Communication method and communication apparatus

Abstract

The present application supports an IEEE protocol, such as an 802.11be / WiFi 7 / EHT protocol, an IEEE 802.11bn / UHR / WiFi 8 protocol, an Integrated mmWave / integrated millimeter wave / IMMW protocol, an IEEE 802.15 / UWB protocol, or an IEEE 802.11bf / sensing protocol. The present application provides a communication method and a communication apparatus. The communication method comprises: sending first request information, wherein the first request information is used for requesting whether to send and / or receive first information by means of a first communication link, and / or whether to switch communication from the first communication link to a second communication link, wherein the first information is used for assisting communication of the second communication link; and receiving first response information. The technical solution can improve the flexibility of exchanging information related to high-frequency communication.

Description

Communication methods and communication devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510127522.6, filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration on January 27, 2025, entitled "Communication Method and Communication Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communications, and more specifically, to a communication method and a communication device. Background Technology

[0003] The large unlicensed bandwidth of the millimeter-wave band makes high-frequency communication potentially able to significantly increase data transmission rates, thus attracting increasing attention from academia and industry. Previously, communication equipment needed to monitor the frequency bands / channels used for high-frequency communication through "blind listening" in one or more high-frequency bands. However, monitoring in high-frequency bands resulted in high system power consumption, and the "blind listening" method could lead to wasted communication resources / system power consumption. Furthermore, the exchange of high-frequency communication-related information was not flexible enough. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and a communication device to improve the flexibility of interaction of high-frequency communication-related information.

[0005] Firstly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first communication device (e.g., a device where a station or access point is located), or by components of the first communication device (e.g., processors, circuits, chips, or chip systems, such as modem chips, baseband chips, or system-on-chip (SoC) chips or system-in-package (SIP) chips containing modem cores), or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first communication device. For ease of description, the following explanation uses the execution by the first communication device as an example.

[0006] The method is applied to a first communication device. The method includes: sending first request information, wherein the first request information is used to request whether to send and / or receive first information through a first communication link, and / or, the first request information is used to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to a second communication link, the first information is used to assist communication on the second communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the frequency band of low-frequency communication, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high-frequency communication; and receiving first response information, wherein the first response information is used to respond to the first request information.

[0007] For example, the first communication link is a low-frequency communication link, and the second communication link is a high-frequency communication link. By utilizing a common baseband design for both high and low frequencies, some resource-intensive "preprocessing" can be performed at the low frequency to assist high-frequency communication. Compared to performing frequency offset and phase offset corrections at the high frequency, this approach fully leverages the architectural advantages, reduces chip performance requirements, and decreases resource consumption and chip cost associated with high-frequency communication.

[0008] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by sending a first request message for requesting whether to send and / or receive first information through the first communication link, and / or for requesting whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link, compared with the "blind listening" method, on the one hand, it can save communication resources / system power consumption; on the other hand, it can improve the flexibility of interaction of high-frequency communication-related information.

[0009] In some possible implementations, the first information includes at least one of the following: direction information of the first communication device, the method being applied to the first communication device; direction information of the second communication device; first time information, the first time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the first communication link to the second communication link; or, first indication information, the first indication information indicating the main channel of the second communication link.

[0010] For example, the first information can reduce the scanning range of beam alignment in high-frequency communication.

[0011] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by using the first information for assisting the communication of the second communication link, it is possible to achieve communication of the second communication link by assisting the communication of the first communication link, thereby reducing the resource consumption / system power consumption of high-frequency communication.

[0012] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: communicating via a second communication link; and, if a first preset condition is met, sending or receiving second indication information, the second indication information indicating a communication beam aligned with the second communication link.

[0013] For example, the first preset condition is used to determine the condition that requires re-beam alignment / calibration.

[0014] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by sending or receiving second indication information when the first preset condition is met, the two ends of the communication can quickly align the second indication information that the indication beam needs to be adjusted in the case of rapidly changing high-frequency communication, reduce the latency of specific service traffic, ensure service jitter, and optimize the process design of high-frequency communication.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: communicating via a second communication link; and, if a second preset condition is met, sending or receiving a third indication message, the third indication message indicating that communication be switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0016] For example, the second preset condition is a condition used to determine whether it is necessary to switch communication from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0017] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by sending or receiving third indication information when the second preset condition is met, the two ends of the communication can align the third indication information indicating that the communication link needs to be switched when the communication status of high-frequency communication changes or when the communication link needs to be switched, thereby optimizing the process design of high-frequency communication.

[0018] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: sending or receiving fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating second time information, the second time information indicating the start time after communication switches from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0019] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by sending or receiving fourth indication information, the start time of communication after the communication link is switched can be aligned, so as to reduce the switching delay and the waste of communication resources.

[0020] Secondly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a second communication device (e.g., the device where the access point or site is located), or by a component of the second communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second communication device. For ease of description, the following explanation uses the execution by the second communication device as an example.

[0021] The method is applied to a second communication device. The method includes: receiving first request information, wherein the first request information is used to request whether to send and / or receive first information through a first communication link, and / or, the first request information is used to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to a second communication link, the first information is used to assist communication on the second communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the frequency band of low-frequency communication, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high-frequency communication; and sending first response information, the first response information being used to respond to the first request information.

[0022] For example, the first communication link is a low-frequency communication link, and the second communication link is a high-frequency communication link.

[0023] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by receiving a first request information for requesting whether to send and / or receive first information through the first communication link, and / or for requesting whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link, compared with the "blind listening" method, on the one hand, communication resources / system power consumption can be saved; on the other hand, the flexibility of interaction of high-frequency communication-related information can be improved.

[0024] In some possible implementations, the first information includes at least one of the following: direction information of the first communication device; direction information of the second communication device, the method being applied to the second communication device; first time information, the first time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the first communication link to the second communication link; or, first indication information, the first indication information indicating the main channel of the second communication link.

[0025] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: communicating via a second communication link; and receiving or sending second indication information, wherein the second indication information indicates a communication beam aligned with the second communication link, provided that a first preset condition is met.

[0026] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: communicating via a second communication link; and receiving or sending third indication information when a second preset condition is met, the third indication information indicating that communication be switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0027] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: receiving or sending fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating second time information, the second time information indicating the start time after communication switches from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0028] The technical effects of the methods shown in the second aspect and its possible designs above can be referred to the technical effects in the first aspect and its possible designs, and will not be repeated here.

[0029] Thirdly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first communication device (e.g., the device where an access point or site is located), or by a component of the first communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first communication device. For ease of description, the following explanation uses the execution by the first communication device as an example.

[0030] The method is applied to a first communication device and includes: communicating via a second communication link; and, under the condition of satisfying a first preset condition, sending or receiving second indication information, wherein the second indication information indicates a communication beam aligned with the second communication link, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to a high-frequency communication frequency band.

[0031] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by sending or receiving second indication information when the first preset condition is met, the two ends of the communication can quickly align the second indication information that the indication beam needs to be adjusted in the case of rapidly changing high-frequency communication, reduce the latency of specific service traffic, ensure service jitter, and optimize the process design of high-frequency communication.

[0032] In some possible implementations, the method further includes: sending or receiving third indication information, which indicates switching communication from a second communication link to a first communication link, the first communication link being in a low-frequency communication band.

[0033] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by sending or receiving third indication information when the second preset condition is met, the two ends of the communication can align the third indication information indicating that the communication link needs to be switched when the communication status of high-frequency communication changes or when the communication link needs to be switched, thereby optimizing the process design of high-frequency communication.

[0034] Fourthly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a second communication device (e.g., the device where the access point or station is located), or by a component of the second communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second communication device. For ease of description, the following explanation uses the execution by the second communication device as an example.

[0035] The method is applied to a second communication device and includes: communicating via a second communication link; and receiving or sending second indication information when a first preset condition is met, wherein the second indication information indicates a communication beam aligned with the second communication link, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to a high-frequency communication frequency band.

[0036] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by receiving or sending second indication information when the first preset condition is met, the two ends of the communication can quickly align the second indication information that the indication beam needs to be adjusted in the case of rapidly changing communication in high-frequency communication, reduce the latency of specific service traffic, ensure service jitter, and optimize the process design of high-frequency communication.

[0037] In some possible implementations, the method further includes receiving or sending a third indication message that indicates switching communication from a second communication link to a first communication link, the first communication link being in a low-frequency communication band.

[0038] The technical effects of the methods shown in the fourth aspect and its possible designs above can be referred to the technical effects in the third aspect and its possible designs, and will not be repeated here.

[0039] Fifthly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first communication device (e.g., the device where an access point or site is located), or by a component of the first communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first communication device. For ease of description, the following explanation uses the execution by the first communication device as an example.

[0040] The method is applied to a first communication device. The method includes: communicating through a second communication link; sending or receiving fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating second time information, the second time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the frequency band of low-frequency communication, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high-frequency communication.

[0041] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by sending or receiving fourth indication information, the start time of communication after the communication link is switched can be aligned, so as to reduce the switching delay and the waste of communication resources.

[0042] Sixthly, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by a second communication device (e.g., a device where an access point or site is located), or by a component of the second communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second communication device. For ease of description, the following explanation uses the execution by the second communication device as an example.

[0043] The method is applied to a second communication device and includes: communicating through a second communication link; receiving or sending fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating second time information, the second time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link being a low-frequency communication band, and the frequency band of the second communication link being a high-frequency communication band.

[0044] Based on the solution provided in the embodiments of this application, by receiving or sending fourth indication information, the start time of communication after the communication link is switched can be aligned, so as to reduce the switching delay and the waste of communication resources.

[0045] In a seventh aspect, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method provided in the first aspect. The communication apparatus may be a first communication device, or a component of the first communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first communication device.

[0046] Specifically, the communication device may include units and / or modules for performing the method provided by any of the above-described implementations of the first aspect.

[0047] The communication device includes a transceiver unit, which is configured to: send a first request message, wherein the first request message is used to request whether to send and / or receive first information through a first communication link, and / or, the first request message is used to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to a second communication link, the first information is used to assist communication on the second communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the frequency band of low-frequency communication, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high-frequency communication; and receive a first response message, which is used to respond to the first request message.

[0048] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to: communicate via a second communication link; and, if a first preset condition is met, send or receive second indication information, the second indication information indicating a communication beam aligned with the second communication link.

[0049] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to: communicate via a second communication link; and, if a second preset condition is met, send or receive third indication information, the third indication information indicating that communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0050] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to: send or receive fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating second time information, and the second time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0051] In some possible implementations, the communication device further includes a processing unit for: determining / generating first request information.

[0052] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to process the first response information.

[0053] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to: determine / generate or process the first information.

[0054] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to: determine / generate or process second, third, or fourth indication information.

[0055] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to align the communication beam of the second communication link.

[0056] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to switch communication from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0057] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0058] In other possible implementations, the communication device may be a chip, chip system, or circuit, and the transceiver unit may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit may be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0059] The technical effects of the methods described in the seventh aspect above and its possible designs can be referred to the technical effects in the first aspect and its possible designs. Further details will not be provided here.

[0060] Eighthly, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method provided in the second aspect. The communication apparatus may be a second communication device, or a component of the second communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core, or a system-in-package (SIP) chip), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second communication device.

[0061] Specifically, the communication device may include units and / or modules for performing the methods provided in any of the above-described implementations of the second aspect.

[0062] The communication device includes a transceiver unit, which is configured to: receive a first request message, wherein the first request message is used to request whether to send and / or receive first information through a first communication link, and / or, the first request message is used to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to a second communication link, the first information is used to assist communication on the second communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the frequency band of low-frequency communication, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high-frequency communication; and send a first response message, which is used to respond to the first request message.

[0063] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to: communicate via a second communication link; and, under the condition of satisfying a first preset condition, receive or send second indication information, the second indication information indicating the communication beam aligned with the second communication link.

[0064] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to: communicate via a second communication link; and, under the condition of satisfying a second preset condition, receive or send a third indication message, the third indication message indicating that communication be switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0065] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to: receive or send fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating second time information, and the second time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0066] In some possible implementations, the communication device also includes a processing unit for: determining / generating first response information.

[0067] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to process the first request information.

[0068] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to: determine / generate or process the first information.

[0069] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to: determine / generate or process second, third, or fourth indication information.

[0070] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to align the communication beam of the second communication link.

[0071] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to switch communication from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0072] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0073] In other possible implementations, the communication device may be a chip, chip system, or circuit, and the transceiver unit may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit may be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0074] The technical effects of the methods shown in the eighth aspect above and its possible designs can be referred to the technical effects in the second aspect and its possible designs. Further details will not be provided here.

[0075] Ninthly, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method provided in the third aspect above. The communication apparatus may be a first communication device, or a component of the first communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core, or a system-in-package (SIP) chip), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first communication device.

[0076] Specifically, the communication device may include units and / or modules for performing the methods provided in any of the above-described implementations of the third aspect.

[0077] The communication device includes a transceiver unit, which is used to: communicate via a second communication link; and, under the condition of satisfying a first preset condition, send or receive second indication information, wherein the second indication information indicates the communication beam aligned with the second communication link, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high-frequency communication.

[0078] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to: send or receive third indication information, the third indication information indicating that communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link being a low-frequency communication frequency band.

[0079] In some possible implementations, the communication device further includes a processing unit for determining / generating or processing second instruction information.

[0080] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to: determine / generate or process third instruction information.

[0081] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to align the communication beam of the second communication link.

[0082] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to switch communication from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0083] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0084] In some other possible implementations, the communication device may be a chip, chip system, or circuit, and the transceiver unit may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit may be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0085] The technical effects of the methods shown in the ninth aspect above and its possible designs can be referred to the technical effects in the third aspect and its possible designs. Further details will not be provided here.

[0086] In a tenth aspect, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method provided in the fourth aspect above. The communication apparatus may be a second communication device, or a component of the second communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second communication device.

[0087] Specifically, the communication device may include units and / or modules for performing the methods provided in any of the above-described implementations of the fourth aspect.

[0088] The communication device includes a transceiver unit, which is used to: communicate via a second communication link; and, under the condition of satisfying a first preset condition, receive or send second indication information, the second indication information indicating the communication beam aligned with the second communication link, the frequency band of the second communication link belonging to the frequency band of high-frequency communication.

[0089] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to: receive or send third indication information, the third indication information indicating that communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link being a low-frequency communication frequency band.

[0090] In some possible implementations, the communication device further includes a processing unit for determining / generating or processing second instruction information.

[0091] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to: determine / generate or process third instruction information.

[0092] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to align the communication beam of the second communication link.

[0093] In some possible implementations, the processing unit is also used to switch communication from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0094] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0095] In other possible implementations, the communication device may be a chip, chip system, or circuit, and the transceiver unit may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit may be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0096] The technical effects of the methods shown in the tenth aspect above and its possible designs can be referred to the technical effects in the fourth aspect and its possible designs. Further details will not be provided here.

[0097] Eleventhly, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method provided in the fifth aspect above. The communication apparatus may be a first communication device, or a component of the first communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first communication device.

[0098] Specifically, the communication device may include units and / or modules for performing the methods provided in any of the above-described implementations of the fifth aspect.

[0099] The communication device includes a transceiver unit, which is used to: communicate via a second communication link; send or receive fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating second time information, the second time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the frequency band of low-frequency communication, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high-frequency communication.

[0100] In some possible implementations, the communication device also includes a processing unit for determining / generating or processing fourth instruction information.

[0101] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0102] In other possible implementations, the communication device may be a chip, chip system, or circuit, and the transceiver unit may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit may be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0103] The technical effects of the methods shown in the eleventh aspect above and its possible designs can be referred to in the fifth aspect and its possible designs. Further details will not be provided here.

[0104] In a twelfth aspect, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method provided in the sixth aspect above. The communication apparatus may be a second communication device, or a component of the second communication device (e.g., a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system, such as a modem chip, baseband chip, or system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core, or a system-in-package (SIP) chip), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second communication device.

[0105] Specifically, the communication device may include units and / or modules for performing the methods provided in any of the above-described implementations of the sixth aspect.

[0106] The communication device includes a transceiver unit, which is used to: communicate via a second communication link; receive or send fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating second time information, the second time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the frequency band of low-frequency communication, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high-frequency communication.

[0107] In some possible implementations, the communication device also includes a processing unit for determining / generating or processing fourth instruction information.

[0108] In some possible implementations, the transceiver unit can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0109] In other possible implementations, the communication device may be a chip, chip system, or circuit, and the transceiver unit may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit may be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0110] The technical effects of the methods shown in the twelfth aspect above and its possible designs can be referred to in the sixth aspect and its possible designs. Further details will not be provided here.

[0111] In a thirteenth aspect, this application provides a chip system for performing the method provided by any of the implementations of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth aspects described above.

[0112] In some possible implementations, the chip system includes a processor for calling and running a computer program from memory, such that the methods provided by any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth aspects described above are executed.

[0113] In some possible implementations, the chip system also includes memory.

[0114] Unless otherwise specified, or if it does not contradict its actual function or internal logic in the relevant description, the transmission and acquisition / reception operations involved in the processor can be understood as processor output and reception, input and other operations, or as transmission and reception operations performed by radio frequency circuits and antennas. This application does not limit them in this regard.

[0115] In a fourteenth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores program code for execution by a device, the program code including a method for performing any of the implementations of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth aspects described above.

[0116] In a fifteenth aspect, a computer program product comprising instructions is provided, which, when executed by a processor or a communication device, causes a computer to perform the method provided by any one of the implementations of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth aspects described above.

[0117] In a sixteenth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip including one or more processors and a communication interface, wherein the processor reads a computer program or instructions stored in a memory through the communication interface and executes the method provided by any of the implementations of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth aspects described above.

[0118] Optionally, as one implementation, the chip also includes a memory storing computer programs or instructions, and a processor for executing the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory. When the computer programs or instructions are executed, the processor is used to execute the methods provided by any of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth aspects described above.

[0119] In a seventeenth aspect, a communication system is provided, comprising a first communication device for performing any implementation of the first aspect and a second communication device for performing any implementation of the second aspect; or, comprising a first communication device for performing any implementation of the third aspect and a second communication device for performing any implementation of the fourth aspect; or, comprising a first communication device for performing any implementation of the fifth aspect and a second communication device for performing any implementation of the sixth aspect.

[0120] The specific implementation and beneficial effects of any of the possible implementations in aspects thirteen to seventeen above can be found in the descriptions of aspects one to six above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0121] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an application scenario of an embodiment of this application.

[0122] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication device applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0123] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of two communication scenarios applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0124] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a communication method applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0125] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an action frame applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0126] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a communication method applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0127] Figure 7 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0128] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0129] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a chip system provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0130] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points will be explained first.

[0131] First, in this application, "for indicating" can include both direct and indirect indication. When describing an indication message as indicating A, it can include whether the indication message directly indicates A or indirectly indicates A, but does not necessarily mean that the indication message carries A.

[0132] The information indicated by the instruction is called the information to be instructed. In the specific implementation process, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also be indirectly indicated by indicating other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be instructed. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be indicated, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing instruction overhead to some extent. At the same time, common parts of various pieces of information can be identified and indicated uniformly to reduce the instruction overhead caused by individually indicating the same information.

[0133] Second, in this application, "at least one" refers to one or more, "at least one item" refers to one or more items, and "more than one" refers to two or more items. Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, "first," "second," and various numerical designations (e.g., "#1," "#2," etc.) are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The sequence numbers of the processes below do not imply an order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the objects described in this way can be interchanged where appropriate to describe solutions other than those in the embodiments of this application. Moreover, in the embodiments of this application, terms such as "S410" are merely identifiers for descriptive convenience and do not limit the order of execution steps.

[0134] Third, in the embodiments of this application, the words "exemplarily," "as," "for example," or "for instance" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplarily," "as," "for example," or "for instance" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of words such as "exemplarily," "as," "for example," or "for instance" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0135] Fourth, the term "storage" in the embodiments of this application can refer to storage in one or more memories. These memories can be separate installations or integrated into an encoder, decoder, processor, or communication device. Alternatively, some memories can be separately installed, while others can be integrated into the decoder, processor, or communication device. The type of memory can be any form of storage medium, and this application does not limit this.

[0136] Fifth, in the implementation of this application, "protocol" may refer to standard protocols in the field of communications, such as New Radio (NR) protocols, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) protocols in the field of communications, and related protocols applied to future communication systems. This application does not limit this term.

[0137] Sixth, in the embodiments of this application, the terms "of", "corresponding (relevant)", "corresponding", and "associate" can sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when their differences are not emphasized, their intended meanings are consistent.

[0138] Seventh, in the embodiments of this application, descriptions such as "under certain circumstances," "when," "if," and "if..." all refer to the device taking corresponding actions under certain objective circumstances, and are not limited to a specific time. They do not require the device to perform a judgment action during implementation, nor do they imply any other limitations. In this application, "under certain circumstances," "when," "if," and "if..." can sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when their differences are not emphasized, their intended meanings are consistent.

[0139] Eighth, the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0140] Ninth, in the embodiments of this application, the names of messages, information, and devices are merely examples. This application does not impose any limitations on message names, information names, device names, etc., as long as they can achieve the corresponding functions.

[0141] Tenth, in this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, and "send information" can include direct transmission or indirect transmission through other units or modules. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, and "receive information" can include direct reception from YY or indirect reception from YY through other units or modules. Besides air interface transmission or reception signals implemented at the system level, such as network devices or terminal devices, "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. For example, a modem or system-on-a-chip (such as a SoC chip or a SIP chip) transmits or receives signals. "Send" or "receive" can also be performed through device components, for example, using buses, traces, or interfaces to transmit or receive signals through several parts, modules, or chips of a device.

[0142] The "protocol" involved in the embodiments of this application may refer to IEEE protocols in the field of communications, such as IEEE 802.11be / Wi-Fi 7 / EHT protocol, IEEE 802.11bn / UHR / Wi-Fi 8 protocol, IEEE Integrated mmWave / IMMW protocol, IEEE 802.15 / UWB protocol, or IEEE 802.11bf / sensing protocol, etc.; the "protocol" involved in the embodiments of this application may also refer to "Spark Link / NearLink protocol", etc.; this application does not limit it in this respect.

[0143] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0144] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to wireless local area network (WLAN) scenarios. For example, they support IEEE 802.11 related standards, such as 802.11a / b / g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, and IEEE 802.11ax next-generation Wi-Fi protocols, such as 802.11be, Wi-Fi 7, Extremely High Throughput (EHT), 802.11ad, 802.11ay, or 802.11bf, as well as 802.11be next-generation and Wi-Fi 8. They can also be applied to wireless personal area network systems based on ultra-wideband (UWB), such as the 802.15 series standards, and to sensing systems, such as the 802.11bf series standards. They can also be applied to Integrated mmWave / IMMW protocols. The 802.11n standard is called high throughput (HT), the 802.11ac standard is called very high throughput (VHT), the 802.11ax standard is called high efficient (HE), and the 802.11be standard is called extremely high throughput (EHT). 802.11bf includes two main categories: low-frequency (e.g., sub7GHz) and high-frequency (e.g., 60GHz) standards. Sub7GHz implementations primarily rely on 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, and next-generation standards, while 60GHz implementations primarily rely on 802.11ad, 802.11ay, and next-generation standards. Among them, 802.11ad can also be called the directional multi-gigabit (DMG) standard, and 802.11ay can also be called the enhanced directional multi-gigabit (EDMG) standard.

[0145] Although the embodiments of this application are mainly illustrated with the deployment of WLAN networks, especially networks using the IEEE 802.11 system standard, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the various aspects involved in the embodiments of this application can be extended to other networks using various standards or protocols, such as high performance radio local area networks (HIPERLAN), wireless wide area networks (WWAN), wireless personal area networks (WPAN), or other networks that are now known or will be developed in the future.

[0146] Alternatively, the technical solutions of this application can be applied to Internet of Things (IoT) networks, vehicle-to-X (V2X) networks, and other networks, etc., and this application is not specifically limited. For example, the application scenarios of this application can be IoT networks based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards, or V2X networks based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards, or other networks based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards. The IEEE 802.11 family of standards can be IEEE 802.11ax, IEEE 802.11be, the next-generation IEEE 802.11 standard of IEEE 802.11be, etc. The technical solutions of this application can also be applied to other WLAN networks with future standard protocols. Therefore, regardless of the coverage area and wireless access protocol used, the various aspects provided in the embodiments of this application can be applied to any suitable wireless network.

[0147] The technical solutions of this application embodiment can also be applied to various communication systems, such as: WLAN communication systems, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) systems, Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) communication systems, and 5G (5G) communication systems. thGeneration (5G) systems or new radio (NR), future communication systems, Internet of Things (IoT) networks, or vehicle-to-everything (V2X) networks, etc.

[0148] The communication systems described above that are applicable to this application are merely illustrative examples, and the communication systems applicable to this application are not limited to these. They will be uniformly described here and will not be repeated below.

[0149] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an applicable scenario for an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the communication method provided by this application is applicable to data communication between an access point (AP) and a station (STA). The station can be a non-access point station (non-AP STA), simply referred to as a non-AP station or STA. The AP can connect to a communication network such as the Internet and can be associated with one or more STAs, which can access the network through the AP.

[0150] Specifically, the scenario shown in Figure 1 applies to data communication between an AP and one or more STAs (e.g., data communication between AP#1 and STA#1; or data communication between AP#1 and STA#1 and STA#2), data communication between APs (e.g., data communication between AP#1 and AP#2), and data communication between STAs (e.g., data communication between STA#3 and STA#2).

[0151] An access point (AP) is a wireless switch used in a wireless network and is the core of the wireless network. An AP serves as a node for terminals (such as mobile phones) to access a wired (or wireless) network. It is mainly deployed in homes, buildings, and campuses, with a typical coverage radius of tens to hundreds of meters. Of course, it can also be deployed outdoors. An access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, its main function being to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet.

[0152] Specifically, an access point (AP) can be a terminal or network device with a Wi-Fi chip, or it can be a terminal or network device including a chip for accessing wired (wireless) networks. This network device can be a server, router, switch, bridge, computer, mobile phone, relay station, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, network equipment in 5G networks, network equipment in future communication networks, or network equipment in public land mobile networks (PLMNs), etc., without limitation. The access point can be a device that supports Wi-Fi standards. For example, the access point can also support one or more standards from the IEEE 802.11 series, such as 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11bn, 802.11ad, and 802.11ay.

[0153] A Standalone Target (STA) can be a wireless communication chip, wireless sensor, or wireless communication terminal, and can also be referred to as a user, user equipment (UE), access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device. A STA can be a cellular phone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, computing device or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle device, IoT device, wearable device, terminal device in a 5G network, terminal device in a future communication network, or terminal device in a PLMN, etc., without limitation. A STA can be a device that supports the WLAN standard. For example, STA can support one or more standards in the IEEE 802.11 series, such as 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11bn, 802.11ad, and 802.11ay.

[0154] For example, STAs can be used for mobile phones, tablets, set-top boxes, smart TVs, smart wearable devices, vehicle communication devices, computers, IoT nodes, IoT devices, sensors, industrial manufacturing automatic optical inspection (AOI) equipment, customer premise equipment (CPE) devices set to gateway or bridging modes (CPE devices can connect to one or more camera devices without Wi-Fi capabilities via wired connection), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), emergency stop switches, industrial input / output (I / O) devices, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), etc., smart home devices such as smart cameras, smart remote controls, smart water and electricity meters, and sensors in smart cities, etc.

[0155] The aforementioned AP or STA may include a transmitter, a receiver, a memory, a processor, etc., wherein the transmitter and receiver are used for transmitting and receiving packet structures, respectively, the memory is used to store signaling information and pre-agreed preset values, etc., and the processor is used to parse signaling information and process related data, etc.

[0156] Figure 2 illustrates a communication device provided in this application. The device shown in Figure 2 can be an AP or a STA. The medium / media access control (MAC) layer processing module, physical (PHY) layer processing module, and radio frequency / antenna are used to implement the relevant functions of the transmitter and receiver mentioned above. As shown in Figure 2, in addition to the MAC layer processing module, PHY layer processing module, radio frequency / antenna, memory, and processor, the device may also include a controller and a scheduler.

[0157] It should be understood that Figure 2 is merely an example of an apparatus provided in this application and does not constitute a limitation of this application. For example, the apparatus may not include a controller and / or scheduler.

[0158] The method provided in this application is applicable to at least one of the following: AP communicating with STA; or AP communicating with other APs; or STA communicating with other STAs. The communication modules of the AP and / or STA support high- and low-frequency millimeter-wave communication, and the communication modules of the AP and / or STA include, but are not limited to, a common baseband architecture or other architectures that can achieve mutual assistance in high- and low-frequency communication.

[0159] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, some basic concepts involved in this application will be briefly explained.

[0160] 1. Beam

[0161] The beam used to transmit signals can be called a transmission beam (Tx beam). The transmission beam can refer to the distribution of signal strength in different directions in space after the signal is transmitted through the antenna.

[0162] The beam used to receive signals can be called a reception beam (Rx beam). The reception beam can refer to the signal strength distribution of the wireless signal received from the antenna in different directions in space.

[0163] A beam can be wide or narrow, with a wider beam having a larger lobe angle than a narrower beam. Lobe width refers to the angle of the fan-shaped area formed by the wireless signal in space. Wide beams offer a wider coverage area but have weaker signal strength and are more susceptible to interference and attenuation. Narrow beams have stronger signal strength but a narrower coverage area.

[0164] 2. Millimeter wave

[0165] In high-frequency communications, such as high-frequency standards (45 GHz and above), like the 802.11ad and 802.11ay standards operating around 60 GHz, and the integrated millimeter wave (IMMW) in WiFi 8, the higher operating frequency results in greater path loss during signal transmission in space. To increase communication distance, two communication devices can perform beamforming and beam alignment before communicating to find a better communication link.

[0166] To determine the beam direction used for beam alignment, communication equipment typically needs to perform an exhaustive, undifferentiated beam scan within a certain range (e.g., the coverage area) and determine the beam used for beam alignment based on the measurement results of each beam. This beam alignment process incurs significant beam training overhead.

[0167] The unlicensed bandwidth of tens of GHz in the millimeter-wave band makes millimeter-wave communication potentially able to significantly increase data transmission rates, thus attracting increasing attention from academia and industry. However, the high operating frequency of millimeter waves results in significant path loss during spatial transmission. To increase the transmission distance of millimeter-wave communication, beamforming technology is used to concentrate the energy of the millimeter-wave signal in one direction, thereby improving the signal transmission distance. In the embodiments of this application, millimeter-wave communication can be used interchangeably with high-frequency communication and has the same meaning.

[0168] Before two communication devices can engage in millimeter-wave communication, they need to perform beam training and beam alignment to ensure their beam directions are aligned. Beam alignment can include unilateral beam alignment and bilateral beam alignment. Unilateral beam alignment refers to determining the transmit or receive beam of one communication device (hereinafter, the first station is used as an example for simplicity), so that the first station uses the transmit beam to send data to the other communication device (hereinafter, the second station is used as an example for simplicity), or uses the receive beam to receive data from the other communication device. Bilateral beam alignment refers to determining the transmit beam of the first station and the receive beam of the second station, so that the first station uses the transmit beam to send data to the second station, and the second station uses the receive beam to receive the data; or similarly, determining the receive beam of the first station and the transmit beam of the second station, so that the second station uses the transmit beam to send data to the first station, and the first station uses the receive beam to receive the data.

[0169] In some implementations, during beam alignment, the receiving beam direction of the station used for beam alignment, determined through beam training, can be directly regarded as the transmitting beam of that station used for beam alignment. In other words, the transmitting and receiving beams of the station can be determined through one round of training. In other implementations, the receiving beam direction of the station used for beam alignment, determined through beam training, cannot be directly regarded as the transmitting beam of that station used for beam alignment. That is, the transmitting and receiving beams of the station can be determined separately through two rounds of beam training. This application does not impose any particular limitation on this.

[0170] The beams used for beam alignment by the first and second stations are related to the relative positions of the first and second stations and the communication scenario between them. To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, two possible communication scenarios are illustrated below with reference to FIG3.

[0171] Figure 3 illustrates two communication scenarios. Referring to Figure 3(a), the communication between the first and second stations is a line-of-sight (LOS) scenario. In this scenario, the beam direction used for beam alignment is most likely the relative direction between the first and second stations. Referring to Figure 3(b), the communication between the first and second stations is a non-line-of-sight (NLOS) scenario. In this scenario, due to obstacles between the first and second stations, the beam direction used for beam alignment is usually not the relative direction between the first and second stations.

[0172] To determine the beam direction for beam alignment, such as determining the transmit beam of the first site, the first site typically needs to perform an exhaustive, indiscriminate beam scan within a certain range (e.g., the coverage area) and determine the beam for beam alignment based on the measurement results of each beam. This beam alignment process incurs significant beam training overhead. The IEEE 802.11ad and 802.11ay standards use the millimeter-wave band for Wi-Fi communication and employ a hierarchical scanning strategy. They first perform a wide-beam search in the millimeter-wave band to determine the approximate range, and then perform a narrow-beam search to determine the final beam alignment direction, which speeds up the search process to some extent. Meanwhile, existing high- and low-frequency co-station network technologies use a low-frequency wide-beam search to determine the approximate range, and then perform a high-frequency narrow-beam search.

[0173] Before high-frequency communication, communication equipment needs to monitor the frequency band / channel used for high-frequency communication through "blind listening" in one or more high-frequency bands. The system power consumption of communication equipment monitoring in high-frequency bands is relatively large, the "blind listening" method may waste communication resources / system power consumption, and the interaction of high-frequency communication related information is not flexible enough.

[0174] To address the aforementioned problems related to high-frequency communication, this application provides a communication method aimed at improving the flexibility of interaction of high-frequency communication-related information.

[0175] The embodiments shown below do not specifically limit the structure of the execution entity of the method provided in this application. As long as communication can be performed according to the method provided in this application by running a program that records the code of the method provided in this application. For example, the method provided in this application can be executed by a first communication device. Unless otherwise specified, "first communication device" in this application can refer to the first communication device itself (e.g., AP or STA), a component within the first communication device (e.g., processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first communication device. As another example, the method provided in this application can be executed by a second communication device. Unless otherwise specified, "second communication device" in this application can refer to the second communication device itself (e.g., AP or STA), a component within the second communication device (e.g., processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second communication device.

[0176] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a communication method 400 applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0177] It should be understood that Figure 4 illustrates the steps or operations of the communication method, but these steps or operations are merely examples. Other operations or variations of the operations shown in Figure 4 may also be performed in the embodiments of this application.

[0178] Without loss of generality, the communication method provided in this application embodiment will be described in detail below using the interaction between a first communication device and a second communication device as an example. Both the first and second communication devices support short-range wireless access technology.

[0179] Method 400 includes the following steps:

[0180] S420, the first communication device sends a first request message, and correspondingly, the second communication device receives the first request message. The first request message is used to request whether to send and / or receive first information through the first communication link, and / or the first request message is used to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link. The first information is used to assist the communication of the second communication link. The frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the low-frequency communication band, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the high-frequency communication band.

[0181] S430, the first communication device receives the first response information, and correspondingly, the second communication device sends the first response information, which is used to respond to the first request information.

[0182] Specifically, the first request information is used to request whether to send and / or receive the first information through the first communication link; or, the first request information is used to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link; or, the first request information is used both to request whether to send and / or receive the first information through the first communication link and to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link. The first response information can be used to indicate whether to agree to or disagree with the request information of the first request.

[0183] For example, the first request information is used to request whether to send and / or receive the first information through the first communication link, and the first response information is used to indicate whether to send and / or receive the first information through the first communication link; or, the first request information is used to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link, and the first response information is used to indicate whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link; or, the first request information is used both to request whether to send and / or receive the first information through the first communication link and to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link, and the first response information is used both to indicate whether to send and / or receive the first information through the first communication link and to indicate whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link.

[0184] Theoretically, low-frequency communication can tolerate a frequency deviation of ±625kHz. If a low-frequency communication chip is directly used in the 60GHz millimeter-wave band, the actual frequency deviation for high-frequency communication is 60GHz * ±20ppm = ±1200kHz. In a design utilizing a shared baseband for both high and low frequencies, correcting frequency and phase shifts at high frequencies requires significant hardware processing power because both frequencies share a single clock system (i.e., a single clock crystal). Furthermore, high-frequency communication is directional; movement or other factors at the terminal side can cause communication interruptions. Re-compensation operations are costly and result in high latency. Sending and / or receiving information via a first communication link can reduce resource consumption, hardware processing requirements, and latency.

[0185] In some possible implementations, prior to S420, method 400 may also include:

[0186] S410, the first communication device and the second communication device communicate through the first communication link.

[0187] Specifically, the first communication device communicates with the second communication device through the first communication link.

[0188] For example, the first request information may be sent and / or received via a first communication link.

[0189] For example, a first request message for requesting whether to switch communication from a first communication link to a second communication link is one possible implementation of the first message; a first response message for indicating whether to switch communication from a first communication link to a second communication link is one possible implementation of the first message.

[0190] For example, a first communication device sends a first request message to a second communication device, requesting whether to send and / or receive first information through the first communication link; the second communication device sends a first response message to the first communication device, indicating whether to send and / or receive the first information through the first communication link. Then, the first communication device can send a first request message to the second communication device requesting whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link, and the second communication device can send a first response message to the first communication device indicating whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link.

[0191] The first communication device can send a request for high-frequency communication to the second communication device in the low-frequency band. For ease of description, the requests for high-frequency communication are referred to as request#1 and request#2, respectively.

[0192] The low-frequency band is one possible implementation of the first communication link; in this embodiment, communication via the low-frequency band can also be called low-frequency communication. The high-frequency band is one possible implementation of the second communication link; in this embodiment, communication via the high-frequency band can also be called high-frequency communication. request#1 is one possible implementation of the first request information; or, request#2 is one possible implementation of the first request information; or, request#1 and request#2 are carried in the same frame, and the frame carrying request#1 and request#2 is one possible implementation of the first request information. Correspondingly, response#1 is one possible implementation of the first response information; or, response#2 is one possible implementation of the first response information; or, response#1 and response#2 are carried in the same frame, and the frame carrying response#1 and response#2 is one possible implementation of the first response information.

[0193] Taking request #1 as an example, in some possible situations, request #1 can be used by the first communication device to inquire whether the second communication device should switch the communication operating frequency band from a low-frequency band to a high-frequency band. After receiving request #1, the second communication device can determine whether to switch the communication operating frequency band from a low-frequency band to a high-frequency band based on the actual service situation and / or the usage of the high-frequency channel / band, and send feedback / response #1 to the first communication device in the low-frequency band. This response #1 can be used by the second communication device to instruct the first communication device whether to switch the communication operating frequency band from a low-frequency band to a high-frequency band.

[0194] When the first communication device is an Access Point (AP), the second communication device can be a Standalone Station (STA) or another AP besides the first communication device. When the first communication device is a Standalone Station (STA), the second communication device can be an Access Point (AP) or another Standalone Station (STA besides the first communication device).

[0195] Taking AP sending request#1 as an example, before sending request#1, AP can first determine whether there is an available high-frequency channel / band. When AP determines that there is an available high-frequency channel / band and the STA communicating with AP has high-frequency communication capability, AP can proactively send request#1 to STA to inquire whether it is necessary to switch the communication operating frequency band from a low-frequency band to a high-frequency band.

[0196] Alternatively, let's take the STA sending request#1 as an example. Before sending request#1, the STA can first determine whether high-frequency communication is needed. When the STA determines that high-frequency communication is needed and the AP communicating with the STA has high-frequency communication capabilities, the STA can proactively send request#1 to the AP to inquire whether the communication operating frequency band can be switched from the low-frequency band to the high-frequency band.

[0197] Method 400 may also include:

[0198] S440, the first communication device and the second communication device communicate through the second communication link.

[0199] Specifically, the first communication device communicates with the second communication device through the second communication link.

[0200] When response#1 indicates that the communication operating frequency band is switched from a low frequency band to a high frequency band, the first communication device and the second communication device can perform high-frequency communication in the high frequency band after receiving / sending response#1.

[0201] It is understandable that when the first communication device is an AP and the second communication device is another AP, or when the first communication device is a STA and the second communication device is another STA, the communication is similar to that between the AP and STA described above. This will not be elaborated further here.

[0202] It should be understood that the term "field" in the embodiments of this application can refer to a portion of information in general, and may also be called a "domain" or "field," etc. Furthermore, the name of the field is merely an example; other names may be used in specific implementations, and the embodiments of this application do not impose specific limitations on this.

[0203] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of an action frame applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0204] The above request#1 and / or response#1 can be a rewrite of the reserved / unused fields of the action frame.

[0205] For example, as shown in Figure 5, the action frame includes the following fields: frame control, duration, destination address (DA), source address (SA), basic service set (BSS) identity (ID), seqctrl, category, action, elements, and frame check sequence (FCS).

[0206] For example, the frame control field occupies 2 bytes, the duration field occupies 2 bytes, the destination address field occupies 6 bytes, the source address field occupies 6 bytes, the base service set identifier field occupies 6 bytes, the seqctrl field occupies 2 bytes, the category field occupies 1 byte, the action field occupies 1 byte, the number of bytes occupied by the element field is variable, and the frame check sequence field occupies 4 bytes.

[0207] The MAC Header of the action frame includes the following fields: frame control, duration, destination address (DA), source address (SA), basic service set (BSS) identity (ID), and seqctrl. The category identifier in the action frame includes a category field. The action details in the action frame include an action field and an elements field. The aforementioned request#1 and / or response#1 can be a rewrite of the reserved / unused field in the category field of Figure 5, and can be carried within the reserved / unused field of the action frame.

[0208] Alternatively, the aforementioned request#1 and / or response#1 can be used as a marker field placed in the MAC Head or PHY Head section of the first frame. The first frame includes, but is not limited to, the following: the first frame is a beacon frame that conforms to the Wi-Fi multimedia (WMM) protocol, in which the aforementioned request#1 and / or response#1 are carried in the reserved field of the MAC Head or PHY Head of the beacon frame and occupy 1 bit; or, the first frame is a beacon frame, in which the aforementioned request#1 and / or response#1 are carried in the reserved field of the MAC Head or PHY Head of the beacon frame; or, the first frame is a probe frame or an associate frame, or other management frame, in which the aforementioned request#1 and / or response#1 are carried in the reserved field or signal field (SIG) of the management frame; or, the first frame is a block acknowledgement (BA) frame, in which the aforementioned request#1 and / or response#1 are carried in the reserved field of the BA frame. Alternatively, the aforementioned request#1 and / or response#1 can be placed as a marker field in the second frame, which is a data frame, and the aforementioned request#1 and / or response#1 can be carried in the MAC information location of the data frame.

[0209] The response#1 above can be either "1" or "0".

[0210] For example, when response#1 is "1", the second communication device instructs the first communication device to switch the communication operating frequency band from a low frequency band to a high frequency band; when response#1 is "0", the second communication device instructs the first communication device not to switch the communication operating frequency band from a low frequency band to a high frequency band. Alternatively, conversely, when response#1 is "1", the second communication device instructs the first communication device not to switch the communication operating frequency band from a low frequency band to a high frequency band; when response#1 is "0", the second communication device instructs the first communication device to switch the communication operating frequency band from a low frequency band to a high frequency band.

[0211] Taking request #2 as an example, in some other possible scenarios, the aforementioned request #2 is used by the first communication device to inquire with the second communication device whether to perform high-low frequency cooperation. After receiving request #2, the second communication device can determine whether to perform high-low frequency cooperation based on the actual service situation and / or the usage of high-frequency channels / bands, and send response #2 to the first communication device in the low-frequency band. This response #2 can be used by the second communication device to instruct the first communication device whether to perform high-low frequency cooperation.

[0212] For example, when response#2 is "1", the second communication device instructs the first communication device to perform high-low frequency mutual assistance; when response#2 is "0", the second communication device instructs the first communication device not to perform high-low frequency mutual assistance. Alternatively, conversely, when response#2 is "1", the second communication device instructs the first communication device not to perform high-low frequency mutual assistance; when response#2 is "0", the second communication device instructs the first communication device to perform high-low frequency mutual assistance.

[0213] The fields that carry request#2 and / or response#2 can be similar to the fields that carry request#1 and / or response#1 mentioned above. Please refer to the description of the fields that carry request#1 and / or response#1 mentioned above, which will not be repeated here.

[0214] Any of the above-mentioned request#1, request#2, response#1, or response#2 can be information related to high-frequency communication. The ability to send / receive information related to high-frequency communication in a low-frequency operating band can also be understood as the presence of high-low frequency mutual assistance / cooperation capabilities; similarly, the ability to send / receive information related to high-frequency communication in a low-frequency operating band can also be understood as whether high-low frequency mutual assistance / cooperation exists. For example, communication ends with high-low frequency mutual assistance / cooperation capabilities can send / receive information related to high-frequency communication through a low-frequency operating band, while communication ends without such capabilities cannot. Communication ends with high-low frequency mutual assistance / cooperation can send / receive information related to high-frequency communication through a low-frequency operating band, while communication ends without such capabilities do not.

[0215] Information related to high-frequency communication can be one possible implementation of the first information. This information can be used to improve the communication quality of high-frequency communication, reduce latency, or reduce power consumption / resource usage.

[0216] Before sending the first request information, the first communication device can also determine whether the second communication device has high-frequency and low-frequency mutual assistance / cooperation capabilities. For example, when the first communication device determines that there is an available high-frequency channel / band or that high-frequency communication is required, and the second communication device has high-frequency communication capabilities and high-frequency and low-frequency mutual assistance / cooperation capabilities, the first communication device can send the first request information to the second communication device.

[0217] In this embodiment, before sending / receiving information related to high-frequency communication, both ends of the communication can know whether the other end has high-frequency communication capability (high-frequency communication capability can also be understood as millimeter-wave communication capability) and / or high-low frequency mutual assistance / cooperation capability. For example, the first communication device can send a declaration to the second communication device in the low-frequency band. This declaration can be used by the first communication device to declare to the second communication device that the first communication device has high-low frequency mutual assistance / cooperation capability and / or high-frequency communication capability; or, whether the other end has high-frequency communication capability and / or high-low frequency mutual assistance / cooperation capability can be determined by the capability information feature field, or by other means. This embodiment does not limit the method of determining whether the other end has high-frequency communication capability and / or high-low frequency mutual assistance / cooperation capability.

[0218] In one possible implementation, the first information includes at least one of the following: directional information of the first communication device; directional information of the second communication device; first time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the first communication link to the second communication link; or, first indication information indicating the main channel of the second communication link.

[0219] For example, the first communication device may also send first auxiliary information to the second communication device. This first auxiliary information is used for beam alignment between the first and second communication devices. For instance, the first auxiliary information may include directional information of the first communication device relative to the second communication device (e.g., directional information indicating that the first communication device is due east of the second communication device; or, directional information indicating that the first communication device is within an angular range due east of the second communication device; or, directional information indicating a change in position of the first communication device relative to the second communication device, etc.), or positioning information used by the second communication device to locate the first communication device (e.g., positioning information that can be used by the second communication device to determine the angle of arrival (AoA) between the second and first communication devices). Beam alignment between the first and second communication devices is used to optimize the communication quality of high-frequency communication. The first auxiliary information is one possible implementation of the directional information of the first communication device.

[0220] The above request#1 and / or request#2 can be "1" or "0".

[0221] For example, when request#1 or request#2 is "1", it means that the first communication device provides the first auxiliary information to the second communication device; when request#1 or request#2 is "0", it means that the first communication device does not provide the first auxiliary information to the second communication device. Alternatively, conversely, when request#1 or request#2 is "1", it means that the first communication device does not provide the first auxiliary information to the second communication device; when request#1 or request#2 is "0", it means that the first communication device provides the first auxiliary information to the second communication device.

[0222] The first auxiliary information can be carried in the reserved field / SIG field of the action frame / first frame mentioned above.

[0223] For example, the first auxiliary information and request#1 / request#2 are both carried in the reserved field / SIG field of the above action frame / first frame, and the first auxiliary information is located after request#1 / request#2.

[0224] The first auxiliary information can also be carried in other information exchanged after the interaction of request#1 / request#2. For example, the first auxiliary information can be carried in an information exchange after the interaction of request#1 / request#2 and response#1 / response#2.

[0225] The reserved field of the aforementioned action frame / first frame may also include other auxiliary information besides the first auxiliary information. Other auxiliary information can also be used to optimize the communication quality of high-frequency communication, and there are no limitations on this.

[0226] For example, the second communication device may also send second auxiliary information to the first communication device. This second auxiliary information is used for beam alignment between the first and second communication devices. For instance, the second auxiliary information may include directional information of the second communication device relative to the first communication device (e.g., directional information indicating that the second communication device is due west of the first communication device; or directional information indicating that the second communication device is within an angular range due west of the first communication device; or directional information indicating a change in position of the second communication device relative to the first communication device, etc.), or positioning information used by the first communication device to locate the second communication device (e.g., positioning information that can be used by the first communication device to determine the AoA between the second and first communication devices). Beam alignment between the first and second communication devices is used to optimize the communication quality of high-frequency communication. The second auxiliary information is one possible implementation of the directional information of the second communication device.

[0227] The second auxiliary information can be carried in the reserved field / SIG field of the action frame / first frame mentioned above.

[0228] For example, the second auxiliary information and the above response#1 / response#2 are both carried in the reserved field / SIG field of the above action frame / first frame, and the second auxiliary information is located after response#1 / response#2.

[0229] The second auxiliary information can also be carried in other information exchanged after the interaction of response#1 / response#2. For example, the second auxiliary information can be carried in an information exchange after the interaction of request#1 / request#2 and response#1 / response#2.

[0230] The reserved field of the aforementioned action frame / first frame may also include other auxiliary information besides the second auxiliary information. Other auxiliary information can also be used to optimize the communication quality of high-frequency communication, and there are no limitations on this.

[0231] In another possible implementation, the communication device sending request#1, request#2, response#1, or response#2 is an AP. The AP can also send third auxiliary information to the other end of the communication. This third auxiliary information is used by the first and second communication devices to achieve high-frequency communication. For example, the third auxiliary information indicates the primary channel (PH location) used for high-frequency communication between the first and second communication devices. The third auxiliary information is one possible implementation of the first indication information.

[0232] For example, the flag bit can be one possible implementation of request#1, request#2, response#1, or response#2 mentioned above.

[0233] It is understood that the values ​​of request#1, request#2, response#1, or response#2 mentioned above are merely examples. Any value or field that can achieve the same function or indicate the same meaning can be used as an implementation of request#1, request#2, response#1, or response#2 in the embodiments of this application.

[0234] In some possible implementations, method 400 may also include:

[0235] S450, when the first preset condition is met, the first communication device sends or receives the second indication information, and correspondingly, the second communication device receives or sends the second indication information, which indicates the communication beam aligned with the second communication link.

[0236] Due to the unique characteristics of high-frequency communication (rapid environmental changes, few multipath paths but large path losses), communication interruptions or service disruptions may occur due to changes in frequency offset, phase, etc. At least one of the two ends of the communication can determine whether re-beam alignment / calibration is needed based on factors such as STA movement, whether the communication beam is obstructed, whether the current or future channel quality meets the minimum communication requirements, whether there is contention in the high-frequency communication band / channel, and whether the high-frequency communication band / channel can continue to be used. In other words, at least one end of the communication can determine whether re-beam alignment / calibration is necessary.

[0237] The following example illustrates a scenario where a first communication device and a second communication device are communicating, and the first communication device determines that beam alignment / calibration is required. The condition used to determine that beam alignment / calibration is required is one possible implementation of a first preset condition.

[0238] It is understandable that the communication between the first and second communication devices, and the second communication device's determination that beam alignment / calibration is needed, is similar to the implementation described below. To avoid redundancy, this will not be elaborated further.

[0239] The first communication device can send calibration indication information to the second communication device, indicating that beam alignment / calibration is required. This calibration indication information can quickly indicate to the second communication device either a potential communication risk or information about a clear change. This calibration indication information can be transmitted and received in high-frequency bands; it can also be transmitted and received in low-frequency bands to ensure transmission; or it can be transmitted simultaneously in both high-frequency and low-frequency bands based on a multi-link operation (MLO) interaction mode. The comparison is not limited. The calibration indication information is one possible implementation of the second indication information.

[0240] The first preset condition may include the relationship between communication quality and a first threshold / second threshold. The first threshold / second threshold may be preset, indicated by the second communication device, determined by the first communication device, negotiated by the first and second communication devices, or predefined / specified by the protocol. The first threshold / second threshold can be used to represent the requirements that need to be met for communication through the second communication link.

[0241] For example, if the first communication device determines that the bit error rate or packet loss rate of the current physical layer protocol data unit (PPDU) is greater than or equal to a first threshold, the first communication device determines that it is necessary to recalibrate the beam for the high-frequency communication environment. Alternatively, when the STA experiences significant positional changes or attitude shifts, the STA, as the first communication device, needs to instruct the AP, as the second communication device, to perform beam recalibration.

[0242] In the embodiments of this application, the first preset condition may be a condition for determining whether the future channel quality meets the minimum requirements for communication, whether there is competition for the frequency band / channel of high-frequency communication, or whether the frequency band / channel of high-frequency communication can continue to be used. For example, indicators such as bit error rate, packet loss rate, transmission delay, round-trip time, jitter, or number of retransmissions being greater than or equal to a first threshold is a possible implementation of the first preset condition; and / or, indicators such as transmission rate or throughput being less than or equal to a second threshold is a possible implementation of the first preset condition.

[0243] In the embodiments of this application, beam recalibration may include frequency offset compensation and / or beamforming, etc., and recalibration is used to achieve aligned communication of the beam. Beam recalibration can be performed in high frequency bands, low frequency bands, or both high frequency bands and low frequency bands, without limitation.

[0244] A first flag bit can be set in a specified field as a possible implementation of calibration indication information.

[0245] For example, when the first communication device determines that it is necessary to recalibrate the beam, the first flag bit is "1"; when the first communication device determines that it is not necessary to recalibrate the beam, the first flag bit is "0". Alternatively, conversely, when the first communication device determines that it is necessary to recalibrate the beam, the first flag bit is "0"; when the first communication device determines that it is not necessary to recalibrate the beam, the first flag bit is "1".

[0246] For example, the first flag bit is carried in the PPDU; or, the first flag bit is carried in the reserved field of the BA frame; or, the first flag bit is carried in the MAC Header of the data frame; or, the first flag bit is carried in the reserved / unused field of the action frame, which is a rewrite of the reserved / unused field of the action frame. The rewrite of the reserved / unused field of the action frame is similar to request#1 and / or response#1, and can be referred to the relevant description in Figure 5, which will not be repeated here.

[0247] Other information can be carried after the first flag bit of the specified field, and there are no restrictions on this.

[0248] In some possible implementations, method 400 may also include:

[0249] S460, if the second preset condition is met, the first communication device sends or receives the third indication information, and correspondingly, the second communication device receives or sends the third indication information, which indicates that communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0250] The following example illustrates communication between a first communication device and a second communication device, where the first communication device determines whether to switch communication from the second communication link to the first communication link. It is understandable that the implementation of this process, where the first and second communication devices communicate and the second communication device determines whether to switch communication from the second communication link to the first communication link, is similar to the implementation described below. To avoid redundancy, this will not be elaborated further.

[0251] For example, the first communication device may also instruct the second communication device whether to terminate the current high-frequency communication and / or switch to low-frequency communication via switching indication information. The switching indication information is one possible implementation of the third indication information.

[0252] In this embodiment, the second preset condition is a condition for determining whether communication needs to be switched from the second communication link to the first communication link. For example, if the algorithm predicts that the channel quality will not meet the minimum requirements for communication in the future or a period of time thereafter, or that communication will be blocked and cannot be restored in a short time, the first communication device can also instruct the second communication device to end the current high-frequency communication and / or switch to low-frequency communication through switching indication information. The inability of the channel quality to meet the minimum requirements for communication in the future or a period of time thereafter, or the blockage of communication and the inability to restore in a short time, is one possible implementation of the second preset condition.

[0253] Alternatively, when the first communication device determines that communication needs to be switched from the second communication link to the first communication link, the first communication device can also instruct the second communication device to terminate the current high-frequency communication and / or switch to low-frequency communication through switching indication information. The determination that communication needs to be switched from the second communication link to the first communication link and / or the conditions used to determine this determination result are possible implementations of the second preset conditions.

[0254] The implementation of the switching indication information can be similar to that of the calibration indication information. For example, setting a second flag bit in a specified field is one possible implementation of the switching indication information. For instance, when the first communication device determines to terminate the current high-frequency communication and return to low-frequency communication, the second flag bit is "1"; when the first communication device determines not to terminate the current high-frequency communication, the second flag bit is "0". Alternatively, conversely, when the first communication device determines to terminate the current high-frequency communication and return to low-frequency communication, the second flag bit is "0"; when the first communication device determines not to terminate the current high-frequency communication, the second flag bit is "1".

[0255] For example, the second flag bit is carried in the PPDU; or, the second flag bit is carried in the reserved field of the BA frame; or, the second flag bit is carried in the MAC Header of the data frame; or, the second flag bit is carried in the reserved / unused field of the action frame, which is a rewrite of the reserved / unused field of the action frame. The rewrite of the reserved / unused field of the action frame is similar to request#1 and / or response#1, and can be referred to the relevant description in Figure 5, which will not be repeated here.

[0256] The switching indication information can also be carried in the same frame as the calibration indication information and located after the calibration indication information.

[0257] Other information can be carried after the second flag bit of the specified field, and there are no restrictions on this.

[0258] It is understood that the values ​​of the above calibration indication information / switching indication information are only examples, and any values ​​or fields that can achieve the same function or indicate the same meaning can be used as the implementation of calibration indication information / switching indication information in the embodiments of this application.

[0259] In some possible implementations, method 400 may also include:

[0260] S470, the first communication device sends or receives the fourth indication information, and correspondingly, the second communication device receives or sends the fourth indication information. The fourth indication information indicates the second time information, and the second time information indicates the start time after the communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

[0261] For power consumption and other considerations, high- and low-frequency links may be in an energy-saving state when not in use. If a switch between high and low frequencies is required (for example, when high-frequency communication is blocked and cannot be recovered in a short time, switch to low-frequency communication), the communication equipment at both ends of the transmission and reception need to be "first-aligned" to align the start time of communication after the communication link switch, in order to reduce switching latency and reduce the waste of communication resources.

[0262] Switching from high-frequency to low-frequency communication, or vice versa, can be performed using alignment indication information. Initial alignment prevents the switching times of the first and second communication devices from differing too much in the time domain, which could lead to wasted communication resources, prolonged communication interruptions, or wasted system power consumption. The alignment indication information used for initial alignment can be determined by the sending communication device, negotiated between the sending and receiving devices, predefined, or pre-configured. The comparison is not limited. The alignment indication information used for initial alignment can indicate the relative or absolute time of communication commencement.

[0263] In the case of switching from low-frequency communication to high-frequency communication, alignment indication information is one possible implementation of first-time information.

[0264] In the case of switching from high-frequency communication to low-frequency communication, alignment indication information is one possible implementation of second time information.

[0265] In some possible implementations, the alignment indication information can be the padding field in the frame. The padding field can include a "1" or "0" that has no practical meaning. The padding field can occupy a period of time in the time domain and can be used to indicate the relative time when communication starts. Alternatively, the alignment indication information can indicate the time when communication starts after the switch (the time when communication starts can also be understood as the start time of communication or the absolute time when communication starts).

[0266] For example, alignment indication information can be carried in the initial control frame (ICR) (e.g., in a buffer status report poll (BSRP) frame or a multi-site block acknowledgement (M-BA) frame); or, alignment indication information can be carried in the reserved / unused field of the action frame, which is a rewrite of the reserved / unused field of the action frame. The rewriting of the reserved / unused field of the action frame is similar to that of request#1 and / or response#1, and can be referred to the relevant description in section 5 of Figure 5, which will not be repeated here.

[0267] Alignment indication information can be transmitted and received in high-frequency bands; it can also be transmitted and received in low-frequency bands to ensure the transmission of alignment indication information; and it can also be transmitted simultaneously in both high-frequency and low-frequency bands based on the MLO interaction mode. The comparison is not limited.

[0268] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of a communication method 600 applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0269] It should be understood that Figure 6 illustrates the steps or operations of the communication method, but these steps or operations are merely examples. Other operations or variations of the operations shown in Figure 6 may also be performed in the embodiments of this application.

[0270] Without loss of generality, the communication method provided in this application embodiment will be described in detail below using the interaction between a first communication device and a second communication device as an example. Both the first and second communication devices support short-range wireless access technology.

[0271] Method 600 includes the following steps:

[0272] S610, the first communication device and the second communication link communicate through the second communication link.

[0273] Specifically, the first communication device communicates with the second communication device through the second communication link.

[0274] In one possible design (denoted as design #1), method 600 also includes S620.

[0275] S620, when the first preset condition is met, the first communication device sends or receives the second indication information, and correspondingly, the second communication device receives or sends the second indication information. The second indication information indicates the communication beam aligned with the second communication link, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high-frequency communication.

[0276] In some possible implementations, method 600 may also include:

[0277] S630, when the second preset condition is met, the first communication device sends or receives the third indication information, and correspondingly, the second communication device receives or sends the third indication information. The third indication information indicates that communication will be switched from the second communication link to the first communication link, and the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the low-frequency communication frequency band.

[0278] In another possible design (denoted as Design #2), Method 600 also includes S640.

[0279] S640, the first communication device sends or receives the fourth indication information, and correspondingly, the second communication device receives or sends the fourth indication information. The fourth indication information indicates the second time information, which indicates the start time after the communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link. The frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the low-frequency communication band, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the high-frequency communication band.

[0280] The specific implementation of method 600 can be referred to the relevant description of method 400 above, and will not be repeated in this embodiment. For example, the specific implementation of S620 can be referred to the relevant description of S450; the specific implementation of S630 can be referred to the relevant description of S460; and the specific implementation of S640 can be referred to the relevant description of S470.

[0281] It should be understood that the sequence number of each process does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0282] It should also be understood that, in the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other, and the technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

[0283] It should also be understood that the above embodiments are mainly illustrated using devices in existing network architectures as examples. It should be understood that the specific form of the device is not limited in the embodiments of this application. For example, any device that can achieve the same function in the future is applicable to the embodiments of this application.

[0284] It is understood that, in the above-described method embodiments, the methods and operations implemented by devices (such as the first communication device and the second communication device) can also be implemented by components (such as chips or circuits) that can be used in the devices.

[0285] It is also understood that some optional features in the various embodiments of this application may not depend on other features in some scenarios, or may be combined with other features in some scenarios, without limitation.

[0286] The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application has been described in detail above with reference to Figures 4 and 6. The above communication method is mainly described from the perspective of the interaction between the first communication device and the second communication device. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the first communication device and the second communication device include hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function.

[0287] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, based on the units and algorithm steps described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is implemented in 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.

[0288] The communication device provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 7 to 9. It should be understood that the description of the device embodiments corresponds to the description of the method embodiments. Therefore, for content not described in detail, please refer to the method embodiments above. For the sake of brevity, some content will not be repeated.

[0289] This application embodiment can divide the first communication device and the second communication device into functional modules according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, 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 noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. The following description uses the division of functional modules according to each function as an example.

[0290] Figure 7 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 10 provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 10 includes a transceiver module 11, which can implement corresponding communication functions.

[0291] Alternatively, the transceiver module 11 is used to perform receiving and sending related operations. The transceiver module 11 can also be referred to as a communication interface or communication unit. The transceiver module 11 may include a receiving module and / or a sending module, whereby the receiving module performs receiving-related operations and the sending module performs sending-related operations.

[0292] Optionally, the device 10 may further include a processing module 12 for performing data processing.

[0293] In other words, the processing module 12 is used to perform operations other than receiving and sending.

[0294] Optionally, the device 10 may further include a storage module 13, which can be used to store instructions and / or data. The processing module 12 can read the instructions and / or data in the storage module so that the device can perform the operation of the device in the aforementioned method embodiments. The above modules may also be referred to as units, such as transceiver unit, processing unit, storage unit, etc.

[0295] In one design, the device 10 may correspond to the first communication device in the above method embodiments, or to a component of the first communication device (such as a chip).

[0296] The device 10 can implement the steps or processes corresponding to those performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiments. The transceiver module 11 can be used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the first communication device in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 12 can be used to perform the processing-related operations of the first communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0297] When the device 10 is used to execute the method in FIG4, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as steps S420, S430, S450, S460, or S470; the processing module 12 can be used to process the information received by the transceiver module 11 or to process the information that the transceiver module 11 needs to send.

[0298] When the device 10 is used to execute the method in FIG6, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as steps S620, S630, or S640; the processing module 12 can be used to process the information received by the transceiver module 11 or to process the information that the transceiver module 11 needs to send.

[0299] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit performing the above-mentioned corresponding steps has been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0300] In another design, the device 10 may correspond to the second communication device in the above method embodiment, or to a component of the second communication device (such as a chip).

[0301] The device 10 can implement the steps or processes corresponding to those performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiments. The transceiver module 11 can be used to perform transceiver-related operations of the second communication device in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 12 can be used to perform processing-related operations of the second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0302] When the device 10 is used to execute the method in FIG4, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as steps S420, S430, S450, S460, or S470; the processing module 12 can be used to process the information received by the transceiver module 11 or to process the information that the transceiver module 11 needs to send.

[0303] When the device 10 is used to execute the method in FIG6, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as steps S620, S630, or S640; the processing module 12 can be used to process the information received by the transceiver module 11 or to process the information that the transceiver module 11 needs to send.

[0304] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit performing the above-mentioned corresponding steps has been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0305] It should also be understood that the device 10 here is embodied in the form of a functional module. The term "module" here can refer to application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), electronic circuits, processors (e.g., shared processors, proprietary processors, or group processors, etc.) and memories for executing one or more software or firmware programs, integrated logic circuits, and / or other suitable components supporting the described functions. In an alternative example, those skilled in the art will understand that device 10 may specifically be a mobility management network element in the above embodiments, and may be used to execute the various processes and / or steps corresponding to the mobility management network element in the above method embodiments; or, device 10 may specifically be a terminal device in the above embodiments, and may be used to execute the various processes and / or steps corresponding to the terminal device in the above method embodiments. To avoid repetition, further details are omitted here.

[0306] The apparatus 10 of each of the above-described schemes has the function of implementing the corresponding steps performed by the devices (such as the first communication device and the second communication device) in the above-described methods. This function can be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above-described functions; for example, the transceiver module can be replaced by a transceiver (for example, the transmitting unit in the transceiver module can be replaced by a transmitter, and the receiving unit in the transceiver module can be replaced by a receiver), and other units, such as processing modules, can be replaced by processors, which respectively execute the transceiver operations and related processing operations in each method embodiment.

[0307] In addition, the transceiver module 11 can also be a transceiver circuit (for example, it may include a receiving circuit and a transmitting circuit), and the processing module can be a processing circuit.

[0308] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of another communication device 20 provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 20 includes a transceiver 23, which is used for receiving and / or transmitting signals.

[0309] Optionally, as shown in FIG8, the device 20 further includes a memory 22 for storing computer programs or instructions and / or data. Optionally, there may be one or more memories 22.

[0310] Optionally, as shown in FIG8, the device 20 further includes a processor 21, which is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in the memory 22, or to read data / signaling stored in the memory 22, to perform the methods in the above method embodiments. Optionally, there may be one or more processors 21.

[0311] For example, processor 21 is used to control transceiver 23 to receive and / or transmit signals. Transceiver 23 may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, the receiver being used for receiving signals and the transmitter for transmitting signals; if communication device 20 is a chip, then transceiver 23 is the chip's input / output interface, where the output corresponds to transmitting and the input corresponds to receiving.

[0312] The memory 22 can be integrated with the processor 21, or it can be set separately.

[0313] As one option, the device 20 is used to implement the operations performed by the first communication device or the second communication device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0314] It should be understood that the processor mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0315] It should also be understood that the memory mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM). For example, RAM can be used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, RAM includes the following forms: static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0316] It should be noted that when the processor is a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic device, or discrete hardware component, the memory (storage module) can be integrated into the processor.

[0317] It should also be noted that the memory described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0318] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a chip system 30 provided in an embodiment of this application. The chip system 30 (or processing system) includes logic circuitry 31 and an input / output interface 32.

[0319] The logic circuit 31 can be a processing circuit in the chip system 30. The logic circuit 31 can be coupled to a memory unit, calling instructions from the memory unit, enabling the chip system 30 to implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application. The input / output interface 32 can be an input / output circuit in the chip system 30, outputting processed information from the chip system 30, or inputting data or signaling information to be processed into the chip system 30 for processing.

[0320] As one option, the chip system 30 is used to implement the operations performed by the first communication device or the second communication device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0321] For example, logic circuit 31 is used to implement processing-related operations performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiment; input / output interface 32 is used to implement sending and / or receiving-related operations performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiment.

[0322] For example, logic circuit 31 is used to implement the processing-related operations performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiment; input / output interface 32 is used to implement the sending and / or receiving-related operations performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiment.

[0323] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program / instructions thereon for implementing the methods executed by the device in the above-described method embodiments.

[0324] For example, when the computer program / instruction is executed by the computer, it enables the computer to implement the methods executed by the first communication device or the second communication device in the various embodiments of the above methods.

[0325] This application also provides a computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer / processor, implement the methods performed by the first communication device or the second communication device in the above-described method embodiments.

[0326] This application also provides a communication system, including the aforementioned first communication device and second communication device.

[0327] The explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant contents in any of the devices provided above can be found in the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0328] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection of apparatus or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0329] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. For example, the computer can be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. 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). For example, the aforementioned available media include, but are not limited to, USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks, and other media capable of storing program code.

[0330] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: Send the first request message. Wherein, the first request information is used to request whether to send and / or receive first information through the first communication link, and / or the first request information is used to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link, the first information is used to assist communication of the second communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the frequency band of low frequency communication, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high frequency communication. Receive first response information, which is used to respond to the first request information.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: The method is applied to the first communication device, providing directional information of the first communication device. Directional information from the second communication device; First time information, indicating the start time after communication switches from the first communication link to the second communication link; or... The first indication information indicates the main channel of the second communication link.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Communicating via the second communication link; Under the condition of meeting the first preset condition, a second indication information is sent or received, the second indication information indicating the communication beam aligned with the second communication link.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Communicating via the second communication link; If the second preset condition is met, a third indication message is sent or received, which indicates that communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send or receive fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating second time information, the second time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

6. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: Receive the first request information, Wherein, the first request information is used to request whether to send and / or receive first information through the first communication link, and / or the first request information is used to request whether to switch communication from the first communication link to the second communication link, the first information is used to assist communication of the second communication link, the frequency band of the first communication link belongs to the frequency band of low frequency communication, and the frequency band of the second communication link belongs to the frequency band of high frequency communication. Send a first response message, which is used to respond to the first request message.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: Directional information from the first communication device; The method is applied to the second communication device, providing directional information of the second communication device. First time information, indicating the start time after communication switches from the first communication link to the second communication link; or... The first indication information indicates the main channel of the second communication link.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Communicating via the second communication link; If the first preset condition is met, a second indication message is received or sent, the second indication message indicating the alignment of the communication beam through the second communication link.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: Communicating via the second communication link; If the second preset condition is met, a third instruction message is received or sent, which indicates that communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive or send a fourth indication information, the fourth indication information indicating a second time information, the second time information indicating the start time after communication is switched from the second communication link to the first communication link.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes a unit or module for performing the method of any one of claims 1 to 5; or, it includes a unit or module for performing the method of any one of claims 6 to 10.

12. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes at least one processor, said at least one processor being configured to execute computer programs or instructions, The communication device is made to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 5, or the communication device is made to perform the method of any one of claims 6 to 10.

13. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 10 to be performed.

14. A computer program product, characterized in that, It includes instructions that, when executed by a communication device, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 10 to be performed.

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