multi-STA blockack. In scenarios involving interaction between an AP and a non-AP, the AP can send a BSRP frame to a non-AP, and the non-AP can reply with a Multi-STA blockack to assist the AP in allocating RUs. The following details the implementation process of BSRP / Multi-STA blockack interaction between APs and non-APs.

[0144] S201, the AP sends a BSRP to the non-AP. Correspondingly, the non-AP receives the BSRP from the AP.

[0145] It should be understood that BSRP frames can be understood by referring to the descriptions of the corresponding positions mentioned above, and will not be repeated here.

[0146] S202. If the AID value indicated by the AID12 field included in the BSRP field for a non-AP is the AID value of that non-AP, or if the AID value indicated by the AID12 field included in the BSRP field is 0, then reply with a TB PPDU on the RU indicated by the BSRP field, or reply with a TB PPDU on the RU obtained through contention.

[0147] This TB PPDU includes a Multi-STA blockack frame.

[0148] For example, the format of a Multi-STA blockack frame can be as shown in Table 6 below. A Multi-STA blockack frame may include a block acknowledgment control (BA control) field and a block acknowledgment information (BA information) field.

[0149] Table 6

[0150] Furthermore, bits 1 and 6-9 in the BA control field are reserved bits.

[0151] Furthermore, the BAinformation field includes at least one per AID TID info field, namely the AID TID info field, the block ack starting sequence control field, and the block ack bitmap field.

[0152] As mentioned above regarding "NPCA" and "C-rTWT", NPCA refers to the ability of a station to switch to a non-primary channel for communication when the primary channel is occupied by the OBSS. The C-rTWT mechanism refers to the fact that after both parties successfully establish a C-rTWT, the BSS where one or more APs participating in the C-rTWT are located respects the transmission needs of the BSSs where one or more APs participating in the C-rTWT are located, and stops the current TXOP when the C-rTWT SP arrives, so that the BSSs where other cooperating APs are located can promptly transmit the specified services. The C-rTWT requester and the C-rTWT responder can be stations in different BSSs.

[0153] With the development of communication technology, NPCA can be combined with C-rTWT. For example, SP-based NPCA based on C-rTWT means that at the beginning of the rTWT SP, the stations within the BSS switch to a non-primary channel; at the end of the rTWT SP, the stations within the BSS switch back to the primary channel. Given this, it can be seen that the time for stations within the BSS to switch back to the primary channel is fixed, that is, the end of the rTWT SP. This can easily lead to the problem of unreasonable use of channel resources.

[0154] In view of this, the embodiments of this application provide an information transmission method that can promptly notify each station in the BSS residing on the non-primary channel to switch back to the primary channel when there is no data to be transmitted between the stations residing on the primary channel. This improves the flexibility of the stations residing on the non-primary channel switching back to the primary channel, so as to make more reasonable use of channel resources.

[0155] The following describes the communication system involved in the embodiments of this application.

[0156] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to wireless local area network (WLAN) systems, such as Wi-Fi or ambient power (AMP). For example, the methods provided in this application can be applied to the IEEE 802.11 series protocols, such as 802.11a / b / g, 802.11bf, 802.11az, 802.11bk, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11bn, Wi-Fi 7, Extremely High Throughput (EHT), or next-generation protocols, such as 802.11ad, 802.11ay, Wi-Fi 8, UHR, or next-generation protocols, etc., which will not be listed here. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to wireless personal area networks (WPANs) based on ultra-wideband (UWB) technology. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to millimeter wave (MMW) technology, including integrated millimeter wave (IMMW) technology. For example, the methods provided in this application can be applied to IEEE 802.15 series protocols, such as 802.15.4a, 802.15.4z, or 802.15.4ab, or a future generation of UWB WPAN protocols, or StarFlash, etc., and will not be listed exhaustively. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to the following communication systems, such as Internet of Things (IoT) systems, vehicle-to-X (V2X) systems, narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) systems, long term evolution (LTE) systems, 5th-generation (5G) communication systems, wireless local area network (WLAN) systems supporting millimeter wave (mmwave), WLAN systems supporting ultra-wideband (UWB), WLAN systems supporting sensing, and new communication systems that will emerge in the future development of communication.

[0157] Taking WLAN as an example, WLAN systems can provide high-speed and low-latency transmission. As WLAN application scenarios continue to evolve, WLAN systems will be applied to more scenarios or industries, such as the Internet of Things industry, the Internet of Vehicles industry, the banking industry, enterprise offices, stadiums and exhibition halls, concert halls, hotel rooms, dormitories, wards, classrooms, supermarkets, squares, streets, production workshops and warehouses, etc. Of course, devices that support WLAN communication or sensing (such as access points or sites) can be sensor nodes in smart cities (such as smart water meters, smart electricity meters, and smart air monitoring nodes), smart devices in smart homes (such as smart cameras, projectors, displays, televisions, speakers, refrigerators, and washing machines), nodes in the Internet of Things (IoT), entertainment terminals (such as wearable devices for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), smart devices in smart offices (such as printers, projectors, loudspeakers, and speakers), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) devices, infrastructure in daily life scenarios (such as vending machines, self-service navigation kiosks in supermarkets, self-service checkout machines, and self-service ordering machines), and equipment in large sports and music venues.

[0158] Although the embodiments of this application primarily use WLAN systems as examples, especially networks applied to the IEEE 802.11 series of standards, the various aspects involved in the embodiments of this application can be extended to other networks employing various standards or protocols. For example, Bluetooth, high-performance radio LAN (HIPERLAN) (a wireless standard similar to the IEEE 802.11 standard, mainly used in Europe), and wide area networks (WANs) or other networks now known or to be developed in the future.

[0159] In one possible implementation, the method provided in this application embodiment can be implemented by a station in a communication system. For example, the station can be an access point (AP) or a non-access point station (non-AP).

[0160] An Access Point (AP) is a station with wireless communication capabilities, supporting communication or sensing using the WLAN protocol. It has the ability to communicate or sense other devices (such as non-APs or other access points). Alternatively, an AP acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, primarily connecting various wireless network clients and providing Ethernet access to the wireless network. Or, an AP can function as a special station within a Business Set Service (BSS) to access the Data Center (DS).

[0161] In a WLAN system, an AP can be called an AP station (STA). This AP station, which has wireless communication capabilities, can be a complete device, or it can be a chip, processing system, or functional module installed within the complete device. The device with the chip, processing system, or functional module installed can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application under the control of the chip, processing system, or functional module.

[0162] In this application's embodiments, the AP is a site that provides services to non-APs and can support 802.11 series protocols or subsequent protocols. For example, an AP can be an AP that allows a terminal (such as a mobile phone) to access a wired (or wireless) network, mainly deployed in homes, buildings, and parks, with a typical coverage radius of tens to hundreds of meters. APs can also be deployed outdoors. Another example is that an AP can be a communication server, router, switch, bridge, or other communication entity. Yet another example is that an AP can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations, relay stations, etc. Of course, an AP can also be a chip, processing system, or module in the above-mentioned various types of devices to implement the methods and functions of this application's embodiments; this application's embodiments do not impose any limitations on this. Of course, an AP can also include an AP belonging to a multi-link device (MLD), or a co-located AP, etc.; this application's embodiments do not impose any limitations on this.

[0163] A non-AP is a site with wireless communication capabilities, supporting communication or sensing using the WLAN protocol, and having the ability to communicate or sense other non-APs or access points in a WLAN network. For example, a non-AP is any user communication device that allows a user to communicate or sense with an AP and thus communicate with the WLAN. This non-AP with wireless communication capabilities can be a complete device, or it can be a chip, processing system, or functional module installed in a complete device. The device with the chip, processing system, or functional module installed can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application under the control of the chip, processing system, or functional module. For example, a non-AP can be a wireless communication chip, a wireless sensor, or a wireless communication terminal, and can also be referred to as a user. For example, a non-AP can be a mobile phone supporting Wi-Fi communication, a tablet computer supporting Wi-Fi communication, a set-top box supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart TV supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart wearable device supporting Wi-Fi communication, an in-vehicle communication device supporting Wi-Fi communication, and a computer supporting Wi-Fi communication.

[0164] Of course, non-AP can also be a chip, processing system, or module in the various types of devices described above, thereby implementing the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application. The embodiments of this application do not impose any limitations on this. Of course, non-AP can also include non-APs belonging to MLDs or co-located STAs, etc., and the embodiments of this application do not impose any limitations on this.

[0165] For example, the communication systems to which the methods provided in this application can be applied may include APs and non-APs. For instance, this application can be applied to scenarios in WLANs where communication or sensing occurs between APs and non-APs, between APs, or between non-APs; this application does not limit this application. In one possible implementation, an AP can communicate or sense with a single non-AP, or an AP can communicate or sense with multiple non-APs simultaneously. Specifically, communication or sensing between an AP and multiple non-APs can be further divided into downlink transmission where the AP simultaneously sends signals to multiple non-APs, and uplink transmission where multiple non-APs send signals to the AP. The communication protocols between APs and non-APs, between APs, and between non-APs can support WLAN communication protocols, which may include IEEE 802.11 series protocols, such as 802.11n / 802.11ac / 802.11ax / 802.11be / 802.11bn protocols, and of course, protocols after 802.11bn are also applicable.

[0166] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of an architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication system may include one or more first stations, one or more second stations, and one or more stations associated with the first stations. Optionally, the communication system may also include stations associated with the second stations.

[0167] Figure 6 shows one second site, one first site, and two sites associated with the first site, such as site 1 associated with the first site and site 2 associated with the first site. Among them, the first site, site 1 associated with the first site, and site 2 associated with the first site can be sites in BSS1, and the sites associated with the second site and the second site can be sites in BSS2.

[0168] For example, the method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to communication between a second site and one or more first sites (as shown in FIG6, communication between the second site and the first site), and can also be applied to data communication between a first site and one or more sites associated with the first site (as shown in FIG6, communication between the first site and site 1 associated with the first site, or communication between the first site and site 1 associated with the first site and site 2 associated with the first site).

[0169] It is understood that the example in Figure 6, where the first site is associated with a mobile phone and the first and second sites are associated with routers, is not intended to limit the types of the first site, the first site, and the second site in the embodiments of this application.

[0170] The methods provided in this application embodiment can be applied to, but are not limited to, single-user uplink / downlink transmission, multi-user uplink / downlink transmission, vehicle-to-everything (V2X, where X can represent anything), and device-to-device (D2D). For example, the V2X can include: vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P), or vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication, etc.

[0171] Furthermore, in one possible implementation, the communication system may also include a DS. Typically, the first and second stations can communicate with the DS, while stations associated with the first station cannot communicate directly with the DS.

[0172] It should be understood that the number and type of each device in the communication system shown in Figure 6 are for illustration only, and this application is not limited thereto. In actual applications, the communication system may include more first stations, more second stations, and other devices. This application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0173] In one possible implementation, the first station and the second station in the embodiments of this application may also be referred to as communication devices, which may be a general-purpose device or a special-purpose device. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit this.

[0174] In one possible implementation, the relevant functions of the first or second station in this application embodiment can be implemented by one device, multiple devices working together, or one or more functional modules within a single device. This application embodiment does not specifically limit this. It is understood that the above functions can be network elements in hardware devices, software functions running on dedicated hardware, a combination of hardware and software, or virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform).

[0175] For example, the related functions of the first station and the second station in this embodiment can be implemented by the communication device 710 in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of a possible communication device. It is understood that the communication device 710 includes means of the necessary form, such as modules, units, elements, circuits, or interfaces, to be appropriately configured together to perform this solution. The communication device 710 can be the first station, the second station, or other devices in FIG. 6, or it can be a component (e.g., a chip) in these devices to implement the methods described in the following method embodiments. The communication device 710 includes one or more processors 711. The processor 711 can be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, etc. For example, it can be a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit can be used to control the communication device (e.g., the first station, the second station, etc.), execute software programs, and process data of the software programs.

[0176] Optionally, in one design, the processor 711 may include a program 713 (sometimes also referred to as code or instructions), which can be executed on the processor 711 to cause the communication device 710 to perform the methods described in the embodiments below. In yet another possible design, the communication device 710 includes circuitry (not shown in FIG. 7) for implementing the communication functions in the embodiments below.

[0177] Optionally, the communication device 710 may include one or more memories 712 storing a program 714 (sometimes referred to as code or instructions), which can be run on the processor 711 to cause the communication device 710 to perform the methods described in the following method embodiments.

[0178] Optionally, the processor 711 and / or memory 712 may include artificial intelligence (AI) modules 717 and 718, which are used to implement AI-related functions. AI modules 717 or 718 can be implemented through software, hardware, or a combination of both. For example, AI modules 717 or 718 may include a radio intelligent controller (RIC) module. For example, AI modules 717 or 718 can be near real-time RICs or non-real-time RICs.

[0179] Optionally, data may also be stored in the processor 711 and / or the memory 712. The processor and memory may be configured separately or integrated together.

[0180] Optionally, the communication device 710 may also include a transceiver 715 and / or an antenna 716. The processor 711, sometimes referred to as a processing unit, controls the communication device (e.g., a first station, a second station). The transceiver 715, sometimes referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, or transceiver, is used to implement the transmission and reception functions of the communication device via the antenna 716.

[0181] The information transmission method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figure 8.

[0182] In the following embodiments of this application, the message names, parameter names, or information names between network elements are merely examples, and other names may be used in other embodiments. The methods provided in the embodiments of this application are not specifically limited in this regard. It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, each network element may execute some or all of the steps in the embodiments of this application. These steps or operations are examples, and the embodiments of this application may also execute other operations or variations of various operations. Furthermore, the steps may be executed in different orders as presented in the embodiments of this application, and it is not necessary to execute all the operations in the embodiments of this application.

[0183] Figure 8 illustrates an example of an information transmission method provided in this application. The method is described using the interaction between a first station and a second station, and the interaction between the first station and stations associated with the first station, as examples. Of course, the entity executing the action of the first station in this method can also be a device / module within the first station, such as a chip, processor, or processing unit within the first station; the entity executing the action of the second station in this method can also be a device / module within the second station, such as a chip, processor, or processing unit within the second station; and the entity executing the action of a station associated with the first station in this method can also be a device / module within the station associated with the first station, such as a chip, processor, or processing unit within the station associated with the first station. This application does not specifically limit this. For example, as shown in Figure 8, the information transmission method includes the following steps:

[0184] S801, the second station residing on the main channel (hereinafter referred to as the second station) sends the first frame to the first station residing on the non-main channel (hereinafter referred to as the first station). Correspondingly, the first station receives the first frame from the second station.

[0185] The first frame includes first information indicating that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated station. This first information triggers the station receiving it to switch to the main channel.

[0186] Alternatively, the first information may not involve a triggering function, but may only indicate that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station; or, the first information may also be used to trigger other actions, which is not limited in this embodiment of the application.

[0187] The descriptions of primary and non-primary channels can be found in the descriptions at the corresponding locations mentioned above, and will not be repeated here. Furthermore, non-primary channels that can be hosted can also be referred to as anchor channels, and this application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0188] Optionally, the second station must ensure that the channel used to send the first frame covers the non-primary channel where the first station is camped. If the non-primary channel where the first station is camped is within the channel range configured for the second station, then the channel used by the second station to send the first frame covers the non-primary channel where the first station is camped; if the non-primary channel where the first station is camped is not within the channel range configured for the second station, then the second station must switch to the non-primary channel where the first station is camped and use the non-primary channel where the first station is camped to send the first frame to the first station.

[0189] S802, the first station sends a second frame to the station associated with the first station. Correspondingly, the station associated with the first station receives the second frame from the first station.

[0190] The second frame includes the first information.

[0191] Optionally, the first station may send the second frame to the stations associated with the first station in the form of broadcast; the first station may also send the second frame to the stations associated with the first station in the form of unicast, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0192] For example, the first site can be an access point (AP), while the site associated with the first site is a non-AP. The above is an exemplary description of the first site and the site associated with the first site. The first site and the site associated with the first site can also be other sites, and this application embodiment does not limit them.

[0193] S803, the first station responds to the first information and triggers the first station to switch to the main channel.

[0194] In some possible implementations, the first station may directly trigger the first station to switch to the main channel after receiving the first information, or it may directly trigger the first station to switch to the main channel after receiving the first information and determining that the station associated with the first station has also received the first information. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0195] S804, the station associated with the first station responds to the first information and triggers the station associated with the first station to switch to the main channel.

[0196] In one alternative implementation, if the first station sends the second frame to the station associated with the first station in the form of a broadcast, the station associated with the first station can, upon receiving the second frame, trigger the station associated with the first station to switch to the main channel in response to the first information in the second frame.

[0197] In another alternative implementation, when the first station sends the second frame to the station associated with the first station in the form of unicast, the station associated with the first station can reply with a sixth frame to the first station, and after sending the sixth frame to the first station, trigger the station associated with the first station to switch to the main channel. The sixth frame is used to indicate whether the station associated with the first station has received the second frame.

[0198] In the information transmission method provided in this application embodiment, a second station residing on the main channel can promptly notify the first station via first information included in the first frame, even when there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated stations. The second station can also promptly notify its associated stations via first information included in the second frame. The first information triggers the station receiving the first information to switch to the main channel. Therefore, both the first station and its associated stations can respond to the first information and promptly switch back to the main channel. In other words, the information transmission method provided in this application embodiment can flexibly trigger the first station and its associated stations to switch back to the main channel via the first information, rather than requiring a fixed time (e.g., the end time of rTWT). This improves the flexibility of stations residing on non-main channels switching back to the main channel, enabling more efficient use of channel resources.

[0199] In this embodiment of the application, the "jump" in "jump from channel A to channel B" in the NPCA operation can be understood as a change from performing a function on channel A to performing it on channel B. The specific function should be determined in conjunction with the function of "channel A". For example, "jump from the main 20MHz channel to a non-main channel (20MHz)" in the NPCA operation can be understood as a change from performing PD on the main 20MHz channel to performing PD on the non-main channel.

[0200] Furthermore, the meaning of "staying" in the embodiments of this application corresponds to the meaning of "jumping". For example, "staying" can be understood as "not jumping and still using the channel to complete its function".

[0201] As described above regarding the first and second sites, the first site can be a site residing on a non-primary channel, while the second site can be a site residing on the primary channel. In some possible implementations, the basic service set to which the first site belongs may be different from that to which the second site belongs, and the basic service sets to which the first site belongs and the second site belong may overlap; alternatively, the basic service sets to which the first site belongs and that of the second site may be the same, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0202] Furthermore, in some possible implementations, the first station may be a station residing on a non-primary channel during BSS intra-communication, and the second station may also be a station residing on the primary channel during BSS intra-communication; alternatively, the first station may be a station residing on a non-primary channel during C-rTWT, and the second station may also be a station residing on the primary channel during C-rTWT. The above are exemplary descriptions of other descriptions of the first or second station. The first or second station may also have other descriptions. For example, the first station may be a station residing on a non-primary channel during the C-rTWT SP, which is pre-negotiated and determined by the first and second stations in a C-rTWT-based NPCA scenario, and the second station may also be a station residing on the primary channel during the C-rTWT SP, which is pre-negotiated and determined by the first and second stations in a C-rTWT-based NPCA scenario. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0203] Furthermore, optionally, if the basic service set to which the first site belongs is different from the basic service set to which the second site belongs, the first site can be a C-rTWT responder and the second site can be a C-rTWT requester; or, the second site can be a C-rTWT responder and the first site can be a C-rTWT requester. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0204] For example, the first site can be an AP or a non-AP, and this application embodiment does not limit this. Similarly, the second site can also be an AP or a non-AP, and this application embodiment does not limit this either. The relevant descriptions of AP and non-AP can be understood by referring to the descriptions in the corresponding positions above, and will not be repeated here.

[0205] As described above regarding the first frame, it may include first information indicating that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated stations. However, in addition to the first information, the first frame may also include other information, such as second information, which may be used to indicate which of at least one of the first stations needs to switch back to the main channel. That is, after confirming that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated stations, the second station may designate one or more first stations to respond to the first frame and switch back to the main channel in advance.

[0206] For example, if there are multiple overlapping basic service sets of the basic service set to which the second station belongs, that is, multiple first stations exist, then the second information can be used to specify that some of the multiple first stations respond to the first frame and jump back to the main channel in advance, while the remaining first stations jump back to the main channel at the time when the first station jumps to the main channel as determined by the negotiation between the first station and the second station.

[0207] For example, the second information may include the identifier of each first site in the aforementioned portion of the first sites. The above is an exemplary description of the second information, which may also include other information, such as the identifier of the basic service set to which each first site in the aforementioned portion of the first sites belongs. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0208] In addition, optionally, the second information can be used not only to indicate the first station among at least one first station that needs to hop back to the main channel, but also to indicate the first station to which the main channel where the second station is stationed is to be transferred, so that the first station can station on the main channel; or, the second information can be used to indicate the first station to be stationed on the main channel where the second station is stationed, so that the first station can station on the main channel; or, the second information can be used to indicate the first station among at least one first station that does not need to hop back to the main channel, so that the other first stations can station on the main channel. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0209] Optionally, the description of the second frame can be understood with reference to the description of the first frame. For example, the second frame may also include a buffer status report query frame or a multi-user sending request frame, and the first information in the second frame may also be carried in the control information field, the first user information field, or the second user information field in the second frame. This application embodiment will not elaborate further on this.

[0210] As described above regarding S801, the second station can send a first frame to the first station, enabling the first station to obtain the first frame from the second station. This application embodiment can provide two methods to implement the second station sending the first frame to the first station: Method 1, the second station actively informs the first station of the first frame; Method 2, the first station initiates a first frame acquisition process to the second station, triggering the second station to send the first frame to the first station. The implementation processes of Method 1 and Method 2 are described in detail below.

[0211] Method 1: The second station actively informs the first station of the first frame.

[0212] In Method 1, the second station actively sends the first frame to the first station. Correspondingly, the first station receives the first frame from the second station.

[0213] Understandably, this method provides a way for the second station to actively inform the first station of the first frame, in order to simplify the process of the first station obtaining the first frame from the second station as much as possible, and to reduce the communication overhead of the communication system as much as possible.

[0214] The first frame involved in the embodiments of this application may include one or more types of frames, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this. Optionally, the first frame may be a management frame or a trigger frame. The above is an exemplary description of the first frame. The first frame may also be other frames, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0215] Furthermore, for the first and second stations, they can negotiate the constraints of the first frame in advance. For example, if the SP (Service Point) has not ended, the BSS (Band of Service) of the second station will not use the anchor channel of the BSS of the first station for interaction. Only when the SP ends will the BSS of the second station use the anchor channel of the BSS of the first station. Therefore, the first frame can be any frame within the BSS of the second station that occupies the anchor channel of the BSS of the first station.

[0216] In this method one, the first frame can be understood as an active notification frame. Further, for example, taking the first frame as the trigger frame: the first frame includes a buffer status report query frame or a multi-user request frame.

[0217] In other words, since buffer status report query frames or multi-user request frames have wide applications, reusing them to design the first frame can improve its applicability. Furthermore, reusing these frames requires minimal modification to the first frame and is simple to implement.

[0218] For example, the first frame may also be referred to as an SP notification frame, a notification frame, or an information frame. The above is an exemplary description of the first frame, and the first frame may be referred to by other names in future communication systems. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0219] The buffer status report query frame can be a BSRP. The above is an exemplary description of the buffer status report query frame. The buffer status report query frame may be called by other names in future communication systems, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0220] The multi-user request frame can be MU-RTS. The above is an exemplary description of the multi-user request frame. The multi-user request frame may be called by other names in future communication systems, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0221] Furthermore, for example, taking a first frame including a buffer status report query frame or a multi-user transmission request frame as an example: the first information is carried in a control information field, a first user information field, or a second user information field in the first frame. The first user information field is a common user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame, and the second user information field is a dedicated user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame. That is, the first information can be carried in a control information field, a first user information field, or a second user information field in a buffer status report query frame; or, the first information can be carried in a control information field, a first user information field, or a second user information field in a multi-user transmission request frame. This implementation method can reuse the implementation logic of other existing information in the control information field or user information field, making it simple to implement.

[0222] In addition, the inclusion of the first information in the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user request frame can be indicated by the AID12 field in the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user request frame; or, the inclusion of the first information in the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user request frame can be indicated by the newly defined control ID field and control information field in the A-control field of the BSR frame or the QoS Null frame.

[0223] For example, the control information field can be a common info field. The above is an exemplary description of the control information field, and the control information field may be referred to by other names in future communication systems. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0224] The user information field can be a "user info" field. The above is an exemplary description of the user information field. The user information field may also be called by other names in future communication systems, and this application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0225] The first user information field can also be called a special user information field. The above is an exemplary description of other names for user information fields. User information fields can also have other names, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0226] As described above regarding "NPCA based on C-rTWT," only stations residing on non-primary channels in the BSS can switch back to the primary channel at the end of the rTWT. If a station in the BSS residing on the primary channel actually only uses a portion of the rTWT (or SP) time to complete data transmission, the primary channel remains available for the remaining rTWT (or SP). For the BSS, since the performance of the primary channel is better than that of non-primary channels, stations within the BSS prioritize using the primary channel for data transmission. NPCA benefit refers to the benefit generated by using non-primary channels for data transmission when the primary channel is unavailable. Conversely, failing to use the primary channel for output transmission when it is available wastes primary channel resources, thus reducing NPCA benefit. Therefore, the information transmission method provided in this application embodiment can specify the time range for the second station to send the first frame to the first station.

[0227] Specifically, the second station can send the first frame to the first station before the first time point. Correspondingly, the first station can receive the first frame from the second station before the first time point. The first time point is determined based on the time when the first station switches to the main channel, which is agreed upon by the first and second stations.

[0228] Understandably, when the main channel is available (i.e., there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and the stations associated with the second station), and the first time has not yet arrived (i.e., the time when the first station jumps to the main channel based on the time determined by the negotiation between the first station and the second station), the first station residing on the non-main channel and the stations associated with the first station should be notified in a timely manner to jump back to the main channel. This is so that the first station residing on the non-main channel and the stations associated with the first station can use the main channel for data transmission as early as possible, thereby minimizing the waste of main channel resources and maximizing the protection of NPCA benefits.

[0229] As described above regarding the first moment, in order to maximize NPCA benefits, the second station needs to send the first frame to the first station before the first moment, so that the first station and its associated stations can switch back to the main channel in a timely manner. In other words, the time range for the second station to send the first frame to the first station can be specified using the above method. However, in the information transmission method provided in this application embodiment, the specific time when the second station sends the first frame to the first station can be further specified.

[0230] Specifically, the second station can send the first frame to the first station at the fourth time. Correspondingly, the first station receives the first frame from the second station at the fourth time.

[0231] In this method one, that is, when the second station actively informs the first station of the first frame, the fourth time can be determined based on the fifth time or the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time is located. The fifth time is the time when the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed, and the sub-time period is the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station.

[0232] Furthermore, optionally, taking the fourth time as an example that is determined based on the fifth time, the implementation process of the second station determining the fourth time based on the fifth time may include: the second station takes the fifth time as the starting point, and the time after passing through SIFS is determined as the fourth time.

[0233] The above is an exemplary description of the implementation process of the second station determining the fourth time based on the fifth time. The second station can also determine the fourth time based on the fifth time in other ways. For example, the second station determines the start time of the first TXOP after the fifth time as the fourth time. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0234] Furthermore, optionally, taking the fourth time point as an example where the fourth time point is determined based on the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time point is located, the implementation process of the second station determining the fourth time point based on the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time point is located may include: the second station may take the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time point is located as the starting point, and determine the time after SIFS as the fourth time point.

[0235] The above is an exemplary description of the implementation process of the second station determining the fourth time based on the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time is located. The second station can also determine the fourth time based on the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time is located in other ways. For example, the second station determines the end time of the next sub-time period in which the fifth time is located as the fourth time; or, for example, the second station determines the fourth time based on a specified time in the sub-time period in which the fifth time is located. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0236] Optionally, in a scenario where the target wake-up time is divided into at least one sub-time period, the first station and the stations associated with the first station may perform the aforementioned TXOP truncation operation before the end of each sub-time period in the aforementioned at least one sub-time period. That is, the first station and the stations associated with the first station may stop preempting the TXOP before the end of each sub-time period in the aforementioned at least one sub-time period.

[0237] Alternatively, the first site and its associated sites may not perform the aforementioned TXOP truncation operation before the end of the last sub-time period in at least one of the aforementioned sub-time periods. That is, the first site and its associated sites may not need to stop preempting the TXOPs before the end of the last sub-time period.

[0238] Optionally, since the end time of the first moment and the end time of the sub-time period in which the first moment is located are difficult to be consistent, there will be a time difference between the first moment and the end time of the sub-time period in which the first moment is located. If the channel used by the first station to send the first frame covers both the main channel where the second station is stationed and the non-main channel where the first station is stationed, the second station can compete for the TXOP within the above-mentioned time difference, so that the interaction of the third frame, the first frame, and the fourth frame can be completed based on the TXOP that is won.

[0239] Alternatively, the first frame sent by the second station may only cover the anchor channel of the BSS where the first station is located, but not the main channel of the BSS where the second station is located. That is, the second station can switch to a non-main channel to interact with the first station, and switch back to the main channel after the interaction is completed.

[0240] For sub-time periods, in some possible implementations, the second station can divide the entire target wake-up time between the first station and the second station into at least one sub-time period, or it can divide a portion of the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station (e.g., any SP or at least one specified SP) into at least one sub-time period.

[0241] Furthermore, Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of at least one sub-time period provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 9, taking the division of a SP in the target wake-up time between the first and second stations by the second station to obtain at least one sub-time period as an example, the above-mentioned at least one sub-time period is illustrated. As shown in Figure 9(a), the second station can divide the SP equally to obtain at least one sub-time period (e.g., sub-SP), where each sub-SP in the at least one sub-SP is equal. As shown in Figure 9(b), the second station can divide the SP unequally to obtain at least one sub-time period (e.g., sub-SP), where the sub-SPs in the at least one sub-SP may be unequal. In addition, the second station can also use other division methods to divide the SP to obtain at least one sub-time period, which is not limited in this embodiment of the application.

[0242] The above is an exemplary description of how the second station divides the SP into at least one sub-time period, taking a single SP as an example. The implementation methods for the second station to divide the entire target wake-up time or other parts of the target wake-up time into at least one sub-time period can be understood by referring to the division method shown in Figure 9, and will not be elaborated here.

[0243] For example, the target wake-up time involved in the embodiments of this application can be TWT, rTWT, C-rTWT, or other times. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0244] As described above regarding Method 1, in Method 1, the second station actively informs the first station of the first frame. To ensure the second station can clearly know whether the first station has received the first information actively provided by the second station, the first station can send a fourth frame to the second station, and the second station receives the fourth frame from the first station. This fourth frame indicates that the first frame has been received. Alternatively, the fourth frame can also be used to indicate that the first frame has not been received.

[0245] As described above regarding the first frame, it can be transmitted as a frame. However, the fourth frame can also be transmitted as a frame. Optionally, the fourth frame can be a management frame or a trigger frame. The above is an exemplary description of the fourth frame; it can also be other frames, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0246] Furthermore, optionally, since the fourth frame can be understood as a response message to the first frame, there can be a correspondence between the frame corresponding to the first frame and the frame corresponding to the fourth frame. For example, if the first frame is a management frame, the fourth frame can be an acknowledgement (Ack) frame or other management frame; or, for example, if the first frame is a trigger frame, the fourth frame can be a multi-STA block acknowledgment (M0BA) frame, a QoS null frame, or other trigger frame.

[0247] For example, the multi-site block acknowledgment frame can be M-BA. The above is an exemplary description of the name of the multi-site block acknowledgment frame. The multi-site block acknowledgment frame may also be called by other names in future communication systems, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0248] Furthermore, for example, taking the fourth frame as a multi-site block confirmation frame, the information included in the fourth frame can be carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field in the multi-site block confirmation frame.

[0249] In other words, because multi-site block acknowledgment frames (MSBACs) have strong scalability, high compatibility, and require minimal modifications to existing implementations, reusing MSBACs to design the fourth frame can improve its applicability and simplify implementation. Furthermore, the scalability of MSBACs depends on the scalability of the single associated identifier transmission identifier information field. Therefore, for the sake of the fourth frame's applicability and implementation simplicity, the information included in the fourth frame can be carried within the single associated identifier transmission identifier information field of the MSBAC.

[0250] For example, a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field can be a per AID TID info field. The above is an exemplary description of the name of a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field. A single associated identifier transmission identifier information field may also be called by other names in future communication systems, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0251] For example, the fourth frame may include at least one of the following information: the identifier of the first station, the identifier of the second station, and confirmation information (i.e., information indicating that the first frame has been received). The above is an exemplary description of the fourth frame, and the fourth frame may also include other information, which is not limited in this embodiment.

[0252] In some optional implementations, the first station can send the fourth frame to the second station via unicast or broadcast, so that the second station can receive the fourth frame. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions.

[0253] Furthermore, if the first station broadcasts the fourth frame via broadcast, it can merge the fourth frame with the second frame. For example, it can add the first information to the fourth frame; or it can add information from the fourth frame, such as the first station's identifier, the second station's identifier, and acknowledgment information, to the first frame and broadcast the merged frame. This achieves the effect of the first station notifying its associated stations of the first information while simultaneously replying to the second station that it has received the first frame. The PPDU format corresponding to the merged frame can be parsed by all stations associated with the first station. For example, the PPDU format corresponding to the merged frame is a non-HT duplicate PPDU format.

[0254] As previously mentioned, the first station can switch back to the primary channel from the primary non-primary channel in response to the first frame. However, since the first station previously camped on the primary non-primary channel, it failed to restore media synchronization. This means that even if the first station switches back to the primary channel, it will be unable to compete for the TXOP due to the lack of restored media synchronization, thus preventing it from camping on the primary channel for data transmission. Therefore, after the second station receives the fourth frame from the first station, the information transmission method provided in this embodiment may further include a process to help the first station restore media synchronization: the second station sends a fifth frame to the first station at a sixth time. Correspondingly, the first station receives the fifth frame from the second station at the sixth time. The sixth time is determined based on the time when the second station receives the fourth frame, and the fifth frame is used for the second station to restore media synchronization.

[0255] For example, the fifth frame can be a synchronization frame (Sync). The above is an exemplary description of the fifth frame, but the fifth frame can also be other frames, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0256] Optionally, the sixth time can be determined based on the time when the second station receives the fourth frame and the time offset. Specifically, the second station can take the time when it receives the fourth frame as the starting point, or it can take the time when it finishes receiving the fourth frame as the starting point, and determine the fifth time after the time offset.

[0257] For example, the second station can set the time offset according to the actual situation of the network. For example, the time offset can be set to SIFS, or the second station can negotiate and determine the time offset with the first station. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0258] Understandably, after the second station receives the fourth frame from the first station, that is, after the second station determines that the first station has received the first frame, that is, after the second station determines that the first station and the stations associated with the first station are about to switch back to the main channel, the second station can send a fifth frame to the first station to help the first station restore media synchronization, so that the first station can quickly compete for TXOP for data transmission when it resides on the main channel.

[0259] For example, Figure 10 is an example diagram of an information transmission method flow provided by an embodiment of this application. Taking the fourth time (that is, the time when the second station sends the first frame) as an example, which is determined based on the fifth time (that is, the time when the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed), and taking one of the target wake-up times negotiated by the first station and the second station as an example, the flow of the information transmission method in this method one will be described.

[0260] As shown in Figure 10, at the start of the pre-configuration of the SP, the second station and the station associated with the second station reside on the main channel and can use the main channel to transmit data until the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed. The time when the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed can be recorded as the fifth time.

[0261] The second station starts at the fifth time point, and the time after SIFS is determined to be the fourth time point. At the fourth time point, it sends the first frame to the first station. This fourth time point is before the first time point (e.g., the pre-configured end time of the SP).

[0262] After the first station receives the first frame, the first station can send a fourth frame to the second station to inform the first station that it has received the first frame.

[0263] After the second station receives the fourth frame, the second station can take the moment when the second station completes receiving the fourth frame as the starting point, and determine the time after time offset as the sixth moment. At the sixth moment, the second station sends the fifth frame to the first station to help the second station restore media synchronization.

[0264] After receiving the first frame, the first station can also send a second frame to the stations associated with the first station.

[0265] After the station associated with the first station receives the second frame, the station associated with the first station can trigger the station associated with the first station to switch back to the main channel and send a sixth frame to the first station. The sixth frame is used to indicate that the station associated with the first station has received the first frame.

[0266] For example, Figure 11 is an example diagram of another information transmission method flow provided by an embodiment of this application. Taking the fourth time (that is, the time when the second station sends the first frame) as an example, which is determined based on the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time (that is, the time when the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed) and one SP of the target wake-up time negotiated by the first station and the second station, the flow of the information transmission method in this method one will be described.

[0267] As shown in Figure 11, at the start of the pre-configuration of the SP, the second station and the station associated with the second station reside on the main channel and can use the main channel to transmit data until the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed. The time when the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed can be recorded as the fifth time.

[0268] The second station can determine the end time of the sub-time period containing the fifth time point as the fourth time point, and at the fourth time point, send the first frame to the first station. This fourth time point is located before the first time point (e.g., the pre-configured end time of the SP). Between the fifth time point and the end time of the sub-time period containing the fifth time point, the second station can attempt channel reservation to ensure subsequent data transmission.

[0269] After the first station receives the first frame, the first station can send a fourth frame to the second station to inform the first station that it has received the first frame.

[0270] After the second station receives the fourth frame, the second station can take the moment when the second station completes receiving the fourth frame as the starting point, and determine the time after time offset as the sixth moment. At the sixth moment, the second station sends the fifth frame to the first station to help the second station restore media synchronization.

[0271] After receiving the first frame, the first station can send the first frame to the stations associated with it.

[0272] After the station associated with the first station receives the second frame, the station associated with the first station can trigger the station associated with the first station to switch back to the main channel and send a sixth frame to the first station. The sixth frame is used to indicate that the station associated with the first station has received the first frame.

[0273] For example, the SP involved in the embodiments of this application can be any of the following: TWT SP, rTWT SP, C-rTWT SP, or other types of SP, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this. In addition, the information transmission method described in the embodiments of this application can also be applied to other SP-level multi-site (e.g., SP) collaboration scenarios, and the embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0274] Optionally, in this method one, the first station and the second station may negotiate in advance at least one of the following: whether the second station is allowed to send the first frame to the first station if there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station;

[0275] Whether to allow the second station to send a fifth frame to the first station to help the first station quickly restore media synchronization;

[0276] The second station sends the time offset and other information applicable to the fifth frame to the first station;

[0277] The length of any sub-SP among at least one sub-SP obtained by equally dividing SP;

[0278] The number of at least one sub-SP obtained by equally dividing an SP;

[0279] The length of each sub-SP in at least one sub-SP obtained by unequally dividing SP;

[0280] The number of at least one sub-SP obtained by unequally dividing SP.

[0281] Optionally, the length of each sub-SP in the at least one sub-SP obtained by unequally dividing the SP can also be replaced by the length of each sub-SP other than the last sub-SP in the at least one sub-SP obtained by unequally dividing the SP. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0282] The above is an exemplary description of the information that the first station and the second station can negotiate in advance in this method one. In this method one, the first station and the second station can also negotiate other information in advance, such as whether the second station is allowed to send the first frame to the first station at the fourth time. This application embodiment does not limit this. The fourth time may be related to the fifth time, or the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time is located, or the time when the second station receives the third frame. For a detailed description of the fourth time, please refer to the description at the corresponding position above for understanding, and it will not be repeated here.

[0283] Method 2: The first station initiates the process of acquiring the first frame to the second station, thereby triggering the second station to send the first frame to the first station.

[0284] In Method Two, the first station sends a third frame to the second station, and the second station receives the third frame from the first station. The third frame queries whether there is any data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated stations. In response to the third frame, the second station sends a first frame to the first station, and the first station receives the first frame from the second station. The first frame includes first information indicating that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated stations.

[0285] In this second method, the third frame can be understood as an inquiry frame or query frame, while the first frame can be understood as a reply frame or response frame. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0286] Optionally, the queries involved in the embodiments of this application can be replaced with inquiries or queries. The above is a replacement description of queries, and the queries involved in the embodiments of this application can also be replaced with other descriptions, which are not limited in this application.

[0287] Understandably, this second method provides a way for the second station to send the first frame to the first station by actively querying the first station. This allows the first station to actively trigger the process of obtaining the first frame, so that the first station can obtain the first frame as early as possible.

[0288] In this second approach, the third frame can be understood as a query frame, while the first frame can be understood as a response frame. Furthermore, as an example, the third frame may include a buffer status report query frame or a multi-user request frame.

[0289] Furthermore, for example, taking a third frame that includes a buffer status report query frame or a multi-user request frame as an example: the query indication and other information carried in the third frame are contained in the common information field or the first user information field of the third frame. Additionally, the AID12 field in the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user request frame can also indicate that the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user request frame includes the query indication and other information carried in the third frame.

[0290] In one example, the first frame may include a buffer status report frame (e.g., a BSR frame) or a quality of service null frame (e.g., a QoS null frame).

[0291] Furthermore, for example, taking a first frame that includes a buffer status report frame or a quality of service null frame as an example: the first information is carried in the A-control field of the first frame. Additionally, the first information can also be indicated in the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user request frame by using the newly defined control ID field and control information field in the A-control field of the buffer status report frame or the quality of service null frame.

[0292] Another example is that the first frame includes a management frame or a multi-site block acknowledgment frame (e.g., an M-BA frame).

[0293] Furthermore, for example, taking a first frame that includes a multi-site block confirmation frame: the first information is carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field in the first frame.

[0294] Understandably, since buffer status report frames, quality of service null value frames, or multi-site block acknowledgment frames have wide applications, reusing these frames in the design of the first frame can improve its applicability. Furthermore, reusing these frames in the design of the first frame requires minimal modification and is simple to implement.

[0295] This implementation method can reuse the implementation logic of other existing information such as control information fields, user information fields, A-control fields, or single associated identifier transmission identifier information fields, making it simple to implement.

[0296] Furthermore, in one possible implementation, the process of the first station sending a third frame to the second station can be as follows: Under a first condition, the first station sends a third frame to the second station, and correspondingly, the second station receives the third frame from the first station. The first condition includes at least one of the following: the current time is later than the second time, and the second time is the earliest time at which sending a third frame to the second station is permitted;

[0297] The current time is later than the third time. The third time is the end time of the sub-time period in which the earliest time when the third frame can be sent to the second station is located. The sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station.

[0298] The current cumulative number of times the third frame has been sent is less than the maximum number of times the third frame is allowed to be sent.

[0299] Understandably, the timing and frequency of the second station sending the third frame can be limited by setting the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station, the end time of the sub-time period in which the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station, or the maximum number of times the third frame is allowed to be sent. This is to reduce the communication resources used by the first station when the second station and its associated stations transmit data, and to minimize the impact on the data transmission between the second station and its associated stations.

[0300] Optionally, taking the current time being later than the third time as an example: if the current time is the last sub-time period within at least one sub-time period obtained based on the target wake-up time division between the first station and the second station, then the first station may not send the third frame to the second station.

[0301] For example, the second time and the maximum number of times the third frame can be sent as described in the embodiments of this application can be determined by the first station according to the network conditions, or can be notified by the second station to the first station. The embodiments of this application do not impose any restrictions on this.

[0302] Optionally, the first information can also be used to indicate that there is data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station. In this implementation, if the first condition is subsequently met, the first station can send a third frame to the second station again.

[0303] As described above regarding the first moment, in order to maximize NPCA benefits, the second station needs to send the first frame to the first station before the first moment, so that the first station and its associated stations can switch back to the main channel in a timely manner. In other words, the time range for the second station to send the first frame to the first station can be specified using the above method. However, in the information transmission method provided in this application embodiment, the specific time when the second station sends the first frame to the first station can be further specified, so as to facilitate timely cross-BSS signaling interaction and reduce the resource consumption of cross-BSS signaling interaction on signaling interaction within the BSS.

[0304] Specifically, the second station can send the first frame to the first station at the fourth time. Correspondingly, the first station receives the first frame from the second station at the fourth time.

[0305] In this second method, that is, when the first station triggers the second station to send the first frame through the third frame, the fourth moment can be determined based on the moment when the second station receives the third frame.

[0306] Furthermore, optionally, the process of the second station determining the fourth moment based on the moment when the second station receives the third frame may include: the second station takes the moment when the second station finishes receiving the third frame as the starting point, and determines the moment after SIFS as the fourth moment.

[0307] As previously mentioned, the first station can switch back to the primary channel from the primary non-primary channel in response to the first frame. However, since the first station previously camped on the primary non-primary channel, it did not restore media synchronization. This means that even if the first station switches back to the primary channel, it will be unable to compete for the TXOP due to the lack of restored media synchronization, thus preventing it from transmitting data while camped on the primary channel. Therefore, after the second station receives the fourth frame from the first station, the information transmission method provided in this embodiment may further include a process to help the first station restore media synchronization: the second station sends a fifth frame to the first station at a sixth time. Correspondingly, the first station receives the fifth frame from the second station at the sixth time. The sixth time is determined based on the time when the second station sent the first frame, and the fifth frame is used for the second station to restore media synchronization.

[0308] As can be seen from the above, the difference between the implementation process of the second station helping the first station to restore media synchronization in Method 1 and the implementation process of the second station helping the first station to restore media synchronization in Method 2 is that in Method 1, the sixth moment is determined based on the moment when the second station receives the fourth frame, while in Method 2, the sixth moment is determined based on the moment when the second station sends the first frame.

[0309] For a more detailed description of the fifth frame and the sixth moment, please refer to the descriptions mentioned above regarding the implementation process of the second station helping the first station restore media synchronization in the case of Method 1. These details will not be repeated here.

[0310] It is understandable that after the second station sends the first frame to the first station, the second station can send a fifth frame to the first station to help the first station restore media synchronization, so that the first station can then stay on the main channel to quickly compete for data transmission.

[0311] Furthermore, in this second method, the descriptions of the target wake-up time, at least one sub-time period, truncation operation, and coverage channel, etc., can be understood by referring to the relevant descriptions of the first method above, and will not be repeated here.

[0312] For example, Figure 12 is an example diagram of another information transmission method flow provided by an embodiment of this application. Taking the fourth time (that is, the time when the second station sends the first frame) as determined based on the time when the second station receives the third frame, and taking one SP in the target wake-up time negotiated by the first station and the second station as an example, the flow of the information transmission method in this second method will be described.

[0313] As shown in Figure 12, at the initial time of the SP's pre-configuration, the second station and its associated station reside on the main channel and can use the main channel for data transmission. Provided that the requirements related to the earliest time (i.e., the second time) allowed to send a third frame to the first station are met, the second station can send a third frame based on the second time to inquire whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated station.

[0314] Once the data transmission between the second station and its associated stations is complete, the second station may send the first frame to the first station at a fourth time. Correspondingly, the first station receives the first frame from the second station at the fourth time. This fourth time is determined based on the time when the second station receives the third frame, and this fourth time precedes the first time.

[0315] After the second station can send the first frame to the first station, the second station can take the time when the second station completes receiving the first frame as the starting point, and determine the time after time offset as the sixth time. At the sixth time, the second station sends the fifth frame to the first station to help the second station restore media synchronization.

[0316] After receiving the first frame, the first station can also send a second frame to the stations associated with the first station.

[0317] After the station associated with the first station receives the second frame, the station associated with the first station can trigger the station associated with the first station to switch back to the main channel and send a sixth frame to the first station. The sixth frame is used to indicate that the station associated with the first station has received the first frame.

[0318] For example, Figure 13 is an example diagram of another information transmission method flow provided by an embodiment of this application. Taking the fourth time (that is, the time when the second station sends the first frame) as determined based on the time when the second station receives the third frame, and taking one of the target wake-up times negotiated by the first station and the second station as an example, the flow of the information transmission method in this second method will be described.

[0319] As shown in Figure 13, at the pre-configured start time of this SP, the second station and its associated station reside on the main channel and can use the main channel for data transmission. Provided that the requirements related to the end time of the sub-time period (i.e., the third time) where the earliest time to send the third frame to the second station are met are satisfied, the second station can send the third frame to the first station based on the third time to inquire whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and its associated station.

[0320] Once the data transmission between the second station and its associated stations is completed, the second station sends the first frame to the first station at a fourth time, and correspondingly, the first station receives the first frame from the second station at the fourth time. This fourth time is determined based on the time when the second station receives the third frame, and this fourth time is prior to the first time.

[0321] After the second station can send the first frame to the first station, the second station can take the time when the second station completes receiving the first frame as the starting point, and determine the time after time offset as the sixth time. At the sixth time, the second station sends the fifth frame to the first station to help the second station restore media synchronization.

[0322] After receiving the first frame, the first station can also send a second frame to the stations associated with the first station.

[0323] After the station associated with the first station receives the second frame, the station associated with the first station can trigger the station associated with the first station to switch back to the main channel and send a sixth frame to the first station. The sixth frame is used to indicate that the station associated with the first station has received the first frame.

[0324] Optionally, in addition to the content that the first station and the second station can negotiate in advance in Method 1, in Method 2, the first station and the second station can negotiate in advance at least one of the following: whether the first station is allowed to send a third frame to the second station;

[0325] The earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station;

[0326] The maximum number of times a third frame is allowed to be sent;

[0327] The identifier of the first station that is allowed to send the third frame.

[0328] In one alternative implementation, whether the first station is allowed to send a third frame to the second station can be replaced by whether the first station is allowed to send a third frame to the second station if a first condition is met. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this. The first condition may be related to the earliest time when the first station is allowed to send a third frame to the second station, the end time of the sub-time period containing the earliest time when the first station is allowed to send a third frame to the second station, and the maximum number of times the third frame can be sent. A detailed description of the first condition can be found in the descriptions at the corresponding locations above, and will not be repeated here.

[0329] In some optional implementations, the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station can be determined based on the time difference between the start time and the end time of the SP. Alternatively, the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station can be a preset earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station, and the duration between the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station and the start time or the end time of the SP is determined as a proportion of the total duration of the SP. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0330] Furthermore, in this second method, other related descriptions such as the length of the sub-SP and the number of sub-SPs can be understood by referring to the relevant descriptions in the first method above, and will not be repeated here.

[0331] The above is an exemplary description of the information that the first station and the second station can negotiate in advance in this second method. In this second method, the first station and the second station can also negotiate other information in advance, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0332] Alternatively, the first station and the second station may negotiate in advance based on the channel used for data transmission within the SP. For example, the first station and the second station may negotiate to determine that within the SP, the second station may use the main channel for data transmission with the stations associated with the second station, but may not use the non-main channel where the second station is based for data transmission. After the SP, the second station may also use the non-main channel for data transmission with the stations associated with the second station.

[0333] However, if the second station wants to interact with the first station within the SP, the second station can also switch to a non-primary channel to interact with the first station; and if the first station wants to interact with the second station within the SP, the first station can also switch to the primary channel to interact with the first station, and then switch back to the non-primary channel after the interaction is completed.

[0334] In other words, within an SP, the second station can use the primary channel to transmit data with other stations associated with it (i.e., stations within the BSS to which the second station belongs), while the second station can use a non-primary channel to transmit data with the first station (i.e., stations across BSSs); within an SP, the first station can use a non-primary channel to transmit data with other stations associated with it (i.e., stations within the BSS to which the first station belongs), while the first station can use the primary channel to transmit data with the second station (i.e., stations across BSSs).

[0335] In one possible implementation, the first and second stations can negotiate whether to allow the transmission of the fifth message and / or the timing of such transmission.

[0336] The fifth piece of information is used to indicate that the TXOP holder has no data to be transmitted to the TXOP responder; or, the fifth piece of information is used to indicate that there is no data to be transmitted between the TXOP holder and the TXOP responder.

[0337] In some optional implementations, the time when the fifth information is allowed to be sent can be determined based on the TXOP start time and time offset; or, the time when the fifth information is allowed to be sent can be determined based on the TXOP end time and time offset; or, the time when the fifth information is allowed to be sent can be determined based on the TXOP end time and the proportion of the time between the time when the fifth information is sent and the TXOP end time to the total TXOP duration; or, the time when the fifth information is allowed to be sent can be determined based on the TXOP start time and the proportion of the time between the time when the fifth information is sent and the TXOP start time to the total TXOP duration. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on these aspects.

[0338] Thus, if the TXOP holder completes data transmission with the TXOP responder before the declared TXOP end time, the TXOP holder can broadcast the fifth message on the non-primary channel where the participating OBSS is located at the time when the fifth message is allowed to be sent.

[0339] The aforementioned information transmission method involves the second station and its associated station completing data transmission based on the main channel before the pre-negotiated first station switches back to the non-main channel (i.e., the first moment). However, the second station may still delay completing the data transmission based on the main channel. Therefore, the information transmission method provided in this application embodiment may include the following implementation process:

[0340] The second station sends a seventh frame to the first station. Correspondingly, the first station receives the seventh frame from the second station. The seventh frame includes third information and / or fourth information. The third information is used to indicate the extension of the hop-to-main channel for stations within the pre-configured basic service set to which the second station belongs. The fourth information is used to indicate the extension of the hop-to-main channel for stations within the pre-configured basic service set to which the second station belongs.

[0341] The first station sends the eighth frame to the station it is associated with, and correspondingly, the station associated with the first station receives the seventh frame from the first station.

[0342] For example, the seventh frame can also be called an extension request frame or an SP duration extension request frame. The above is an exemplary description of alternative names for the seventh frame, which can also be called other names, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0343] Optionally, the second station may send a seventh frame to the first station before the second time. Correspondingly, the first station receives the seventh frame from the second station before the second time. The second time is determined based on the time when the first station is triggered to switch to the main channel, which is negotiated between the first station and the second station. This can inform the first station in a timely manner of the time to delay its stay on the non-main channel, so as to avoid the first station switching back to the main channel at an inappropriate time.

[0344] In one example, the seventh frame may include a buffer status report query frame or a multi-user send request frame.

[0345] Furthermore, for example, taking a seventh frame that includes a buffer status report query frame or a multi-user transmission request frame as an example: the third and / or fourth information is carried in the first user information field of the seventh frame. Additionally, the AID12 field in the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user transmission request frame can also indicate that the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user transmission request frame includes the third and / or fourth information.

[0346] Another example is that the seventh frame includes a BSR frame or a QoS Null frame.

[0347] Furthermore, for example, taking a first frame that includes a BSR frame or a QoS Null frame: the third and / or fourth information is carried in the first user information field of the seventh frame. Additionally, the newly defined control ID field and control information field in the A-control field of the BSR frame or QoS Null frame can indicate that the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user transmission request frame includes the third and / or fourth information.

[0348] The above mainly describes the solutions provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of interaction between various network elements. Correspondingly, the embodiments of this application also provide a communication device for implementing the various methods described above. This communication device can be a second station in the above method embodiments, or a device including the second station, or a component usable at the second station; or, the communication device can be a first station in the above method embodiments, or a device including the first station, or a component usable at the first station. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the communication device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0349] This application embodiment can divide the communication device into functional modules according to the above method embodiment. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be understood that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and represents a logical functional division; in actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0350] Figure 14 shows a schematic diagram of a possible communication device 140. The communication device 140 includes a processing module 1401 and a transceiver module 1402. The transceiver module 1402, also known as a transceiver unit, is used to implement transceiver functions, and may be, for example, a transceiver circuit, a transceiver, a transceiver device, or a communication interface.

[0351] When the communication device 140 shown in Figure 14 is the first station in the above embodiment:

[0352] In one possible implementation: transceiver module 1402 is configured to receive a first frame from a second station residing on the main channel; wherein the first frame includes first information indicating that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and a station associated with the second station. Processing module 1401 is configured to trigger the first station to switch to the main channel in response to the first information. Transceiver module 1402 is further configured to send a second frame to a station associated with the first station, the second frame including the first information, the first information being used to trigger the station receiving the first information to switch to the main channel.

[0353] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 1402 is further configured to send a third frame to the second station, the third frame being used to query whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station.

[0354] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 1402 is further configured to send a third frame to the second station if a first condition is met. The first condition includes at least one of the following: the current time is later than the second time, where the second time is the earliest time when sending the third frame to the second station is permitted; the current time is later than the third time, where the third time is the end time of the sub-time period in which the earliest time when sending the third frame to the second station is permitted is located, where the sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station; and the current cumulative number of times the third frame has been sent is less than the maximum number of times the third frame is permitted to be sent.

[0355] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 1402 is further configured to receive a first frame from the second station before a first moment, the first moment being determined based on the moment when the first station switches to the main channel, which is negotiated between the first station and the second station.

[0356] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 1402 is further configured to receive a first frame from the second station at a fourth time. The fourth time is determined based on a fifth time, or the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time is located, or the time when the second station receives the third frame. The fifth time is the time when the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed. The sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station. The third frame is used to query whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station. This further specifies the specific time when the second station sends the first frame to the first station, so that the second station can clearly notify the first information at that time.

[0357] In conjunction with the first aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first frame includes a buffer status report query frame, or a multi-user request frame, or a buffer status report frame, or a quality of service null value frame, or a multi-site block confirmation frame.

[0358] In conjunction with the first aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first information is carried in the control information field, the first user information field, or the second user information field of the first frame. The first user information field is a common user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame, and the second user information field is a dedicated user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame. The first information is carried in the A-control field of the buffer status report frame or the quality of service null value frame. The first information is carried in the single associated identifier transmission identifier information field of the multi-site block acknowledgment frame.

[0359] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 1402 is further configured to send a fourth frame to the second station. The fourth frame is used to indicate that the first frame has been received, so that the second station can clearly know whether the first station has received the first information sent by the second station.

[0360] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 1402 is further configured to receive a fifth frame from the second station at a sixth time; wherein the sixth time is determined based on the time when the second station receives the fourth frame or the time when the second station sends the first frame, and the fifth frame is used by the second station to restore media synchronization.

[0361] In one possible implementation, the fourth frame is a multi-site block acknowledgment frame, and the information included in the fourth frame is carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field in the multi-site block acknowledgment frame.

[0362] In one possible implementation, the basic service set to which the first site belongs is different from the basic service set to which the second site belongs.

[0363] All relevant content of each step involved in the above method embodiments can be referenced from the functional description of the corresponding functional module, and will not be repeated here.

[0364] In this embodiment, the second station is presented as an integrated unit divided into functional modules. Here, "module" can refer to a specific ASIC, circuitry, a processor and memory executing one or more software or firmware programs, integrated logic circuitry, and / or other devices that can provide the aforementioned functions. In a simplified embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that the second station can take the form of the communication device 710 shown in FIG. 7.

[0365] For example, the processor 711 in the communication device 710 shown in FIG7 can call the computer execution instructions stored in the memory 712 to make the communication device 710 execute the information transmission method in the above method embodiment.

[0366] Specifically, the functions / implementation processes of the transceiver module 1402 and processing module 1401 in Figure 14 can be implemented by the processor 711 in the communication device 710 shown in Figure 7 calling computer execution instructions stored in the memory 712. Alternatively, the functions / implementation processes of the processing module 1401 in Figure 14 can be implemented by the processor 711 in the communication device 710 shown in Figure 7 calling computer execution instructions stored in the memory 712, and the functions / implementation processes of the transceiver module 1402 in Figure 14 can be implemented by the transceiver 715 in the communication device 710 shown in Figure 7.

[0367] Since the communication device 140 provided in this application embodiment can execute the above information transmission method, the technical effects it can obtain can be referred to the above method embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0368] When the communication device 140 shown in Figure 14 is the second station in the above embodiment:

[0369] In one possible implementation: processing module 1401 is used to instruct transceiver module 1402 to send a first frame to a first station residing on a non-main channel; wherein, the first frame includes first information, the first information is used to indicate that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station, and the first information is used to trigger the station that receives the first information to switch to the main channel.

[0370] In one possible implementation, the processing module 1401 is further configured to instruct the transceiver module 1402 to receive a third frame from the first station, the third frame being used to query whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station.

[0371] In one possible implementation, the processing module 1401 is further configured to instruct the transceiver module 1402 to receive a third frame from the first station. The third frame is triggered for transmission under the condition that a first condition is met. The first condition includes at least one of the following: the current time is later than the second time, where the second time is the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station; the current time is later than the third time, where the third time is the end time of the sub-time period in which the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station is located, where the sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station; and the current cumulative number of times the third frame has been sent is less than the maximum number of times the third frame is allowed to be sent.

[0372] In one possible implementation, the processing module 1401 is further configured to instruct the transceiver module 1402 to send a first frame to the first station before a first moment, wherein the first moment is determined based on the moment when the first station switches to the main channel, which is determined through negotiation between the first station and the second station.

[0373] In one possible implementation, the processing module 1401 is further configured to instruct the transceiver module 1402 to send a first frame to the first station at a fourth time; wherein the fourth time is determined based on the fifth time, or the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time is located, or the time when the second station receives the third frame, the fifth time is the time when the data transmission to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed, the sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station, and the third frame is used to query whether there is data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station.

[0374] In one possible implementation, the first frame includes a buffer status report query frame, or a multi-user send request frame, or a buffer status report frame, or a quality of service null value frame, or a multi-site block acknowledgment frame.

[0375] In one possible implementation, the first information is carried in a control information field, a first user information field, or a second user information field in a first frame. The first user information field is a common user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame, and the second user information field is a dedicated user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame. The first information is carried in the A-control field of a buffer status report frame or a quality of service null value frame. The first information is carried in the single associated identifier transmission identifier information field of a multi-site block acknowledgment frame.

[0376] In one possible implementation, the processing module 1401 is further configured to instruct the transceiver module 1402 to receive a fourth frame from the first station, the fourth frame being used to indicate that the first station has received the first frame.

[0377] In one possible implementation, the processing module 1401 is further configured to instruct the transceiver module 1402 to send a fifth frame to the first station at a sixth time; wherein the sixth time is determined based on the time when the second station receives the fourth frame or the time when the second station sends the first frame, and the fifth frame is used for the second station to restore media synchronization.

[0378] In one possible implementation, the fourth frame is a multi-site block acknowledgment frame, and the information included in the fourth frame is carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field in the multi-site block acknowledgment frame.

[0379] In one possible implementation, the basic service set to which the first site belongs is different from the basic service set to which the second site belongs.

[0380] All relevant content of each step involved in the above method embodiments can be referenced from the functional description of the corresponding functional module, and will not be repeated here.

[0381] In this embodiment, the first station is presented as an integrated functional module. Here, "module" can refer to a specific ASIC, circuitry, a processor and memory executing one or more software or firmware programs, integrated logic circuitry, and / or other devices that can provide the aforementioned functions. In a simplified embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that the first station can take the form of the communication device 710 shown in FIG. 7.

[0382] For example, the processor 711 in the communication device 710 shown in FIG7 can call the computer execution instructions stored in the memory 712 to make the communication device 710 execute the information transmission method in the above method embodiment.

[0383] Specifically, the functions / implementation processes of the transceiver module 1402 and processing module 1401 in Figure 14 can be implemented by the processor 711 in the communication device 710 shown in Figure 7 calling computer execution instructions stored in the memory 712. Alternatively, the functions / implementation processes of the processing module 1401 in Figure 14 can be implemented by the processor 711 in the communication device 710 shown in Figure 7 calling computer execution instructions stored in the memory 712, and the functions / implementation processes of the transceiver module 1402 in Figure 14 can be implemented by the transceiver 715 in the communication device 710 shown in Figure 7.

[0384] Since the communication device 140 provided in this application embodiment can execute the above information transmission method, the technical effects it can obtain can be referred to the above method embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0385] When the communication device 140 shown in Figure 14 is the site associated with the first site in the above embodiment:

[0386] In one possible implementation: transceiver module 1402 is used to receive a second frame from the first station, the second frame including first information, the first information being used to indicate that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station residing on the main channel and the station associated with the second station; processing module 1401 is used to trigger the station associated with the first station to switch to the main channel in response to the first information, the first information being used to trigger the station that received the first information to switch to the main channel.

[0387] In one possible implementation, the second frame includes a buffer status report query frame or a multi-user send request frame.

[0388] In one possible implementation, the first information is carried in a control information field, a first user information field, or a second user information field in the second frame. The first user information field is a common user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame, and the second user information field is a dedicated user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame.

[0389] In one possible implementation, the basic service set to which the first site belongs is different from the basic service set to which the second site belongs.

[0390] In one possible implementation, this application embodiment also provides a communication device (e.g., the communication device may be a chip or a chip system), which includes a processor for implementing the methods in any of the above method embodiments. In one possible design, the communication device further includes a memory. The memory is used to store necessary program instructions and data, and the processor can call the program code stored in the memory to instruct the communication device to execute the methods in any of the above method embodiments. Of course, the memory may not be included in the communication device. When the communication device is a chip system, it may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices; this application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0391] In one possible implementation, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when run on a communication device, enable the communication device to execute the methods of any of the above-described method embodiments or any implementation thereof.

[0392] In one possible implementation, this application also provides an information transmission method, which includes the method of any of the above-described method embodiments or any implementation thereof.

[0393] In one possible implementation, this application embodiment also provides a communication system, which includes a first station and a second station of the above method embodiments.

[0394] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software programs, implementation can be, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the flow or function according to the embodiments of this application is generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device containing one or more servers, data centers, etc., that can be integrated with the medium. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs).

[0395] Although this application has been described herein in conjunction with various embodiments, those skilled in the art, by reviewing the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, will understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in carrying out the claimed application. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other components or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude multiple instances. A single processor or other unit can implement several functions listed in the claims. While different dependent claims may recite certain measures, this does not mean that these measures cannot be combined to produce good results.

[0396] Although this application has been described in conjunction with specific features and embodiments, it is apparent that various modifications and combinations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Accordingly, this specification and drawings are exemplary illustrations of this application as defined by the appended claims and are considered to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents within the scope of this application. Clearly, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and modifications to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Thus, if such modifications and modifications fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application is also intended to include such modifications and modifications.

Claims

1. A method of information transmission, characterized in that, The method, applied to a first station residing on a non-primary channel, includes: Receive a first frame from a second station residing on the main channel; wherein the first frame includes first information, the first information being used to indicate that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station, and the first information being used to trigger the station receiving the first information to switch to the main channel; Send a second frame to the site associated with the first site, the second frame including the first information; In response to the first information, the first station is triggered to switch to the main channel.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: A third frame is sent to the second station, the third frame being used to query whether the data to be transmitted exists between the second station and the station associated with the second station.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, Sending the third frame to the second station includes: If a first condition is met, the third frame is sent to the second station, wherein the first condition includes at least one of the following: The current time is later than the second time, which is the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station; The current time is later than the third time, which is the end time of the sub-time period containing the earliest time when the third frame is allowed to be sent to the second station. The sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station. The current cumulative number of times the third frame has been sent is less than the maximum number of times the third frame is allowed to be sent.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The receipt of the first frame from the second station residing on the main channel includes: Before the first moment, a first frame is received from the second station, the first moment being determined based on the moment when the first station switches to the main channel, which is negotiated between the first station and the second station.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, The step of receiving the first frame from the second station before the first moment includes: At the fourth moment, the first frame from the second station is received; The fourth time is determined based on the fifth time, or the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time is located, or the time when the second station receives the third frame. The fifth time is the time when the data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed. The sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station. The third frame is used to query whether the data to be transmitted exists between the second station and the station associated with the second station.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The first frame includes a buffer status report query frame, or a multi-user request frame, or a buffer status report frame, or a quality of service null value frame, or a multi-site block confirmation frame.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first information is carried in the control information field, the first user information field, or the second user information field in the buffer status report query frame or the multi-user sending request frame. The first user information field is a common user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame, and the second user information field is a dedicated user information field among at least one user information field in the first frame. The first information is carried in the A-control field of the buffer status report frame or the quality of service null value frame; The first information is carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field in the multi-site block confirmation frame.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The method further includes: A fourth frame is sent to the second station, the fourth frame indicating that the first frame has been received.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, The method further includes: At the sixth moment, the fifth frame is received from the second station; The sixth time is determined based on the time when the second station receives the fourth frame or the time when the second station sends the first frame, and the fifth frame is used for the second station to restore media synchronization.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The fourth frame is a multi-site block confirmation frame, and the information included in the fourth frame is carried in a single associated identifier transmission identifier information field in the multi-site block confirmation frame.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The basic service set to which the first site belongs is different from the basic service set to which the second site belongs.

12. An information transmission method characterized by comprising: The method, applied to a second station residing on the main channel, includes: A first frame is sent to a first station residing on a non-main channel; wherein the first frame includes first information, the first information being used to indicate that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station, and the first information being used to trigger the station receiving the first information to switch to the main channel.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, Sending the first frame to the first station residing on the non-main channel includes: Before the first moment, the first frame is sent to the first station, the first moment being determined based on the moment when the first station switches to the main channel, which is negotiated between the first station and the second station.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, The step of sending the first frame to the first station before the first moment includes: At the fourth moment, the first frame is sent to the first station; The fourth time is determined based on the fifth time, or the end time of the sub-time period in which the fifth time is located, or the time when the second station receives the third frame. The fifth time is the time when the data to be transmitted between the second station and the station associated with the second station is completed. The sub-time period is obtained by dividing the target wake-up time between the first station and the second station. The third frame is used to query whether the data to be transmitted exists between the second station and the station associated with the second station.

15. An information transmission method, characterized by, The method, applied to a station associated with a first station residing on a non-primary channel, includes: A second frame is received from the first station. The second frame includes first information, which indicates that there is no data to be transmitted between the second station residing on the main channel and the station associated with the second station. The first information is used to trigger the station that receives the first information to switch to the main channel. In response to the first information, the site associated with the first site is triggered to switch to the main channel.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The second frame includes a buffer status report query frame or a multi-user send request frame.

17. A communications device, characterized by include: A functional unit for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-16; wherein the action performed by the functional unit is implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software.

18. A communications device, characterized by The communication device includes a processor; the processor is configured to run computer programs or instructions, or to cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-16 via logic circuitry.

19. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions or programs that, when executed on a computer, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-16.

20. A computer program product comprising instructions, characterized in that, When it is operated on a communication device, it causes the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-16.

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