Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

Disclosed are a communication method and apparatus, relating to the technical field of communications. The present application supports institute of electrical and electronics engineers (IEEE) protocols, such as the IEEE 802.11be / Wi-Fi 7 / EHT protocol, the IEEE 802.11bn / UHR / Wi-Fi 8 protocol, the Integrated mmWave / integrated millimeter wave / IMMW protocol, the IEEE 802.15 / UWB protocol, or the IEEE 802.11bf / sensing protocol. The method comprises: a first multi-link device and a second multi-link device negotiate a beamforming training time window and a beamforming training parameter, and perform, within the beamforming training time window, beamforming training on the basis of the beamforming training parameter, thereby making the beamforming training process clear, making beamforming training more flexible, and improving the efficiency of beamforming training.

Description

Communication methods and devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510201347.0, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on February 21, 2025, entitled "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 communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] Currently, devices transmit and receive data via wireless communication, requiring the transmitting beam to cover the receiving beam direction, meaning the transmitting and receiving beams must be aligned. However, the beam training process is inflexible, requiring training the transmitting beam first and then the receiving beam, resulting in low efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus to improve the efficiency of beamforming training.

[0005] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided, applied to a first multi-link device, the method comprising: on the first link, sending an indication message, the indication message including a beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters; on the second link, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device performing beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window.

[0006] Secondly, a communication method is provided for use in a second multi-link device. The method includes: on a first link, receiving an indication message, the indication message including a beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters; on the second link, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window.

[0007] The first multi-link device and the second multi-link device negotiate the beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters. Within the beamforming training time window, beamforming training is performed according to the beamforming training parameters, making the beamforming training process clearer, the beamforming training more flexible, and improving the efficiency of beamforming training.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the beamforming training time window includes at least one of a start time, duration, or period.

[0009] By instructing the timing of beamforming training through notification messages, the device can perform beamforming training within the designated training window, thus clarifying the training process and improving efficiency. Furthermore, the device can sleep during periods outside the beamforming training window, reducing power consumption.

[0010] In another possible implementation, the beamforming training time window is carried over into the target wake-up time element.

[0011] In another possible implementation, the target wake-up time element includes parameters for determining the beamforming training time window.

[0012] By utilizing the target wake-up time mechanism to indicate the timing of beamforming training, the compatibility of beamforming training is improved.

[0013] In another possible implementation, the target wake-up time element includes a beamforming training-specific parameter field, and the beamforming training time window is carried in the beamforming training-specific parameter field of the target wake-up time element.

[0014] A new beamforming training-specific parameter field has been added to the target wake-up time element. The target wake-up time mechanism is used to indicate the timing of beamforming training, making the beamforming training process clearer, more flexible, and improving the efficiency of beamforming training.

[0015] In another possible implementation, the beamforming training parameters include at least one of beamforming training indication, beamforming training direction, or number of sectors.

[0016] The beamforming training parameters are indicated by the instruction message so that the device can perform beamforming training based on the beamforming training parameters, making the beamforming training process clear and improving the efficiency of beamforming training.

[0017] In another possible implementation, beamforming training parameters are carried over to the target wake-up time element.

[0018] By utilizing the target wake-up time mechanism to indicate beamforming training parameters, the compatibility of beamforming training is improved.

[0019] In another possible implementation, the indication message includes at least one device identifier or at least one link identifier.

[0020] The instruction message indicates the identifier of the link used for beamforming training, so that the device can perform beamforming training, making the beamforming training process clear and improving the efficiency of beamforming training.

[0021] In another possible implementation, the frequency bands of the first link and the second link are different.

[0022] In another possible implementation, the frequency band of the first link ranges from 2.4 GHz to 7.25 GHz, and the frequency band of the second link ranges from 42 GHz to 71 GHz.

[0023] By adjusting the timing and parameters of beamforming training at low frequencies and conducting beamforming training at high frequencies, and by using low-frequency links to assist high-frequency links in beamforming training, the efficiency of beamforming training can be improved.

[0024] In another possible implementation, the method further includes: a first multi-link device receiving a request message on a first link, the request message being used to indicate a request for beamforming training.

[0025] In another possible implementation, the method further includes: a second multi-link device on the first link sending a request message, the request message being used to indicate a request for beamforming training.

[0026] In another possible implementation, the method further includes: the first multi-link device sending a response message on the first link. The response message is used to indicate confirmation or denial of beamforming training.

[0027] In another possible implementation, the method further includes: a second multi-link device receiving a response message on the first link.

[0028] One-to-one beamforming training negotiation between devices clarifies the beamforming training process and improves its efficiency.

[0029] In another possible implementation, before the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training, the method further includes: on the first link, sending a notification message including a beamforming training instruction and a target wake-up time identifier.

[0030] In another possible implementation, before the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training, the method further includes: on the first link, receiving a notification message including a beamforming training instruction and a target wake-up time identifier.

[0031] Among them, the beamforming training indicator is used to indicate beamforming training, and the target wake-up time indicator is used to indicate the beamforming training group.

[0032] In another possible implementation, after beamforming training is performed on the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device, the method further includes: on the first link, receiving a training report, which includes a beamforming training time window identifier and beamforming training results.

[0033] In another possible implementation, after beamforming training is performed on the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device, the method further includes: on the first link, sending a training report, which includes a beamforming training time window identifier and beamforming training results.

[0034] Feedback training reports reduce time wastage caused by equipment competing for channels, clarify the beamforming training process, and improve the efficiency of beamforming training.

[0035] Thirdly, a communication device is provided for implementing the various methods described above. This communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the methods described above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the functions described above.

[0036] In some possible designs, the communication device may include a processing module and a transceiver module. The transceiver module, also referred to as a transceiver unit, is used to implement the transmission and / or reception functions in any of the above aspects and their possible implementations. The transceiver module may consist of transceiver circuits, transceivers, transceivers, or communication interfaces. The processing module can be used to implement the processing functions in any of the above aspects and their possible implementations.

[0037] In some possible designs, the transceiver module includes a sending module and a receiving module, which are used to implement the sending and receiving functions in any of the above aspects and any possible implementation methods.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module is used in a first multi-link device to send an indication message on the first link. The indication message includes a beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters. The transceiver module is also used on a second link, where the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window.

[0039] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module is also used to receive a request message on the first link, the request message indicating a request for beamforming training.

[0040] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module is also used by the first multi-link device to send a response message on the first link.

[0041] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module is also used to send notification messages on the first link, the notification messages including beamforming training instructions and target wake-up time identifiers.

[0042] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module is also used to receive a training report on the first link, the training report including a beamforming training time window identifier and beam training results.

[0043] In another possible implementation, applied to a second multi-link device, the transceiver module is used to receive an indication message on the first link, the indication message including a beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters; the transceiver module is also used on the second link, where the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window.

[0044] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module is also used to send a request message on the first link, the request message being used to indicate a request for beamforming training.

[0045] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module is also used by the second multi-link device to receive response messages on the first link.

[0046] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module is also used to receive notification messages on the first link, the notification messages including beamforming training instructions and target wake-up time identifiers.

[0047] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module is also used to send a training report on the first link, the training report including a beamforming training time window identifier and beam training results.

[0048] In another possible implementation, the beamforming training time window includes at least one of the following: start time, duration, or period.

[0049] In another possible implementation, the beamforming training time window is carried over into the target wake-up time element.

[0050] In another possible implementation, the target wake-up time element includes parameters for determining the beamforming training time window.

[0051] In another possible implementation, the target wake-up time element includes a beamforming training-specific parameter field, and the beamforming training time window is carried in the beamforming training-specific parameter field of the target wake-up time element.

[0052] In another possible implementation, the beamforming training parameters include at least one of beamforming training indication, beamforming training direction, or number of sectors.

[0053] In another possible implementation, beamforming training parameters are carried over to the target wake-up time element.

[0054] In another possible implementation, the indication message includes at least one device identifier or at least one link identifier.

[0055] In another possible implementation, the frequency bands of the first link and the second link are different.

[0056] In another possible implementation, the frequency band of the first link ranges from 2.4 GHz to 7.25 GHz, and the frequency band of the second link ranges from 42 GHz to 71 GHz.

[0057] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor and a memory; the memory is used to store computer instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the communication device to perform any of the methods described above.

[0058] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor and a communication interface; the communication interface being used to communicate with a module outside the communication device; the processor being used to execute computer programs or instructions to cause the communication device to perform the methods of any of the above aspects.

[0059] A sixth aspect provides a communication device, comprising: at least one processor; the processor being configured to execute a computer program or instructions stored in a memory to cause the communication device to perform the methods of any of the preceding aspects. The memory may be coupled to the processor, or may be independent of the processor.

[0060] The communication device in the third to sixth aspects mentioned above can be: a first multi-link device in the first aspect or any aspect or implementation thereof, or a device including the first multi-link device, or a device included in the first multi-link device, such as a first site or a chip in the first site; or the communication device in the third to sixth aspects mentioned above can be: a second multi-link device in the second aspect or any aspect or implementation thereof, or a device including the second multi-link device, or a device included in the second multi-link device, such as a second site or a chip in the second site.

[0061] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a communication device, enable the communication device to perform the methods of any of the above aspects or any implementation thereof.

[0062] Eighthly, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a communication device, enables the communication device to execute any of the above aspects or any implementation thereof.

[0063] Ninthly, a communication device (e.g., a chip or chip system) is provided, the communication device including a processor for implementing the functions involved in any of the above aspects or any implementation thereof.

[0064] In some possible designs, the communication device includes a memory for storing necessary program instructions and data.

[0065] In some possible designs, when the device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or contain chips and other discrete components.

[0066] It is understood that when the communication device provided by any of the third to sixth aspects is a chip, the aforementioned sending action / function can be understood as an output, and the aforementioned receiving action / function can be understood as an input.

[0067] In a tenth aspect, a communication system is provided, comprising a second multi-link device for performing the method described in the second aspect and a first multi-link device for performing the method described in the first aspect.

[0068] The technical effects of any of the implementation methods in aspects three through ten can be found in the technical effects of the corresponding implementation methods in aspects one through two, and will not be repeated here.

[0069] It should be noted that any of the possible implementations of any of the above aspects can be combined, provided that the solutions do not contradict each other. Attached Figure Description

[0070] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a transmission range provided in this application;

[0071] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the process for establishing a multi-link between a non-AP multi-link device and an AP multi-link device provided in this application;

[0072] Figure 3 shows an application scenario of a communication system provided in this application;

[0073] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the composition of a communication device provided in this application;

[0074] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in this application;

[0075] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a beamforming training time window provided in this application;

[0076] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a target wake-up time element provided in this application;

[0077] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of TWT parameter information provided in this application;

[0078] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of another target wake-up time element provided in this application;

[0079] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a broadcast TWT parameter set provided in this application;

[0080] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of another broadcast TWT parameter set provided in this application;

[0081] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of another broadcast TWT parameter set provided in this application;

[0082] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the action domain structure of a beamforming training declaration frame provided in this application;

[0083] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in this application;

[0084] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in this application;

[0085] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of a trigger frame provided in this application;

[0086] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in this application;

[0087] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of another trigger frame provided in this application;

[0088] Figure 19 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in this application;

[0089] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of another trigger frame provided in this application;

[0090] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram of another trigger frame provided in this application;

[0091] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0092] To facilitate understanding, the main terms used in this application will be explained first.

[0093] A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) is a communication network established between devices within a local area using wireless communication technology. WLAN replaces traditional wired computer networks, enabling network services such as information transmission and resource sharing between devices. WLAN operates in unlicensed spectrum, including one or more of the following frequency bands: below 1 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz, or 60 GHz. Generally, bands below 6 GHz are referred to as low-frequency, and bands above 28 GHz are referred to as high-frequency. For example, 60 GHz is considered high-frequency.

[0094] When the equipment transmits signals at low frequencies, signal attenuation is relatively slow and wall penetration is good. However, the low-frequency spectrum is limited, and the transmission rate is restricted by the spectrum size. For example, at 2.4 GHz, the basic bandwidth of data packets in the 802.11a / b / g / n / ac / ax standard is 20 MHz, with a maximum support of 40 MHz, and there is some overlap between each channel, affecting the continuous use of multiple channels.

[0095] When equipment transmits signals at high frequencies, the signal attenuates relatively quickly and cannot penetrate walls. However, high-frequency spectrum resources are abundant. For example, the basic bandwidth of data packets in the 802.11ad / ay standard is 2.16 GHz, thus achieving transmission rates of over 1 Gbps at close range. Furthermore, it offers good beam directionality; by utilizing antenna beamforming, directional transmission can be achieved, increasing the transmission range.

[0096] As shown in Figure 1, access points (APs) and stations (STAs) have different signal transmission ranges based on low and high frequencies. For example, the 5GHz omnidirectional transmission range is greater than the 60GHz omnidirectional transmission range, while the 60GHz directional transmission range is similar to the 5GHz omnidirectional transmission range.

[0097] Wireless LAN (WLAN) standards (such as IEEE 802.11be) introduce the Multi-Link Operation (MLO) mechanism. This mechanism aims to significantly improve data throughput, reduce latency, and enhance network connectivity reliability by aggregating multiple physical links. MLO allows devices to communicate using multiple links, independent of a single link. Through MLO, devices achieve intelligent management of link aggregation and frequency band switching at the medium access control (MAC) layer. By performing link aggregation across different PHY links, resource utilization can be optimized, latency reduced, and overall network performance improved.

[0098] A multi-link device (MLD) is a device with multiple radio frequency (RF) modules, each operating on different frequency bands or channels. If the channels (or frequency bands) operated by two RF modules within a multi-link device are sufficiently far apart, these two RF modules will not interfere with each other and will operate independently. For example, two RF modules can independently receive or transmit signals. The multiple RF modules within an MLD establish multiple links with other devices (such as the MLD itself), enabling data transmission and increasing data transfer rates.

[0099] If any two links of a multi-link device support one link transmitting a signal and the other link receiving a signal, then these two links are said to support simultaneous transmit / receive (STR) capability; otherwise, they are said to be non-simultaneous transmit / receive (non-STR).

[0100] Multi-link devices comprise multiple stations (STAs). When an MLD functions as an access point (AP), it is called an AP MLD. The stations included in an AP MLD are referred to as APs. When an MLD functions as a non-access point (non-AP), it is called a non-AP MLD. A non-AP MLD is also called a STA MLD. The stations included in a non-AP MLD are referred to as STAs. In other words, the APs included in an AP MLD and the STAs included in a non-AP MLD can be collectively referred to as stations.

[0101] For example, if an MLD contains multiple RF modules that function as stations, then an AP MLD contains multiple RF modules that function as APs, and a non-AP MLD contains multiple RF modules that function as STAs. An AP MLD contains multiple APs, and a Non-AP MLD contains multiple STAs.

[0102] The non-AP MLD establishes associations between multiple links of the AP MLD by exchanging multi-link association request / response frames on a single link, carrying information about multiple links.

[0103] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of establishing a multi-link between a non-AP multi-link device and an AP multi-link device according to this application. As shown in Figure 2, the non-AP multi-link device includes two STAs, and the AP multi-link device includes two APs. The non-AP multi-link device sends an association request frame on link 1. In addition to carrying information about the STA side of link 1, the association request frame also carries relevant information about the STA side of link 2. Link 1 is referred to as the transmission link, and link 2 is referred to as the non-transmission link. After receiving the association request frame, the AP multi-link device sends an association response frame on link 1 to the non-AP multi-link device. In addition to carrying information about the AP side of link 1, the association response frame also carries relevant information about the AP side of link 2. Thus, STA 1 of the non-AP multi-link device establishes an association with AP 1 of the AP multi-link device, and STA 2 of the non-AP multi-link device establishes an association with AP 2 of the AP multi-link device.

[0104] The relevant information for the STA side of Link 2 is located in the Basic Multi-link element field of the association request frame. The relevant information for the AP side of Link 2 is located in the Basic Multi-link element field of the association response frame.

[0105] The media access control (MAC) layer of a multi-link device is divided into a lower (MLD) MAC sublayer and an upper (MLD) MAC sublayer. The lower (MLD) MAC sublayer can be simply referred to as the lower MAC sublayer. The upper (MLD) MAC sublayer can be simply referred to as the higher MAC sublayer.

[0106] A multi-link device comprises multiple multi-link device lower-layer media access control sublayers. Understandably, the functionality of these multiple multi-link device lower-layer media access control sublayers is implemented by multiple APs or multiple STAs. For example, in an AP MLD, each AP contains a multi-link device lower-layer media access control sublayer. In a non-AP MLD, each STA contains a multi-link device lower-layer media access control sublayer.

[0107] For example, as shown in Figure 2, the AP MLD includes an MLD high MAC sublayer, an MLD low MAC sublayer 1, and an MLD low MAC sublayer 2. MLD low MAC sublayer 1 serves as the MAC layer of AP1, meaning AP1 implements the functionality of MLD low MAC sublayer 1. MLD low MAC sublayer 2 serves as the MAC layer of AP2, meaning AP2 implements the functionality of MLD low MAC sublayer 2. AP1 and AP2 share the MLD high MAC sublayer.

[0108] The non-AP MLD consists of an MLD high MAC sublayer, an MLD low MAC sublayer 1, and an MLD low MAC sublayer 2. MLD low MAC sublayer 1 serves as the MAC layer for STA1, meaning STA1 implements the functionality of MLD low MAC sublayer 1. MLD low MAC sublayer 2 serves as the MAC layer for STA2, meaning STA2 implements the functionality of MLD low MAC sublayer 2. STA1 and STA2 share the MLD high MAC sublayer.

[0109] In addition to the device's MAC address (MLD MAC address), multi-link devices have their own MAC addresses for each layer. The address of the lower MAC sublayer of the MLD in a non-AP MLD is called the affiliated STA MAC address. The address of the lower MAC sublayer of the MLD in an AP MLD is called the affiliated AP MAC address.

[0110] With the widespread adoption of emerging services such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (XR), low-frequency links cannot meet the high throughput and low latency requirements of these services. While high-frequency links offer high throughput transmission rates, they require a considerable amount of time for beamforming training (BFT) before data transmission. Beamforming training, also known as beamforming alignment, refers to the process of aligning the beams of the Personal Basic Service Set Control Point / Access Point (PCP / AP) and the Station (STA) to maximize signal quality and minimize interference, thereby improving the performance and efficiency of the communication system. However, the beamforming training process lacks flexibility; training the transmitting beam first and then the receiving beam results in low efficiency.

[0111] To address the low efficiency of beamforming training, this application provides a communication method based on the MLD communication model. On a first link, an instruction message is sent, including a beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters. On a second link, a first multi-link device and a second multi-link device perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window. The first and second multi-link devices negotiate the beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters, and perform beamforming training according to the parameters within the time window. This clarifies the beamforming training process, improves the flexibility of beamforming training, thereby reducing training time and increasing its efficiency.

[0112] To achieve the aforementioned beamforming training, embodiments of this application provide related communication methods, devices, and systems. The implementation methods of these embodiments are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0113] The wireless communication system applicable to the embodiments of this application can be a wireless local area network (WLAN) or a cellular network. The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application can be implemented by a communication device in the wireless communication system or a chip or processor in the communication device. The communication device can be a wireless communication device that supports parallel transmission across multiple links, for example, a multi-link device. Compared to a device that only supports single-link transmission, a multi-link device has higher transmission efficiency and higher throughput.

[0114] A multi-link device may include one or more subordinate sites. A subordinate site is a logical site that can operate on a single link. The subordinate site can be an AP or a STA. For ease of description, this application refers to a multi-link device containing a subordinate AP as a multi-link AP or a multi-link AP device or an AP MLD, and a multi-link device containing a subordinate STA as a multi-link STA or a multi-link STA device or a STA MLD or a non-AP MLD. For ease of description and consistency, "multi-link device including subordinate STA" is briefly described as "multi-link device including STA" in this application embodiment, and "multi-link device including subordinate AP" is briefly described as "multi-link device including AP" in this application embodiment. A multi-link device containing a subordinate AP is uniformly referred to as an AP MLD in this application embodiment, and a multi-link device containing a subordinate STA is uniformly referred to as a non-AP MLD in this application embodiment.

[0115] A multi-link device can include multiple logical sites, each of which operates on a single link.

[0116] This application supports IEEE protocols, such as IEEE 802.11be / Wi-Fi 7 / EHT, IEEE 802.11bn / UHR / Wi-Fi 8, IEEE 802.11bq / Integrated mmWave / IMMW, IEEE 802.15 / UWB, or IEEE 802.11bf / sensing.

[0117] Multilink devices can communicate wirelessly with other multilink devices by following the 802.11 series of protocols. For example, they can communicate with other devices by following extremely high throughput (EHT) sites or by following sites based on or compatible with 802.11be. Of course, other devices can be multilink devices or not.

[0118] Exemplary examples show that the multi-link device in this application can be a single-antenna device or a multi-antenna device. For example, it can be a device with two or more antennas. This application does not limit the number of antennas included in the multi-link device. In the embodiments of this application, the multi-link device can allow services of the same access type to be transmitted on different links, and even allow the same data packets to be transmitted on different links; alternatively, it can disallow services of the same access type to be transmitted on different links, but allow services of different access types to be transmitted on different links.

[0119] For example, a multi-link device is a device with wireless communication capabilities. This device can be a complete device or a chip or processing system installed in a complete device. The device with these chips or processing systems installed can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application under the control of these chips or processing systems.

[0120] For example, the non-AP MLD in this application embodiment has wireless transceiver functionality, can support the 802.11 series of protocols, and can communicate with the AP MLD. For example, a non-AP MLD is any user communication device that allows users to communicate with the AP and thus with the WLAN. For example, a non-AP MLD can be a network-connected user device such as a tablet, desktop, laptop, notebook computer, ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), handheld computer, netbook, personal digital assistant (PDA), or mobile phone; or an IoT node in the Internet of Things (IoT); or an in-vehicle communication device in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV). A non-AP MLD can also be the chip and processing system in these terminals.

[0121] The AP MLD in this application embodiment is a device that provides services to a non-AP MLD and can support the 802.11 series of protocols. For example, the AP MLD can be a communication server, router, switch, bridge, or other communication entity. Alternatively, the AP MLD can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations, relay stations, etc. Of course, the AP MLD can also be the chip and processing system in these various forms of devices, thereby realizing the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application.

[0122] In some embodiments, the multi-link devices in this application support high-speed, low-latency transmission. With the continuous evolution of wireless LAN application scenarios, multi-link devices can also be applied to more scenarios, such as sensor nodes in smart cities (e.g., smart water meters, smart electricity meters, smart air quality monitoring nodes), smart devices in smart homes (e.g., smart cameras, projectors, displays, televisions, speakers, refrigerators, washing machines, etc.), nodes in the Internet of Things (IoT), entertainment terminals (e.g., AR, VR wearable devices), smart devices in smart offices (e.g., printers, projectors, etc.), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) devices, and some infrastructure in daily life scenarios (e.g., vending machines, supermarket self-service navigation kiosks, self-checkout machines, self-service ordering machines, etc.). This application does not impose special restrictions on the specific forms of AP MLDs and non-AP MLDs; these are merely illustrative examples. The 802.11 protocol can be a protocol that supports or is compatible with 802.11be.

[0123] In this embodiment of the application, the frequency band in which the multi-link device operates may include one or more of the following: sub 1GHz, 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz and high frequency 60GHz, such as 2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz. This embodiment of the application does not specifically limit this.

[0124] While this application primarily illustrates embodiments using a network deploying the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 standard as an example, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the various aspects of this application can be extended to other networks employing various standards or protocols, such as Bluetooth, high-performance radio LAN (HIPER LAN) (a wireless standard similar to IEEE 802.11, primarily used in Europe), wide area networks (WANs), WLANs, personal area networks (PANs), or other networks now known or to be developed in the future. Therefore, regardless of the coverage area and wireless access protocol used, the various aspects provided in this application can be applied to any suitable wireless network.

[0125] Figure 3 illustrates a communication system 300 used in an embodiment of this application, taking a wireless local area network as an example. The communication system 300 includes multiple wireless access points 310 and multiple stations 320.

[0126] A wireless access point (AP) is an access point for a wireless network. As a routing device in a wireless local area network (WLAN), it has functions such as multi-user access, data encryption, data decryption, and multi-rate transmission. Wireless access points are mainly used in broadband homes, buildings, campuses, industrial parks, warehouses, factories, and other places that require wireless networks.

[0127] A station (STA) is a device connected to a wireless local area network (WLAN) via a wireless access point. Stations can communicate with other stations within the WLAN, wireless access points, or devices outside the wireless network.

[0128] Each STA within the coverage area of ​​an AP can communicate with each other, and each STA can also communicate with the AP.

[0129] For example, a wireless access point is a service access point (SAP) for a distribution system (DS).

[0130] A Basic Service Set (BSS) comprises multiple sites connected to the same Access Point (AP). A BSS may or may not include an AP. The Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID) is a unique identifier for the BSS. The BSSID has the same format as a MAC address and is generally the MAC address of the AP, used to identify the AP managing the BSS.

[0131] An extended service set (ESS) refers to a set of services formed by two or more BSSs in a wireless LAN interconnected with a backbone network, typically a wired LAN, via access point devices. An ESS includes multiple BSSs, thereby extending the coverage of the wireless network.

[0132] In some embodiments, the ESS includes multiple wireless access points with partially overlapping coverage cells to enable seamless roaming between sites.

[0133] An Overlapping BSS (OBSS) refers to another BSS that overlaps with the current BSS channel or frequency band. OBSS may be on the same channel or on a different channel.

[0134] In some embodiments, the wireless access point is an AP multi-link device. The site is a STA multi-link device. The AP multi-link device and the STA multi-link device establish multiple links for data transmission. For example, the process of establishing multiple links between a non-AP multi-link device and an AP multi-link device is shown in Figure 2.

[0135] The scenario diagram shown in this application embodiment is illustrated by taking an AP MLD that includes 2 APs and a non-AP MLD that includes 2 STAs as an example. Of course, an AP MLD may include more APs and a non-AP MLD may include more STAs. This application embodiment does not make specific limitations on this.

[0136] In addition, in the embodiments of this application, AP1 can also be called the first AP, AP2 can also be called the second AP, STA1 can also be called the first STA, STA2 can also be called the second STA, link 1 can also be called the first link, and link 2 can also be called the second link. This is explained uniformly here and will not be repeated below.

[0137] Optionally, the communication system may further include a relay device, through which the AP multi-link device and the STA multi-link device communicate. Further details are omitted here. Those skilled in the art will understand that the wireless communication device structure shown in the figures does not constitute a limitation on the wireless communication device, and may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0138] In practical implementation, both the AP multi-link device and the STA multi-link device shown in Figure 3 can adopt the composition structure shown in Figure 4, or include the components shown in Figure 4. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the composition of a communication device provided in this application. The communication device 400 can be an access point device or a chip or system-on-a-chip in an access point device; it can also be a site device or a chip or system-on-a-chip in a site device. As shown in Figure 4, the communication device 400 includes a processor 401, a communication interface 402, and a communication line 403.

[0139] Furthermore, the communication device 400 may also include a memory 404. The processor 401, memory 404, and communication interface 402 can be connected via a communication line 403.

[0140] The processor 401 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 401 can also be other devices with processing capabilities, such as circuits, devices, or software modules, without limitation.

[0141] In this embodiment of the application, the processor 401 is used to determine the beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters.

[0142] Communication interface 402 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. Communication interface 402 can be a module, circuit, transceiver, or any device capable of enabling communication.

[0143] In this embodiment of the application, the communication interface 402 is used to send or receive an indication message, which includes a beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters, and to perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window.

[0144] Communication line 403 is used to transmit information between the components included in communication device 400.

[0145] Memory 404 is used to store instructions. These instructions can be computer programs.

[0146] In this embodiment, memory 404 is used to store the time window for beamforming training and beamforming training parameters.

[0147] The memory 404 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.

[0148] Optionally, the memory 404 exists independently of the processor 401, or it may be integrated with the processor 401. The memory 404 is used to store instructions, program code, or some data, etc. The memory 404 may be located inside or outside the communication device 400, and is not limited thereto. The processor 401 is used to execute the instructions stored in the memory 404 to implement the communication method provided in the following embodiments of this application.

[0149] In one example, processor 401 can be a multi-core (multi-CPU) processor, such as CPU0 and CPU1 in Figure 4.

[0150] As an alternative implementation, the communication device 400 may include multiple processors, for example, in addition to the processor 401 in FIG4, it may also include a processor 407.

[0151] As an optional implementation, the communication device 400 also includes an output device 405 and an input device 406. For example, the input device 406 is a device such as a keyboard, mouse, microphone, or joystick, and the output device 405 is a device such as a display screen or speaker.

[0152] It should be noted that the communication device 400 can 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 4. Furthermore, the composition shown in Figure 4 does not constitute a limitation on the communication device. In addition to the components shown in Figure 4, the communication device may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0153] In this embodiment of the application, the chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0154] Furthermore, the actions, terms, etc., involved in the various embodiments of this application can be referenced interchangeably without limitation. The message names or parameter names in the messages exchanged between the various devices in the embodiments of this application are merely examples, and other names may be used in specific implementations without limitation.

[0155] The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to Figure 1 and Figures 5 to 21 below.

[0156] In the following embodiments of this application, the message names between network elements, the names of parameters, or the names of information are just examples. Other names may be used in other embodiments, and the communication method provided in this application does not specifically limit them.

[0157] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, each network element performs 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 also perform other operations or variations of various operations. Furthermore, the steps may be performed in different orders as presented in the embodiments of this application, and it is not necessary to perform all the operations in the embodiments of this application.

[0158] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in this application. This method is illustrated using the interaction between a STA multi-link device and an AP multi-link device as an example. The entity executing the actions of the STA multi-link device in this method can also be a device / module within the STA multi-link device, such as the STA within the STA multi-link device. Similarly, the entity executing the actions of the AP multi-link device in this method can also be a device / module within the AP multi-link device, such as the AP within the AP multi-link device. This application does not specifically limit this. For example, as shown in Figure 5, taking downlink communication as an example, for instance, the first multi-link device is an AP MLD, and the first multi-link device includes multiple sites, which can refer to multiple APs. For example, the first site included in the first multi-link device is the first AP. The second multi-link device is a non-AP MLD, and the second multi-link device includes multiple sites, which can refer to multiple STAs. For example, the second site included in the second multi-link device is the first STA. The first AP and the first STA establish a first link, and the first AP and the first STA can transmit indication information through the first link. This application does not limit the number of links established by the first and second multi-link devices. For example, the first and second multi-link devices can establish more than two links. For example, the first multi-link device further includes a second AP, and the second multi-link device further includes a second STA. The second AP and the second STA establish a second link, and the second AP and the second STA perform beamforming training through the second link. The communication method steps provided in this application embodiment are as follows.

[0159] Step 510: The first multi-link device sends an indication message on the first link. Correspondingly, the second multi-link device receives the indication message on the first link.

[0160] Step 520: On the second link, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window.

[0161] The instruction message includes the beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters.

[0162] A beamforming training time window refers to a period or timing for beamforming training. The beamforming training time window is used for multi-link devices to perform beamforming training within the specified time period. For example, signal calibration and optimization, beam direction determination, and beamforming training of multiple devices may all occur within the beamforming training time window. Therefore, configuring a beamforming training window is crucial in the design and implementation of beamforming training to ensure system performance and stability. This application does not limit the representation of the beamforming training time window. A beamforming training time window may include at least one of a start time, duration, or period.

[0163] For example, the beamforming training time window includes a start time and a duration. As shown in Figure 6(a), the first beamforming training window begins at a start time T0 and lasts for a duration t1. The second beamforming training window begins at a start time T1 and lasts for a duration t2. Within each beamforming training window, the first multilink device and the second multilink device perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters.

[0164] For example, beamforming training time windows include start and end times. As shown in Figure 6(b), the first beamforming training window includes the period from start time T0 to end time T1. The second beamforming training window includes the period from start time T2 to end time T3.

[0165] For example, beamforming training time windows include periods. As shown in Figure 6(c), the first beamforming training window includes a first period. The second beamforming training window includes a second period. Within each period, the first multilink device and the second multilink device perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters.

[0166] For example, the beamforming training time window includes the start time, duration, and period. As shown in Figure 6(d), within the first period, starting from the start time T0, the duration t1 constitutes the first beamforming training window. Within the second period, starting from the start time T1, the duration t2 constitutes the second beamforming training window.

[0167] This application does not limit the specific duration of the beamforming training window. For example, the unit of the beamforming training window may be microseconds, milliseconds, seconds, minutes, hours, or days.

[0168] Target Wake Time (TWT) is a power-saving management technique designed to improve network efficiency and reduce device power consumption. It allows sites (such as smartphones and tablets) to negotiate one or more wake-up times with the access point so that data can be transmitted during those wake-up times. During non-wake-up periods, the site enters a sleep state, thus saving power.

[0169] In some embodiments, the beamforming training time window is carried in the target wake-up time element (TWT element).

[0170] Method 1: Add a Beamforming Training Specific Parameters (BFT) field to the Target Wake-up Time element. The Target Wake-up Time element includes the Beamforming Training Specific Parameters field. The beamforming training time window is contained within the Beamforming Training Specific Parameters field of the Target Wake-up Time element.

[0171] As shown in Figure 7(a), this is a schematic diagram of the structure of a target wake-up time element provided in this application. The target wake-up time element includes an element ID, length, control, and TWT parameter information. The length of the target wake-up time element is multiple octets, i.e., the length of the target wake-up time element is multiple bytes. The element ID occupies 1 byte. The length occupies 1 byte. The control occupies 1 byte. The number of bytes occupied by the TWT parameter information is variable. A beamforming training-specific parameter field is added to the TWT parameter information. The beamforming training time window is carried within the TWT parameter information.

[0172] In some embodiments, the structure of the TWT parameter information is set according to the value of the negotiation type field in the control field. For example, the TWT parameter information includes one or more broadcast TWT parameter sets. Alternatively, the TWT parameter information may include an individual TWT parameter set.

[0173] Optionally, as shown in Figure 7(b), the TWT parameter information includes a separate TWT parameter set. Beamforming training-specific parameter fields are located after the separate TWT parameter set.

[0174] Method 2, the target wake-up time element includes parameters used to determine the beamforming training time window. These parameters include at least one of the following: Target Wake Time, Nominal Minimum TWT Wake Duration, TWT Wake Interval Exponent, or TWT Wake Interval Mantissa.

[0175] The target wake-up time is used to determine the start time of the beamforming training time window.

[0176] The minimum nominal target wake-up duration is used to determine the duration of each beamforming training time window.

[0177] The target wake-up time wake-up interval index and the target wake-up time wake-up interval tail are used to determine the period of the beamforming training time window.

[0178] For example, as shown in Figure 8(a), the TWT parameter information includes a broadcast TWT parameter set. The broadcast TWT parameter set includes the target wake-up time, the minimum nominal target wake-up duration, and the target wake-up time wake-up interval mantissa. The request type in the broadcast TWT parameter set includes the target wake-up time wake-up interval index.

[0179] The control fields include NDP Paging indicator / Unavailability Mode, Responder PM Mode, Negotiation Type, TWT information Frame Disabled, Wake Duration Unit, LINK ID Bitmap Present, and Aligned TWT.

[0180] The Broadcast TWT parameter set includes the request type, target wake-up time, minimum nominal target wake-up duration, target wake-up time wake-up interval last digit, Broadcast TWT Info, and Restricted TWT Traffic Info. Optional fields include Restricted TWT Traffic Info.

[0181] Request types include Target Wake Time Request (TWT Request), Target Wake Time Setup Command (TWT Setup Command), Trigger, Last Broadcast Parameter, Flow Type, Broadcast TWT Recommendation, TWT Wake Interval Exponent, and Aligned.

[0182] The Broadcast TWT Traffic Info Present includes the current restricted TWT Traffic Info Present, the restricted TWT Schedule Info, the Broadcast TWT ID, and the Broadcast TWT Persistence.

[0183] As shown in Figure 8(b), the TWT parameter information includes an independent TWT parameter set. The independent TWT parameter set includes the target wake-up time, the minimum nominal target wake-up duration, and the target wake-up time wake-up interval mantissa. The request type in the independent TWT parameter set includes the target wake-up time wake-up interval index.

[0184] The independent TWT parameter set also includes TWT Group Assignment, TWT Channel, NDP Paging (optional), Link ID Bitmap, and Aligned TWT Link Bitmap.

[0185] The difference between the request types included in the independent TWT parameter set and those included in the broadcast TWT parameter set is that the last broadcast parameter set is replaced with implicit (no explicit indication required), the broadcast target wake-up time is recommended to be replaced with the target wake-up time traffic identifier, and the alignment is replaced with the target wake-up time protection.

[0186] Beamforming training parameters are primarily used to configure and optimize beamforming training performance to ensure efficient and accurate signal transmission. Beamforming training parameters include at least one of the following: beamforming training indication, beamforming training direction, or number of Rx sectors.

[0187] Beamforming training instructions are used to instruct the execution of beamforming training.

[0188] The beamforming training direction is used to indicate the direction, mode, or type of beamforming training. The beamforming training direction includes at least one of the transmit beam of the first multi-link device, the receive beam of the first multi-link device, the transmit beam of the second multi-link device, or the receive beam of the second multi-link device. Indicating the beamforming training direction in the TWT element helps the AP to rationally group and schedule multiple devices for beamforming training based on the request information from each STA.

[0189] Optionally, in the embodiments of this application, the beam can also be described as a sector. For example, the receiving beam is also called a receiving sector.

[0190] The number of sectors refers to the number of sectors that a site receives.

[0191] In some embodiments, beamforming training parameters are carried over to the target wake-up time element.

[0192] Method 1: Add a beamforming training-specific parameter field to the target wake-up time element. The target wake-up time element includes the beamforming training-specific parameter field. The beamforming training parameters are carried within the beamforming training-specific parameter field of the target wake-up time element.

[0193] As an example, Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of another target wake-up time element provided in this application. The target wake-up time element includes TWT parameter information. A beamforming training-specific parameter field is added to the TWT parameter information. The beamforming training parameters are carried in the TWT parameter information. Optionally, the TWT parameter information also includes an independent TWT parameter set. The beamforming training-specific parameter field is located after the independent TWT parameter set. The specific content of the independent TWT parameter set is shown in Figure 8(b).

[0194] This application does not limit the length of beamforming training parameters. For example, beamforming training indication occupies 1 bit. Beamforming training direction occupies 4 bits. Number of sectors occupies 8 bits. Beamforming training time window occupies 8 bits. Reserved space occupies 3 bits.

[0195] In the beamforming training direction, the first bit indicates whether to train the AP's transmit beam, the second bit indicates whether to train the AP's receive beam, the third bit indicates whether to train the STA's transmit beam, and the fourth bit indicates whether to train the STA's receive beam. The values ​​of the four bits in the beamforming training direction can be arbitrarily combined, and this application does not limit the combination method of the beamforming training direction. For example, a bit of 1 indicates beam training, and a bit of 0 indicates no beam training.

[0196] The four bits of the beamforming training direction are set to 1111, indicating the transmit beam of the training AP, the receive beam of the training AP, the transmit beam of the training STA, and the receive beam of the training STA.

[0197] The four bits of the beamforming training direction are set to 1010, indicating the transmit beam of the training AP, the receive beam of the non-training AP, the transmit beam of the training STA, and the receive beam of the non-training STA.

[0198] Optionally, the beamforming training direction occupies 2 bits. The first bit in the beamforming training direction indicates the transmit or receive beam of the training AP; the second bit indicates the transmit or receive beam of the training STA. For example, a value of 0 for the first bit indicates the transmit beam of the training AP, and a value of 1 for the second bit indicates the receive beam of the training AP. Similarly, a value of 0 for the second bit indicates the transmit beam of the training STA, and a value of 1 for the first bit indicates the receive beam of the training STA.

[0199] The two bits for the beamforming training direction are set to 11, indicating the receiving beam of the training AP and the receiving beam of the training STA.

[0200] The two bits in the beamforming training direction are set to 00, indicating the transmit beam of the training AP and the transmit beam of the training STA.

[0201] The two bits in the beamforming training direction are set to 10, indicating the receive beam of the training AP and the transmit beam of the training STA.

[0202] The two bits in the beamforming training direction are 0 or 1, indicating the transmit beam of the training AP and the receive beam of the training STA.

[0203] Optionally, the beamforming training direction occupies 1 bit. One bit in the beamforming training direction indicates the transmit beam of the AP, the receive beam of the AP, the transmit beam of the STA, or the receive beam of the STA.

[0204] For example, a bit of 1 indicates training the downlink beam, and a bit of 0 indicates training the uplink beam. A single bit of 1 in the beamforming training direction indicates training the AP's transmit beam or the STA's receive beam. A single bit of 0 in the beamforming training direction indicates training the STA's transmit beam or the AP's receive beam. Similarly, a bit of 1 indicates beam training, and a bit of 0 indicates no beam training. A single bit of 1 in the beamforming training direction indicates training the AP's transmit beam or the STA's receive beam. A single bit of 0 in the beamforming training direction indicates no training of the AP's transmit beam or the STA's receive beam.

[0205] Method 2, the target wake-up time element includes parameters used to determine beamforming training parameters.

[0206] For example, the target wake-up time element includes parameters used to determine the beamforming training instruction and beamforming training direction.

[0207] For example, as shown in Figure 10, the TWT parameter information includes the broadcast TWT parameter set, the broadcast target wake-up time recommendation field and the aligned field in the request type of the broadcast TWT parameter set.

[0208] Bits 5-7 of the Broadcast Target Wake-up Time (BWT) recommendation field are reserved. The 5th bit is set to indicate beamforming training. For example, the 5th bit is used to indicate that the Broadcast Target Wake-up Time service interval is used for beamforming training. Optionally, the Broadcast Target Wake-up Time service interval (BWT SP) is called the BFT-TWT SP.

[0209] The aligned field is redefined to indicate the beamforming training direction. For example, the aligned field is 1 bit long. The beamforming training direction occupies 1 bit. One bit in the beamforming training direction indicates the transmit beam of the AP, the receive beam of the AP, the transmit beam of the STA, or the receive beam of the STA.

[0210] Redefine B15 of the request type in the broadcast TWT parameter set. This field can also be named BFT STA role / aligned, BFT STA role, BFT direction, Tx sector, or Rx sector.

[0211] Optionally, beamforming training parameters can also be located elsewhere in the broadcast TWT parameter set. For example, as shown in Figure 11, beamforming training-specific parameters are located after the alignment field. As also shown in Figure 12, beamforming training-specific parameters are located after the restricted target wake-up time traffic information field. Beamforming training-specific parameters include at least one of the following: beamforming training indication, beamforming training direction, number of sectors, or beamforming training time window.

[0212] In some embodiments, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device utilize management frames carrying target wake-up time elements to negotiate beamforming training time windows and beamforming training parameters. Management frames include beacon frames, association request frames, association response frames, TWT information request frames, and TWT information response frames, etc. For example, indication messages are carried within the aforementioned management frames.

[0213] In other embodiments, the indication message is a new frame. For example, the indication message is a beamforming training announcement frame (BFT announcement frame).

[0214] As shown in Figure 13, this is a schematic diagram of the action field structure of a beamforming training declaration frame provided in this application. The action field of the beamforming training declaration frame includes at least one of the following: category, public action, STA ID list, target wake-up time element, or link ID. The category occupies 1 byte. The public action occupies 1 byte. The number of bytes occupied by the STA ID list is variable. The number of bytes occupied by the target wake-up time element is variable. The link ID occupies 2 bytes. Alternatively, the link ID occupies 1 byte.

[0215] For example, a site identifier list contains identifiers for one or more multi-link devices. These identifiers can be association IDs or non-association IDs. Since each identifier occupies 2 bytes, the size of the site identifier list is 2n bytes, where n is the number of sites.

[0216] After the AP broadcasts the list of site identifiers, only the multi-link devices indicated by the identifiers in the list can perform beamforming training. For example, if the site identifier list contains the identifier of a single STA, then in the TWT SP, the STA indicated by that identifier performs beamforming training. If the site identifier list contains the identifiers of eight STAs, then the eight STAs freely compete for channels in the designated TWT SP or are uniformly scheduled by the AP. Other unindicated STAs do not need to compete for channels. This helps to rationally schedule the sleep time of devices and prevent unnecessary power consumption.

[0217] Optionally, the list of site identifiers can also be carried in a TWT element, or in any broadcast frame or management frame.

[0218] The target wake-up time elements include the beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters. The beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters are illustrated in Figures 7 to 12 above.

[0219] The link identifier indicates the link used for beamforming training on a multi-link device. Optionally, the link identifier can also be carried in a TWT element, or in any broadcast or management frame. For example, a beacon frame, a probe response frame, or a multi-link probe response frame.

[0220] The frequency bands of the first link and the second link are different. For example, the frequency band of the first link is in the low-frequency range, while the frequency band of the second link is in the high-frequency range. The frequency band of the first link is shorter than that of the second link. The frequency band of the first link includes the operating frequency band of the first link, and may also include other frequency bands. Other frequency bands in the first link besides the operating frequency band can be used to transmit other information. For example, the frequency band range of the first link includes 2.4 GHz to 7.25 GHz (sub-7.25 GHz). The operating frequency band of the first link includes at least one of 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, or 6 GHz. The frequency band range of the second link includes 42 GHz to 71 GHz. Optionally, the frequency band of the second link includes 24 GHz.

[0221] This application does not limit the number of second links. On multiple second links, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training according to beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window.

[0222] Optionally, the first multi-link device periodically transmits indication messages on the first link. For example, the first multi-link device periodically transmits indication messages across beacon intervals (BIs) on the first link. For example, it transmits indication messages at intervals of several beacon intervals.

[0223] In some embodiments, the access point manages the cycle of beamforming training and broadcasts to multiple sites. In this broadcast mode, the access point interacts with multiple sites simultaneously, thereby improving energy efficiency.

[0224] For example, suppose the AP MLD transmits management frames related to beamforming training with non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 at low frequency (LF). The AP MLD performs beamforming training with non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 at high frequency (HF).

[0225] As shown in Figure 14(a), the AP MLD transmits an indication message at low frequency. This indication message is a beamforming training announcement frame. The beamforming training announcement frame includes the identifiers of one or more multi-link devices. For example, the beamforming training announcement frame includes the identifiers of non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2. Both non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 receive the beamforming training announcement frame. The beamforming training announcement frame is explained in Figure 13. Non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 each send a request message to the AP MLD, indicating a request for beamforming training. This request message can also be called a beamforming training request frame (BFT request frame).

[0226] The request message includes beamforming training instructions and beamforming training direction. The request message is explained in Figure 9.

[0227] Optionally, the request message may also include the number of sectors. For example, the request message sent by non-AP MLD1 may also include the number of sectors of non-AP MLD1. The request message sent by non-AP MLD2 may also include the number of sectors of non-AP MLD2. This is so that the AP MLD can send beams according to the number of sectors, reducing power consumption.

[0228] In some embodiments, the AP MLD groups multiple non-AP MLDs according to a set beamforming training period. An AP MLD can connect to multiple non-AP MLDs by sending a single indication message. Non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 send request messages to the AP MLD, requesting to join a beamforming training group and become group members. For example, the request message includes a group identifier. For instance, as shown in Figure 8(a), the broadcast TWT parameter set contains broadcast target wake-up time information, and the broadcast target wake-up time ID included in the broadcast target wake-up time information is used to indicate joining the beamforming training group.

[0229] The AP MLD receives a request message from non-AP MLD1. The AP MLD then sends a response message to non-AP MLD1. The response message indicates whether to acknowledge or deny beamforming training. For example, the response message indicates whether to accept, modify, or reject non-AP MLD1's request. The response message can also be called a Beamforming Training Response Frame (BFT).

[0230] AP MLD receives request messages from non-AP MLD2. AP MLD sends response messages to non-AP MLD2. For example, the response message indicates whether to accept, modify, or reject the request from non-AP MLD2.

[0231] Optionally, after the AP MLD sends the indication message, non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 are not grouped together, and beamforming training is performed after the time indicated by the indication message.

[0232] As shown in Figures 14(a) and (b), AP MLD and non-AP MLD1 transmit measurement frames for beamforming training within the negotiated high-frequency link during the beamforming training time window. AP MLD and non-AP MLD2 also transmit measurement frames for beamforming training within the negotiated high-frequency link during the beamforming training time window. For example, beamforming training is performed on the transmit and receive beams of AP MLD, non-AP MLD1, and non-AP MLD2.

[0233] In this embodiment of the application, Figures 14, 15 and 17 schematically illustrate the beamwidth of beamforming training within the beamforming training time window. In practical applications, there are various combinations of the transmitting and receiving sectors of the measurement frame, which are not limited.

[0234] Optionally, before the first and second multi-link devices perform beamforming training, the first multi-link device sends a notification message on the first link. Correspondingly, the second multi-link device receives the notification message on the first link. The notification message includes a beamforming training indication and a Target Wake-up Time Identifier (TWT ID). The notification information is used to inform / inform that beamforming training is about to begin. The notification information is carried in a management frame or control frame, such as a trigger frame.

[0235] For example, as shown in Figure 15, before beamforming training on the high-frequency link, the AP MLD sends trigger frames to non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 respectively, instructing them to perform beamforming training with the AP MLD. For example, this instructs them to enable beamforming training on the high-frequency link, specify the beamforming training direction, or indicate the number of measurement frames. In other words, the AP MLD informs non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 of the number of measurement frames to be sent, so that they can receive the measurement frames. The trigger frame includes a group identifier. The AP MLD acquires air interface occupancy opportunities, instructs non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 to perform beamforming training, and increases air interface throughput through trigger frame broadcasting. Optionally, if the devices performing beamforming training are measuring within different bandwidths, the trigger frame's function also includes sending measurement frames within these different bandwidths, increasing air interface throughput and improving measurement efficiency.

[0236] Figure 16 shows a schematic diagram of a trigger frame provided in this application. The common information in the trigger frame carries a beamforming training instruction, which indicates that the trigger frame is used to initiate beamforming training for a millimeter-wave link. For example, the common information based on the trigger frame type (Trigger Dependent Common Info) indicates that beamforming training for the millimeter-wave link is initiated. The user information carries a target wake-up time identifier. The target wake-up time identifier indicates the beamforming training group. For example, the user information carries a broadcast TWT ID, which may be a group identifier. The user information also carries the number of sectors.

[0237] Optionally, after the first and second multi-link devices perform beamforming training, the second multi-link device sends a training report on the first link. Correspondingly, the first multi-link device receives the training report on the first link. The training report includes a beamforming training time window identifier and beamforming training results.

[0238] As shown in Figure 17, after beamforming training, non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 report training reports to the AP MLD respectively. For example, the AP MLD sends trigger frames to non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 respectively, instructing them to report training reports. The trigger frame carries a group identifier, indicating which beamforming training result the report corresponds to. The training report also carries the group identifier. The timing of reporting training reports can be within the BFT TWT SP determined by the beamforming training time window, or within the TWT SP used for other data transmission services. Allowing different non-AP MLDs to send training reports within different bandwidths increases air interface throughput and reduces wasted air interface resources. Reducing time wastage caused by device contention for channel space also helps with AP time and resource management.

[0239] In some embodiments, the AP sends a trigger frame to allocate different spectrum resources to multiple STAs, instructing the multiple STAs to report training reports. The multiple STAs report training reports on different spectrum resources. This application embodiment does not limit the time at which multiple STAs report training reports. For example, multiple STAs may report training reports simultaneously based on different spectrum resources. Optionally, the AP may not send a trigger frame, and the multiple STAs may report training reports in a time-sharing manner.

[0240] Figure 18 shows a schematic diagram of another trigger frame provided in this application. The common information in the trigger frame carries a beamforming training instruction. This beamforming training instruction is used to indicate beamforming training report polling. The common information in the trigger frame carries instructions for beamforming training report polling. For example, common information based on the trigger frame type in the common information is used to indicate beamforming training report polling. The user information carries a sector identifier and a broadcast TWT ID; for example, the broadcast TWT ID is a group identifier.

[0241] In other embodiments, each site negotiates a beamforming training time window independently with the access point.

[0242] The second multi-link device sends a request message on the first link, indicating a request for beamforming training. Correspondingly, the first multi-link device receives the request message on the first link. Within the beamforming training time window, both the first and second multi-link devices perform beamforming training based on the beamforming training parameters.

[0243] For example, as shown in Figure 19, non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 each send a request message to the AP MLD. The request message indicates a request for beamforming training. The request message includes a beamforming training instruction and a beamforming training direction. The request message is explained in Figure 9.

[0244] Optionally, the request message may also include the number of sectors to receive. For example, the request message sent by non-AP MLD1 may also include the number of sectors of non-AP MLD1. The request message sent by non-AP MLD2 may also include the number of sectors of non-AP MLD2. This allows the AP MLD to transmit beams based on the number of sectors, reducing power consumption.

[0245] AP MLD receives request messages from non-AP MLD1. AP MLD sends response messages to non-AP MLD1. For example, the response message indicates whether to accept, modify, or reject the request from non-AP MLD1.

[0246] AP MLD receives request messages from non-AP MLD2. AP MLD sends response messages to non-AP MLD2. For example, the response message indicates whether to accept, modify, or reject the request from non-AP MLD2.

[0247] Both AP MLD and non-AP MLD1 transmit measurement frames for beamforming training within the negotiated link's training time window. For example, beamforming training can be performed on the negotiated high-frequency link, or on both the negotiated high-frequency and low-frequency links.

[0248] Both AP MLD and non-AP MLD2 transmit measurement frames for beamforming training within the negotiated link's training time window. For example, beamforming training can be performed on the negotiated high-frequency link, or on both the negotiated high-frequency and low-frequency links.

[0249] The negotiation of TWT parameters for beamforming training between the AP and STA on a one-to-one basis is a clear process that helps the AP to rationally plan the configuration of TWT parameters based on TWT parameter requests sent by multiple STAs.

[0250] Optionally, before the first and second multi-link devices perform beamforming training, the first multi-link device sends a notification message on the first link. Correspondingly, the second multi-link device receives the notification message on the first link. The notification message includes a beamforming training instruction and a target wake-up time identifier.

[0251] For example, as shown in Figure 19, before beamforming training on the high-frequency link, the AP MLD sends trigger frames to non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 respectively, instructing them to perform beamforming training with the AP MLD. For example, this instructs them to enable beamforming training on the high-frequency link, specify the beamforming training direction, or indicate the number of measurement frames. In other words, the AP MLD informs non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 of the number of measurement frames to be sent, so that they can receive the measurement frames. The trigger frame includes a group identifier. The AP MLD acquires air interface occupancy opportunities, instructs non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 to perform beamforming training, and increases air interface throughput through trigger frame broadcasting. Optionally, if the devices performing beamforming training are measuring within different bandwidths, the trigger frame's function also includes sending measurement frames within these different bandwidths, increasing air interface throughput and improving measurement efficiency.

[0252] Figure 20 shows a schematic diagram of another trigger frame provided in this application. The common information in the trigger frame carries a beamforming training instruction, which indicates that the trigger frame is used to initiate beamforming training for the millimeter-wave link. The user information carries a target wake-up time identifier. The target wake-up time identifier is used to indicate the beamforming training group. For example, the user information carries a group identifier (e.g., a TWT stream identifier). The user information also carries the number of sectors.

[0253] Optionally, after the first and second multi-link devices perform beamforming training, the second multi-link device sends a training report on the first link. Correspondingly, the first multi-link device receives the training report on the first link. The training report includes a beamforming training time window identifier and beamforming training results.

[0254] After beamforming training, non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2 report training reports to the AP MLD, respectively. Optionally, as shown in Figure 19, the AP MLD sends trigger frames to non-AP MLD1 and non-AP MLD2, instructing them to report training reports. The trigger frame carries a group identifier, indicating which beamforming training result the report corresponds to. The training report also carries the group identifier. The timing of reporting training reports includes the beamforming training time window or the target wake-up time service interval (TWT SP). Allowing different non-AP MLDs to send training reports within different bandwidths increases air interface throughput and reduces waste of air interface resources.

[0255] In some embodiments, the AP sends a trigger frame to allocate different spectrum resources to multiple STAs, instructing the multiple STAs to report training reports. The multiple STAs report training reports on different spectrum resources. This application embodiment does not limit the time at which multiple STAs report training reports. For example, multiple STAs may report training reports simultaneously based on different spectrum resources. Optionally, the AP may not send a trigger frame, and the multiple STAs may report training reports in a time-sharing manner.

[0256] Figure 21 shows a schematic diagram of another trigger frame provided in this application. The common information in the trigger frame carries a beamforming training instruction. The beamforming training instruction is used to instruct beamforming training report polling. The common information in the trigger frame instructs beamforming training report polling. The user information carries sector identifiers and group identifiers (e.g., TWT stream identifiers).

[0257] By default, the transmission link for beamforming training measurement frames is a high-frequency link, which is specified by the beacon. If the beacon specifies more than one high-frequency link, then a link identifier needs to be included in the trigger frame to indicate the high-frequency link used for beamforming training measurement frame transmission.

[0258] The above mainly describes the solutions provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of network element interaction. Correspondingly, the embodiments of this application also provide a communication device for implementing the various methods described above. This communication device can be an AP multi-link device in the above method embodiments, or a device containing the above AP multi-link device, or a component usable in an AP multi-link device; or, this communication device can be a STA multi-link device in the above method embodiments, or a device containing the above STA multi-link device, or a component usable in a STA multi-link device; or, this communication device can be a relay device in the above method embodiments, or a device containing the above relay device, or a component usable in a relay device. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the communication device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed 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.

[0259] This application embodiment can divide the communication device into functional modules according to the above method embodiment. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be understood that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0260] For example, Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of a communication device 2200 provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device includes a transceiver module 2210, and optionally includes a processing module 2220. The transceiver module 2210, also known as a transceiver unit, is used to implement the transceiver function, and may be a transceiver circuit, transceiver, transceiver device, or communication interface.

[0261] Taking the communication device 2200 as an example of the AP multi-link device in the above method embodiment, one possible implementation is as follows.

[0262] The processing module 2220 is used to generate an indication message, which includes the beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters.

[0263] The transceiver module 2210 is used to send an indication message on the first link. For example, the transceiver module 2210 is used to perform step 510 in Figure 5.

[0264] The transceiver module 2210 is also used to perform beamforming training based on beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window. For example, the transceiver module 2210 is used to perform step 520 in Figure 5.

[0265] Taking the communication device 2200 as an example of the STA multi-link device in the above method embodiment, one possible implementation is as follows.

[0266] The transceiver module 2210 is used to receive instruction messages.

[0267] Processing module 2220 is used to parse the indication message.

[0268] The transceiver module 2210 is also used to perform beamforming training based on beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window. For example, the transceiver module 2210 is used to perform step 520 in Figure 5.

[0269] Optionally, the notification device 2200 may also include a storage module 2230 for storing beamforming training time windows and beamforming training parameters.

[0270] All relevant content of each step involved in the above method embodiments can be referred to in the functional description of the corresponding functional module, and will not be repeated here. Optionally, the communication device 2200 may further include a storage module, which can be used to store instructions and / or data, and the processing module 2220 can read the instructions and / or data in the storage module.

[0271] In this embodiment, the communication device 2200 is presented in an integrated manner, divided into various functional modules. Here, "module" can refer to a specific ASIC, circuitry, a processor and memory executing one or more software or firmware programs, integrated logic circuitry, and / or other devices that can provide the aforementioned functions. In a simplified embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that the communication device can take the form of the communication device 400 shown in FIG. 4.

[0272] For example, the processor 401 in the communication device 400 shown in Figure 4 can call the computer execution instructions stored in the memory 404 to make the communication device 400 execute the communication method in the above method embodiment.

[0273] Specifically, the functions / implementation processes of the transceiver module 2210 and processing module 2220 in Figure 22 can be implemented by the processor 401 in the communication device 400 shown in Figure 4 calling computer execution instructions stored in the memory 404. Alternatively, the functions / implementation processes of the processing module 2220 in Figure 22 can be implemented by the processor 401 in the communication device 400 shown in Figure 4 calling computer execution instructions stored in the memory 404, and the functions / implementation processes of the transceiver module 2210 in Figure 22 can be implemented by the communication interface 402 in the communication device 400 shown in Figure 4.

[0274] Since the communication device provided in this application embodiment can execute the above communication method, the technical effects it can obtain can be referred to the above method embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0275] It should be understood that one or more of the above modules or units can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of both. When any of the above modules or units are implemented by software, the software exists as computer program instructions and is stored in memory. The processor can be used to execute the program instructions and implement the above method flow. The processor can be built into a SoC (System-on-a-Chip) or ASIC, or it can be a separate semiconductor chip. In addition to the core that executes software instructions for computation or processing, the processor may further include necessary hardware accelerators, such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices), or logic circuits that implement dedicated logic operations.

[0276] When the above modules or units are implemented in hardware, the hardware can be any one or any combination of a CPU, microprocessor, digital signal processing (DSP) chip, microcontroller unit (MCU), artificial intelligence processor, ASIC, SoC, FPGA, PLD, application-specific digital circuit, hardware accelerator, or non-integrated discrete device, which can run the necessary software or perform the above method flow independently of software.

[0277] Optionally, embodiments of this application also provide a communication device (e.g., the communication device may be a chip or a chip system), which includes a processor for implementing the methods in any of the above method embodiments. In one possible design, the communication device further includes a memory. The memory is used to store necessary program instructions and data, and the processor can call the program code stored in the memory to instruct the communication device to execute the methods in any of the above method embodiments. Of course, the memory may not be included in the communication device. When the communication device is a chip system, it may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices; embodiments of this application do not specifically limit this.

[0278] Optionally, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when run on a communication device, enable the communication device to execute the methods of any of the above-described method embodiments or any implementation thereof.

[0279] Optionally, embodiments of this application also provide a communication system, which includes the network device and the terminal device described in the above method embodiments.

[0280] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software programs, implementation can be, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the flow or function according to the embodiments of this application is generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device containing one or more servers, data centers, etc., that can be integrated with the medium. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs).

[0281] Although this application has been described herein in conjunction with various embodiments, those skilled in the art, by reviewing the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, will understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in carrying out the claimed application. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other components or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude multiple instances. A single processor or other unit can implement several functions listed in the claims. While different dependent claims may recite certain measures, this does not mean that these measures cannot be combined to produce good results.

[0282] Although this application has been described in conjunction with specific features and embodiments, it is obvious that various modifications and combinations can be made thereto without departing from the scope of this application. Accordingly, this specification and drawings are merely exemplary illustrations of this application as defined by the appended claims, and are considered to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents within the scope of this application. Clearly, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and modifications to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Thus, if such modifications and modifications of this application fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application is also intended to include such modifications and modifications.

[0283] In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can mean A or B. "And / or" in this application is merely a description of the relationship between the related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. A and B can be singular or plural.

[0284] In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more. "At least one of the following or similar expressions" refers to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or multiple items. For example, at least one of a, b and / or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0285] Furthermore, to facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish identical or similar items with substantially the same function and effect. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" are not necessarily different.

[0286] In the embodiments of this application, the words "exemplarily" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplarily" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design solutions. Specifically, the use of the words "exemplarily" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner to facilitate understanding.

[0287] It is understood that the term "embodiment" used throughout the specification means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic related to an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of this application. Therefore, throughout the specification, various embodiments do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, these specific features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. It is understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the sequence number of each process does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0288] It is understood that some optional features in the embodiments of this application can be implemented independently in certain scenarios without relying on other features, such as the current solution on which they are based, to solve the corresponding technical problems and achieve the corresponding effects. Alternatively, they can be combined with other features as needed in certain scenarios. Correspondingly, the apparatus given in the embodiments of this application can also implement these features or functions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0289] In this application, unless otherwise specified, the same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other. In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be mutually referenced. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships. The following embodiments of this application do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a first multi-link device, the method includes: On the first link, an indication message is sent, which includes a beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters; On the second link, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The beamforming training time window includes at least one of the following: start time, duration, or period.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The beamforming training time window is contained within the target wake-up time element.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The target wake-up time element includes a beamforming training-specific parameter field, and the beamforming training time window is carried within the beamforming training-specific parameter field of the target wake-up time element.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The beamforming training parameters include at least one of beamforming training indication, beamforming training direction, or number of sectors.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2, or 5, characterized in that, The beamforming training parameters are carried over to the target wake-up time element.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The frequency bands of the first link and the second link are different.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The frequency band range of the first link is between 2.4 GHz and 7.25 GHz, and the frequency band range of the second link is between 42 GHz and 71 GHz.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The method further includes: On the first link, a request message is received, which is used to indicate a request for beamforming training.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The method further includes: On the first link, a response message is sent, which is used to indicate confirmation or denial of beamforming training.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, Before the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training, the method further includes: On the first link, a notification message is sent, the notification message including a beamforming training instruction and a target wake-up time identifier, the beamforming training instruction being used to indicate beamforming training, and the target wake-up time identifier being used to indicate a beamforming training group.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, After the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training, the method further includes: On the first link, a training report is received, which includes a beamforming training time window identifier and beam training results.

13. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a second multi-link device, the method includes: On the first link, an indication message is received, the indication message including a beamforming training time window and beamforming training parameters; On the second link, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training according to the beamforming training parameters within the beamforming training time window.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The beamforming training time window includes at least one of the following: start time, duration, or period.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The beamforming training time window is contained within the target wake-up time element.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The target wake-up time element includes a beamforming training-specific parameter field, and the beamforming training time window is carried within the beamforming training-specific parameter field of the target wake-up time element.

17. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The beamforming training parameters include at least one of beamforming training indication, beamforming training direction, or number of sectors.

18. The method according to any one of claims 13, 14 or 17, characterized in that, The beamforming training parameters are carried over to the target wake-up time element.

19. The method according to any one of claims 13-18, characterized in that, The frequency bands of the first link and the second link are different.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The frequency band range of the first link is between 2.4 GHz and 7.25 GHz, and the frequency band range of the second link is between 42 GHz and 71 GHz.

21. The method according to any one of claims 13-20, characterized in that, The method further includes: On the first link, a request message is sent, which is used to indicate a request for beamforming training.

22. The method according to any one of claims 13-20, characterized in that, The method further includes: On the first link, a response message is received, which is used to indicate confirmation or denial of beamforming training.

23. The method according to any one of claims 13-22, characterized in that, Before the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training, the method further includes: On the first link, a notification message is received, the notification message including a beamforming training instruction and a target wake-up time identifier, the beamforming training instruction being used to indicate beamforming training, and the target wake-up time identifier being used to indicate a beamforming training group.

24. The method according to any one of claims 13-23, characterized in that, After the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device perform beamforming training, the method further includes: On the first link, a training report is sent, which includes a beamforming training time window identifier and beam training results.

25. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A functional unit for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-24; wherein the action performed by the functional unit is implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software.

26. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a processor; the processor is configured to run computer programs or instructions, or to use logic circuitry to cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-24.

27. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions or programs that, when executed on a computing device, cause the computing device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-24.

28. A computer program product containing instructions, characterized in that, When the instruction is executed by the computing device, it causes the computing device to perform the operational steps of the method as described in any one of claims 1-24.

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