Communication method, communication apparatus, sta, AP, and computer program product

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide a communication method, a communication apparatus, an STA, an AP, and a computer program product. The method comprises: exchanging first information with a first apparatus, wherein the first information is used for instructing to enable a dynamic power save mode, and the dynamic power save mode includes switching from a low capability mode to a high capability mode and / or switching from the high capability mode to the low capability mode. The embodiments of the present application can ensure that both the STA and the AP can effectively operate in the dynamic power save mode.

Description

Communication methods and devices, STA, AP, computer program products Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, specifically to a communication method and communication device, STA, AP, and computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] The 802.11 protocol defines power management functions for stations (STAs) to enable STA devices to achieve better low-power performance in various scenarios. Existing 802.11 protocols provide various layered protocols for power management functions of STA devices.

[0003] The power management modes of STA devices include Active Mode and Power Save Mode (PS Mode). In Active Mode, the STA is in an Awake State, capable of transmitting / receiving (Tx / Rx). In Power Save Mode, the STA needs to transition between an Awake State (capable of transmitting / receiving) and a Doze State (unable to transmit / receive), and must notify the access point (AP) when it can receive data. Therefore, the 802.11 protocol provides various Power Save Mode Management mechanisms for STAs in Power Save Mode.

[0004] In the wake-up state, to further reduce the power consumption of the STA, a new Dynamic Power Save (DPS) mechanism is defined in 802.11bn (or Wi-Fi 8). Under this mechanism, the STA can have two sub-capability modes: Low Capability Mode (LCM) and High Capability Mode (HCM), and can switch between these two sub-capability modes.

[0005] However, existing research on the newly defined dynamic low-power mode is not in-depth, especially the research on the coexistence relationship between dynamic low-power mode and various energy-saving mode management mechanisms is still lacking.

[0006] There is an urgent need for a communication method that can conduct more in-depth research on dynamic low-power modes to fill the gaps in existing technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method and communication device, STA, AP, and computer program product, which can ensure that both STA and AP can work effectively in dynamic low power mode.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application provide the following technical solutions.

[0009] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, comprising: interacting with a first device with first information, the first information being used to indicate enabling a dynamic low-power mode; wherein the dynamic low-power mode includes switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode, and / or switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode.

[0010] Optionally, the dynamic low-power mode operates under one or more of the following energy-saving management mechanisms: energy-saving polling management mechanism; non-scheduled automatic energy-saving transmission management mechanism; target wake-up time service cycle energy-saving management mechanism.

[0011] Optionally, when the dynamic low-power mode is enabled, it satisfies one or more of the following: operating in active mode; operating in the full-power sub-mode of the active mode in the wake-up state; capable of mutual conversion between the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode of the active mode in the wake-up state and the full-power sub-mode of the active mode; capable of mutual conversion between the static capability sub-mode of the active mode in the wake-up state and the full-power sub-mode of the active mode; operating in energy-saving mode; operating in the full-power sub-mode of the energy-saving mode in the wake-up state; capable of mutual conversion between the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode of the energy-saving mode in the wake-up state and the full-power sub-mode of the energy-saving mode; capable of mutual conversion between the static capability sub-mode of the energy-saving mode in the wake-up state and the full-power sub-mode of the energy-saving mode.

[0012] Optionally, before interacting with the first information, the method further includes: sending third information, the third information being used to enable dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes; after interacting with the first information, the method further includes one or more of the following: the dynamic low-power mode overwrites the dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes; the overwritten dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes remains enabled and is not effective.

[0013] Optionally, before interacting with the first information, the method further includes: sending third information, the third information being used to enable dynamic switching of spatial sub-mode; after interacting with the first information, the method further includes: disabling the dynamic switching of spatial sub-mode during the process of enabling the dynamic low-power mode.

[0014] Optionally, the dynamic low-power mode includes: switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode in response to sending an energy-saving polling frame; and / or, switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode in response to receiving an initial control frame.

[0015] Optionally, the dynamic low-power mode operates under a power-saving polling management mechanism; the method satisfies one or more of the following: sending the power-saving polling frame in low-capacity mode; maintaining the low-capacity mode from sending the power-saving polling frame to receiving the acknowledgment frame corresponding to the power-saving polling frame; sending the power-saving polling frame in high-capacity mode; maintaining the high-capacity mode from sending the power-saving polling frame to receiving the acknowledgment frame corresponding to the power-saving polling frame.

[0016] Optionally, the method is used for a STA, the first device is an AP, and the method satisfies one or more of the following: the energy-saving polling frame is sent in low-capacity mode, and the interaction sequence for data interaction with the first device includes one or more of STA energy-saving polling frames, AP acknowledgment frames, AP ICF, STA ICR, AP data packets, and STA acknowledgment frames; the energy-saving polling frame is sent in high-capacity mode, and the interaction sequence for data interaction with the first device includes one or more of STA energy-saving polling frames, AP acknowledgment frames, AP ICF, STA ICR, AP data packets, and STA acknowledgment frames; the energy-saving polling frame is sent in high-capacity mode, and the interaction sequence for data interaction with the first device includes one or more of STA energy-saving polling frames, AP data packets, and STA acknowledgment frames.

[0017] Optionally, the method is used for a STA, the first device is an AP, and the dynamic low-power mode further includes one or more of the following: switching from the high-capacity mode to the low-capacity mode in response to receiving an AP data packet and sending a STA acknowledgment frame corresponding to the AP data packet; switching from the high-capacity mode to the low-capacity mode in response to receiving an AP acknowledgment frame corresponding to the power-saving polling frame.

[0018] Optionally, the dynamic low-power mode operates under an energy-saving polling management mechanism; the method further includes being in a wake-up state before receiving the initial control frame.

[0019] Optionally, the dynamic low-power mode operates under a target wake-up time service cycle power-saving management mechanism; the method further includes one or more of the following: in the wake-up state, in response to receiving the initial control frame, sending an initial response frame; in the non-wake-up state, in response to receiving the initial control frame, not sending an initial response frame.

[0020] Optionally, the initial control frame satisfies one or more of the following: in the triggered announced target wake-up time working mode, the initial control frame is used as the trigger frame and is used for the target wake-up time service cycle based on the trigger; in the triggered unannounced target wake-up time working mode, the initial control frame is used as the trigger frame and is used for the target wake-up time service cycle based on the trigger.

[0021] Optionally, the dynamic low-power mode further includes: switching from the high-power mode to the low-power mode when a single TXOP ends from the moment of switching from the low-power mode to the high-power mode.

[0022] Optionally, the method further includes: interacting with the first device with second information, the second information being used to indicate that the dynamic low-power mode is turned off.

[0023] Optionally, before interacting with the first information, the dynamic switching of spatial flow sub-mode has been enabled; the method further includes: disabling the dynamic low-power mode, and the dynamic switching of spatial flow sub-mode is reactivated.

[0024] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, including: interacting with a second device with first information, the first information being used to indicate enabling a dynamic low-power mode; wherein the dynamic low-power mode includes switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode, and / or switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode.

[0025] Optionally, the dynamic low-power mode operates under one or more of the following energy-saving management mechanisms: energy-saving polling management mechanism; non-scheduled automatic energy-saving transmission management mechanism; target wake-up time service cycle energy-saving management mechanism.

[0026] Optionally, when the dynamic low-power mode is enabled, it satisfies one or more of the following: operating in active mode; operating in the full-power sub-mode of the active mode in the wake-up state; capable of mutual conversion between the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode of the active mode in the wake-up state and the full-power sub-mode of the active mode; capable of mutual conversion between the static capability sub-mode of the active mode in the wake-up state and the full-power sub-mode of the active mode; operating in energy-saving mode; operating in the full-power sub-mode of the energy-saving mode in the wake-up state; capable of mutual conversion between the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode of the energy-saving mode in the wake-up state and the full-power sub-mode of the energy-saving mode; capable of mutual conversion between the static capability sub-mode of the energy-saving mode in the wake-up state and the full-power sub-mode of the energy-saving mode.

[0027] Optionally, before interacting with the first information, the method further includes: receiving third information, the third information being used to enable dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes; after interacting with the first information, the method further includes one or more of the following: the dynamic low-power mode overwrites the dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes; the overwritten dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes remains enabled and is not effective.

[0028] Optionally, before interacting with the first information, the method further includes: sending third information, the third information being used to enable dynamic switching of spatial sub-mode; after interacting with the first information, the method further includes: disabling the dynamic switching of spatial sub-mode during the process of enabling the dynamic low-power mode.

[0029] Optionally, the method further includes: interacting with the second device with second information, the second information being used to indicate that the dynamic low-power mode is turned off.

[0030] Optionally, before interacting with the first information, the dynamic switching of spatial flow sub-mode has been enabled; the method further includes: disabling the dynamic low-power mode, and the dynamic switching of spatial flow sub-mode is reactivated.

[0031] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, including: a first interaction module, configured to interact with a first device to exchange first information, the first information being configured to indicate enabling a dynamic low-power mode; wherein the dynamic low-power mode includes switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode, and / or switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode.

[0032] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, including: a second interaction module for interacting with a second device to exchange first information, the first information being used to indicate enabling a dynamic low-power mode; wherein the dynamic low-power mode includes switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode, and / or switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode.

[0033] Fifthly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, wherein when the computer program is run by a processor, the communication method provided in the first aspect or the communication method provided in the second aspect is executed.

[0034] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this application provide an STA, including a memory and a processor; the memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor, and the processor executes the communication method provided in the first aspect when running the computer program.

[0035] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide an access point (AP), including a memory and a processor; the memory stores a computer program executable on the processor, and the processor executes the communication method provided in the second aspect when running the computer program.

[0036] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product, the computer program product including a computer program, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to execute the communication method provided in the first or second aspect.

[0037] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a chip (or communication device) storing a computer program, which, when executed by the chip, causes the communication method provided in the first or second aspect to be executed.

[0038] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a chip module on which a computer program is stored, such that when the computer program is executed by the chip module, the communication method provided in the first or second aspect is executed.

[0039] Eleventhly, embodiments of this application provide a communication system, the communication system including means for performing the method provided in the first aspect and means for performing the method provided in the second aspect.

[0040] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution of the embodiments of the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0041] In this embodiment of the invention, the first device (such as AP) interacts with the second device (such as STA) to exchange first information, such as STA receiving first information from AP or STA sending first information to AP. The dynamic low power mode includes switching information between low capability mode and high capability mode, which can enable STA and AP to reach a consensus on the timing of enabling dynamic low power mode and perform switching between low capability mode and high capability mode in dynamic low power mode, thereby ensuring that both STA and AP can work effectively in dynamic low power mode. Attached Figure Description

[0042] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0043] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a power management mode for a STA;

[0044] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under an energy-saving polling mode management mechanism;

[0045] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under a target wake-up time service cycle energy-saving mode management mechanism;

[0046] Figure 4 is a flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a power management mode for a STA in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 6 is a data flow diagram of another communication method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under the first energy-saving polling mode management mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under the second energy-saving polling mode management mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under the third energy-saving polling mode management mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under a target wake-up time service cycle energy-saving mode management mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 11 is a flowchart of another communication method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of another communication device in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0058] The communication systems applicable to the embodiments of this invention include, but are not limited to, third-generation (3G), LTE, fourth-generation (4G), fifth-generation (5G), NR, and future evolution systems or multiple converged communication systems. The 5G system can be a non-standalone (NSA) 5G system or a standalone (SA) 5G system. The solutions of the embodiments of this invention can also be applied to various new communication systems in the future, such as 6G and 7G.

[0059] This application relates primarily to communication between wireless network technology (WIFI) devices.

[0060] The WIFI device can be a terminal device (or a terminal) that supports WIFI functionality. In this embodiment of the invention, the terminal can refer to various forms of user equipment (UE), access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station (MS), remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal equipment, wireless communication device, user agent, or user device that supports WIFI functionality. The terminal can also be a cellular phone, cordless phone, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phone, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) station, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication functionality, computing device, or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle device, wearable device, a terminal in a future 5G network, or a terminal in a future evolved Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), etc. This embodiment of the invention does not limit the scope of the terminal.

[0061] The communication systems to which the method provided in this embodiment of the invention can be applied may include access points (APs) and / or stations (STAs). For example, this embodiment of the invention can be applied to scenarios of communication or sensing between APs and STAs, between APs, or between STAs in WIFI, and this embodiment of the invention is not limited thereto. Optionally, an AP can communicate or sense with a single STA, or an AP can communicate or sense with multiple STAs simultaneously. Specifically, communication or sensing between an AP and multiple STAs can be further divided into downlink transmission where the AP simultaneously sends signals to multiple STAs, and uplink transmission where multiple STAs send signals to the AP. The communication between APs and STAs, between APs, or between STAs can support WLAN communication protocols, which may include protocols of the IEEE 802.11 series, such as applicable to the 802.11bn standard, and of course, also applicable to standards after 802.11bn.

[0062] An access point is a device with wireless communication capabilities, supporting communication or sensing using the WLAN protocol. It has the function of communicating or sensing with other devices (such as stations or other access points) in the WLAN network, and can also communicate or sense with other devices. Alternatively, an access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, its main function being to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet. In a WLAN system, an access point can be called an Access Point Station (AP STA). This wireless communication device can be a complete device, or a chip or processing system installed in a complete device. Devices with these chips or processing systems can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of the present invention under the control of the chip or processing system. In the embodiments of the present invention, the AP is a device that provides services to the STA and can support 802.11 series protocols or subsequent protocols. For example, an access point can be an access point for terminals (such as mobile phones) to enter a wired (or wireless) network, mainly deployed in homes, buildings, and parks, with a typical coverage radius of tens to hundreds of meters; of course, it can also be deployed outdoors. For example, an AP can be a communication server, router, switch, bridge, or other communication entity; an AP can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations, relay stations, etc.; of course, an AP can also be the chip and processing system in these various forms of devices, thereby realizing the methods and functions of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0063] A station is a device with wireless communication capabilities, supporting communication or sensing using the WLAN protocol, and having the ability to communicate or sense other stations or access points in a WLAN network. In a WLAN system, a station can be called a non-access point station (non-AP STA). For example, an STA is any user communication device that allows a user to communicate or sense with an AP and thus communicate with the WLAN. This wireless communication device can be a complete device, or it can be a chip or processing system installed in a complete device. Devices with these chips or processing systems can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of the present invention under the control of the chip or processing system. For example, a station can be a wireless communication chip, a wireless sensor, or a wireless communication terminal, and can also be referred to as a user. Furthermore, a station can be a mobile phone supporting Wi-Fi communication, a tablet computer supporting Wi-Fi communication, a set-top box supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart TV supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart wearable device supporting Wi-Fi communication, an in-vehicle communication device supporting Wi-Fi communication, and a computer supporting Wi-Fi communication, etc.

[0064] The existing 802.11 protocol provides various layered protocols for power management functions of STA devices.

[0065] Referring to Figure 1, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a power management mode for a STA.

[0066] As shown in Figure 1, at the top layer, the power management modes of STA devices include Active Mode and Power Save Mode (PS Mode).

[0067] Active mode includes the Awake State, while power saving mode includes the Awake State in PS Mode and the Doze State.

[0068] In the active mode wake-up state, the power state of the STA is the wake-up state, which includes the unavailable sub-mode and the working sub-mode. In the working sub-mode shown in the figure, the STA is in the full-power working sub-mode, which is able to fully perform transmit / receive / idle operations (Tx / Rx / Listen).

[0069] It should be noted that in the full-power operating sub-mode, the 802.11 protocol also defines some low-power sub-modes that can provide low power consumption benefits, such as the Dynamic Spatial Multiplexing Power Save (Dynamic SM PS) sub-mode.

[0070] In power-saving mode, the wake-up state of power-saving mode is similar to that of active mode, that is, in some low-power states / modes, it is consistent with the wake-up state of active mode; in the sleep state where power can be turned off, the STA can enter sleep mode (Sleep Sub-Mode). In sleep mode, the STA can no longer perform transmit / receive / idle operations, that is, it can get the best low power benefit.

[0071] In Figure 1, different states / modes at the same level can be transformed into each other, as shown by the bidirectional arrows in the figure.

[0072] When the STA is in power-saving mode, it needs to switch between a wake-up state where it can send / receive data and a sleep state where it cannot send / receive data. The STA also needs to notify the AP when it can receive data. In other words, the AP can only send data to the STA when it is in the wake-up state of power-saving mode.

[0073] As mentioned earlier, the 802.11 protocol provides various power-saving mode management mechanisms for STAs in power-saving modes. These mechanisms specify how the STA transitions between wake-up and sleep states, how it notifies the AP of its current status so that the AP knows when and how to send data to the STA.

[0074] Among them, the most commonly used energy-saving mode management mechanisms include the following three: Power Save Polling (Ps-Poll) mode management mechanism, Unscheduled Automatic Power Save Delivery Mode (UAPSDUnscheduled Automatic Power Save Delivery Mode (UAPSD PS)) mode management mechanism, and Target Wake Time Mode Service Period Power Save (TWT SP PS) mode management mechanism.

[0075] Referring to Figure 2, which is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under an energy-saving polling mode management mechanism, the STA will only be in a wake-up state under the following conditions:

[0076] Referring to the first wake-up state in Figure 2, the STA actively sends a non-energy-saving polling (Ps-Poll) frame to the AP, as shown in the figure (STA Data). Within the sequence corresponding to this STA Data and the possible corresponding AP response packet (AP ACK as shown in Figure 2), the STA is in the wake-up state.

[0077] Referring to the second wake-up state in Figure 2, when the STA sends a power-saving polling frame (Ps-Poll frame) to the AP, as shown in the STA PsPoll frame diagram, the STA begins to be in the wake-up state. The AP can reply to the STA with a corresponding AP acknowledgment frame (AP Ack frame), as shown in the AP ACK diagram, and can continue to send data packets to the STA, as shown in the AP Data packet diagram. After receiving the data, the STA replies with an acknowledgment, as shown in the STA ACK diagram. Within the interaction sequence of STA PsPoll + AP ACK + AP Data + STA ACK, the STA remains in the wake-up state.

[0078] Referring to the third wake-up state in Figure 2, when the STA sends a power-saving polling frame to the AP, as shown in the STA data packet (STA PsPoll), the STA enters the wake-up state. The AP can directly reply with a data packet, as shown in the AP data packet (AP Data). After receiving it, the STA replies with an acknowledgment, as shown in the STA ACK. Within the interaction sequence of STA PsPoll + AP Data + STA ACK, the STA remains in the wake-up state.

[0079] Under the UAPSD PS mode management mechanism, the STA and AP will trigger a UAPSD Service Period (SP). During the duration of the UAPSD SP, the STA is in a wake-up state. Within this UAPSD SP, both the STA and AP can trigger the sending of data to each other.

[0080] Referring to Figure 3, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under a target wake-up time service cycle energy-saving mode management mechanism.

[0081] As shown in the figure, in the TWT service cycle power saving mode, especially in the triggered-enabled announced TWT, the AP will only confirm that the STA has entered the wake-up state after the AP trigger frame (AP Trigger) and STA response frame (STA Response) interaction shown in the figure are completed.

[0082] It should be noted that during this TWT service cycle wake-up state, the AP and STA trigger multiple downlink / uplink (DL / UL) data exchanges (frame exchanges). The STA's wake-up state ends after the target wake-up time service cycle concludes.

[0083] It should be noted that STA and AP can re-trigger the next TWT SP to re-enter the wake-up state of STA.

[0084] Research has shown that in the scheme shown in Figure 3, the AP and STA need to trigger the STA's wake-up state through the AP trigger frame.

[0085] Since the STA device is always powered on while in wake-up mode, in order to further reduce the power consumption of the STA, a new Dynamic Low Power Mode (DPS) mechanism was defined in 802.11bn (or Wi-Fi 8). It also defines that the STA can have a Low Capability Mode (LCM) and a High Capability Mode (HCM) and can switch between these two sub-capability modes.

[0086] LCM is a working mode designed by the STA to save power or adapt to low-performance scenarios. In LCM mode, the STA can only receive low-capacity packets, such as low-bandwidth / spatial / low-modulation packets.

[0087] HCM is a high-performance operating mode for the device, prioritizing transmission rate and stability. It typically consumes more power. In HCM mode, the STA can receive high-capacity (or full-capacity) packets, such as packets with maximum bandwidth / multi-spatial streams / high modulation.

[0088] Further research revealed a lack of understanding regarding the coexistence relationship between the newly defined dynamic low-power mode and various energy-saving management mechanisms. A communication method is urgently needed to conduct more in-depth research on dynamic low-power modes and fill this technological gap.

[0089] In this embodiment of the invention, the first device (such as AP) interacts with the second device (such as STA) to exchange first information, such as STA receiving first information from AP or STA sending first information to AP. The dynamic low power mode includes switching information between low capability mode and high capability mode, which can enable STA and AP to reach a consensus on the timing of enabling dynamic low power mode and perform switching between low capability mode and high capability mode in dynamic low power mode, thereby ensuring that both STA and AP can work effectively in dynamic low power mode.

[0090] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and beneficial effects of the present invention more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0091] Referring to Figure 4, which is a flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication method can be used in a STA and may include step S41 and step S42.

[0092] Step S41: Interact with the first device with first information, the first information being used to indicate enabling the dynamic low-power mode;

[0093] Step S42: Interact with the first device with second information, the second information being used to indicate that the dynamic low-power mode is turned off.

[0094] The dynamic low-power mode includes switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode, and / or switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode.

[0095] Specifically, the dynamic low-power mode is used to represent the energy-saving mechanism that the STA dynamically adjusts between low-capacity mode and high-capacity mode, so that the STA can save power while meeting performance requirements.

[0096] In some embodiments, the first device may include an AP and other suitable communication devices; the communication method shown in FIG4 may be used in a second device, which may include a STA and other suitable communication devices.

[0097] In the following description, the first device is referred to as AP and the second device as STA, but it is not limited to this.

[0098] In a specific implementation of step S41, the step of interacting with the AP with the first information may be that the STA sends the first information to the AP, and the AP receives the first information from the STA; or it may be that the AP sends the first information to the STA, and the STA receives the first information from the AP.

[0099] Specifically, both the STA and the AP can initiate the first message to enable the dynamic low power mode, and in response to the first message, both the STA and the AP enable the dynamic low power mode.

[0100] In a specific implementation of step S42, the step of interacting with the AP to exchange the second information may be that the STA sends the second information to the AP, and the AP receives the second information from the STA; or it may be that the AP sends the second information to the STA, and the STA receives the second information from the AP.

[0101] Specifically, both the STA and the AP can initiate a second message to disable the dynamic low power mode, and in response to the second message, both the STA and the AP disable the dynamic low power mode.

[0102] In this embodiment of the invention, by the STA interacting with the AP with first information, such as the STA receiving first information from the AP or the STA sending first information to the AP, and the dynamic low power mode including the switching information between low capability mode and high capability mode, the STA and the AP can reach a consensus on the timing of enabling the dynamic low power mode, and perform the switching between low capability mode and high capability mode in the dynamic low power mode, thereby ensuring that both the STA and the AP can work effectively in the dynamic low power mode.

[0103] In some embodiments, when the dynamic low-power mode is enabled, it can satisfy one or more of the following: operating in active mode; operating in a full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of active mode; being able to convert between the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode and the full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of active mode; being able to convert between the static capability sub-mode and the full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of active mode; operating in energy-saving mode; operating in a full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of energy-saving mode; being able to convert between the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode and the full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of energy-saving mode; being able to convert between the static capability sub-mode and the full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of energy-saving mode.

[0104] Referring to Figure 5, which is a schematic diagram of a power management mode for a STA in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] As shown in Figure 5, at the top layer, namely the Power Management Mode, the power management modes of STA devices include Active Mode and Power Saving Mode.

[0106] In the second layer, namely the Power State layer, the active mode includes the Awake State, and the power saving mode includes the Awake State in PS Mode and the Doze State.

[0107] Among them, the wake-up state can refer to the state in which the device is in a fully working state and can send and receive data normally.

[0108] In the third layer, namely the Working Sub-mode layer, in the active mode wake-up state, the power state of the STA is the wake-up state, which includes the Unavailable sub-mode and the Working Sub-mode. In the Working Sub-mode shown in the figure, the STA is in the Fully Powered Working Sub-mode, which is able to fully perform transmit / receive / idle operations (Tx / Rx / Listen).

[0109] In power-saving mode, the wake-up state is similar to that of active mode, meaning it can be the same in some low-power states / modes. However, the specific frame exchange sequence can differ between the two.

[0110] In a power-off hibernation state, the STA can enter sleep sub-mode. In sleep sub-mode, the STA can no longer perform transmit / receive / idle operations, thus achieving the best low-power benefits.

[0111] It should be noted that in the fourth layer (i.e., the low power sub-mode layer) of the embodiments of the present invention, a dynamic low power mode has been added to the full power operation sub-mode.

[0112] In other words, the dynamic low-power mode can be regarded as a low-power sub-mode of the Fully Powered working sub-mode in the wake-up state.

[0113] In some embodiments, different states / modes at the same level can be transformed into each other, as shown by the double-headed arrows in the figure.

[0114] Specifically, in the fourth layer, namely the low-power sub-mode layer, the dynamic switching space flow (Dynamic SM PS) sub-mode, static capability sub-mode, and dynamic low-power mode can be converted to each other.

[0115] In this embodiment of the invention, by setting the working mode / sub-mode of the dynamic low power mode, and the transformation between the dynamic low power mode and other states / modes at the same level, the gaps in the prior art can be effectively filled, and the coexistence relationship between the newly defined dynamic low power mode and various energy-saving mode management mechanisms can be clarified.

[0116] In some embodiments, the dynamic low-power mode operates under one or more of the following energy-saving management mechanisms: energy-saving polling management mechanism; non-scheduled automatic energy-saving transmission management mechanism; and target wake-up time service cycle energy-saving management mechanism.

[0117] In this embodiment of the invention, the dynamic low power mode can operate under multiple energy-saving management mechanisms, filling the gap in the coexistence relationship between various energy-saving mode management mechanisms.

[0118] Referring to Figure 6, which is a data flow diagram of another communication method in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Another communication method can be used for the STA, which may include steps S61 to S64, and may also include steps S65 to S66. The steps are described below.

[0120] In step S65, the STA sends third information to the AP, which enables dynamic switching of spatial submodes. Conversely, the AP receives the third information from the STA.

[0121] In step S66, STA and AP enable dynamic switching of spatial flow submode.

[0122] In step S61, the STA interacts with the AP with first information, which is used to enable dynamic low power mode.

[0123] In step S62, the STA and AP enable dynamic low power mode, and the dynamic switching of spatial flow submode is not effective.

[0124] It should be noted that in the method shown in Figure 6, when the dynamic low power mode is enabled, the device may have already enabled the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode (also known as the dynamic spatial flow low power mode). In this case, step S62 can be used to avoid the conflict between the dynamic low power mode and the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode.

[0125] In some embodiments, before interacting with the first information, the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode has been enabled (e.g., implemented through steps S65 to S66). After interacting with the first information, the method may further include one or more of the following: the dynamic low-power mode overrides the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode; the overridden dynamic switching spatial sub-mode remains enabled and is not effective.

[0126] Specifically, when Dynamic Low Power (DPS) mode is enabled, DPS mode can be assumed to override Dynamic Switching Spatial Submode, meaning the device will no longer use Dynamic Switching Spatial Submode, even if it is enabled.

[0127] In some embodiments, before interacting with the first information, the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode has been enabled (e.g., implemented through steps S65 to S66). After interacting with the first information, the method may further include: disabling the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode during the process of enabling the dynamic low-power mode.

[0128] Specifically, when Dynamic Low Power (DPS) mode is enabled, the Dynamic Switching Space Flow Submode can be explicitly disabled, switching it from an enabled state to an disabled state.

[0129] For more details on steps S61 to S62, please refer to the preceding text and the specific description of step S41, which will not be repeated here.

[0130] In step S63, the STA interacts with the AP with second information, which is used to indicate that the dynamic low-power mode is turned off.

[0131] In step S64, the STA and AP disable the dynamic low-power mode, and the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode is reinstated.

[0132] In other words, when the dynamic low-power mode is turned off, the dynamic switching spatial flow submode of the STA and AP is reinstated.

[0133] Specifically, by setting the dynamic low power mode to be off, the dynamic switching spatial flow submode can be automatically reactivated, which helps to seamlessly connect the dynamic low power mode and the dynamic switching spatial flow submode and improve energy saving.

[0134] For more details on steps S63 to S64, please refer to the preceding text and the specific description of step S42, which will not be repeated here.

[0135] In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the STA and AP first enable the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode. After the STA and AP enable the dynamic low power mode, the default dynamic low power mode will override the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode, or the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode will be explicitly turned off, meaning the dynamic switching spatial sub-mode will no longer be effective. The dynamic switching spatial sub-mode will only continue to be effective after the STA and AP disable the dynamic low power mode, thereby further improving the energy-saving effect.

[0136] In some embodiments, the dynamic low-power mode may include: switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode in response to sending an energy-saving polling frame; and / or, switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode in response to receiving an initial control frame.

[0137] In one specific embodiment, the STA can switch from low-capacity mode to high-capacity mode in advance when it is necessary to send energy-saving polling frames, so as to send energy-saving polling frames in high-capacity mode.

[0138] In one specific embodiment, the STA can switch from a low capability mode to a high capability mode upon receiving an initial control frame (ICF) from the AP, in order to send an initial response frame (ICR) to the AP.

[0139] Example 1

[0140] In Embodiment 1, the dynamic low-power mode operates in the wake-up state of the power-saving polling management mechanism (Ps-Poll PS Mode). During the interaction with the AP, the interaction sequence used can be "STA power-saving polling frame + AP acknowledgment frame + AP data packet + STA acknowledgment frame".

[0141] Specifically, the above interaction sequence may include the following steps:

[0142] The STA sends STA power-saving polling frames to the AP, and in turn, the AP receives STA power-saving polling frames from the STA.

[0143] The AP sends an AP acknowledgment frame to the STA, which corresponds to the STA's power-saving polling frame. Conversely, the STA receives the AP acknowledgment frame from the AP.

[0144] The AP sends AP data packets to the STA, and in turn, the STA receives AP data packets from the AP.

[0145] The STA sends a STA acknowledgment frame to the AP, and in turn, the AP receives a STA acknowledgment frame from the STA.

[0146] In Example 1, the AP can complete the ICF / ICR interaction before sending AP data packets to the STA.

[0147] Specifically, the above ICF / ICR interaction may include the following steps:

[0148] The AP sends an AP ICF to the STA, and in return, the STA receives an AP ICF from the AP.

[0149] The STA sends a STA ICR to the AP, and in turn, the AP receives a STA ICR from the STA.

[0150] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under the first energy-saving polling mode management mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under the second energy-saving polling mode management mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0151] Referring to Figure 7, before sending data to the STA, the AP needs to perform ICF / ICR interaction. The interaction sequence is STA power-saving polling frame + AP acknowledgment frame + AP ICF + STA ICR + AP data packet + STA acknowledgment frame (i.e., STA PsPoll + AP ACK + AP ICF + STA ICR + AP Data + STA ACK).

[0152] Furthermore, the method may satisfy one or more of the following: sending the energy-saving polling frame in a low-capacity mode; maintaining the low-capacity mode from sending the energy-saving polling frame to receiving the acknowledgment frame corresponding to the energy-saving polling frame.

[0153] Specifically, the STA can be in LCM mode during the interaction between the STA energy-saving polling frame and the AP acknowledgment frame.

[0154] Specifically, during the LCM / HCM switching process, a transition mode (also known as a switching mode) can be defined, which is the time required for the LCM and HCM to switch to each other.

[0155] The following explains the differences between Figure 8 and Figure 7.

[0156] The STA can be in HCM mode during the interaction between the STA power-saving polling frame and the AP acknowledgment frame.

[0157] Furthermore, the method may satisfy one or more of the following: sending the energy-saving polling frame in high-capacity mode; maintaining the high-capacity mode from sending the energy-saving polling frame to receiving the acknowledgment frame corresponding to the energy-saving polling frame.

[0158] In practice, the STA remains in high-capacity mode, which can improve the transmission and reception efficiency of STA energy-saving polling frames and AP acknowledgment frames.

[0159] Example 2

[0160] The dynamic low-power mode operates in the wake-up state of the power-saving polling management mechanism (Ps-Poll PS Mode). During the interaction with the AP, the interaction sequence used can be "STA power-saving polling frame + AP data packet + STA acknowledgment frame".

[0161] Specifically, the above interaction sequence may include the following steps:

[0162] The STA sends STA power-saving polling frames to the AP, and in turn, the AP receives STA power-saving polling frames from the STA.

[0163] The AP sends AP data packets to the STA, and in turn, the STA receives AP data packets from the AP.

[0164] The STA sends a STA acknowledgment frame to the AP, and in turn, the AP receives a STA acknowledgment frame from the STA.

[0165] In Example 2, the AP does not need to perform ICF / ICR interaction before sending AP data packets to the STA.

[0166] Referring to Figure 9, which is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under the third energy-saving polling mode management mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0167] Before sending data to the STA, the AP does not need to perform ICF / ICR interaction. The interaction sequence is STA power-saving polling frame + AP data packet + STA acknowledgment frame (i.e., STA PsPoll + AP Data + STA ACK).

[0168] Furthermore, the method may satisfy one or more of the following: sending the energy-saving polling frame in high-capacity mode; maintaining the high-capacity mode from sending the energy-saving polling frame to receiving the acknowledgment frame corresponding to the energy-saving polling frame.

[0169] Specifically, the STA can be in HCM mode during the interaction between the STA energy-saving polling frame and the AP data packet.

[0170] In practice, the STA remains in high-capacity mode, which improves the efficiency of sending and receiving STA energy-saving polling frames, AP data packets, and STA acknowledgment frames.

[0171] In Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, the STA may be in a wake-up state before receiving the initial control frame, thereby enabling the effective execution of sending the STA energy-saving polling frame.

[0172] In Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, the dynamic low-power mode may further include one or more of the following: switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode in response to receiving an AP data packet and sending a STA acknowledgment frame corresponding to the AP data packet; switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode in response to receiving an AP acknowledgment frame corresponding to the power-saving polling frame.

[0173] As shown in Figures 7 to 9, after receiving the AP data packet and sending the corresponding STA acknowledgment frame, the STA switches from high capability mode to low capability mode.

[0174] As shown in Figure 8, after receiving the AP confirmation frame corresponding to the energy-saving polling frame, the STA switches from high-capacity mode to low-capacity mode.

[0175] In practice, by setting appropriate switching conditions, the STA can switch from high-capacity mode to low-capacity mode, which can better balance maintaining high communication efficiency and better energy saving.

[0176] Example 3

[0177] The dynamic low power mode operates in the wake-up state of the target wake-up time service cycle power management mechanism (TWT PS Mode), and the interaction can be the "AP ICF + STA ICR + downlink / uplink data exchange in dynamic low power mode (DL / UL Frame Exchange in DPS)" interaction sequence.

[0178] Specifically, the above interaction sequence may include the following steps:

[0179] The AP sends an AP ICF to the STA, and in return, the STA receives an AP ICF from the AP.

[0180] The STA sends a STA ICR to the AP, and in turn, the AP receives a STA ICR from the STA.

[0181] The STA and AP exchange downlink / uplink data.

[0182] In some embodiments, in the wake-up state, an initial response frame is sent in response to receiving the initial control frame.

[0183] In some embodiments, in a non-wake-up state, in response to receiving the initial control frame, no initial response frame is sent.

[0184] Specifically, a STA can only receive packets when it is in a wake-up state. Therefore, a STA can only receive an ICF when it is in a wake-up state. In other words, an ICF enables an AP to know that a STA has entered a wake-up state.

[0185] More specifically, after the AP sends an ICF to the STA, if the STA is in a wake-up state, it will reply with an ICR. After receiving the ICR, the AP can know that the STA is in a wake-up state. If the STA is not in a wake-up state, it will not reply with an ICR because it has not received the ICF. Therefore, the AP can know that the STA is not in a wake-up state by not receiving the ICR corresponding to the ICF.

[0186] More specifically, in one particular application, for the triggered-enabled announced TWT operating mode, there is an additional two-step interaction: an AP trigger frame and a STA response frame.

[0187] In this embodiment of the invention, for the triggered target wake-up time notification working mode, the AP can use the ICF / ICR interaction in the dynamic low power mode as a sign that the STA is already in a wake-up state. That is, the ICF / ICR interaction in the dynamic low power mode can be used to replace the two steps of AP trigger frame + STA reply frame.

[0188] Referring to Figure 10, which is a schematic diagram of frame transmission and reception under a target wake-up time service cycle energy-saving mode management mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0189] The initial control frame satisfies one or more of the following: in the triggered-announced target wake-up time working mode, the initial control frame is used as the trigger frame and is used for the triggered-based target wake-up time service cycle (triggered-based TWT SP); in the triggered-enabled unannounced target wake-up time working mode, the initial control frame is used as the trigger frame and is used for the triggered-based target wake-up time service cycle.

[0190] Specifically, for the triggered announced target wake-up time operating mode and / or the triggered unannounced target wake-up time operating mode, the AP can use the initial control frame in the dynamic low power mode as the trigger frame that can be used in the triggered target wake-up time service cycle.

[0191] As shown in Figure 10, under this TWT, the AP can determine that the STA is in a wake-up state through ICF / ICR interaction in the dynamic low power mode at the start of the TWT service cycle.

[0192] In some embodiments, the dynamic low-power mode may further include: switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode when a single transmission opportunity (TXOP) ends from the moment of switching from the low-capability mode to the high-capability mode.

[0193] As shown in Figure 10, after receiving the AP confirmation frame corresponding to the energy-saving polling frame, the STA switches from high-capability mode to low-capability mode.

[0194] In addition, after a single TXOP duration following the switch from low-capability mode to high-capability mode, the STA can switch from high-capability mode to low-capability mode.

[0195] In practice, by setting appropriate switching conditions, the STA can switch from high-capacity mode to low-capacity mode, which can better balance maintaining high communication efficiency and better energy saving.

[0196] In addition to the above embodiments one to three, the dynamic low power mode can also work in other situations, such as working in the wake-up state of the Unscheduled Automatic Power Saving Transmission (UAPSD) management mechanism.

[0197] In some embodiments, the STA may switch from high capability mode to low capability mode in response to the duration of the UAPSD SP from the moment of switching from low capability mode to high capability mode.

[0198] For further operations related to the wake-up state of the non-scheduled automatic energy-saving transmission management mechanism, please refer to the contents of Embodiments 1 and 2, which will not be repeated here.

[0199] Referring to Figure 11, which is a flowchart of another communication method according to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication method can be used in an AP and may include step S111 and step S112.

[0200] Step S111: Interact with the second device to exchange first information, the first information being used to indicate enabling dynamic low power mode;

[0201] Step S112: Interact with the second device with second information, the second information being used to indicate that the dynamic low-power mode is turned off.

[0202] In some embodiments, the second device may include a STA and other suitable communication devices; the communication method shown in FIG11 can be used in the first device, which may include an AP and other suitable communication devices.

[0203] In the following text, we will continue to use the example of the first device being AP and the second device being STA, but we are not limited to this.

[0204] For more details on dynamic low-power mode, interaction first information, and interaction second information, please refer to the descriptions above and in Figure 4. They will not be repeated here.

[0205] In some embodiments, the dynamic low-power mode operates under one or more of the following energy-saving management mechanisms: energy-saving polling management mechanism; non-scheduled automatic energy-saving transmission management mechanism; and target wake-up time service cycle energy-saving management mechanism.

[0206] In some embodiments, when the dynamic low-power mode is enabled, it satisfies one or more of the following: operating in active mode; operating in a full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of active mode; being able to convert between the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode and the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode in the full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of active mode; being able to convert between the static capability sub-mode and the static capability sub-mode in the full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of active mode; operating in energy-saving mode; operating in a full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of energy-saving mode; being able to convert between the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode and the dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode in the full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of energy-saving mode; being able to convert between the static capability sub-mode and the static capability sub-mode in the full-power sub-mode in the wake-up state of energy-saving mode.

[0207] It should be noted that the above-mentioned enabled working mode is actually used for STA, specifically the mode in which the STA can work after the AP or STA enables the dynamic low power mode through the first information exchange.

[0208] In practical implementation, please refer to the above text and the schematic diagram of the STA power management mode shown in Figure 5 for further explanation, which will not be repeated here.

[0209] In some embodiments, before interacting with the first information, the method further includes: receiving third information, the third information being used to enable dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes; after interacting with the first information, the method further includes one or more of the following: the dynamic low-power mode overriding the dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes; the overridden dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes remaining enabled and ineffective.

[0210] In some embodiments, before interacting with the first information, the method further includes: sending third information, the third information being used to enable dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes; after interacting with the first information, the method further includes: disabling the dynamic switching of spatial sub-modes during the process of enabling the dynamic low-power mode.

[0211] In practical implementation, you can refer to the data flow diagram between AP and STA shown above and in Figure 6, which will not be repeated here.

[0212] In some embodiments, the method further includes: the AP interacting with the STA with second information, the second information being used to indicate that the dynamic low-power mode is turned off.

[0213] Furthermore, before interacting with the first information, the dynamic switching of spatial flow sub-mode has been enabled; the method further includes: disabling the dynamic low-power mode, and the dynamic switching of spatial flow sub-mode is reactivated.

[0214] In one specific embodiment, the step of enabling dynamic switching of spatial flow sub-modes before interacting with the first information can be implemented through the third information, as can be seen in the data flow diagram shown above and in Figure 6, which will not be repeated here.

[0215] For more information on the communication method for the AP shown in Figure 11, please refer to the preceding text and the communication method for the STA, which will not be repeated here.

[0216] Referring to Figure 12, which is a schematic diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication device may include:

[0217] The first interaction module 121 is used to interact with the AP with first information, which is used to indicate the enabling of dynamic low power mode.

[0218] For more information on the working principle, operation method, and beneficial effects of the communication device shown in Figure 12, please refer to the previous text and the detailed descriptions in Figures 4 to 10. They will not be repeated here.

[0219] Referring to Figure 13, which is a schematic diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication device may include:

[0220] The second interaction module 131 is used to interact with the STA to exchange first information, which is used to indicate the enabling of the dynamic low power mode.

[0221] For more information on the working principle, operation method, and beneficial effects of the communication device shown in Figure 13, please refer to the previous text and the detailed description in Figure 11. It will not be repeated here.

[0222] In specific implementations, the communication device shown in Figures 12 and 13 may correspond to a chip with communication function in a communication device; or to a communication device including a chip or chip module with communication function; or to a communication device.

[0223] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon. When the computer program is run by a computer, the aforementioned communication method is executed. The storage medium may include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk, etc. The storage medium may also include non-volatile memory or non-transitory memory, etc.

[0224] This application also provides an STA, including a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor. When the processor runs the computer program, it performs the steps of the communication method described above.

[0225] This application also provides an AP, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program that can run on the processor, and the processor executes the steps of the above-described communication method when running the computer program.

[0226] Referring to Figure 14, which is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a communication device in an embodiment of this application.

[0227] The communication device may be a WIFI device, such as a STA or an AP.

[0228] The terminal shown in Figure 14 includes a memory 141, a processor 142, and a transceiver 143. The processor 142 is coupled to the memory 141 and the transceiver 143. The memory 141 can be located inside or outside the terminal. The memory 141, processor 142, and transceiver 143 can be connected via a communication bus. The transceiver 143 is used to communicate with other devices or communication networks.

[0229] Optionally, the transceiver 143 can be a transmitter. The memory 141 stores a computer program that can run on the processor 142, and when the processor 142 runs the computer program, the transceiver 143 performs the steps in the communication method provided in the above embodiments.

[0230] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program / instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the above-described communication method.

[0231] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the processor can be a central processing unit (CPU), or it can be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0232] It should also be understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can be ROM, programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0233] The above embodiments can be implemented, in whole or in part, by software, hardware, firmware, or any other combination thereof. When implemented using software, the above embodiments can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions or computer programs. When the computer instructions or computer program are loaded or executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means.

[0234] While the embodiments disclosed above are described in this application, this application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can make various modifications and alterations without departing from the spirit and scope of this application; therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope defined in the claims.

Claims

A communication method, characterized in that, include: Interact with a first device to exchange first information, the first information being used to indicate the enabling of dynamic low power mode; The dynamic low-power mode includes switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode, and / or switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode. The communication method according to claim 1 is characterized in that, The dynamic low-power mode operates under one or more of the following energy-saving management mechanisms: Energy-saving polling management mechanism; Non-scheduled automatic energy-saving transmission management mechanism; Energy-saving management mechanism for target wake-up time service cycle. The communication method according to claim 1 is characterized in that, When the dynamic low-power mode is enabled, it satisfies one or more of the following: Working in proactive mode; The full-power operating sub-mode in the wake-up state of the active mode; The dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode can be converted between the active mode and the full-power working sub-mode in the wake-up state of the active mode; It can be converted between the static capability sub-mode and the full-power working sub-mode in the wake-up state of the active mode; Operating in energy-saving mode; The full-power operating sub-mode in the wake-up state of the energy-saving mode; The dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode can be converted between the wake-up state of the energy-saving mode and the full-power working sub-mode of the aforementioned energy-saving mode; It can be converted between the static capability sub-mode and the full-power operation sub-mode in the wake-up state of the energy-saving mode. The communication method according to claim 1 is characterized in that, Before interacting with the first information, the method further includes: Send a third message, which enables dynamic switching of spatial flow sub-mode; After interacting with the first information, the method further includes one or more of the following: The dynamic low-power mode covers the dynamic switching spatial flow submode; The covered dynamic switching spatial flow sub-mode remains enabled but is ineffective. The communication method according to claim 1 is characterized in that, Before interacting with the first information, the method further includes: Send a third message, which enables dynamic switching of spatial flow sub-mode; After interacting with the first information, the method further includes: During the process of enabling the dynamic low-power mode, the dynamic switching spatial flow submode is disabled. The communication method according to claim 1 is characterized in that, The dynamic low-power mode includes: In response to sending power-saving polling frames, switch from low-capacity mode to high-capacity mode; And / or, in response to receiving an initial control frame, switch from low capability mode to high capability mode. The communication method according to claim 6 is characterized in that, The dynamic low-power mode operates under an energy-saving polling management mechanism; The method satisfies one or more of the following: Send the energy-saving polling frame in low-capacity mode; From the time the energy-saving polling frame is sent until the acknowledgment frame corresponding to the energy-saving polling frame is received, the system remains in low-capacity mode. The energy-saving polling frame is sent in high-capacity mode; From the time the energy-saving polling frame is sent until the acknowledgment frame corresponding to the energy-saving polling frame is received, the system remains in high-capacity mode. The communication method according to claim 7 is characterized in that, The method is used in a STA, the first device is an AP, and the method satisfies one or more of the following: The energy-saving polling frames are sent in low-capacity mode. The interaction sequence for data exchange with the first device includes one or more of the following: STA power-saving polling frame, AP acknowledgment frame, AP ICF, STA ICR, AP data packet, and STA acknowledgment frame; The energy-saving polling frame is sent in high-capacity mode, and the interaction sequence for data interaction with the first device includes one or more of the following: STA energy-saving polling frame, AP acknowledgment frame, AP ICF, STA ICR, AP data packet, and STA acknowledgment frame. The energy-saving polling frame is sent in high-capacity mode, and the interaction sequence for data exchange with the first device includes one or more of the following: STA energy-saving polling frame, AP data packet, and STA acknowledgment frame. The communication method according to claim 7 is characterized in that, The method is used for a STA, the first device is an AP, and the dynamic low-power mode further includes one or more of the following: In response to receiving an AP data packet, and sending a corresponding STA acknowledgment frame for the AP data packet, the system switches from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode. In response to receiving an AP acknowledgment frame corresponding to the energy-saving polling frame, the system switches from the high-capacity mode to the low-capacity mode. The communication method according to claim 6 is characterized in that, The dynamic low-power mode operates under an energy-saving polling management mechanism; The method further includes: It was already in a wake-up state before receiving the initial control frame. The communication method according to claim 6 is characterized in that, The dynamic low-power mode operates under the target wake-up time service cycle energy-saving management mechanism. The method also includes one or more of the following: In the wake-up state, in response to receiving the initial control frame, an initial response frame is sent; In the non-wake-up state, in response to receiving the initial control frame, no initial reply frame is sent. The communication method according to claim 11 is characterized in that, The initial control frame satisfies one or more of the following: In the triggered target wake-up time working mode, the initial control frame is used as the trigger frame and is used for the target wake-up time service cycle based on the trigger. In the triggered unannounced target wake-up time working mode, the initial control frame is used as the trigger frame and is used for the target wake-up time service cycle based on the trigger. The communication method according to claim 11 is characterized in that, The dynamic low-power mode also includes: When a single TXOP ends from the moment of switching from low capability mode to high capability mode, the switch proceeds from the high capability mode to the low capability mode. The communication method according to claim 1 is characterized in that, The method further includes: The system interacts with the first device to exchange second information, which is used to instruct the dynamic low-power mode to be turned off. The communication method according to claim 14 is characterized in that, Before interacting with the first information, the ability to dynamically switch spatial flow sub-modes has been enabled; The method further includes: When the dynamic low-power mode is turned off, the dynamic switching spatial flow submode is reactivated. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Interact with the second device with first information, the first information being used to indicate the enabling of dynamic low power mode; The dynamic low-power mode includes switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode, and / or switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The first interaction module is used to interact with the first device to exchange first information, the first information being used to indicate the enabling of dynamic low power mode. The dynamic low-power mode includes switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode, and / or switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The second interaction module is used to interact with the second device to exchange first information, the first information being used to indicate the enabling of dynamic low power mode. The dynamic low-power mode includes switching from a low-capability mode to a high-capability mode, and / or switching from the high-capability mode to the low-capability mode. An STA (Standard Instrumentation System) includes a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program executable on the processor, characterized in that... When the processor runs the computer program, it performs the steps of the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 15. An AP (Application Processor) includes a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program executable on the processor, characterized in that... When the processor runs the computer program, it performs the steps of the communication method of claim 16. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is run by the processor, it causes the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 15 to be executed, or causes the communication method according to claim 16 to be executed; And / or, A computer program product, comprising a computer program / instructions, characterized in that, When executed by a processor, the computer program / instruction implements the steps of the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, or the steps of the communication method according to claim 16.

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