First node, communication method, and apparatus

Abstract

A first node, a communication method, and an apparatus, relating to the technical field of communications, and capable of reducing power consumption of the first node and shortening wake-up time. The first node comprises a wake-up module and a service module; the wake-up module comprises a maser switch, a power supply, and a decoding circuit; the maser switch is communicatively connected to the power supply and the decoding circuit, and the decoding circuit is further communicatively connected to the service module; the maser switch is configured to be turned on when the power of a wake-up signal from a second node is greater than or equal to a first threshold, the wake-up signal being a maser excitation signal; the power supply is configured to supply power to the decoding circuit when the maser switch is turned on; the decoding circuit is configured to decode the wake-up signal, and wake up the first node upon successful decoding; the service module is configured to communicate with the second node when the first node is in a wake-up state.

Description

First node, communication method and device

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510127477.4, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on January 27, 2025, entitled "First Node, Communication Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a first node, a communication method, and an apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] In a communication system, the transmitting device can send a wake-up signal to the receiving device, which is in a sleep state. The receiving device then enters a wake-up state based on the received wake-up signal and begins to communicate with the transmitting device.

[0004] In this method, the receiving device can parse the wake-up signal using its own parsing unit, and enter the wake-up state upon successful parsing. However, this method results in a relatively long wake-up time for the receiving device, and the receiving device needs to continuously supply power to the parsing unit, leading to high power consumption.

[0005] Therefore, how to reduce the power consumption of the receiving device and shorten the wake-up time has become an urgent technical problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a first node, a communication method, and an apparatus that can reduce the power consumption of the first node and shorten the wake-up time.

[0007] Firstly, this application provides a first node. Unless otherwise specified, "first node" in this application can refer to the first node itself, a component within the first node (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first node. The first node includes: a wake-up module and a service module; the wake-up module includes a pulsator switch, a power supply, and a decoding circuit; the pulsator switch is communicatively connected to the power supply and the decoding circuit, and the decoding circuit is also communicatively connected to the service module; the pulsator switch is used to turn on when the power of a wake-up signal from a second node is greater than or equal to a first threshold, the wake-up signal being a pulsator excitation signal; the power supply is used to supply power to the decoding circuit when the pulsator switch is on; the decoding circuit is used to parse the wake-up signal and wake up the first node if the parsing is successful; the service module is used to communicate with the second node when the first node is in a wake-up state.

[0008] Based on the first aspect, the power supply of the standby circuit of the first node is entirely passively controlled by a pulsator switch. The power supply of the first node only powers the decoding circuit when the pulsator switch is on, eliminating the need for continuous power supply and achieving "zero power consumption," thus extending the power supply's lifespan and usage time. Furthermore, the first node based on the pulsator switch boasts a fast wake-up speed, reaching the microsecond level, and high receiving sensitivity, achieving -27dBm, with a long coverage distance. Simultaneously, the wake-up receiving link design of the first node is simple, requiring only a power supply, a pulsator switch, and the decoding circuit; it eliminates the need for additional energy recovery circuits, voltage regulator circuits, etc., saving costs, simplifying the circuit, and reducing implementation complexity. Additionally, when the first node has no service requirements, the service receiving link is in a dormant state. When service requirements arise, the wake-up receiving link can be activated first, enabling the service receiving link for communication with the second node, further reducing the power consumption of the first node.

[0009] In one possible design, the wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key; the decoding circuit is used to parse the wake-up signal according to the wake-up key.

[0010] Based on this possible design, by carrying a wake-up key in the wake-up signal, accidental triggering can be avoided and communication security can be improved.

[0011] In one possible design, the pulsator switch is also used to turn off in any of the following situations: no wake-up signal is received, or the power of the received wake-up signal is less than a first threshold.

[0012] Based on this possible design, the Pulse switch can achieve the on and off functions without a static operating point (i.e., without a power supply), which can reduce the power consumption of the first node.

[0013] In one possible design, the power supply is also used to prevent power from being supplied to the decoding circuit when the pulsator switch is off.

[0014] Based on this possible design, the power supply only supplies power to the decoding circuit when the pulsator switch is on, without continuous power supply, achieving "zero power consumption" and extending the life and usage time of the power supply.

[0015] In one possible design, the business module is also used to receive a synchronization information block from the second node when the first node is in a wake-up state.

[0016] In one possible design, the synchronization information block includes a first training signal FTS; or, the synchronization information block includes a second training signal STS.

[0017] In one possible design, the business module is also used to synchronize with the second node based on the synchronization information block.

[0018] Based on the three possible designs mentioned above, the first node can also synchronize with the second node based on the synchronization information block, thereby improving system performance.

[0019] In one possible design, the business module is also used to receive system information from the second node; the business module is also used to access the second node based on the system information.

[0020] In one possible design, the system information includes one or more of the following: Master Information Block (MIB) or System Information Block (SIB).

[0021] Based on the two possible designs mentioned above, the first node can also access the second node based on system information to enable communication between the first node and the second node, thereby improving system performance.

[0022] In one possible design, the service module is also used to compete for the channel while the first node is in a wake-up state, and to send service information to the second node if the channel competition is successful.

[0023] Based on this possible design, the first node can also send business information to the second node after being woken up, thereby improving system performance.

[0024] Secondly, this application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by a first node. Unless otherwise specified, "first node" in this application can refer to the first node itself, a component within the first node (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first node. The method includes: when the first node is in a sleep state, receiving a wake-up signal from a second node via a pulsator switch of a wake-up module; this wake-up signal is a pulsator excitation signal. When the power of the wake-up signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold, the pulsator switch is turned on, and the power supply of the wake-up module powers the decoding circuit of the wake-up module, which then parses the wake-up signal; if the decoding circuit successfully parses the wake-up signal, the system enters a wake-up state.

[0025] In one possible design, the wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key; the wake-up signal is then parsed based on the wake-up key by a decoding circuit.

[0026] In one possible design, the method further includes: receiving a synchronization information block from the second node through the business module when the first node is in a wake-up state; and synchronizing with the second node through the business module according to the synchronization information block.

[0027] In one possible design, the synchronization information block includes an FTS; or the synchronization information block includes an STS.

[0028] In one possible design, the method further includes: receiving system information from the second node through the business module; and accessing the second node through the business module based on the system information.

[0029] In one possible design, the system information includes one or more of the following: MIB or SIB.

[0030] In one possible design, the method further includes: when the first node is in a wake-up state, channel contention is conducted through the service module; if the channel contention is successful, service information is sent to the second node through the service module.

[0031] It is understood that the description of the technical effects that can be achieved by the second aspect and the various possible designs of the second aspect can refer to the technical effects described in the first aspect and the various possible designs of the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0032] Thirdly, this application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by a first node. Unless otherwise specified, the "first node" in this application can refer to the first node itself, a component within the first node (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first node. The method includes: receiving a wake-up signal from a second node when the first node is in a sleep state; the wake-up signal being a pulsator excitation signal; parsing the wake-up signal if its power is greater than or equal to a first threshold; and entering a wake-up state if the wake-up signal is successfully parsed.

[0033] In one possible design, the wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key; the wake-up signal is then parsed based on the wake-up key.

[0034] In one possible design, the method further includes: receiving a synchronization information block from the second node while the first node is in a wake-up state; and synchronizing with the second node according to the synchronization information block.

[0035] In one possible design, the synchronization information block includes an FTS; or, the synchronization information block includes an STS.

[0036] In one possible design, the method further includes: receiving system information from the second node; and accessing the second node based on the system information.

[0037] In one possible design, the system information includes one or more of the following: MIB or SIB.

[0038] In one possible design, the method further includes: engaging in channel contention while the first node is in a wake-up state; and sending service information to the second node if the channel contention is successful.

[0039] It is understood that the description of the technical effects that can be achieved by the third aspect and the various possible designs of the third aspect can refer to the technical effects described in the first aspect and the various possible designs of the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0040] Fourthly, this application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by a first node. Unless otherwise specified, "first node" in this application can refer to the first node itself, a component within the first node (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first node. The method includes: when the first node is in a sleep state, receiving a wake-up signal from a second node; and entering a wake-up state upon successful parsing of the wake-up signal. When the first node is in a wake-up state, after a first time period following receiving the wake-up signal, receiving a synchronization information block from the second node, and synchronizing with the second node according to the synchronization information block.

[0041] Based on the fourth aspect, the first node can synchronize with the second node based on the synchronization information block after being woken up, thereby improving system performance.

[0042] In one possible design, the synchronization information block includes an FTS; or, the synchronization information block includes an STS.

[0043] In one possible design, the method further includes: receiving system information from the second node; and accessing the second node based on the system information.

[0044] Based on this possible design, the first node can also access the second node based on system information, enabling communication between the first and second nodes and improving system performance.

[0045] In one possible design, the system information includes one or more of the following: MIB or SIB.

[0046] In one possible design, the wake-up signal is a pulsator excitation signal, and the wake-up signal is parsed when the power of the wake-up signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold.

[0047] In one possible design, the wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key, and the wake-up signal is parsed based on the wake-up key.

[0048] It is understood that the description of the technical effects that the various possible designs can achieve can also refer to the first aspect and the technical effects described in the various possible designs of the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0049] Fifthly, this application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by a first node. Unless otherwise specified, "first node" in this application can refer to the first node itself, a component within the first node (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first node. The method includes: receiving a wake-up signal from a second node when the first node is in a sleep state; and entering a wake-up state if the wake-up signal is successfully parsed; engaging in channel contention while the first node is in the wake-up state; and sending service information to the second node if the channel contention is successful.

[0050] Based on the fifth aspect, the first node can send business information to the second node after being woken up, thereby improving system performance.

[0051] In one possible design, the wake-up signal is a pulsator excitation signal, and the wake-up signal is parsed when the power of the wake-up signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold.

[0052] In one possible design, the wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key, and the wake-up signal is parsed based on the wake-up key.

[0053] It is understood that the description of the technical effects that the various possible designs can achieve can also refer to the first aspect and the technical effects described in the various possible designs of the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0054] Sixthly, this application provides a communication method that can be implemented by a second node. Unless otherwise specified, "second node" in this application can refer to the second node itself, a component within the second node (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second node. The method includes: sending a wake-up signal to a first node in a dormant state; and, after a first time period following the sending of the wake-up signal, sending a synchronization information block to the first node. The synchronization information block is used for synchronization with the second node.

[0055] In one possible design, the wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key.

[0056] In one possible design, the first time period is greater than or equal to the time it takes for the first node to parse the wake-up signal.

[0057] In one possible design, the synchronization information block includes an FTS; or, the synchronization information block includes an STS.

[0058] In one possible design, the method further includes: sending system information to the first node; wherein the system information is used to access the second node.

[0059] In one possible design, the system information includes one or more of the following: MIB or SIB.

[0060] It is understood that the description of the technical effects that can be achieved by the sixth aspect and the various possible designs of the sixth aspect can refer to the technical effects described in the fourth aspect and the various possible designs of the fourth aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0061] Seventhly, this application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by a second node. Unless otherwise specified, the "second node" in this application can refer to the second node itself, a component within the second node (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second node. The method includes: sending a wake-up signal to a first node in a dormant state; releasing a first channel after a second time period following the sending of the wake-up signal; and receiving service information from the first node; the first channel is a communication channel between the second node and a third node.

[0062] In one possible design, the second time period is determined based on the communication gap between the second node and the third node.

[0063] Based on the above description, the second node can simultaneously preempt the channel to communicate with the third node and wake up the first node. By planning the release time of the first channel, such as releasing the first channel during the communication gap with the third node, the second node can quickly obtain the service information of the first node and improve communication efficiency.

[0064] In one possible design, the wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key.

[0065] It is understood that the description of the technical effects that can be achieved by the seventh aspect and the various possible designs of the seventh aspect can also refer to the technical effects described in the fifth aspect and the various possible designs of the fifth aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0066] Eighthly, this application provides a communication device that can be applied to the communication methods of the third, fourth, or fifth aspects described above to realize the functions performed by the first node. The communication device can be the first node, or it can be the chip, chip system, or system-on-a-chip of the first node, etc. The communication device can perform the functions performed by the first node through hardware, or it can implement them through hardware execution of corresponding software.

[0067] Alternatively, the communication device can be applied to the communication method of the sixth or seventh aspect above to realize the function performed by the second node. The communication device can be the second node, or it can be the chip, chip system, or system-on-a-chip of the second node, etc. The communication device can perform the function performed by the second node through hardware, or it can implement the corresponding software through hardware.

[0068] The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions. For example, a transceiver module and a processing module. The transceiver module can perform the above transceiver operations independently or cooperate with the processing module to perform the above transceiver operations. Similarly, the processing module can perform the above processing operations independently or cooperate with the transceiver module to perform the above processing operations, without limitation.

[0069] Optionally, the transceiver module and processing module of the communication device in the eighth aspect may also perform the corresponding functions in any possible design of any of the third to seventh aspects, as detailed in the method examples. The beneficial effects that can be achieved can also be found in the aforementioned related content, which will not be repeated here.

[0070] Ninthly, this application provides a communication device comprising one or more processors; the one or more processors being configured to execute a computer program or instructions, such that when the one or more processors execute the computer program or instructions, the communication method described in any one of the third to seventh aspects is performed.

[0071] In one possible design, the communication device further includes one or more memories coupled to one or more processors, the memories used to store the aforementioned computer programs or instructions. In one possible implementation, the memories are located outside the communication device. In another possible implementation, the memories are located inside the communication device. In this application, the processor and memory may also be integrated into a single device, i.e., the processor and memory may be integrated together. In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a transceiver for receiving and / or transmitting information.

[0072] In one possible design, the communication device further includes one or more communication interfaces coupled to one or more processors, and the communication interfaces are used to communicate with other modules outside the communication device.

[0073] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a communication device comprising an interface circuit and a logic circuit; the interface circuit is used for inputting and / or outputting information; the logic circuit is used for performing the communication method as described in any one of the third to seventh aspects, processing and / or generating information based on the information.

[0074] In one aspect, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions or programs that, when some or all of the computer instructions or programs are run on a computer, cause the communication method described in any one of the third to seventh aspects to be executed.

[0075] In a twelfth aspect, this application provides a computer program product comprising computer instructions or programs that, when some or all of the computer instructions or programs are run on a computer, cause the communication method described in any one of the third to seventh aspects to be executed.

[0076] In a thirteenth aspect, this application provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the communication method described in any one of the third to seventh aspects to be executed.

[0077] In a fourteenth aspect, this application provides a chip comprising: a processor coupled to a memory for storing programs or instructions, wherein when some or all of the programs or instructions are executed by the processor, a communication method as described in any one of the third to seventh aspects is executed.

[0078] The technical effects of any of the design methods in aspects nine through fourteen are similar to those in aspects three through seven, and will not be elaborated upon further.

[0079] In a fifteenth aspect, this application provides a communication system that may include a first node as described in the first aspect or any possible design of the first aspect; or, include a first node for performing as described in the second aspect or any possible design of the second aspect; or, include communication means for performing as described in the third aspect or any possible design of the third aspect; or, include communication means for performing as described in the fourth aspect or any possible design of the fourth aspect, and communication means for performing as described in the sixth aspect or any possible design of the sixth aspect; or, include communication means for performing as described in the fifth aspect or any possible design of the fifth aspect, and communication means for performing as described in the seventh aspect or any possible design of the seventh aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0080] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a WLAN system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0081] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an RFID system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0082] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a star flash system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0083] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a WLAN wake-up mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0084] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an RFID wake-up mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0085] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a first node provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0086] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the on and off states of a pulsator switch provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0087] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a first node and a second node provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0088] Figure 9 is a flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0089] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of communication between a first node and a second node provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0090] Figure 11 is a flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0091] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of communication between a first node and a second node provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0092] Figure 13 is a flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0093] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of another communication between a first node and a second node provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0094] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of another communication between the first node and the second node provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0095] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0096] Figure 17 is a structural diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0097] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of the composition of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0098] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0099] The communication method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to any communication system, such as a third-generation partnership project (3GPP) communication system, for example, a long-term evolution (LTE) system, a fifth-generation (5G) mobile communication system, a new radio (NR) communication system, a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) system, a hybrid LTE and 5G network system, or a non-terrestrial network (NTN) system, a device-to-device (D2D) communication system, a machine-to-machine (M2M) communication system, an internet of things (IoT) system, an ambient IoT (A-IoT) system, a universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) system, a code division multiple access (CDMA) system, and various types of future communication systems, without limitation.

[0100] The communication method provided in this application can also be applied to non-3GPP communication systems, such as wireless local area network (WLAN) systems, radio frequency identification (RFID) systems, and short-range wireless communication systems like StarScan communication systems, as well as wireless communication systems that support longer distance transmission (such as 1-18km, or more than 18km), without limitation.

[0101] The communication method provided in this application can be applied to low-power scenarios in various communication systems, such as shopping malls (e.g., retail electronic tags), medical (e.g., medical testing and auxiliary equipment), warehousing (e.g., warehouse sensing equipment), home (e.g., small household appliances), office (office equipment, office sensing equipment), wearables, automobiles (e.g., smart car cockpits), industrial control (e.g., factory sensing equipment), and many other low-power scenarios.

[0102] For example, taking WLAN systems, RFID systems, and StarScan communication systems as examples, the communication systems applicable to the embodiments of this application will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3 below:

[0103] As shown in Figure 1, a WLAN system may include one or more access point devices and one or more site devices. This WLAN communication system may support relevant standards of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), including: 802.11a / b / g standards, 802.11n standards, 802.11be standards, 802.11bn standards, 802.11bf standards / sensing standards, ultra-wideband (UWB) standards / 802.15 standards, etc., without limitation.

[0104] The access point device can communicate with one or more site devices, and the access point device can also communicate with one or more other access point devices, and the site device can also communicate with one or more other site devices.

[0105] In one possible implementation, the access point device can be an access point (AP), and the site device can be a station (STA).

[0106] An AP (Access Point) can be a device supporting multiple WLAN standards, such as 802.11bn or future Wi-Fi standards. It can also support one or more of the 802.11 standards, including 802.11be, without limitation. For example, an AP can be a terminal device with a Wi-Fi chip, network device, communication server, router, switch, bridge, computer, etc. An AP can also serve as an access point for mobile users to access a wired network, primarily 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 AP acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, its main function being to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet.

[0107] The STA can be a device supporting multiple WLAN standards, such as 802.11bn or future Wi-Fi standards; it can also support one or more of the 802.11 standards, such as 802.11be, without limitation. For example, the STA can be a wireless communication chip, wireless sensor, wireless communication terminal, communication server, router, switch, bridge, computer, etc. For example, the STA can be a mobile phone supporting Wi-Fi communication, a tablet computer supporting Wi-Fi communication, a set-top box supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart TV supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart wearable device supporting Wi-Fi communication, an in-vehicle communication device supporting Wi-Fi communication, and a computer supporting Wi-Fi communication, without limitation.

[0108] As shown in Figure 2, an RFID system is a contactless automatic identification system primarily used for identity verification, and can also be used for reading and writing user data. An RFID system typically includes a reader and tags. The reader interacts with the electronic tags to manage them. For example, the reader can read information from the tag or write information to the tag. The reader and tag communicate non-contactly. Tags, also known as electronic tags or RFID tags, can be categorized as passive tags, semi-passive tags, and active tags.

[0109] Passive tags consume approximately 1μW of power. They have no energy storage capacity; their operation (receiving and transmitting signals) relies entirely on the radio frequency (RF) energy of the reader. In other words, the tag converts the wireless signal emitted by the reader into energy, which powers its operation. Uplink transmission of passive tags relies on reflection communication. The reader sends a carrier signal to trigger the passive tag to send a reflected signal, using RF energy to transmit the uplink signal back to the reader. For example, some energy from the continuous wave (CW) transmitted by the reader can be used for internal processing such as encoding / decoding and modulation / demodulation. Furthermore, this continuous wave can also serve as a carrier wave to carry the tag's uplink information. Passive tags can also be referred to as passive Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

[0110] Semi-passive tags consume approximately 100μW of power and can include an internal battery. Internal processing such as encoding / decoding and modulation / demodulation can be powered by the battery. In other words, compared to passive tags, semi-passive tags can store some energy (e.g., using batteries or capacitors), and their transmission power consumption can be greater than that of passive tags. Semi-passive tags also rely on reflection communication, requiring a continuous wave from the reader as a carrier, but their communication capabilities (such as transmission rate) are stronger than those of passive tags.

[0111] Active tags consume approximately 50mW of power. They have their own batteries and can actively transmit signals, communicating without relying on reflected signals, thus providing stronger communication capabilities.

[0112] The reader / writer can be a device with read / write capabilities, such as a handheld or fixed device for reading or writing tag information. Alternatively, it can be understood as a device that communicates with the tag, and its form can be a terminal device, a network device, a device with read / write capabilities, or an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, etc., without limitation.

[0113] As shown in Figure 3, the StarScan communication system may include at least one terminal node (T node) and at least one grant node (G node).

[0114] The management node can be a node in the StarSpark communication system that has resource scheduling function and sends control information such as resource management information and / or data scheduling information. The terminal node can be a node in the StarSpark communication system that receives control information such as resource management information and / or data scheduling information sent by the management node and performs data transmission or data reception according to the control information such as resource management information and / or data scheduling information.

[0115] In the StarScan communication system's corresponding StarScan protocol, there are uplink and downlink transmissions between the management node and the terminal nodes. Uplink transmission is achieved through the T-link, which is the link between the terminal node and the management node, and can carry data channels, access channels, feedback signals, etc., from the terminal node to the management node. Downlink transmission is achieved through the G-link, which is the link between the management node and the terminal nodes, and can carry data channels, control channels, broadcast channels, synchronization signals, etc., from the management node to the terminal nodes.

[0116] In Figure 3, the management node can be located on the network side of the StarSpark communication system to help terminal nodes achieve wireless access. It is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities or a chip or chip system that can be installed on this device. This management node includes, but is not limited to: network devices, access network devices, access network nodes, radio access network (RAN) nodes, RAN entities or access nodes, base stations, evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs), access points (APs), transmission reception points (TRPs or transmission points (TPs), next-generation NodeBs (gNBs), future base stations in future mobile communication systems, base stations in future mobile communication systems, or access points (APs) in wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) systems. The management node can be a macro base station, micro base station, indoor station, relay node, donor node, open radio access network (ORAN), or a wireless controller in a centralized radio access network (CRAN) scenario. Management nodes can also be one or a group of antenna panels (including multiple antenna panels) in a 5G base station. Alternatively, they can be network nodes constituting a gNB, TRP, TP, or transmission measurement function (TMF), such as a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), a radio unit (RU), or a roadside unit (RSU) with base station functionality. Optionally, management nodes can also be servers, wearable devices, vehicles, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, the management node in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology can be an RSU. Optionally, management nodes can also be control units in autonomous driving, central controllers in smart factories / smart homes, handheld or automatic remote controls for flying equipment, etc. Optionally, management nodes can also be control devices such as central control or control panels, such as drone controllers or control units in industrial control.All or part of the functions of the management node in this application can also be implemented through software functions running on hardware, or through virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (such as a cloud platform). The management node in this application can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the management node functions.

[0117] In this application embodiment, the form of the management node is not limited. The device used to implement the function of the management node can be the management node itself; it can also be a device that supports the management node in implementing this function, such as a chip system. The device can be installed in the management node or used in conjunction with the management node.

[0118] In Figure 3, the terminal node is a device, equipment, module, chip, or chip system with transceiver functions. The terminal node can also be referred to as terminal equipment, user equipment (UE), access terminal, subscriber unit, user station, mobile station (MS), mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user equipment. The terminal nodes in the embodiments of this application can be mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, tablets, mice, remote controls, styluses, set-top boxes, routers, cameras, screens, smart screens, wireless data cards, personal digital assistant computers (PDAs), wireless modems, handsets, laptop computers, smartwatches, smart bracelets, wireless headphones, electronic whiteboards, machine-type communication (MTC) terminals, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, virtual reality (VR) terminals, augmented reality (AR) terminals, smart home devices (e.g., refrigerators, televisions, air conditioners, washing machines, rice cookers, table lamps, electricity meters, etc.), smart robots, robotic arms, workshop equipment, wireless terminals in autonomous driving, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving, wireless terminals in remote medical care, wireless terminals in smart grids, and transportation security. Wireless terminals in various applications include those related to safety, smart cities, smart homes, in-vehicle terminals, in-vehicle screens, in-vehicle audio systems, car keys, roadside units (RSUs) with terminal functions, and flying equipment (e.g., intelligent robots, hot air balloons, drones, airplanes). The terminal node in this application can also be an in-vehicle module, in-vehicle component, in-vehicle chip, or in-vehicle unit integrated into a vehicle as one or more components or units. The terminal node can also be other devices with terminal functions; for example, it can be a device that performs terminal functions in device-to-device (D2D) communication.

[0119] The embodiments of this application do not limit the device form of the terminal node. The device used to implement the functions of the terminal node can be the terminal node itself; it can also be a device that supports the terminal node in implementing the functions, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the terminal node or used in conjunction with the terminal node. In the embodiments of this application, the chip system can be composed of chips, or it can include chips and other discrete components.

[0120] Based on the above communication system, the transmitting device can send a wake-up signal to the receiving device in a sleep state. The receiving device enters a wake-up state based on the received wake-up signal and then communicates with the transmitting device.

[0121] The sending device can be the aforementioned access point device, and the receiving device can be the aforementioned site device; or, the sending device can be the aforementioned reader / writer, and the receiving device can be the aforementioned tag; or the sending device can be the aforementioned management node, and the receiving device can be the aforementioned terminal node.

[0122] During the wake-up process described above, the receiving device can parse the wake-up signal using its own parsing unit, and enter the wake-up state upon successful parsing. However, this method results in a relatively long wake-up time for the receiving device, and the receiving device needs to continuously supply power to the parsing unit, leading to high power consumption.

[0123] For example, as shown in Figure 4, taking a WLAN system as an example, the access point device can send a wake-up signal to the site device. The site device can receive the wake-up signal based on the wake-up Rx (WuRx) link. The receiving device can also parse the wake-up signal through its own parsing unit, such as performing simple matching, filtering, detection, decoding and other operations. After successfully parsing the wake-up signal, it enters the wake-up state, closes the WuRx link (i.e., the state of the WuRx link changes from "ON" to "OFF"), and opens the main interface (i.e., the state of the main interface changes from "OFF" to "ON"). Then, the site device can communicate with the access point device through the main interface based on the 802.11 protocol.

[0124] In WLAN systems, the receiving sensitivity of station devices is relatively good, around -50dBm. However, the wake-up time of station devices is relatively long, on the order of tens of milliseconds. Furthermore, because station devices need to parse the wake-up signal through a parsing unit, the parsing unit needs to be continuously powered, resulting in high power consumption for station devices, on the order of tens of microwatts.

[0125] Alternatively, in the above wake-up process, if the receiving device is a passive device, the receiving device needs to convert the wake-up signal sent by the sending device into energy to drive itself to work, such as driving itself to parse the wake-up signal. Due to the limited energy conversion efficiency, the receiving device has poor receiving sensitivity and limited coverage distance.

[0126] For example, as shown in Figure 5, taking an RFID system as an example, the reader can wake up the tag using passive wake-up technology based on back-reflection downlink. In back-reflection technology, the reader can emit electromagnetic waves, and the tag uses the received electromagnetic waves as a carrier wave. By adjusting the impedance or the frequency of the baseband signal, the amplitude, frequency, and phase are changed, and the information is modulated onto the reflected carrier wave to achieve wireless communication. During the tag wake-up process, the reader can send a wake-up signal to the tag through an RF transceiver and antenna. The tag can convert the wake-up signal received through the antenna into energy based on impedance matching, rectification, and other operations, and perform energy management and storage operations. During the wake-up process, the tag can use this energy to drive itself to parse the wake-up signal and enter the wake-up state after successful parsing. During this wake-up process, the reader can also send a simple key signal to the tag, and the tag parses the wake-up signal based on this key signal.

[0127] In RFID systems, due to the limitations of the tag's energy conversion efficiency, the tag's receiving sensitivity is relatively poor, approximately -24dBm, and the coverage distance is limited.

[0128] In summary, how to reduce the power consumption of the receiving device, shorten the wake-up time, and at the same time improve the receiving sensitivity and increase the coverage distance of the receiving device has become an urgent technical problem to be solved.

[0129] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide a first node that can serve as a receiving device, which can reduce the power consumption of the receiving device, shorten the wake-up time, and improve the receiving sensitivity and coverage distance of the receiving device.

[0130] Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, the first node may include a wake-up module and a service module. The wake-up module may include a pulsator switch, a power supply, and a decoding circuit. The pulsator switch is communicatively connected to the power supply and the decoding circuit, and the decoding circuit is also communicatively connected to the service module.

[0131] The pulsator switch is used to turn on when the power of the wake-up signal from the second node is greater than or equal to a first threshold; this wake-up signal is a pulsator excitation signal. A power supply is used to power the decoding circuit when the pulsator switch is on. The decoding circuit is used to parse the wake-up signal and wake up the first node if the parsing is successful. The service module is used to communicate with the second node while the first node is awake.

[0132] A pulsator switch can be described as a pulsator transistor based on pulsator technology, or it can be described as a transistor based on pulsator technology.

[0133] In the pulsator technology, as shown in Figure 7, as the pump power increases, the energy steadily increases. When the pump power is low (e.g., less than the first threshold), the pulsator switch is in a low-energy state and is turned off. When the pump power reaches a certain level (e.g., greater than or equal to the first threshold), the pulsator switch can switch from a low-energy state to a high-energy state and is turned on. When the pump power decreases to a certain level (e.g., less than the first threshold), the pulsator switch switches from a high-energy state to a low-energy state and is turned off.

[0134] Based on this, the pulsator switch in this embodiment of the application does not require a static operating point (i.e., no power supply) to realize the on and off functions. For example, it is turned on when the power of the received wake-up signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold, turned off when no wake-up signal is received, and turned off when the power of the received wake-up signal is less than the first threshold.

[0135] Regarding the power supply, when the pulsator switch is on, the power supply provides power to the decoding circuit; when the pulsator switch is off, the power supply does not provide power to the decoding circuit. For example, this power supply could be a button cell battery.

[0136] The decoding circuit, which can also be called the unlocking circuit, can perform operations such as matched filtering, detection, and decoding on the wake-up signal without limitation.

[0137] In one possible implementation, the wake-up signal may further include a wake-up key, and the decoding circuit may parse the wake-up signal based on the wake-up key to avoid false triggering and improve communication security.

[0138] For example, the business module could be the StarFlash business module.

[0139] It is understood that the first node in this application embodiment is the device being woken up, or it can also be called the receiving device. The second node is the device used to wake up the first node, or it can also be called the sending device. The second node can be any device in any of the above-mentioned communication systems that can be used to wake up other devices, such as access point devices, readers, management nodes, etc., without limitation.

[0140] Based on the above description, as shown in Figure 8, the receiving link of the first node can be divided into a wake-up receiving link (left of the vertical dashed line) and a service receiving link (right of the vertical dashed line) according to the type of signal (e.g., wake-up signal, service signal). The first node can receive the wake-up signal via a pulsator switch based on the wake-up receiving link. When the pulsator switch is on, power is supplied to the decoding circuit, which then processes the wake-up signal. The first node can also communicate with the second node via a service module based on the service receiving link.

[0141] Corresponding to the wake-up module and service module of the first node mentioned above, as shown in Figure 8, the second node may include a wake-up module and a service module. The transmission link of the second node can be divided into a wake-up transmission link and a service transmission link. The second node can send a wake-up signal to the first node through the wake-up module based on the wake-up transmission link. That is, the wake-up transmission link of the second node can provide microwave energy to the wake-up receiving link of the first node based on the wake-up signal, and the pulse switch of the first node is turned on or off based on this microwave energy. The second node can communicate with the first node through the service module based on the service transmission link.

[0142] The aforementioned wake-up sending link can also be described as a Wake-up Tx link, and the aforementioned wake-up receiving link can also be described as a Wake-up Rx link. The aforementioned service sending link can also be described as a primary management link (Primary GLink), and the aforementioned service receiving link can also be described as a primary terminal link (Primary TLink).

[0143] In one possible implementation, the scenario in which the second node communicates with the first node based on the service transmission link and the service reception link may include the following synchronous access scenario or the following multi-node communication scenario, as detailed in the relevant descriptions in Figures 11 to 15 below, which will not be elaborated here.

[0144] Based on the first node shown in Figure 6, the power supply of the standby circuit is entirely passively controlled by the pulsator switch. The power supply of the first node only powers the decoding circuit when the pulsator switch is on, eliminating the need for continuous power supply and achieving "zero power consumption," thus extending the power supply's lifespan and usage time. Furthermore, the first node based on the aforementioned pulsator switch offers fast wake-up speeds, reaching the microsecond level, and high receiver sensitivity, reaching -27dBm, with a long coverage distance. Simultaneously, the wake-up receiver link design of the first node is simple, requiring only a power supply, pulsator switch, and decoding circuitry. It eliminates the need for additional energy recovery circuitry, voltage regulation circuitry, etc., saving costs, simplifying the circuitry, and reducing implementation complexity.

[0145] In addition, when there is no service demand at the first node, the service receiving link is in a dormant state. When there is service demand, the receiving link can be activated and then enabled, which can reduce the power consumption of the first node.

[0146] Based on the above description of the first node, this application embodiment also provides a communication method applied to the first node and the second node, as shown in FIG9. The method includes:

[0147] Step 901: When the first node is in a sleep state, the second node sends a wake-up signal to the first node; correspondingly, when the first node is in a sleep state, it receives a wake-up signal from the second node.

[0148] The wake-up signal can also be described as a pulsator excitation signal.

[0149] In one possible implementation, as shown in Figure 10, the second node can transmit a modulated pulsator excitation signal via a transmitter through a wake-up transmission link. The first node can receive the wake-up signal via a pulsator switch in the wake-up module through a wake-up reception link and perform a pulsator excitation signal judgment. The pulsator switch is turned on if the power of the wake-up signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold, otherwise it is turned off.

[0150] Step 902: When the pulse switch is turned on, the first node analyzes the wake-up signal.

[0151] As shown in Figure 10, when the power of the wake-up signal is greater than or equal to the first threshold, the pulsator switch of the first node is turned on, and the power supply of the wake-up module supplies power to the decoding circuit of the wake-up module, and the wake-up signal is analyzed by the decoding circuit.

[0152] In one possible implementation, the wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key, and the decoding circuit parses the wake-up signal according to the wake-up key.

[0153] Step 903: If the first node successfully parses the wake-up signal, it enters the wake-up state.

[0154] As shown in Figure 10, when the decoding circuit successfully parses the wake-up signal, the first node enters the wake-up state.

[0155] In one possible implementation, as shown in Figure 10, when the first node is in a wake-up state, the first node can enable the service receiving link and communicate with the service sending link of the second node based on the service receiving link, such as synchronous access based on the method shown in Figure 11 below, or multi-node communication based on the method shown in Figure 13 below.

[0156] Unlike the communication method for waking up the first node shown in Figure 9 above, this application embodiment also provides a communication method to achieve synchronous access between the first node and the second node, as shown in Figure 11. This method may include:

[0157] Step 1101: The second node sends a wake-up signal to the first node, which is in a dormant state; correspondingly, the first node, which is in a dormant state, receives the wake-up signal from the second node.

[0158] The first node is the device that is woken up, or it can also be called the receiving device. The first node can be the first node in the embodiments shown in Figures 6 to 10 above, or it can be any device that can be woken up in any of the above communication systems, such as a site device, a tag, a terminal node, etc., without limitation.

[0159] The second node is the device used to wake up the first node, or it can also be called the sending device. The second node can be any device in any of the above communication systems that can be used to wake up other devices, such as access point devices, readers, management nodes, etc., without restriction.

[0160] It is understood that when the first node is the first node shown in Figures 6 to 10 above, the wake-up signal is the wake-up signal shown in Figures 6 to 10 above. This wake-up signal may further include a wake-up key.

[0161] As shown in Figure 12, the second node can send a wake-up signal to the first node through the wake-up sending link; correspondingly, the first node can receive the wake-up signal from the second node through the wake-up receiving link, and then parse the wake-up signal, and enter the wake-up state after successful parsing, such as the first node entering the wake-up state at time t1.

[0162] In one possible implementation, the second node can send wake-up signals periodically, or it can send wake-up signals aperiodically, without restriction.

[0163] Step 1102: After the second node sends the wake-up signal for a first time period, it sends a synchronization information block to the first node; correspondingly, after the first node receives the wake-up signal for a first time period, it receives the synchronization information block from the second node.

[0164] Step 1103: The first node synchronizes with the second node based on the synchronization information block.

[0165] The first time period is greater than or equal to the parsing time of the wake-up signal by the first node.

[0166] The synchronization information block is used to synchronize with the second node. For example, the synchronization information block includes a first training signal (FTS); or, the synchronization information block includes a second training signal (STS).

[0167] When the second node synchronizes with the dormant first node, the second node can send the synchronization information block to the first node at a time equal to or later than the time the first node is woken up, based on the delay of the wake-up receiving link. This allows the first node to receive the synchronization information block sent by the second node in the shortest possible time after being woken up, thus reducing synchronization latency.

[0168] As shown in Figure 12, the second node can send a synchronization information block to the first node via the service transmission link after the first time period following the transmission of a wake-up signal through the wake-up transmission link. For example, it can send the synchronization information block to the first node at time t2. Correspondingly, the first node receives the synchronization information block from the second node through the service reception link. Time t2 is equal to or later than time t1, that is, the absolute value Δt of the difference between time t2 and time t1 is greater than or equal to 0.

[0169] In one possible implementation, the communication method shown in Figure 11 may further include the access process shown in steps 1104 and 1105 below:

[0170] Step 1104: The second node can send system information to the first node; correspondingly, the first node receives system information from the second node.

[0171] Step 1105: The first node connects to the second node based on the system information.

[0172] The system information is used to access the second node. For example, the system information includes one or more of the following: master information block (MIB) or system information block (SIB).

[0173] The second node can send system information to the first node through the service transmission link; correspondingly, the first node can receive system information from the second node through the service reception link.

[0174] Unlike the communication method for synchronous access shown in Figure 11 above, this application embodiment also provides a communication method to realize communication between multiple nodes, as shown in Figure 13. This method may include:

[0175] Step 1301: The second node sends a wake-up signal to the first node, which is in a dormant state; correspondingly, the first node, which is in a dormant state, receives the wake-up signal from the second node.

[0176] The description of step 1301 can be referred to the relevant description of step 1101 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0177] Step 1302: The second node releases the first channel after the second time period of sending the wake-up signal.

[0178] In this system, the first channel is used for communication between the second node and the third node. The third node can be any device in the aforementioned communication system that can communicate with the second node. Before communicating with the third node, the second node can compete for the channel. It then communicates with the third node based on the first channel it successfully competes for, as shown in Figure 14. The second node can communicate with the third node within the channel occupancy time (COT).

[0179] The second time period is determined based on the communication gap between the second node and the third node. This communication gap can be understood as the time period during which the first node and the third node do not transmit services, as shown in Figure 14. This communication gap can be a non-COT time period.

[0180] Step 1303: When the first node is in the wake-up state, it competes for the channel. If the channel competition is successful, it sends service information to the second node. Correspondingly, the second node receives the service information from the first node.

[0181] During normal business communication between the second node and the third node, if the second node wants to obtain the business information of a dormant node (such as the first node), it can first wake up the first node by waking up the transmission link, and then release the first channel within the second time period. At this time, the second node is in the channel monitoring state and can receive the business information sent by the first node at any time.

[0182] Furthermore, the time when the second node releases the first channel can be equal to or later than the time when the first node is woken up. As shown in Figure 14, the first node can be woken up at time t1, and the second node can release the first channel at time t3. After time t3, the first node can send service information to the first node via the service receiving link. Correspondingly, the second node receives service information from the first node via the service sending link. Time t3 is equal to or later than time t1, that is, the absolute value Δt of the difference between time t3 and time t1 is greater than or equal to 0.

[0183] Based on the above description, as exemplified in Figure 15, taking a complex electromagnetic scenario with multi-node communication as an example, this communication scenario can deploy multiple star-flash nodes. Some nodes (such as the third node) need real-time communication (such as video monitoring), while some nodes (such as the first node) need to periodically acquire relevant data (such as temperature, humidity, pressure, etc.). In this case, the second node can simultaneously occupy the channel to communicate with the third node and wake up the first node, planning the release time of the first channel, such as releasing the first channel during communication gaps, to quickly acquire the business information of the first node and improve communication efficiency.

[0184] It should be noted that the various embodiments of this application can be implemented independently or in combination, without limitation. Unless otherwise specified or in conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions between the different embodiments provided in this application are consistent and can be referenced mutually. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0185] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, the executing entity may perform some or all of the steps in the embodiments of this application. These steps or operations are merely examples, and the embodiments of this application may also perform other operations or variations thereof. Furthermore, the various steps may be executed in different orders as presented in the embodiments of this application, and it is not necessarily necessary to execute all the operations in the embodiments of this application.

[0186] The foregoing primarily describes the solutions provided in this application from the perspective of device-to-device interaction. It is understood that each device, in order to achieve the aforementioned functions, includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules for executing each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the algorithm steps of the examples 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 executed 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.

[0187] This application embodiment can divide each device into functional modules according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be 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.

[0188] When each functional module is divided according to its corresponding function, Figure 16 shows a communication device 160. The communication device 160 can perform the action performed by the second node in the method shown in Figure 9, or perform the action performed by the first node and the second node in the method shown in Figures 11 to 15. All relevant content of each step involved in the above method embodiments can be referred to the functional description of the corresponding functional module. The technical effects that can be obtained can be referred to the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0189] The communication device 160 may include a transceiver module 1601 and a processing module 1602. Exemplarily, the communication device 160 may be a communication equipment, or a chip or other combination device or component having the aforementioned communication device functions. When the communication device 160 is a communication equipment, the transceiver module 1601 may be a transceiver, which may include an antenna and radio frequency circuits; the processing module 1602 may be a processor (or processing circuit), such as a baseband processor, which may include one or more CPUs. When the communication device 160 is a component having the aforementioned communication device functions, the transceiver module 1601 may be a radio frequency unit; the processing module 1602 may be a processor (or processing circuit), such as a baseband processor. When the communication device 160 is a chip system, the transceiver module 1601 may be an input / output interface of a chip (e.g., a baseband chip); the processing module 1602 may be a processor (or processing circuit) of the chip system, and may include one or more central processing units. It should be understood that the transceiver module 1601 in the embodiments of this application can be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuit components; the processing module 1602 can be implemented by a processor or processor-related circuit components (or, referred to as processing circuit).

[0190] For example, transceiver module 1601 can be used to perform all the transceiver operations performed by the communication device in the embodiments shown in Figures 9 to 15, and / or other processes to support the technology described herein; processing module 1602 can be used to perform all operations other than the transceiver operations performed by the communication device in the embodiments shown in Figures 9 to 15, and / or other processes to support the technology described herein.

[0191] For example, taking the communication method shown in FIG9 as an example, the communication device 160 can perform the actions performed by the second node in FIG9, such as the processing module 1602 generating a wake-up signal and the transceiver module 1601 sending a wake-up signal to the first node.

[0192] In another example, taking the communication method shown in Figure 11 as an example, the communication device 160 can perform the actions performed by the second node in Figure 11. For example, the processing module 1602 can generate a wake-up signal, and the transceiver module 1601 can send the wake-up signal to the first node; the processing module 1602 can also generate a synchronization information block, and the transceiver module 1601 can also send the synchronization information block to the first node; the processing module 1602 can also generate system information, and the transceiver module 1601 can also send synchronization information to the first node.

[0193] Alternatively, the communication device 160 can also perform the actions performed by the first node in Figure 11 above. For example, the transceiver module 1601 can receive a wake-up signal from the second node, and the processing module 1602 can parse the wake-up signal and wake up the communication device 160 after successful parsing. The transceiver module 1601 can also receive a synchronization information block from the second node, and the processing module 1602 can synchronize with the second node according to the synchronization information block. The transceiver module 1601 can also receive system information from the second node, and the processing module 1602 can access the second node according to the system information.

[0194] In another example, taking the communication method shown in Figure 13 as an example, the communication device 160 can perform the actions performed by the second node in Figure 13 above. For example, the processing module 1602 can generate a wake-up signal, and the transceiver module 1601 can send a wake-up signal to the first node. The processing module 1602 can also release the first channel, and the transceiver module 1601 can also receive service information from the first node.

[0195] Alternatively, the communication device 160 can also perform the actions performed by the first node in Figure 13 above. For example, the transceiver module 1601 can receive a wake-up signal from the second node, the processing module 1602 can parse the wake-up signal, and wake up the communication device 160 after successful parsing; the processing module 1602 can also compete for the channel after the communication device 160 is woken up, and send service information to the second node through the transceiver module 1601 after successful channel competition.

[0196] As another possible implementation, the transceiver module 1601 in Figure 16 can be replaced by a transceiver that integrates the functions of the transceiver module 1601; the processing module 1602 can be replaced by a processor that integrates the functions of the processing module 1602. Furthermore, the communication device 160 shown in Figure 16 may also include a memory.

[0197] Alternatively, when the processing module 1602 is replaced by a processor and the transceiver module 1601 is replaced by a transceiver, the communication device 160 involved in the embodiments of this application can also be the communication device 170 shown in FIG. 17. The processor can be logic circuit 1701, and the transceiver can be interface circuit 1702. Furthermore, the communication device 170 shown in FIG. 17 can also include a memory 1703.

[0198] This application also provides a communication device 1800, as shown in FIG18. The communication device 1800 can be the first node or the chip or system-on-a-chip in the method shown in FIG9 to FIG15; it can also be the second node or the chip or system-on-a-chip in the method shown in FIG9 to FIG15. As shown in FIG18, the communication device 1800 includes a processor 1801, a transceiver 1802, and a communication line 1803.

[0199] Furthermore, the communication device 1800 may also include a memory 1804. The processor 1801, the memory 1804, and the transceiver 1802 can be connected via a communication line 1803.

[0200] The processor 1801 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a general-purpose processor, a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), or any combination thereof. The processor 1801 can also be other devices with processing capabilities, such as circuits, devices, or software modules, without limitation.

[0201] Transceiver 1802 is used to communicate with other devices or other communication networks. These other communication networks can be Ethernet, radio access network (RAN), wireless local area network (WLAN), etc. Transceiver 1802 can be a module, circuit, transceiver, or any device capable of enabling communication.

[0202] Communication line 1803 is used to transmit information between the components included in communication device 1800.

[0203] Memory 1804 is used to store instructions. These instructions can be computer programs.

[0204] The memory 1804 can be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device that can store static information and / or instructions; it can also be a random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device that can store information and / or instructions; it can also be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media or other magnetic storage devices, etc., without limitation.

[0205] It should be noted that the memory 1804 can exist independently of the processor 1801 or can be integrated with the processor 1801. The memory 1804 can be used to store instructions, program code, or some data, etc. The memory 1804 can be located inside or outside the communication device 1800, without limitation. The processor 1801 is used to execute the instructions stored in the memory 1804 to implement the communication method provided in the following embodiments of this application.

[0206] In one example, processor 1801 may include one or more CPUs, such as CPU0 and CPU1 in Figure 18.

[0207] As an optional implementation, the communication device 1800 may include multiple processors, for example, in addition to processor 1801 in FIG18, it may also include processor 1807.

[0208] As an optional implementation, the communication device 1800 also includes an output device 1805 and an input device 1806. For example, the input device 1806 is a device such as a keyboard, mouse, microphone, or joystick, and the output device 1805 is a device such as a display screen or speaker.

[0209] It should be noted that the communication device 1800 may be a desktop computer, a portable computer, a web server, a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a wireless terminal, an embedded device, a chip system, or a device with a similar structure to that shown in Figure 18. Furthermore, the composition shown in Figure 18 does not constitute a limitation on the communication device. In addition to the components shown in Figure 18, the communication device may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0210] In this embodiment of the application, the chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0211] This application also provides a computer program product that, when executed by a computer, can implement the functions of any of the above method embodiments.

[0212] This application also provides a computer program that, when executed by a computer, can implement the functions of any of the above method embodiments.

[0213] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in the computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the above method embodiments. The computer-readable storage medium can be an internal storage unit of the terminal (including a data sending end and / or a data receiving end) of any of the foregoing embodiments, such as the terminal's hard disk or memory. The computer-readable storage medium can also be an external storage device of the terminal, such as a plug-in hard disk, smart media card (SMC), secure digital (SD) card, flash card, etc., equipped on the terminal. Further, the computer-readable storage medium can include both the terminal's internal storage unit and external storage devices. The computer-readable storage medium is used to store the computer program and other programs and data required by the terminal. The computer-readable storage medium can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.

[0214] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. "First" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this embodiment, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0215] Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the steps or units listed, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to such process, method, product, or apparatus.

[0216] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more. "More than one" means two or more. "At least two (items)" means two or three or more. "And / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple. Both "...when" and "if" indicate that a corresponding action will be taken under certain objective circumstances. They are not time limits, nor do they require a judgment action to be taken when the action is taken, nor do they imply any other limitations.

[0217] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner to facilitate understanding.

[0218] In this application, "sending information to...(terminal device)" can be understood as the destination of the information being the terminal device. This can include sending information directly or indirectly to the terminal device. "Receiving information from...(terminal device)" can be understood as the source of the information being the terminal device, and can include receiving information directly or indirectly from the terminal device. Information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source.

[0219] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the division of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0220] 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 modules or 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 device, 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; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0221] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. A component shown as a unit can be one or more physical units; that is, it can be located in one place or distributed in multiple different locations. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0222] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0223] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application embodiment, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a device (which may be a microcontroller, chip, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

Claims

1. A first node, characterized in that, include: Wake-up module, business module; The wake-up module includes a pulse switch, a power supply, and a decoding circuit; The pulse switch is communicatively connected to the power supply and the decoding circuit, and the decoding circuit is also communicatively connected to the service module; The pulsator switch is used to turn on when the power of the wake-up signal from the second node is greater than or equal to a first threshold; the wake-up signal is a pulsator excitation signal. The power supply is used to power the decoding circuit when the pulse switch is turned on; The decoding circuit is used to parse the wake-up signal and wake up the first node if the parsing is successful; The service module is used to communicate with the second node when the first node is in a wake-up state.

2. The first node according to claim 1, characterized in that, The wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key; The decoding circuit is used to parse the wake-up signal according to the wake-up key.

3. The first node according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The pulsator switch is also used to turn off in any of the following situations: when the wake-up signal is not received, or when the power of the received wake-up signal is less than the first threshold.

4. The first node according to claim 3, characterized in that, The power supply is also used to prevent power from being supplied to the decoding circuit when the pulse switch is turned off.

5. The first node according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The service module is also used to receive a synchronization information block from the second node when the first node is in a wake-up state.

6. The first node according to claim 5, characterized in that, The synchronization information block includes the first training signal FTS; or The synchronization information block includes the second training signal STS.

7. The first node according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The business module is also used to synchronize with the second node according to the synchronization information block.

8. The first node according to any one of claims 5-7, characterized in that, The service module is also used to receive system information from the second node; The business module is also used to access the second node based on the system information.

9. The first node according to claim 8, characterized in that, The system information includes one or more of the following: Master Information Block (MIB) or System Information Block (SIB).

10. The first node according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The service module is also used to compete for channel information when the first node is in a wake-up state, and to send service information to the second node if the channel competition is successful.

11. A communication method, characterized in that, include: When the first node is in a dormant state, it receives a wake-up signal from the second node through the pulsator switch of the wake-up module; wherein, the wake-up signal is a pulsator excitation signal; When the power of the wake-up signal is greater than or equal to the first threshold, the pulse switch is turned on, and the power supply of the wake-up module supplies power to the decoding circuit of the wake-up module, and the wake-up signal is parsed by the decoding circuit; If the decoding circuit successfully parses the wake-up signal, it enters the wake-up state.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key; The decoding circuit parses the wake-up signal according to the wake-up key.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the first node is in a wake-up state, the synchronization information block from the second node is received through the service module; According to the synchronization information block, the business module synchronizes with the second node.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The synchronization information block includes the first training signal FTS; or The synchronization information block includes the second training signal STS.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: The service module receives system information from the second node. Based on the system information, the second node is accessed through the business module.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The system information includes one or more of the following: Master Information Block (MIB) or System Information Block (SIB).

17. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the first node is in a wake-up state, channel contention is conducted through the service module; If the channel contention is successful, the service module sends the service information to the second node.

18. A communication method, characterized in that, include: When the first node is in a dormant state, it receives a wake-up signal from the second node; wherein, the wake-up signal is a pulsator excitation signal; If the power of the wake-up signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold, the wake-up signal is parsed. If the wake-up signal is successfully parsed, the system enters the wake-up state.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key; The wake-up signal is parsed according to the wake-up key.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the first node is in a wake-up state, it receives a synchronization information block from the second node; Synchronize with the second node according to the synchronization information block.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The synchronization information block includes the first training signal FTS; or The synchronization information block includes the second training signal STS.

22. The method according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive system information from the second node; Based on the system information, access the second node.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The system information includes one or more of the following: Master Information Block (MIB) or System Information Block (SIB).

24. The method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: Channel contention occurs while the first node is in a woke-up state; If the channel contention is successful, the service information is sent to the second node.

25. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send a wake-up signal to the first node that is in a dormant state; After a first time period following the sending of the wake-up signal, a synchronization information block is sent to the first node; wherein the synchronization information block is used to synchronize with the second node.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that, The wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key.

27. The method according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that, The first time period is greater than or equal to the parsing time of the wake-up signal by the first node.

28. The method according to any one of claims 25-27, characterized in that, The synchronization information block includes the first training signal FTS; or The synchronization information block includes the second training signal STS.

29. The method according to any one of claims 25-28, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send system information to the first node; wherein the system information is used to access the second node.

30. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, The system information includes one or more of the following: Master Information Block (MIB) or System Information Block (SIB).

31. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send a wake-up signal to the first node that is in a dormant state; The first channel is released after a second time period following the transmission of the wake-up signal; The first channel is the channel through which the second node communicates with the third node; Receive service information from the first node.

32. The method according to claim 31, characterized in that, The second time period is determined based on the communication gap between the second node and the third node.

33. The method according to claim 31 or 32, characterized in that, The wake-up signal further includes a wake-up key.

34. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes a module or unit for performing the communication method according to any one of claims 18-24; or includes a module or unit for performing the communication method according to any one of claims 25-30; or includes a module or unit for performing the communication method according to any one of claims 31-33.

35. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a processor; the processor is configured to run a computer program or instructions that cause the communication method as described in any one of claims 18-24 to be executed, or cause the communication method as described in any one of claims 25-30 to be executed, or cause the communication method as described in any one of claims 31-33 to be executed.

36. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes an interface circuit and a logic circuit; the interface circuit is used to input and / or output information; the logic circuit is used to execute the communication method as described in any one of claims 18-24, or the communication method as described in any one of claims 25-30, or the communication method as described in any one of claims 31-33, and to process and / or generate the information based on the information.

37. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions or programs that, when some or all of the computer instructions or programs are run on a computer, cause the communication method as described in any one of claims 18-24 to be executed, or cause the communication method as described in any one of claims 25-30 to be executed, or cause the communication method as described in any one of claims 31-33 to be executed.

38. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes computer instructions or programs; when some or all of the computer instructions or programs are run on a computer, they cause the communication method as described in any one of claims 18-24 to be executed, or the communication method as described in any one of claims 25-30 to be executed, or the communication method as described in any one of claims 31-33 to be executed.

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