Communication method and communication device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to the technical field of communications, and provides a communication method and a communication device. The communication method comprises: a first station sending first information to a second station, wherein the first station and the second station are affiliated stations at both ends of a first link between different multi-link devices, and the first information is used for indicating to the second station a non-simultaneous transmit / receive (NSTR) or simultaneous transmit / receive (STR) link pair state between the first link and other links after a channel switching operation.

Description

Communication methods and communication equipment Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communications, and more specifically, to a communication method and a communication device. Background Technology

[0002] When stations in a multi-link device switch channels, it often causes changes in the link state of the communication links. These changes in link state can interfere with communication within the multi-link device.

[0003] When the state of a link changes, multi-link devices often fail to detect it and are therefore unable to take timely action. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a communication method, a communication device, and a storage medium to address the problems existing in the prior art.

[0005] The first aspect of this disclosure provides a communication method, executed by a first station, comprising:

[0006] Send the first message to the second station.

[0007] Wherein, the first site and the second site are auxiliary sites at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices.

[0008] The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0009] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a communication method performed by a second station, comprising:

[0010] Receive first information sent by the first station, wherein the first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices;

[0011] The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0012] A third aspect of this disclosure provides a communication method performed by a first station, the method comprising:

[0013] Send a third message to the second station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices.

[0014] The third piece of information is used to instruct the second station:

[0015] Corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios, the status of the non-simultaneous transmission and reception (NSTR) or simultaneous transmission and reception (STR) link pairs between the first link and other links, the third information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation.

[0016] A fourth aspect of this disclosure provides a communication method performed by a second station, comprising:

[0017] The system receives third information sent by the first station, where the first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices.

[0018] The third piece of information is used to instruct the second station:

[0019] Corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios, the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links.

[0020] The third piece of information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation.

[0021] A fifth aspect of this disclosure provides a communication method performed by a first station, the method comprising:

[0022] If the first condition is met at the first site, the channel handover operation is initiated.

[0023] The first site is an auxiliary site at one end of the first link between different multi-link devices.

[0024] A sixth aspect of this disclosure also provides a wireless communication device, comprising: a processor and a memory, the memory for storing a computer program, and the processor for calling and running the computer program stored in the memory to perform the method as described in any of the preceding claims.

[0025] A seventh aspect of this disclosure also provides a computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, when executed, cause the method described in any of the preceding claims to be implemented. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this disclosure and form part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and are used to explain the disclosure, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the disclosure. In the drawings:

[0027] Figure 1 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the first embodiment of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the interaction between the first MLD and the second MLD devices;

[0029] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary first information;

[0030] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the second embodiment of this disclosure;

[0031] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a message carrying second information in MLIE format;

[0032] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the link information field;

[0033] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the third embodiment of this disclosure;

[0034] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a first message.

[0035] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the fourth embodiment of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a third message;

[0037] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of another type of third message.

[0038] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the fifth embodiment of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the sixth embodiment of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the seventh embodiment of this disclosure;

[0041] Figure 15a is a signaling diagram of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 15b is another signaling diagram of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0043] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the eighth embodiment of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the ninth embodiment of this disclosure;

[0045] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the tenth embodiment of this disclosure;

[0046] Figure 19 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the eleventh embodiment of this disclosure;

[0047] Figure 20 is another signaling diagram of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0048] Figure 21 is a schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in the twelfth embodiment of this disclosure;

[0049] Figure 22 is a data interaction diagram between multi-link devices provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0050] Figure 23 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0051] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this disclosure. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this disclosure without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0052] It should be understood that the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0053] The messages described in this article include frames, instructions, commands, etc., and the names of device or functional entities, process names, frames, fields, etc. are not unique and are only used to assist in the description of functions, methods, behaviors, information, etc.

[0054] To facilitate understanding, some terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure will be introduced first.

[0055] 1. Multi-Link Device (MLD)

[0056] A multi-link device (MLD) is a device capable of simultaneously transmitting and receiving data on multiple different wireless links. MLDs utilize the resources of multiple frequency bands or channels to distribute data across different links, thereby improving data transmission speed, reliability, and efficiency. For example, a wireless router supporting the 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) protocol can act as an MLD, simultaneously establishing connections with multiple client devices on the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, sending and receiving data through links on different frequency bands, achieving higher data throughput and lower latency.

[0057] 2. Primary Channel (PCH) and Secondary Channels (SCHs)

[0058] In a Basic Service Set (BSS) of a wireless network, the primary channel holds a special status. The IEEE 802.11 series of standards stipulates that when a station device sends a frame, it must first check the primary channel status. Only when the primary channel is idle can the station potentially perform a transmission operation. If the primary channel is busy, even if all or part of the secondary channels are idle, the station cannot use the secondary channels to send. Reasons for a busy primary channel include Overlapping Basic Service Set Interference (OBSS) or other interference.

[0059] Secondary channels are zero or more channels in the basic service set, excluding the primary channel. When the primary channel is busy, according to the standard default rules, even if a secondary channel is idle, it cannot be used by the station to send data. Only under specific conditions, such as when the primary channel is idle, can it be used in conjunction with the primary channel for data transmission and other operations.

[0060] 3. Non-primary channel access (NPCA) operation

[0061] NPCA (Non-Primary Primary Channel) operation is a channel access strategy employed by a site in a wireless network when the primary channel becomes unavailable or is expected to become unavailable after a certain period. The site detects PCH unavailability, for example, by detecting interference from PPDUs (Physical-layer Protocol Data Units) from other BSSs, PPDUs from its own BSS, or knowing that the PCH will be unavailable in the future. The site can then switch to the anchor channel or access the primary channel (Non-Primary Primary Channel, NPPCH) in a non-primary channel. Channel contention and access occur on the NPPCH to enable data transmission, thus avoiding the waste of spectrum resources due to PCH unavailability. This provides an effective channel access solution for wireless networks when the primary channel is unavailable, ensuring the continuity of wireless communication and the rational use of spectrum resources.

[0062] 4. Non-Simultaneous Transmit and Receive link pair (NSTR link pair)

[0063] An NSTR link pair refers to a combination of links on the same multi-link device (MLD) where, due to specific reasons, two links cannot simultaneously transmit and receive. These specific reasons could be due to the two links operating at similar frequencies or bands, or energy leakage. For example, when the operating frequencies of two links are close, their signal spectra may overlap, causing interference. Energy leakage refers to the leakage of some energy from one link to the other during signal transmission, thus affecting its normal signal reception. Taking link 1 and link 2 as an example, when link 1 transmits, its transmitted signal interferes with link 2, preventing it from receiving signals; conversely, when link 2 transmits, it may also interfere with link 1, preventing it from receiving signals. This mutual interference prevents the two links from transmitting and receiving simultaneously, hence the name NSTR link pair.

[0064] 5. Simultaneous Transmit and Receive link pair (STR link pair)

[0065] A Link-Side (STR) pair refers to two links on the same Multi-Level Display (MLD) that can simultaneously transmit and receive without interference. For example, when link 1 is transmitting, it does not affect the normal reception of link 2; conversely, when link 2 is transmitting, it does not interfere with the normal reception of link 1. These two links, capable of simultaneous transmission and reception without interference, are called STR pairs. STR pairs make fuller use of link resources, improving the parallelism and efficiency of data transmission.

[0066] Next, the technical field involved in the embodiments of this disclosure will be introduced.

[0067] This disclosure relates to the field of wireless communication technology, specifically to IEEE 802.11bn (Wi-Fi 8, codenamed Ultra High Reliability, UHR) and subsequent standard technologies.

[0068] Next, an exemplary application scenario involved in the embodiments of this disclosure will be introduced.

[0069] For the first multi-link device MLD1, channel switching may cause link1 and link2 corresponding to MLD1 to change from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair. However, the second multi-link device MLD2 at the other end may not be aware of this change and may still apply some access and transmission restriction rules under the NSTR relationship state, which will affect transmission efficiency. Channel switching may cause link1 and link2 corresponding to MLD1 to change from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair, but MLD2 may also not apply some access and transmission restriction rules under the NSTR relationship state, causing communication on link1 to interfere with link2. To address these issues, this disclosure proposes a communication method and communication device to solve the problems existing in the above scenario.

[0070] Figure 1 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0071] As shown in Figure 1, this communication method is executed by the first station, and the method includes:

[0072] Step 101: Send the first message to the second station.

[0073] Among them, the first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0074] Optionally, the first site is an auxiliary site of the first multi-link device MLD, and the second site is an auxiliary site of the second multi-link device MLD.

[0075] It should be noted that an affiliated site is a site attached to an MLD. Each affiliated site is associated with a specific link within the MLD and communicates with other devices through that specific link. For example, the first site establishes a connection with link1 in MLD1 (the first MLD), becoming an affiliated site of MLD1, and can then use link1 to interact with other devices (such as MLD2). The second site follows the same principle.

[0076] As shown in Figure 2, the first station and the second station are subordinate stations of MLD1 (first MLD) and MLD2 (second MLD), respectively, and both the first station and the second station are located on link1 (first link). The first station and the second station can exchange data through link1. There are other links between MLD1 and MLD2 besides the first link1, such as link2 and link3.

[0077] Optionally, the first MLD is an access point (AP) device or a non-access point (non-AP) device.

[0078] Optionally, the second MLD can be an access-type AP device or a non-access-type non-AP device.

[0079] Optionally, the second MLD is an AP device, and the first MLD is a non-AP device.

[0080] Alternatively, the second MLD is a non-AP device, and the first MLD is an AP device.

[0081] Alternatively, both the first MLD and the second MLD can be AP devices or non-AP devices, without limitation.

[0082] Among them, the AP device is a key device in the wireless network, which can convert a wired network into a wireless network and provide access services for wireless clients. On the one hand, it connects to a wired network, such as Ethernet, and on the other hand, it covers a certain area with wireless signals, enabling surrounding wireless devices to connect to the wired network, thereby enabling wireless devices to access network resources.

[0083] Non-AP devices can be wireless devices other than AP devices, typically client devices in a wireless network. Non-AP devices usually do not directly provide wireless access services, but rather connect to the AP device to access the wireless network, thereby enabling data communication with other devices or accessing network resources.

[0084] As one possible implementation, the other links may consist of one or more links, and the link relationship between the first link and the other links may be an NSTR link pair or a STR link pair.

[0085] As one possible implementation method, the link relationship between the first link and other links changes as follows:

[0086] Keep the non-simultaneous NSTR link pairs unchanged;

[0087] Maintain the simultaneous sending and receiving of STR links unchanged;

[0088] The NSTR link pair was converted into a STR link pair;

[0089] The STR link pairs are converted into NSTR link pairs.

[0090] For example, if the second link is any of the other links, and the original link relationship between the first and second links was an STR link pair, then due to a channel handover operation at the first site, the link relationship between the first and second links could either remain an STR link pair or be transformed into an NSTR link pair.

[0091] If the original link relationship between the first link and the second link was an NSTR link pair, due to the channel switching operation of the first station, the link relationship between the first link and the second link may remain an NSTR link pair or be changed to an STR link pair.

[0092] It should be noted that the link relationship between the first and second links is an STR link pair, and the first station performs a channel handover operation. In some cases, this may cause a decrease in frequency spacing, leading to a change in link state and making the link relationship between the first and second links an NSTR link pair. In other cases, a decrease in frequency spacing may not necessarily change the link relationship. In still other cases, a channel handover operation by the first station may cause an increase in frequency spacing, while the link state remains unchanged, thus maintaining the link relationship between the first and second links as an STR link pair.

[0093] It should be noted that the link relationship between the first and second links is an NSTR link pair, and the first station performs a channel handover operation. In some cases, this may cause an increase in the frequency spacing, leading to a change in the link state, resulting in an STR link pair between the first and second links. In other cases, if the frequency spacing decreases, the link relationship may remain unchanged. In still other cases, the first station performing a channel handover operation may cause an increase in the frequency spacing, but the link state remains unchanged, thus maintaining the NSTR link pair between the first and second links.

[0094] It should be noted that the link relationship between the first and second links is an STR link pair, and both the first and second stations perform channel handover operations. In some cases, the frequency spacing may decrease, leading to a change in the link state, making the link relationship between the first and second links an NSTR link pair. In other cases, a decrease in the frequency spacing may not change the link relationship. In still other cases, an increase in the frequency spacing may not change the link state, keeping the link relationship between the first and second links an STR link pair.

[0095] It should be noted that the link relationship between the first and second links is an NSTR link pair, and both the first and second stations perform channel handover operations. In some cases, an increase in frequency spacing may occur, leading to a change in link state and resulting in an STR link pair between the first and second links. In other cases, a decrease in frequency spacing may not change the link relationship. Still other cases may occur where the frequency spacing increases, but the link state remains unchanged, thus maintaining the NSTR link pair between the first and second links.

[0096] The channel switching operation can be of various types, such as Dynamic Subband Operation (DSO), Non-Main Channel Access (NPCA) operation, or Enhanced Multi-Link (EML) operation, etc., and is not limited here.

[0097] DSO (Discretionary Channel Switching) is a temporary channel switching technique that typically occurs dynamically during each transmission opportunity (TXOP). It involves a site switching channels outside its operating bandwidth. DSO is suitable for situations requiring flexible channel adjustments across different frequency bands or frequency zones, such as switching from a primary channel in one band to a channel in another band to address interference, optimize spectrum utilization, or meet specific service requirements. It's important to note that when DSO is performed, the first site will switch channels, for example, to channel A, but the second site may not necessarily switch to the same channel (channel A).

[0098] In some DSO implementations, the second station sends a trigger frame to itself on the primary channel, allocating a resource element (i.e., channel A) to the second station in the trigger frame. The second station then switches the channel to the resource element for transmission. This channel switching operation may result in changes to the NSTR relationship with other links.

[0099] In some embodiments, the present invention is applicable to channel handover within the same frequency band, for example, the channel before and after the handover is both within the 5 GHz frequency band, or both within the 6 GHz frequency band, typically in NPCA or DSO technologies; in other embodiments, the present invention is applicable to channel handover across frequency bands, for example, the channel before the handover is within the 5 GHz frequency band, and the channel after the handover is within the 6 GHz frequency band, which is equivalent to cross-link channel handover, typically in EML technology, and is not limited here.

[0100] In some embodiments, if the channel switching operation is of type NPCA, the first station switches from the first primary channel to another channel (denoted as the second channel). Usually, the second station also needs to switch to the second channel, or the first station and the second station perform channel switching almost simultaneously. The switching order of the first station and the second station is not limited here.

[0101] In some embodiments, if the channel switching operation is a DSO operation, the first station switches from the first primary channel to the second channel, and the second station may switch to the second channel or may not switch to the second channel; this is not limited here. Similarly, if both stations perform channel switching, the switching order of the first station and the second station is not limited here.

[0102] Enhanced Multi-Link (EML) operation improves wireless network performance by utilizing multiple links. EML allows devices to use multiple different links for data transmission simultaneously; these links can be on different frequency bands, on different channels, or at different access points. When the channel quality of a link deteriorates, channel switching can be used to switch the link to another channel, thereby optimizing multi-link performance.

[0103] It should be noted that in the following embodiments, this disclosure will use NPCA operation as an example for illustration, but NPCA operation is not intended to limit the type of channel switching operation in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0104] Optionally, the first station may perform a channel handover operation under certain conditions. Alternatively, the first station may directly perform a channel handover operation, without any restrictions.

[0105] As one possible implementation, the channel switching operation can be a switch from the first primary channel to another channel. The first primary channel can be the primary channel currently in which the first site is located, that is, the primary channel of the basic service set (BSS) in which it is currently located.

[0106] As one possible approach, the first station could perform channel switching when factors such as poor main channel quality, main channel congestion, or changes in network topology occur.

[0107] For example, when the signal strength of the primary channel is below a certain threshold, the signal received by the first station may be very weak, leading to an increased data transmission error rate. For example, due to reasons such as distance from the access point, signal obstruction, or interference, the first station may find it difficult to maintain a stable connection on the primary channel, and may switch to other channels with better signal strength, which is not limited here.

[0108] For example, if the bit error rate detected on the primary channel remains consistently high, it indicates poor transmission quality on that channel, possibly due to factors such as interference, noise, or channel fading. To ensure the accuracy and stability of data transmission, the primary station may consider switching to other channels with lower bit error rates; this is not a specific limitation.

[0109] For example, when the service load on the primary channel is too heavy, such as when a large amount of data traffic is transmitted on the channel, resulting in increased network latency and higher data packet loss rate, the primary site may try to switch to other channels with lighter loads in order to improve data transmission efficiency and response speed in order to obtain better network performance. This is not limited here.

[0110] As one possible approach, the first station could switch to another assigned channel under the scheduling of the second station.

[0111] It should be noted that there are many factors that affect the first site's channel switching. This is only an illustrative example and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0112] As one possible implementation, the first station may send the first information to the second station after performing a channel switching operation.

[0113] Optionally, the first information may be indication information applicable to data transmission after the current channel switch.

[0114] It should be noted that if the first information is an indication of data transmission after the current channel switch, then the first information can be understood as temporary information. If the first station subsequently performs another channel switch, the first information may no longer be applicable as an indication.

[0115] Alternatively, the first information can also be indication information applicable to the current channel switching operation and subsequent channel switching operations.

[0116] The subsequent channel handover operation can refer to a single channel handover operation, or two, three, four, or even more channel handover operations, without any limitation.

[0117] Alternatively, the first information can be an indication that applies to the current channel switching operation and all subsequent channel switching operations, that is, it can be a permanent indication.

[0118] Optionally, the first site can be an auxiliary site of the first multi-link device (MLD). The first MLD can be of one of the following types:

[0119] Enhanced multi-link single-RF station;

[0120] Multi-link single RF station;

[0121] Enhanced multi-link multi-RF station; or

[0122] Multi-link, multi-RF station.

[0123] Among them, the equipment for enhanced multi-link single radio (eMLSR) sites is typically equipped with a single physical radio module. eMLSR achieves dynamic aggregation of multiple frequency bands / channels (such as simultaneously utilizing 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) through software algorithms or protocol optimization, making it suitable for resource-constrained environments.

[0124] Among them, the multi-link single radio (MLSR) station is a single-radio-based device that supports multi-link operation. MLSR can use a single radio frequency to process data across multiple links, and is relatively simple in terms of link management and adaptive adjustment.

[0125] The enhanced multi-link multi-radio (eMLMR) station is equipped with multiple radio frequency modules, providing enhanced multi-link functionality. These modules can operate simultaneously in different frequency bands, channels, or networks, enabling flexible and efficient multi-link communication.

[0126] Among them, a multi-link multi-radio (MLMR) station is a device with multiple radio frequencies, supporting multi-link operation. MLMR can communicate across different links or networks through multiple radio frequencies.

[0127] Optionally, the first site can be an access point (AP) or a non-access point (non-AP).

[0128] Optionally, the second site can be an access-type AP site or a non-access-type non-AP site.

[0129] Optionally, if the first MLD is an AP device, the first site is an AP site. If the first MLD is a non-AP device, the first site is a non-AP site. If the second MLD is an AP device, the second site is an AP site. If the second MLD is a non-AP device, the second site is a non-AP site.

[0130] The AP site provides wireless signal transmission and reception functions, allowing other wireless devices to access the wireless network, thereby enabling data transmission between wireless devices and wired networks, which is not limited here.

[0131] Among them, non-AP sites can be terminal devices connected to the wireless network, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets and other devices with wireless networking capabilities, and there is no limitation here.

[0132] Optionally, the first information can be used to instruct the second station:

[0133] The state relationship of the NSTR link pair corresponding to the first MLD and / or the change in the state relationship of the NSTR link pair.

[0134] The NSTR link pair status relationship can refer to the current link relationship between the first link and other links as an NSTR link pair or an STR link pair, without being limited here.

[0135] Among them, the change in the state relationship of the NSTR link pair can refer to whether the link relationship between the first link and other links has changed, such as whether to keep the original link relationship unchanged (e.g., keep the NSTR link pair unchanged) or to change it (e.g., change from an NSTR link pair to a STR link pair).

[0136] Optionally, the first information may be an indication to the second station of the state relationship of the NSTR link pair corresponding to the first MLD. Alternatively, the first information may be an indication to the second station of a change in the state relationship of the NSTR link pair corresponding to the first MLD. Or, the first information may be an indication to the second station of both the state relationship of the NSTR link pair corresponding to the first MLD and changes in the state relationship of the NSTR link pair.

[0137] It should be noted that when the first station sends the first information to the second station, it can indicate the state relationship of the NSTR link pair corresponding to the first MLD and / or the change in the state relationship of the NSTR link pair.

[0138] Both the first and second sites are located on the first link, but the link relationship between the first and second links may be different for the first and second sites, depending on the equipment capabilities of the MLD device.

[0139] For example, for the first station, the first link and the second link are an NSTR link pair, but for the second station, the first link and the second link may be an NSTR link pair or an STR link pair. The link relationships between the first link and the second link may be the same or different for both the first and second stations. Therefore, when the first station sends the first information to the second station, it can indicate to the second station the status relationship of the NSTR link pair corresponding to the first MLD and / or changes in the NSTR link pair status relationship.

[0140] Understandably, by informing the second station of the status of the NSTR link pairs corresponding to the first MLD and / or changes in the NSTR link pair status, the first station can understand the status of the links related to the first MLD. If it learns that the link relationship has changed, such as from an NSTR link pair to a STR link pair, the second station can adjust its data transmission strategy according to the new link status, making more rational use of link resources and avoiding large amounts of data transmission on unsuitable links, thereby improving the overall network transmission efficiency. After obtaining the link status information of the first MLD, the second station can know the stability and reliability of the link in advance. If the first information indicates that the link relationship remains unchanged as an NSTR link pair and that the NSTR link pair has high stability, the second station can continuously and stably transmit data on that link, reducing communication interruptions or data loss caused by unclear link status and enhancing communication stability. The transmission of the first information allows the second station to understand the link status perceived by the first station, enabling it to better adapt to the network environment based on the actual situation of the first MLD and its own equipment capabilities, selecting appropriate communication methods and parameters, and avoiding communication problems caused by inconsistent understanding of link relationships.

[0141] Optionally, the first information includes first indication information and / or second indication information, wherein,

[0142] The first indication information indicates the status of the first link and other links' STR or NSTR link pairs through a bitmap;

[0143] The second indication information uses a bitmap to indicate the state changes of the first link and other links' STR or NSTR links.

[0144] The first indication information can be an NSTR Indication Bitmap, which can indicate whether the first link is an STR or NSTR link pair with other links.

[0145] The second indication information can be an NSTR Status Update Bitmap, which can indicate whether the status of the first link and other links' STR link pairs has changed, or whether the status of the NSTR link pairs has changed.

[0146] Optionally, the first information may include both the first instruction information and the second instruction information, or it may include only the first instruction information or the second instruction information; no limitation is made here.

[0147] Optionally, the message carrying the first information includes one or more of the following:

[0148] The NSTR status update field is used to indicate changes in the link relationship or link relationship between the first link and other links;

[0149] The NSTR bitmap length field is used to indicate the length of the NSTR state update bitmap or the NSTR indicator bitmap.

[0150] The NSTR status update presence field is used to indicate whether the NSTR status update bitmap or the NSTR indication bitmap exists.

[0151] It should be noted that if the NSTR state update exists field indicates that the NSTR state update bitmap or the NSTR indicator bitmap exists, then the NSTR bitmap length field indicates the length of the NSTR state update bitmap or the NSTR indicator bitmap.

[0152] For example, if the NSTR bitmap length field is set to 1, then the length of the NSTR status update bitmap or NSTR indicator bitmap is 2 bytes (octets).

[0153] For example, when the NSTR bitmap length field is set to 0, the length of the NSTR status update bitmap or NSTR indicator bitmap is 1 byte.

[0154] It should be noted that if the NSTR status update field indicates that the NSTR status update bitmap does not exist, or the NSTR indicator bitmap does not exist, or the NSTR bitmap length field does not exist or is set to a reserved value, no restrictions are imposed here.

[0155] As shown in Figure 3, this is an exemplary first information field, which includes an NSTR status update field, an NSTR status update control field, and an NSTR status update enable field. The NSTR status update control field includes an NSTR status update presence field and an NSTR bitmap length field. The NSTR status update field has two options: Option 1 and Option 2. Option 1 is the NSTR indicator bitmap, and Option 2 is the NSTR status update bitmap. The NSTR status update enable field is optional and indicates whether the NSTR link's status update reporting function is enabled; if it is disabled, subsequent fields are either absent or reserved. It can be understood that even if a site has the capability for NSTR link status updates, it can choose not to enable NSTR link status update reporting.

[0156] Optionally, the bit map corresponding to the first indication information includes one or more first bits, each first bit representing the STR or NSTR link pair status between the i-th link and the j-th link, where the i-th link and the j-th link are links among the first link and other links.

[0157] The first bit can be any bit in the bit map corresponding to the first indication information, that is, it can be any bit in the NSTR indication bit map.

[0158] For example, if the first bit is 1, it indicates that the i-th and j-th links corresponding to that first bit are in an NSTR link pair state; if the first bit is 0, it indicates that the i-th and j-th links corresponding to that first bit are in an STR link pair state. Alternatively, if the first bit is 0, it indicates that the i-th and j-th links corresponding to that first bit are in an NSTR link pair state; if the first bit is 1, it indicates that the i-th and j-th links corresponding to that first bit are in an STR link pair state.

[0159] For example, there are three links between the first MLD and the second MLD, namely link1, link2, and link3. Link1 is the first link. Let link1 be the i-th link. A first bit of 1 represents an NSTR link pair between the i-th and j-th links corresponding to the first bit, and a first bit of 0 represents an STR link pair between the i-th and j-th links corresponding to the first bit.

[0160] If the bitmap of the first link (link1) corresponding to the current first indication information is 010, it includes three first bits, 0, 1, and 0 from left to right. These bits can represent the link pair status between link1 and links1, 2, and 3, respectively. The first 0 on the left represents the link pair status between links1 and 2, and is therefore reserved with no actual meaning. The middle 1 represents the link pair status between links1 and 2 as an NSTR link pair, and the right 0 represents the link pair status between links1 and 3 as an STR link pair.

[0161] If the bitmap of the second link (link1) corresponding to the current first indication information is 000, it includes three first bits, 0, 0 from left to right. These bits can represent the link pair status between the first link (link1) and links 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The middle 0 represents the link pair status between links 2 and 3, and is therefore reserved with no actual meaning. The 0s on the left represent the link pair status between links 1 and 2 as STR (Strong Link Pair), and the 0s on the right represent the link pair status between links 2 and 3 as STR (Strong Link Pair).

[0162] Optionally, the bitmap corresponding to the second indication information includes one or more second bits, each second bit indicating whether the state of the STR or NSTR link pair between the i-th link and the j-th link has changed.

[0163] The second bit can be any bit in the bit map corresponding to the second indication information, that is, it can be any bit in the NSTR state update bit map.

[0164] For example, if the second bit is 1, it means that the state of the NSTR link pair between the i-th link and the j-th link corresponding to the second bit has changed; if the second bit is 0, it means that the state of the NSTR link pair between the i-th link and the j-th link corresponding to the second bit has not changed.

[0165] Alternatively, if the second bit is 0, it indicates that the state of the NSTR link pair between the i-th link and the j-th link corresponding to the second bit has changed; if the second bit is 1, it indicates that the state of the NSTR link pair between the i-th link and the j-th link corresponding to the second bit has not changed.

[0166] For example, there are three links between the first MLD and the second MLD, namely link1, link2, and link3. Link1 is the first link. Let link1 be denoted as the i-th link. A second bit of 1 indicates that the state of the NSTR link pair between the i-th and j-th links corresponding to the second bit has changed, and a second bit of 0 indicates that the state of the NSTR link pair between the i-th and j-th links corresponding to the second bit has not changed.

[0167] If the bitmap of the first link (link1) corresponding to the current second indication information is 010, including three second bits (0, 1, 0 from left to right), it can represent the state changes of the NSTR link pairs between the first link (link1) and links 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The first 0 on the left represents the state of the NSTR link pair between links 1 and 2, and is therefore a reserved bit with no actual meaning. The middle 1 indicates that the state of the NSTR link pair between links 1 and 2 has changed, and the 0 on the right indicates that the state of the NSTR link pair between links 1 and 3 has not changed.

[0168] If the bitmap of the second link (link1) corresponding to the current second indication information is 000, including three second bits (0, 0, 0 from left to right), it can represent the state changes of the NSTR link pairs between the first link (link1) and links 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The middle 0 represents the state change of the NSTR link pair between links 2 and 3, and is therefore reserved and has no actual meaning. The 0s on the left represent no change in the state of the NSTR link pair between links 1 and 2, and the 0s on the right represent no change in the state of the NSTR link pair between links 2 and 3.

[0169] In this embodiment, a first station sends first information to a second station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of a first link between different multi-link devices. The first information indicates to the second station the status of non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after a channel switching operation. Thus, by indicating the status of the NSTR or STR link pairs between the first link and other links, the second station can promptly obtain information about the status of the NSTR or STR link pairs and adjust the data transmission method and timing accordingly, reducing interference with data transmission.

[0170] Furthermore, this allows the second station to clearly understand the current network link status distribution, which helps the second station quickly adapt to the new link status after channel switching, rationally arrange data transmission, and avoid data conflicts or transmission errors.

[0171] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0172] As shown in Figure 4, this communication method is executed by the first station, and the method includes:

[0173] Step 201: Receive second information sent by the second station, wherein the second information indicates that the station has NSTR link pair state update capability.

[0174] It should be noted that the first and second stations can exchange second information. Upon receiving second information from the second station, the first station can also send corresponding second information to the second station to indicate that it has the NSTR link state update capability.

[0175] It is understandable that the second piece of information is optional. If it does not exist, it can be understood that the first site and / or the second site support the ability to update the state of the NSTR link by default.

[0176] As one possible approach, the second information is located in the Ultra-High-Reliability Medium Access Control Capabilities (UHR MAC Capabilities) information, which includes the NSTR Status Update for NPCA Support field and the NPCA Capability field.

[0177] The NSTR status update field supported by NPCA indicates whether the site has the NSTR link pair status update capability during NPCA.

[0178] The NPCA capability field indicates whether the site supports NPCA switching operations.

[0179] Among them, the NSTR status update field supported by NPCA is mainly used to clarify the station's ability to update the status of non-simultaneous transmit / receive (NSTR) links during NPCA in the context of ultra-high reliability media access control (UHR MAC), so that the first station can understand whether the second station has the function of updating the status of NSTR links in a specific scenario.

[0180] For example, when the "NSTR Status Update for NPCA Support" field indicates that the first site has the capability to update the status of its NSTR link pairs, it means that during NPCA, the first site can monitor and report the status changes of its NSTR link pairs to the second site in real time. For instance, when parameters such as link signal quality and bit error rate change, the first site can promptly update this information to the second site, allowing the network to adjust and optimize resources, ensuring the reliability and stability of communication. If the "NSTR Status Update for NPCA Support" field indicates that the first site does not have this capability, then during NPCA, the second site cannot expect the first site to provide updates on the status of its NSTR link pairs, which may limit the network's real-time understanding of the link status of that site.

[0181] The NPCA capability field in Ultra-Reliable Media Access Control (UHR MAC) specifies the site's support for NPCA handover operations. It determines whether the site can adapt to different channel access scenarios to meet the requirements of high-reliability communication.

[0182] It's important to note that when the NPCA capability field indicates that a site supports NPCA handover operations, it means that the site has the ability to dynamically switch between the primary and non-primary channels. In practical applications, when the primary channel experiences congestion, interference, or other conditions detrimental to data transmission, the site can quickly switch to a non-primary channel for data transmission, thus ensuring communication continuity and reliability. If the NPCA capability field indicates that the site does not support NPCA handover operations, then the site can only rely on the primary channel for data transmission. When the primary channel encounters problems, the site cannot use non-primary channels for communication, which may lead to data transmission delays, packet loss, or even communication interruptions. This can have serious consequences, especially in scenarios with extremely high reliability requirements.

[0183] The above-mentioned NPCA-related design also applies to DSO; simply replace the NPCA-related descriptions with DSO descriptions, which will not be elaborated further.

[0184] As one possible approach, the second information is indicated via MLIE (Multi-Link Element) information.

[0185] Understandably, MLIEs typically contain multiple fields, each with a specific meaning and purpose. For example, fields might identify the link type, status, priority, etc. The combination of these fields can provide a detailed description of a multi-link environment, thus indirectly indicating the second information. For instance, the link identifier field in an MLIE can explicitly indicate the specific link associated with the second information. Through a unique link identifier, the receiver can determine which link the second information pertains to.

[0186] As one possible implementation, MLIE information includes a Common Info field, a Multi-Link Control field, and a Link Info field.

[0187] As one possible implementation, the second information is carried in a multi-link control field and / or a shared information field, wherein the second information is shared by all stations on the multi-link device where the second station is located.

[0188] It is understood that the second information can be carried separately in the multi-link control field or the shared information field, or it can be carried separately in the multi-link control field or the shared information field. In the above cases, the second information can be shared by all sites on the multi-link device where the second site is located.

[0189] It is understandable that the second piece of information can be shared by all stations on the multi-link device where the second station is located, indicating that the second piece of information has the same meaning and effect on every station within the second MLD, and is global information. In this case, it can be indicated in the multi-link control field or the shared information field.

[0190] The Multi-Link Control field is typically used for multi-link control-related operations and information transmission. It carries the second information shared by all stations, which facilitates unified management and coordination of the work of each link on the second MLD, ensuring that each station communicates and makes decisions based on the same information.

[0191] The Common Info field is used to store public information. It carries the second information that is common to all sites, so that each site can easily obtain this common information to maintain the normal operation of the entire MLD network.

[0192] As one possible implementation, the second information is carried in the link information field, wherein the second information is possessed by some stations on the multi-link device where the second station is located, and some stations are one or more stations.

[0193] Optionally, the second information can be unique to each station on the multi-link device where the second station is located, meaning that the second information of each station is different from that of other stations. Alternatively, the second information can be shared by some stations, but not by all stations. In this case, the second information can be carried in the link information field.

[0194] Understandably, if the second information is not simultaneously available across all sites on the second MLD, it indicates that the second information is site-specific, and the content of the second information may differ between sites, representing personalized information. In this case, it can be indicated by including it in the Link Info field.

[0195] The Link Info field is typically related to the link information of each site. Placing the unique secondary information of each site here allows for accurate information transmission and processing tailored to the specific circumstances of each site, thus meeting the personalized needs of different sites.

[0196] As one possible implementation, both the link information field and the multi-link control field can include a second information existence field, a second information length field, and a second information field.

[0197] As one possible implementation, the multi-link control field may include only the second information presence field and the second information length field, excluding the second information field.

[0198] As one possible implementation, the shared information field includes a second information field, wherein the second information length field indicates the length of the second information field.

[0199] Optionally, if the second information existence field indicates that it exists, the second information length field and / or the second information field also exist.

[0200] In some embodiments, if the second information length field is the first preset length, such as 0, it means that the second information length field does not exist. If the second information length field is not the first preset length, such as 2, it means that the bit length of the second information field is 2, or it is another bit length, which is not limited here.

[0201] As one possible implementation, the second information field can be in the form of a bitmap to indicate whether each corresponding station on the second MLD has the NSTR link pair state update capability during NPCA.

[0202] As one possible implementation, the link information field includes a site control field (STA Control), a site information field (STA Info), and a site profile field (STA Profile), wherein the second information field is located in the site control field, the site information field, or the site profile field.

[0203] The site information field is used to store and transmit various basic information and real-time status information of the site, so that other devices in the network can understand the status of the site and thus better coordinate communication and allocate resources.

[0204] The site configuration file field stores specific configuration information and preference settings for the site. These configurations can be customized according to different application scenarios and user needs to optimize site performance and user experience.

[0205] Among them, the site control field is used to control and manage various operations and states of the site to meet different network needs and scenarios.

[0206] One possible implementation is that the first station can receive a second message from the second station indicating that the second station has NSTR link state update capability. Correspondingly, the first station can also send a corresponding message to the second station to indicate that the first station has NSTR link state update capability. In other words, the first and second stations can interact regarding this information (whether or not they have NSTR link state update capability).

[0207] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a message carrying second information in MLIE format. As shown in Figure 5, the message carrying second information includes an element identifier field, a length field, an element identifier presence field, a multi-link control field, a shared information field, and a link information field. The octets corresponding to the element identifier field, length field, element identifier presence field, and multi-link control field are 1, 1, 1, and 2, respectively. The octets corresponding to the shared information field and link information field are variable. The multi-link control field includes a second information presence field and a second information length field. The shared information field contains the second information field. When all stations on the MLD share the second information, the shared information field and / or the link information field can be used for indication.

[0208] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the link information field. As shown in Figure 6, the link information field includes a sub-unit identifier field, a length field, a site control field, a site information field, and a site configuration file field. The octets corresponding to the sub-unit identifier field, length field, and site control field are 1, 1, and 2, respectively. The octets corresponding to the length field and site control field are variable. The site control field includes a link identifier field, a second information presence field, a second information length field, and a second information field. The second information presence field, second information length field, and second information field all correspond to the site indicated by the link identifier. The site information field also contains a second information field, corresponding to the site indicated by the link identifier.

[0209] Step 202: Send the first message to the second station.

[0210] Among them, the first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0211] It should be noted that the specific implementation of step 202 can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0212] In this embodiment, the first station first receives second information sent by the second station, indicating that the station has the capability to update the NSTR link pair status. Then, the first station sends first information to the second station. The first and second stations are subordinate stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information indicates to the second station the status of non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after a channel switching operation. Thus, the second information informs the first station that the second station has the capability to update the NSTR link pair status. This helps the first station better adjust its communication strategy based on the second station's status updates in subsequent communications, responding to potential changes in the links, such as signal interference and quality degradation, thereby ensuring communication stability and reliability. The first information instructs the second station on the NSTR or STR link pair status between each link after the channel switching operation, enabling the second station to clearly understand the current link status distribution of the network. This facilitates the second station's rapid adaptation to the new link status after a channel switch, allowing for reasonable data transmission arrangements, avoiding data conflicts or transmission errors, and improving the success rate and efficiency of channel switching. Through this information interaction, the first and second stations can better collaborate in a multi-link environment. Based on the link status information provided by each other, they can optimize the distribution and transmission of data on different links, give full play to the advantages of multi-link devices, and improve overall network performance and resource utilization.

[0213] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the third embodiment of this disclosure.

[0214] As shown in Figure 7, this communication method is executed by the first station, and the method includes:

[0215] Step 301: In response to receiving the third indication information sent by the second station, perform a channel switching operation, wherein the first information is carried in the first message, and the third indication information indicates that the first station is allowed to perform non-triggered uplink transmission.

[0216] It should be noted that, upon receiving the third instruction message, the first station is permitted to perform non-triggering uplink transmission, and therefore the second station does not need to schedule uplink data transmission.

[0217] As one possible approach, the first message could be the initial control frame (ICF).

[0218] The Initial Control Frame (ICF) is a control frame used to initialize a communication connection or perform initial state settings. In this embodiment, the sender is the first station, and the receiver is the second station. At the start of communication, the sender indicates its intention to establish a connection to the receiver by sending an ICF, carrying some initialization information such as device identifiers and communication parameters, so that the receiver can respond correctly and establish a communication link. The ICF can be used to negotiate various parameters during the communication process, such as data transmission rate, encoding method, error detection and correction methods, etc. By carrying this parameter information in the ICF, the two communicating parties can agree on appropriate parameter settings, ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of subsequent data transmission.

[0219] As one possible implementation, the first message is either a Buffer Status Report Poll Frame (BSRP) frame or a Buffer Status Report Poll Frame Guard Interval3 (BSRP GI3) frame.

[0220] The BSRP frame is a trigger frame. In a wireless LAN, the access point (AP) uses the BSRP frame to poll the buffer status report (BSR) of the stations (STA). The AP sends a BSRP frame to request buffer information from the STA, and after receiving the BSRP frame, the STA reports its buffer status so that the AP can perform uplink scheduling.

[0221] In this invention, the BSRP frame can be sent from the AP to the STA, or from the STA to the AP, and is used as an ICF to request a reply to the Initial Control Response Frame (ICR) or Control Response Frame (CRF) to exchange the initial state after channel switching.

[0222] Optionally, if the first message is a BSRP GI3 frame, the guard interval and the indication of the high efficiency / extremely high throughput / ultra high reliability-long training field type (GI and HE / EHT / UHR-LTF type) are set to the first preset value.

[0223] It should be noted that in wireless communication, especially when using OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) modulation, guard intervals are inserted between data blocks to prevent inter-symbol interference caused by multipath effects and other factors. The length or type of guard interval (such as GI3) affects system performance and efficiency. The High Performance / Extremely High Throughput / Ultra-High Reliability - Long Training Field type describes the type of Long Training Field (LTF), which is used for channel estimation and signal synchronization.

[0224] Optionally, the first preset value can be 3. In other embodiments, the first preset value can also be changed to other values, which can be set based on experience.

[0225] Optionally, if the first message is a BSRP GI3 frame, the Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit (PPDU) sent in response to the first message may use either the non-HT PPDU (Non-High Throughput Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) format or the non-HT duplicate PPDU (Non-High Throughput Duplicate Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) format.

[0226] Understandably, the PPDU sent after receiving the BSRP GI3 frame can be in either non-HT PPDU or non-HT duplicate PPDU format. The non-HT PPDU format is suitable for scenarios where high-performance transmission is not required. The non-HT duplicate PPDU format represents a non-high-performance repeated physical layer protocol data unit format. This format is a repetition or enhancement of the non-HT PPDU format, used to improve transmission reliability or coverage.

[0227] As one possible implementation, the BSRP GI3 frame is a BSRP frame that requests an MBA frame as a response frame.

[0228] Optionally, if the first message is a BSRP frame, the GI And HE / EHT / UHR-TLF Type indication is not a first preset value, and the PPDU sent in response to the first message uses the trigger response TB PPDU format.

[0229] Specifically, if the GI And HE / EHT / UHR-TLF Type indication is not the first preset value, the first message is a BSRP frame, and the PPDU sent after receiving the first message can use the TB PPDU format.

[0230] As one possible approach, the first message is carried in the format of a non-high-throughput physical layer protocol data unit (non-HT PPDU).

[0231] As one possible implementation, the first message is carried in the format of a non-HT duplicate PPDU (non-high throughput duplicate physical layer protocol data unit).

[0232] Non-HT PPDUs are suitable for basic rate communication or low-complexity devices.

[0233] Among them, non-HT duplicate PPDUs are suitable for high-interference environments or scenarios with high reliability requirements.

[0234] As one possible approach, the first message can be indicated by reserved bits in the shared information field.

[0235] Understandably, the first message can utilize specially reserved bits in the shared information field to indicate the first information. In the shared information field, the reserved bits can be assigned specific functions to convey the first information. For example, the information can be identified or encoded by using different states of these bits (such as 0 1, etc.) to indicate the first information.

[0236] Alternatively, the first message can be indicated by triggering relevant shared information fields or special user fields.

[0237] Optionally, the first message can indicate the receiving site by the identifier of the access point (AP) site.

[0238] Understandably, the first message can also utilize the Trigger Dependent Common Info field or the Special User Info field to indicate the first message. This approach involves associating the indication of the first message with these two specific fields; for example, these fields can contain specific flags, parameters, or data to represent the content of the first message.

[0239] Alternatively, the first message can be indicated by the ultra-high reliability special user information field in the common information field, which is pre-marked.

[0240] Understandably, the first message can be indicated by the UHR Special User Info field in the common information fields, provided that the UHR Special User Info field has been pre-marked. For example, the UHR Special User Info field can be identified by the AID12 (Association ID12) field value. In this way, when a specifically marked UHR Special User Info field is detected in the common information fields, the first message can be obtained from it.

[0241] As one possible approach, the first message could indicate the receiving station in the user information field.

[0242] As a feasible approach, the first message can indicate the receiving site in the UserInfo field, and this applies to a single or group of receiving sites identified by the AID12 field of the UserInfo field. The AID12 field is used to indicate the identifier of the receiving site, and the specific content indicated varies depending on the type of receiving site.

[0243] As one possible approach, the first message indicates the receiving station via an associated identifier.

[0244] An association identifier is a specific code or value used to identify the association relationship between devices in a network. The first message can use the association identifier to explicitly specify the receiving station. For example, in a wireless LAN, when a station establishes a connection with an access point, it can be assigned a unique association identifier. By carrying this association identifier, the first message can accurately inform other devices in the network that the message is to be sent to the receiving station with this specific association identifier. In this way, each device in the network can identify the target recipient of the message based on the association identifier, ensuring that the message is accurately sent to the designated receiving station even when multiple devices are connected to the network simultaneously.

[0245] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when there is only one receiving station, the receiving station can be the first station; or, when there are multiple receiving stations, the receiving station can be the first station and other stations of the MLD where the first station is located.

[0246] As one possible implementation, the first message is sent via unicast, and the receiving address field in the header of the first message frame indicates the receiving station.

[0247] Unicast is a network communication method where a message is sent directly from the sender to a specific receiver, rather than being sent to multiple receivers simultaneously. In this case, the first message is sent via unicast, ensuring its relevance and privacy. Only the designated receiving station can receive the message, while other unrelated stations will not, thus improving the efficiency and security of network communication.

[0248] It should be noted that in network communication, messages are transmitted in the form of frames. The frame header contains a lot of important information about the message, among which the receive address field explicitly specifies the address of the target receiving station. For the first message, the specific address information of the receiving station, such as the media access control address or IP address, is filled in the receive address field of its frame header.

[0249] Step 302: Send the first message to the second station.

[0250] Among them, the first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0251] It should be noted that the specific implementation of step 302 can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0252] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a first message. As shown in Figure 8, the trigger frame includes a trigger type field, an uplink length field, a more trigger frames field, a carrier sense required field, an uplink bandwidth field, a guard interval, and a high-performance / ultra-high throughput / ultra-high reliability long training field type (GI And HE / EHT-LTF / UHR-LTF Type / TXS Mode), a reserved value field, and a number of high-performance / enhanced high throughput / ultra-high rate long training field symbols (Number Of HE / EHT-LTF / UHR-LTF Symbols).

[0253] In this embodiment, the first station first responds to receiving a third indication message sent by the second station and performs a channel switching operation. The first information is carried in a first message, and the third indication message indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is permitted. Then, the first station sends a first message to the second station, where the first and second stations are subordinate stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first message indicates to the second station the status of non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation. Thus, after receiving the third indication message indicating that non-triggered uplink transmission is permitted, the first station can perform a channel switching operation and send the first message. This allows for more flexible data transmission between subordinate stations without waiting for a trigger signal, reducing transmission latency and improving communication efficiency between multi-link devices. Indicating the status of NSTR or STR link pairs between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation to the second station via the first message helps the second station and the entire multi-link device system better understand the link status, thereby rationally allocating resources, optimizing link usage, avoiding resource waste or conflicts, and improving the utilization efficiency of system resources.

[0254] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the fourth embodiment of this disclosure.

[0255] As shown in Figure 9, this communication method is executed by the first station, and the method includes:

[0256] Step 401: In response to receiving the fourth indication information sent by the second station, perform a channel switching operation, wherein the fourth indication information indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is not allowed.

[0257] The fourth indication message has specific content and function, indicating that the second station does not allow the first station to perform untriggered uplink transmissions. Untriggered uplink transmission is a data transmission method in which a station can initiate uplink data transmission without waiting for a specific trigger signal, and the fourth indication message prohibits the first station from using this transmission method.

[0258] Optionally, after receiving the fourth instruction information, the first station may perform a channel switching operation, that is, the first station may switch from the currently used channel to another channel for communication.

[0259] It should be noted that the specific description of the channel switching operation can be found in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0260] Step 402: Receive the second message sent by the second station. The second message is used to schedule uplink data transmission, wherein the first information is carried in the third message.

[0261] Optionally, the second message can be an Initial Control Frame (ICF), and the type of the second message includes any of the following: a Multi-User Request to Send (MRP) frame, a BSRP frame, or a BSRP GI3 frame.

[0262] The descriptions of ICF, BSRP frames and BSRP GI3 frames can be found in the above embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0263] Among them, Multi-User Request to Send (MU-RTS) is a mechanism in wireless communication that integrates multi-user multiple input multiple output with request to send / clear to send (RTS / CTS). It coordinates the transmission of multiple devices through a single handshake, optimizes channel allocation, reduces latency and improves throughput, and is suitable for high-density scenarios.

[0264] Optionally, the second message may include a fifth indication, which can be used to indicate whether the second message was sent in the switched channel.

[0265] Optionally, the second message may indicate the fifth indication message via reserved bits in the shared information field.

[0266] Understandably, the second message can be indicated using specially reserved bits in the shared information field. These reserved bits can be assigned specific functions to convey the second message; for example, different states of these bits (such as 0, 1, etc.) can be used to identify or encode information to indicate the second message.

[0267] Alternatively, the second message can indicate the fifth instruction message by triggering relevant shared information fields or special user fields.

[0268] Understandably, the second message can also use the Trigger Dependent Common Info field or the Special User Info field to indicate the fifth instruction message. This approach could involve associating the instruction of the fifth instruction message with these two specific fields; for example, these fields could contain specific flags, parameters, or data to represent the content of the fifth instruction message.

[0269] Alternatively, the fifth instruction information can be carried in the ultra-high reliability special user information field within the common information field of the second message. This ultra-high reliability special user information field is pre-marked.

[0270] Understandably, the second message can indicate the fifth indication information through the UHR Special User Info field in the shared information field, provided that the UHR Special User Info field has been pre-marked. For example, the UHR Special User Info field can be identified using the AID12 (Association ID12) field value. In this way, when a specifically marked UHR Special User Info field is detected in the shared information field, the fifth indication information can be obtained from it.

[0271] Optionally, the third message may indicate the receiving station in the user information field, where,

[0272] If there is only one receiving station, the receiving station is the first station; or, if there are multiple receiving stations, the receiving stations are the first station and the other stations.

[0273] As a feasible approach, the third message can indicate the receiving site in the UserInfo field, and it applies to a single or group of receiving sites identified by the AID12 field of the UserInfo field. The AID12 field is used to indicate the identifier of the receiving site, and the specific content indicated varies depending on the type of receiving site.

[0274] Optionally, the second message is a multi-user request to send a frame, and the fifth indication information can be carried in any of the following fields:

[0275] Uplink length field;

[0276] High-efficiency long training field pattern for multiple users, multiple inputs, and multiple outputs;

[0277] High efficiency in reducing the number of symbols in long training fields and the periodicity of the mid-guide frequency field;

[0278] Uplink spatial time block encoding field;

[0279] Low-density parity check code extra symbol segment;

[0280] Access point transmit power field;

[0281] Forward error correction pre-population factor field;

[0282] Phase error disambiguation field;

[0283] Uplink space reuse field; or

[0284] Doppler field.

[0285] Optionally, the second message can be a trigger frame, and the resource unit allocation field of the trigger frame is indexed based on the switched channel.

[0286] Among them, the trigger frame is a control frame used to trigger a specific operation or transmission. It contains some instructions and parameters to tell the receiver how to perform subsequent data transmission or operation.

[0287] In a communication system, a resource unit (RU) is the basic unit for dividing and allocating resources. The RU allocation field indicates how available resource units are allocated to different users or service flows. For example, in a multi-user wireless communication system, this field is used to allocate different time-frequency resources to each user to enable concurrent transmission by multiple users on the same channel.

[0288] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the resource unit corresponding to each index in the resource unit allocation field can be determined based on the switched channel. For example, if there are multiple consecutive resource units, these resource units can be numbered sequentially according to the starting position of the switched channel and the resource unit division rules, and the index value in the resource unit allocation field corresponds to these numbered resource units, which is not limited here.

[0289] Optionally, the third message can be an Initial Control Response Frame (ICR) or a Control Response Frame (CRF), and the second message can be an ICF. In the case that the second message is a multi-user request to send a MU-RTS frame, the third message is a clearing CTS frame.

[0290] The initial response frame is a frame that responds to initial control information or requests during communication. It is used to acknowledge receipt of the initial control information to the sender and may contain information about the receiver's status, capabilities, or preliminary instructions for subsequent operations.

[0291] The control response frame (CRF) can be a general frame structure for responding to various control messages or requests. The CRF can be used at different stages of communication to respond to various types of control information. Depending on the specific control message received, the CRF carries the corresponding response content to achieve control and management of the communication process.

[0292] It should be noted that if the second message is a MU-RTS frame, the third message can be a CTS frame. New information cannot typically be added to a CTS frame. The first station can determine whether to reply with a CTS frame based on certain specific conditions. If it does not reply with a CTS frame, it indicates it will not participate in the current channel handover operation; if it replies with a CTS frame, it indicates it will participate in the current channel handover operation. For example, the first station can determine whether to reply with a CTS frame based on either the first or second condition.

[0293] Optionally, if the second message is a BSRP frame, the third message can be a frame that includes BSR information.

[0294] It should be noted that if the second message is a BSRP frame, the third message can be a frame including BSR information. The first station can determine whether to reply to the frame based on certain specific conditions. If it does not reply with a frame including BSR information, it indicates that it will not participate in this channel handover operation; if it replies with a frame including BSR information, it indicates that it will participate in this channel handover operation.

[0295] The frames containing BSR information can be QoS Null frames (QoS Null Data Frames), QoS Data frames (QoS Data Frames), or management frames, etc., and are not limited here.

[0296] Among them, QoS Null frames are used to transmit control information without carrying data.

[0297] Among them, the QoSData frame is used for transmission between QoS sites and another QoS site, providing better traffic control and priority management to meet specific quality of service requirements.

[0298] Among them, QoS sites refer to sites that support Quality of Service (QoS) functions.

[0299] In IEEE 802.11 wireless networks, management frames are used for network management and control, including beacon frames, association request frames, authentication frames, and action frames. Beacon frames announce the existence of a network; association request frames are used to establish associations between clients and access points; authentication frames are used for identity authentication; and action frames announce specific actions.

[0300] Optionally, if the third message is a frame or CTS frame that includes BSR information, the third message may be sent to the second station if the first condition is met; or, if the second condition is met, the third message may not be sent.

[0301] The first condition can be a channel switching condition. If the first condition is met, the first station can perform a channel switching operation, and thus can send a third message to the second station.

[0302] The second condition can be a condition that prevents channel handover. If the second condition is met, the first station does not perform a channel handover operation and therefore does not need to send a third message to the second station.

[0303] Optionally, the third message contains first control information, which can be used to indicate first information. The control information may contain a control flag, which can be used to identify the type of control information. The control flag in the first control information can indicate that the type of control information is first information.

[0304] It is understandable that the third message can carry first control information, which serves to indicate the first information. The control information is identified by control flags. These control flags are a key element of the control information, clearly defining its specific type. For example, when the control flags in the first control information indicate that the control information type is first information, then the first information can be processed according to the corresponding rules.

[0305] The table below illustrates a type of first-level control information. The table provides specific control flag values ​​and their meanings.

[0306] Here, "V1" is a control flag value, representing the NSTR link's status reporting, and its corresponding subfield information content is the first information. This means that when the control flag value of "V1" is detected in the first control information field, the NSTR link needs to report its status, and the corresponding information content is the first information. The receiver (second station) can correctly parse and process the relevant data based on this identifier.

[0307] It should be noted that the first information can be aggregated with other information in the first information carrying frame to form a new information. There is no restriction on the type of the carrying frame of the other information. For example, it can be a management frame, a data frame, or other frames.

[0308] Optionally, the third message may indicate the receiving station by an association identifier, or the third message may indicate the receiving station by an 11-bit or 12-bit association identifier.

[0309] Optionally, the third message can indicate the receiving site by the identifier of the access point (AP) site.

[0310] Understandably, the third message can indicate the receiving station through an associated identifier, which can be 11 bits (AID 11) or 12 bits (AID 12), or it can indicate the receiving station through the identifier of the access point (AP) station.

[0311] Optionally, the frame structure of the third message can be a multi-site block acknowledgment (MBA) frame, which contains one or more: Association Identifier-Traffic Identifier Information (AID TID Info) fields; the first information is placed in the AID TID Info field or the block acknowledgment bitmap field.

[0312] The AID and TID Info fields in the communication protocol are used to identify and distinguish different sites and related traffic information. The Association Identifier (AID) is used to uniquely identify a site in the network. The Traffic Identifier (TID) is used to identify different types or priorities of traffic. The AID and TID Info field combines the information from the AID and TID. It typically contains the site's association identifier and the identifier information of the traffic associated with that site. Through this field, network devices can simultaneously understand the site to which data belongs, as well as the traffic type or priority of that data, thereby enabling more accurate data forwarding, scheduling, and management.

[0313] Understandably, the frame structure of the third message can be a Multi-Site Block Acknowledgment (MBA) frame. The MBA frame can contain one or more Per AID TID Info fields, each of which includes an AID TID Info field. The first piece of information can be placed in either the AID TID Info field or the Block Acknowledgment Bitmap field.

[0314] Optionally, the 11-bit association identifier (AID11) field of the AID TID Info field can be set to a first value to indicate that the first information is sent to all sites, or set to a second value to indicate that the first information is sent to the intended recipient STA identified by the AID11 field.

[0315] Optionally, the third message may include an association identifier. If the association identifier is the first target value, the AID TID Info field corresponding to the first target value contains the first information. Alternatively, the first information may be located in the association identifier.

[0316] The first target value can be set according to the actual situation, such as being 1. This embodiment does not limit the first target value.

[0317] It should be noted that if the second message is a BSRP frame or a BSRP GI3 frame, the third message can be an MBA in non-HT (duplicate) PPDU (Multi-site Block Acknowledgment in Non-High Throughput (Duplicate) Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit) frame.

[0318] Optionally, the third message can be an MBA frame, the first combined value can indicate whether the target indication information field exists, and the first information can be located in the target indication information field.

[0319] As one possible approach, if the first combined value meets the preset conditions, it indicates that the target indicator field exists; otherwise, it does not exist.

[0320] Optionally, the first combined value can be determined by the Ack Type subfield values ​​and the TID subfield value. For example, the first combined value can be reserved using (Ack Type subfield values, TID subfield values).

[0321] As an example, if the confirmation type subfield value is 0 and the business identifier subfield belongs to any of the multiple target values ​​(e.g., 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13), the confirmation type subfield value and the business identifier subfield value can constitute a first combined value, and the first combined value indicates that the target indication information field exists.

[0322] As an example, if the confirmation type subfield value is 1 and the business identifier subfield belongs to any of the multiple target values ​​(e.g., 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13), the confirmation type subfield value and the business identifier subfield value can constitute a first combined value, and the first combined value indicates that the target indication information field exists.

[0323] Optionally, the target indication information field may include a block confirmation start sequence control field and a block confirmation bitmap field; or, the target indication information field may include a block confirmation bitmap field.

[0324] Optionally, the block confirmation bitmap field can indicate the first information or NSTR link status update information.

[0325] As an example, the first combined value can indicate the presence of a target indication information field, which includes a block confirmation start sequence control field and a block confirmation bitmap field. The block confirmation start sequence control field indicates that the block confirmation bitmap field indicates the first information or NSTR link pair status update information, rather than the traditional block confirmation bitmap information.

[0326] As an example, the MBA frame includes a new type of Per AID TID Info field, called the first type of Per AID TID Info field, which is used to provide feedback on first information (or NSTR link status update information). The block acknowledgment start sequence control field of the first type of Per AID TID Info field includes a feedback type field, which is set to a third value to indicate that the first type of Per AID TID Info field includes first information, rather than traditional block acknowledgment bitmap information.

[0327] Understandably, if the length of the first information or the NSTR link state update information is fixed, then the block confirmation start sequence control field may not exist, or it may be set to a reserved value. This allows for flexible adjustment of the frame structure to improve efficiency or adapt to different application scenarios while meeting information transmission requirements.

[0328] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a third message. As shown in Figure 10, the third message includes an Associated Identifier-Traffic Identifier Info field, a Block Ack Starting Sequence Control field, and a Block Ack Bitmap field.

[0329] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of another type of third message. As shown in Figure 11, the third message includes an association identifier 11 (AID 11) field, an acknowledgment type (Ack Type) field, and a traffic identifier (TID) field.

[0330] In some possible implementations, when the second station sends the second message, if it anticipates that the transmission of the first link will potentially interfere with the transmission of other links on the first MLD, or if it anticipates that the first link of the first MLD may form an NSTR relationship with other links on the first MLD, then it sends the message according to the rules of NSTR. For example, the fourth station on link 2 of the second MLD is communicating with the third station on link 2 of the first MLD. The second station sends the second message, and the frame sent by the fourth station is aligned with the PPDU end time on the NSTR link pair and / or the start time synchronized with the PPDU media access operation to avoid potential interference from communication on link 1 to link 2. The sending of the fifth message described below is similar and will not be repeated.

[0331] In some possible implementations, if interference is anticipated and the conditions for transmission according to / constitute the NSTR transmission rule are lacking, the second station may not send the second message or perform a channel switch; for example, the lack of conditions for constituting the NSTR transmission rule may be that there are no other frames to be transmitted in the queue of the other links to avoid causing the anticipated interference, and the frames to be transmitted may be sent to other stations on the first MLD or to stations not on the first MLD; the sending of the fifth message described below is similar and will not be repeated.

[0332] For ease of explanation, the first message, third message, fourth message, or sixth message mentioned in the embodiments of this disclosure will be referred to as the target frame.

[0333] If the first link forms an NSTR relationship with other links on the first MLD after a channel switch, the first station needs to transmit the target frame or reply to the target frame according to the NSTR transmission rules. If it is expected that a channel switch will form an NSTR relationship and is expected to cause interference to other links on the same MLD, that is, there is a lack of conditions for transmission according to / constitute an NSTR transmission rule, the first station may not send the target frame or reply to the target frame or perform a channel switch. For example, the lack of conditions for constituting an NSTR transmission rule may be that there are no other frames to be transmitted in the queue of the other links to avoid causing the expected interference.

[0334] In some implementations, the target frame may include a Single Response Scheduling Control (SRS Control) field, indicating the duration of the response frame from the receiving station (second station).

[0335] In some implementations, the target frame may include PPDU response duration information, indicating the duration of the reply frame from the receiving station (second station), which serves to align frames with those transmitted on other links to reduce NSTR interference.

[0336] Step 403: Send the first message to the second station.

[0337] Among them, the first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0338] It should be noted that the specific implementation of step 403 can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0339] In this embodiment, the first station first responds to receiving a fourth indication message sent by the second station and performs a channel switching operation. The fourth indication message indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is not allowed. Then, the first station receives a second message sent by the second station, which is used to schedule uplink data transmission. The first information is carried within a third message. The first station then sends the first information to the second station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information indicates to the second station the status of non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation. Thus, the first station performs the channel switching operation according to the fourth indication message sent by the second station, which explicitly indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is not allowed. This makes the channel switching process more precise and controllable. It avoids the first station performing non-triggered uplink transmission at inappropriate times, thereby reducing the possibility of data conflicts and interference, and ensuring the smooth progress of the channel switching operation. After performing the channel switching operation, the first station receives a second message for scheduling uplink data transmission, which helps to achieve the orderliness of uplink data transmission. Through unified scheduling by the second station, the first station can transmit data according to the prescribed timing and method, improving the efficiency and reliability of uplink data transmission and avoiding data corruption and loss. By sending first information embedded in a third message to the second station, the first station can clearly inform the second station of the NSTR or STR link pair status between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation. This allows the second station to have an accurate understanding of the status of the entire multi-link system, facilitating reasonable decisions based on the link status, such as adjusting data transmission strategies and optimizing link resource allocation.

[0340] Figure 12 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the fifth embodiment of this disclosure.

[0341] As shown in Figure 12, this communication method is performed by the second station, and the method includes:

[0342] Step 501: Receive the first information sent by the first station. The first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices.

[0343] The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0344] Among them, the first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0345] Optionally, the first site is an auxiliary site of the first multi-link device MLD, and the second site is an auxiliary site of the second multi-link device MLD.

[0346] It should be noted that an affiliated site is a site attached to an MLD. Each affiliated site is associated with a specific link within the MLD and communicates with other devices through that specific link. For example, the first site establishes a connection with link1 in MLD1 (the first MLD), becoming an affiliated site of MLD1, and can then use link1 to interact with other devices (such as MLD2). The second site follows the same principle.

[0347] As shown in Figure 2, the first station and the second station are subordinate stations of MLD1 (first MLD) and MLD2 (second MLD), respectively, and both the first station and the second station are located on link1 (first link). The first station and the second station can exchange data through link1. There are other links between MLD1 and MLD2 besides the first link1, such as link2 and link3.

[0348] It should be noted that, since the second station in the fifth embodiment of this disclosure is the device at the end of the first station in the first embodiment of this disclosure, and the second station and the first station are the receiver and sender of the first information respectively, step 501 can refer to the relevant description of step 101 in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0349] In this embodiment, the second station receives first information sent by the first station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after a channel switching operation. Because the first station indicates the status of the NSTR or STR link pairs between the first link and other links to the second station, the second station can promptly obtain the status of the NSTR or STR link pairs between the links. This allows it to adjust the data transmission method and timing based on this information, reducing interference with data transmission. Furthermore, the second station can clearly understand the current link status distribution of the network, which helps it quickly adapt to the new link status after a channel switching, rationally arrange data transmission, and avoid data conflicts or transmission errors.

[0350] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the sixth embodiment of this disclosure.

[0351] As shown in Figure 13, this communication method is performed by the second station, and the method includes:

[0352] Step 601: Receive first information sent by the first station. The first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices.

[0353] The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0354] It should be noted that the specific implementation of step 601 can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0355] Step 602: Based on the first information, perform the corresponding operation.

[0356] Optionally, if the link relationship between the first link and the second link remains unchanged as indicated by the first information, the current transmission method remains unchanged.

[0357] Alternatively, if the first information indicates that the link relationship between the first link and the second link has changed from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, then the NSTR transmission rule should be discontinued.

[0358] Alternatively, if the first information indicates that the link relationship between the first link and the second link has changed from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair, then the NSTR transmission rule is adopted.

[0359] It should be noted that the above NSTR transmission rules may include start time sync PPDUs medium access rules and / or PPDU end time alignment rules on an NSTR link pair.

[0360] Among them, the media access for synchronized start time PPDUs can refer to the synchronization of start time according to certain rules during media access to achieve simultaneous transmission or reception; the alignment of PPDU end time of NSTR link pairs can refer to the alignment of the end time of PPDUs of multiple links according to certain rules when multiple links transmit PPDUs to achieve simultaneous transmission or reception. The multiple links refer to two or more links. For specific descriptions, please refer to existing standards.

[0361] Optionally, the operation may also include an error recovery method associated with the NSTR link pair, which can be referred to the standard text description of the error recovery method on an NSTR link pair within the priority interframe space (PIFS).

[0362] Optionally, the operation may also include an NSTR link-related medium access recovery method, which can be referred to the standard text description of the medium access recovery procedure.

[0363] Optionally, if the first, third, fourth, or sixth message sent by the first station includes PPDU response duration information or a Single response scheduling control (SRS control) field, then the second station, based on the duration information or control information, sets the duration of the PPDU carrying the frame to the PPDU response duration when replying to the frame.

[0364] It should be noted that if the first information indicates that the link relationship between the first link and the second link has not changed (e.g., maintaining NSTR link pairs or STR link pairs), then the second station can maintain its current transmission mode without adjusting existing transmission rules or configurations.

[0365] Alternatively, if the first information indicates that the link relationship between the first and second links has changed from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, then the NSTR transmission rule should be discontinued. If the first information indicates that the link relationship between the first and second links has changed from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, then the NSTR transmission rule can be discontinued, for example, by adjusting transmission parameters, protocol stack configuration, or other related settings to adapt to the new STR transmission requirements. Alternatively, if the first information indicates that the link relationship has changed from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair, then the NSTR transmission rule can be adopted.

[0366] In this embodiment, the second station first receives first information sent by the first station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links after a channel switching operation. Then, the second station performs corresponding operations based on the first information. Thus, by receiving the first information, the second station can know the status of the NSTR or STR link pairs between the first link and other links after a channel switching operation, providing an accurate basis for subsequent operations and helping to avoid communication errors or inefficiencies caused by unclear link status. Based on accurate link status information, the second station can perform corresponding optimization operations. For example, when it is known that a certain link is in a better transmission state, data can be preferentially scheduled to be transmitted on that link to improve the efficiency and reliability of data transmission. Or, when problems occur on some links, the data transmission strategy can be adjusted in a timely manner to avoid data loss or excessive transmission delay.

[0367] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the seventh embodiment of this disclosure.

[0368] As shown in Figure 14, this communication method is performed by the second station, and the method includes:

[0369] Step 701: Send second information to the first station, wherein the second information indicates that the station has NSTR link pair state update capability.

[0370] It should be noted that since the second station and the first station are the sender and receiver of the second information, respectively, step 701 can refer to the relevant description of step 201 in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0371] Step 702: Send a second message to the first station. The second message is used to schedule uplink data transmission.

[0372] It should be noted that the description of the second message can refer to the description of step 402 in the fourth embodiment above.

[0373] As one possible approach, the second station could also send a third or fourth instruction to the first station.

[0374] The third indication indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission is permitted at the first site.

[0375] The fourth indication indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission is not allowed at the first site.

[0376] It should be noted that the second station can send a third instruction message to the first station. Upon receiving the third instruction message, the first station is granted permission to perform non-triggering uplink transmission and can therefore compete for channel access on its own. Of course, in this mode, the first station can also perform uplink transmission under the scheduling of the second station.

[0377] The fourth indication message has specific content and function, indicating that the second station does not allow the first station to perform untriggered uplink transmissions. Untriggered uplink transmission is a data transmission method in which a station can automatically compete for channel access without waiting for a specific trigger signal. The fourth indication message prohibits the first station from using this transmission method.

[0378] It should be noted that the third or fourth instruction information may be per STA or for all STAs; for example, the third or fourth instruction information may refer to the instruction method of the third information, which will not be elaborated here.

[0379] Optionally, the third or fourth indication information can also be indicated in the NPCA Operation Information field below, and this indication method applies to all sites. Specifically, the untriggered UL transmissions enabled field can indicate the third or fourth indication information.

[0380] The table below is an example of an NPCA operation information field:

[0381] Optionally, after receiving the fourth instruction information, the first station may perform a channel switching operation, that is, the first station may switch from the currently used channel to another channel for communication.

[0382] It should be noted that the specific description of the channel switching operation can be found in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0383] As one possible approach, if the second station sends a fourth instruction to the first station, it can then send a second message to the first station.

[0384] Step 703: Receive the first information sent by the first station. The first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices.

[0385] The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

[0386] It should be noted that the specific implementation of step 703 can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0387] In this embodiment, the second station first sends a second message to the first station, indicating that the station has the capability to update the NSTR link pair status. Then, the second station sends a second message to the first station, used to schedule uplink data transmission. Afterward, the second station receives the first message sent by the first station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first message indicates to the second station that after a channel switching operation, the first link and other links may not simultaneously transmit or receive NSTR links, or may simultaneously transmit or receive STR links. Thus, the second station allows the first station to know that the second station has the capability to update the NSTR link pair status, enabling both parties to understand each other's capabilities before communication. This facilitates the selection of appropriate communication modes and parameters based on actual conditions, enhancing the flexibility and adaptability of communication. The second message is used to schedule uplink data transmission, which helps to rationally arrange the timing and order of data transmission, avoid data conflicts and chaos, improve the efficiency and reliability of uplink data transmission, and make the entire communication process more orderly. The first information can accurately indicate to the second station the status of the NSTR or STR link pair between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation. This allows the second station to clearly understand the changes in link status and thus adjust its communication strategy in a timely manner based on this information, such as adjusting the data transmission rate and selecting appropriate links for data transmission, in order to adapt to channel changes and ensure communication quality.

[0388] Figure 15a is a signaling diagram of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 15a, the first station can first exchange second information with the second station, and then the second station can indicate to the first station whether to allow the first station to perform non-triggered uplink transmission. The first station can then perform channel switching. If the second station does not allow the first station to perform non-triggered uplink transmission, it can send a second message to the first station to schedule the first station's uplink data transmission, and then the first station can reply to the second station with a first message. If the second station allows the first station to perform non-triggered uplink transmission, the first station can directly reply to the second station with a first message. Then, the second station can perform corresponding operations based on the first information.

[0389] Figure 15b is a signaling diagram of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 15b, the first station can first interact with the second station to exchange second information, and then the second station can send a second message to the first station, instructing the first station to transmit in the allocated resource unit. The first station can then perform channel switching, switching to the allocated resource unit, and reply with the first message indicating the first information. Then, the second station can perform corresponding operations based on the first information.

[0390] The interaction of the second piece of information is optional.

[0391] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the eighth embodiment of this disclosure.

[0392] As shown in Figure 16, this communication method is performed by the first station, and the method includes:

[0393] Step 801: Send third information to the second station. The first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The third information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links, corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios. The third information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation.

[0394] Optionally, the number of other links may be one or more, and the second link may be any of the other links. The channel handover scenario includes one or more of the following:

[0395] The first link / first site switches from the first primary channel to the first secondary channel, while the second link remains on the second primary channel;

[0396] The first link / first site switches from the first primary channel to the first channel, and the second link switches from the second primary channel to the second channel.

[0397] Here, the first primary channel can be the primary channel currently occupied by the first link. The first secondary channel can be the channel to which the first link has switched. The second primary channel can be the primary channel currently occupied by the second link. The second tertiary channel can be the channel to which the second link has switched.

[0398] Optionally, the link relationship between the first link and the second link may change in one of the following ways:

[0399] Keep non-NSTR link pairs unchanged;

[0400] Keep the STR link pairs unchanged;

[0401] The NSTR link pair was converted into a STR link pair;

[0402] The STR link pairs are converted into NSTR link pairs.

[0403] For example, if the second link is any of the other links, and the original link relationship between the first and second links was an STR link pair, then due to a channel handover operation at the first site, the link relationship between the first and second links could either remain an STR link pair or be transformed into an NSTR link pair.

[0404] If the original link relationship between the first link and the second link was an NSTR link pair, due to the channel switching operation of the first station, the link relationship between the first link and the second link may remain an NSTR link pair or be changed to an STR link pair.

[0405] It should be noted that the link relationship between the first and second links is an STR link pair. After the first link channel is switched, in some cases, the frequency interval may decrease, leading to a change in the link state, making the link relationship between the first and second links an NSTR link pair. In other cases, if the frequency interval decreases, the link relationship may remain unchanged. In still other cases, the first link channel switching may cause the frequency interval to increase, resulting in no change in the link state, thus maintaining the link relationship between the first and second links as an STR link pair.

[0406] It should be noted that the link relationship between the first and second links is an NSTR link pair. After the first link channel is switched, in some cases, the frequency interval may decrease, causing a change in the link state, thus making the link relationship between the first and second links an STR link pair. In other cases, if the frequency interval decreases, the link relationship may remain unchanged. In still other cases, the first link channel switching may cause the frequency interval to increase, resulting in no change in the link state, thus maintaining the link relationship between the first and second links as an NSTR link pair.

[0407] It should be noted that the link relationship between the first and second links is an STR link pair. Both the first and second links undergo channel switching. In some cases, this may cause a decrease in frequency spacing, leading to a change in the link state and making the link relationship between the first and second links an NSTR link pair. In other cases, a decrease in frequency spacing may not change the link relationship. Still other cases may cause an increase in frequency spacing, resulting in no change in the link state and maintaining the link relationship between the first and second links as an STR link pair.

[0408] It should be noted that the link relationship between the first and second links is an NSTR link pair. Both the first and second links undergo channel switching. In some cases, this may cause a decrease in frequency spacing, leading to a change in link state and resulting in an STR link pair between the first and second links. In other cases, a decrease in frequency spacing may not change the link relationship. Still other cases may cause an increase in frequency spacing, resulting in an unchanged link state and maintaining the NSTR link pair between the first and second links.

[0409] For example, current channel handover scenarios include A, B, and C. In A and B, the first and second links become an STR link pair after the channel handover. In C, the first and second links become an NSTR link pair. The third piece of information can indicate that the link pair changes for channel handover scenarios A and B are: the first and second links become an STR link pair after the channel handover; and the link pair changes for channel handover scenario C are: the first and second links become an NSTR link pair after the channel handover.

[0410] As one possible implementation, in any channel handover scenario, if the first link and the second link are NSTR link pairs after the channel handover, the third information indicates that the link pairs corresponding to each channel handover scenario change to: the first link and the second link are NSTR link pairs after the channel handover.

[0411] For example, the current channel handover scenarios include A, B, and C. A and B correspond to a STR link pair (first and second links becoming an NSTR link pair) after the channel handover, while C corresponds to a NSTR link pair (first and second links becoming an NSTR link pair). That is, at least one channel handover scenario corresponds to a NSTR link pair (first and second links becoming an NSTR link pair) after the channel handover. Therefore, the third piece of information can indicate that the link pair changes for channel handover scenarios A, B, and C are as follows: the first and second links become an NSTR link pair after the channel handover.

[0412] As one possible implementation, in the case where the content corresponding to each channel handover scenario is: the first link and the second link are STR link pairs after the channel handover, the third information indicates that the link pair change corresponding to each channel handover scenario is: the first link and the second link are STR link pairs after the channel handover.

[0413] For example, the current channel handover scenarios include A, B, and C. Here, A, B, and C correspond to the first and second links becoming an STR link pair after the channel handover. That is, each channel handover scenario corresponds to the first and second links becoming an STR link pair after the channel handover. Therefore, the third piece of information can indicate that the link pair changes for channel handover scenarios A, B, and C to: the first and second links becoming an STR link pair after the channel handover.

[0414] As one possible approach, after sending the third information to the second station, the first station can perform a channel handover operation. The type of channel handover operation can be a Dynamic Subband Operation (DSO), a Non-Primary Channel Access (NPCA) operation, or an Enhanced Multi-Link (EML) operation, etc., and is not limited here.

[0415] It should be noted that the relevant descriptions of channel switching operations can be found in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0416] As one possible approach, the first station may send third information to the second station if the second station notifies the first station that it supports the channel switching operation, and the first station supports the channel switching operation.

[0417] Alternatively, if the first station supports channel switching operations, the first station can send third information to the second station.

[0418] As one possible approach, the first station can send a fourth message to the second station, which is used to notify the second station whether the first station supports the channel switching operation.

[0419] Optionally, the third-party information can be used as an operational parameter. Alternatively, the third-party information can be carried in the Operations Management Notification (OMN) or the Operations Management Instruction (OMI).

[0420] In some implementations, third information can be used as an operational parameter, indicating that the third information can convey parameter content related to system operation. For example, in network management, operational parameters may include device configuration information, performance indicators, etc.

[0421] Operation Management Notification (OMN) and Operation Management Indication (OMI) are two mechanisms used to transmit operation management-related information. Third information can use these two mechanisms to indicate operation parameters or the update status of operation parameters.

[0422] Optionally, the third information can be carried within the ultra-reliable media access control capability information. Alternatively, the third information can be carried within the structure of a multi-link element (MLIE).

[0423] Alternatively, the third information can be carried in a variant structure of the multi-link element (MLIE).

[0424] It should be noted that the third information can also be carried in MLIE, ultra-reliable media access control capability information, or a variant structure of MLIE. The specific implementation method can be referred to the second information, which will not be elaborated here.

[0425] Alternatively, when the channel switching operation is an NPCA operation, the content of the third information can be carried through the action frame AF.

[0426] The following explanation uses NPCA operation as an example. The content of the third information can be carried through an action frame (AF). An action frame is a frame structure used in wireless communication protocols to transmit specific operation instructions or information. The meaning of the action field: The action field of an AF contains specific information that plays a crucial role in understanding and executing the corresponding operation.

[0427] As an example, the meaning of the action domain of AF is shown in the following table:

[0428] The NPCA Control field can indicate NSTR state update control, meaning that during NPCA operations, the NPCA Control field can control and manage NSTR state updates. For example, it can determine when to update the NSTR state and the frequency of updates.

[0429] The NPCA parameter (update) indicates an NSTR status update. In other words, this field can contain specific details of the NSTR status update, such as the updated NSTR status value and related parameter adjustments.

[0430] Similarly, the above NPCA-related design also applies to DSO; simply replace the NPCA-related description with the DSO. As an example, the action domain meanings of DSO-related AFs are shown in the table below:

[0431] In this embodiment, a first station sends third information to a second station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of a first link between different multi-link devices. The third information indicates to the second station the status of non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links, corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios. This third information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation. Therefore, by sending the third information before the channel switching operation, the first station can inform the second station in advance of the NSTR or STR link pair status between the first link and other links corresponding to the channel switching scenario. This allows the second station to be aware of the upcoming channel switching and related link status changes in advance, providing sufficient time for preparation and adjustments, and avoiding data transmission interruptions or errors due to sudden channel switching. After learning the link status, the second station can take appropriate measures, such as adjusting data transmission strategies, buffering data, or waiting for a suitable time to transmit data, to ensure continuous and stable data transmission during channel switching, reduce data loss and transmission delays, and improve the reliability and performance of the entire multi-link device communication system. This information interaction mechanism facilitates better collaboration between auxiliary stations of different multi-link devices. The first and second stations can coordinate based on third information, enabling them to remain synchronized during channel switching, adapt to channel changes together, improve the overall operating efficiency and stability of the system, and better meet the communication needs of multi-link devices in complex network environments.

[0432] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the ninth embodiment of this disclosure.

[0433] As shown in Figure 17, this communication method is performed by the first station, and the method includes:

[0434] Step 901: Send third information to the second station. The first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The third information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links, corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios. The third information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation.

[0435] It should be noted that the specific implementation of step 1100 can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0436] Step 902: In response to receiving the sixth indication information sent by the second station, perform a channel switching operation, wherein the sixth indication information indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is permitted.

[0437] It should be noted that when the first station receives the sixth instruction information sent by the second station, it is permitted to perform non-triggering uplink transmission, and therefore the second station does not need to schedule uplink data transmission.

[0438] It should be noted that the specific description of the channel switching operation can be found in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0439] Step 903: Send a fourth message to the second station, wherein the fourth message instructs the first station to transmit data through the switched channel.

[0440] It's important to note that when the first station sends a fourth message to the second station, it explicitly informs the other station that data will be transmitted via the switched channel. This allows the second station to be aware of the communication channel change in advance, prepare for reception, avoid data loss or transmission errors, and ensure smooth communication. Upon receiving the fourth message, the second station can adjust its receiving parameters to match the switched channel. For example, it can adjust the receiving frequency and signal demodulation method. After the first station switches channels, the second station can quickly connect, maintaining the continuity of data transmission and ensuring the normal operation of services. For instance, real-time video calls will not experience lag or interruption due to channel switching.

[0441] Optionally, the fourth message is sent in unicast form, and the receiving address in the fourth message frame header indicates that the receiving station is the second station.

[0442] Unicast is a network communication method where a message is sent directly from the sender to a specific receiver, rather than being sent to multiple receivers simultaneously. In this case, the fourth message is sent via unicast, ensuring its relevance and privacy. Only the designated receiving station can receive the message; other unrelated stations will not receive it, thus improving the efficiency and security of network communication. It's important to note that in network communication, messages are transmitted in frames. The frame header contains much important information about the message, including the receive address field, which explicitly specifies the address of the target receiving station. For the fourth message, the receive address field in its frame header contains the specific address information of the receiving station, such as a media access control address or IP address.

[0443] Step 904: Receive the seventh message from the second station, whereby the seventh message indicates that the second station is transmitting data through the switched channel.

[0444] Optionally, if the fourth message is an initial control frame, the seventh message can be carried in either a non-HT PPDU format or a non-HT duplicate PPDU format.

[0445] It is understandable that if the fourth message is ICF, the second station can know that the subsequent seventh message can be received and decoded in non-HT (duplicate) PPDU format.

[0446] Optionally, if the fourth message is a BSRP GI3 frame, the seventh message is a multi-site block acknowledgment (MBA) frame.

[0447] Understandably, the purpose of MBA frames is to perform multi-site block acknowledgments (MBCs), and in some cases, they can also be used to indicate buffer information. Buffer information is crucial for both communicating parties, allowing the sender to adjust the rate and order of data transmission based on the receiver's buffer status to avoid data loss or congestion. For example, if the receiver's buffer is full, the sender can pause data transmission until the buffer has sufficient space.

[0448] Optionally, the fourth message can be indicated by one or more of the following methods to indicate that it is sent via the switched channel:

[0449] Indicated in the common information field;

[0450] Indicated by the reserved bits in the common information field;

[0451] Indicated in the common information field related to the trigger frame;

[0452] Indicated in the special user field;

[0453] Use the bit indications available at non-AP sites;

[0454] This is indicated by the ultra-high reliability special user information field in the common information field, which is pre-marked.

[0455] It should be noted that the Common Info field can be used to indicate that the fourth message is sent through the switched channel. Alternatively, the reserved bits in this field can be used to represent this; reserved bits are typically reserved during protocol design for possible future functional expansions, and can be used here to convey channel information.

[0456] Alternatively, this can be indicated in the common information field or special user field related to the trigger frame. Additionally, since non-AP sites (non-access point sites, such as client devices) may not use certain fields, bits in these fields can be multiplexed to indicate channel information, such as the uplink length (UL length) field or the More Trigger Frames (More TF) field.

[0457] Alternatively, this information can be directly indicated in the Special User Info field of the fourth frame. Alternatively, it can be indicated in the Common Info field as the existence of a High Reliability Special User Info (UHR Special User Info) field, then identified by a special AID12 field value, and the channel information can be carried within this field. The purpose of this is to rationally utilize various fields to transmit different key information within the limited frame structure, ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of communication.

[0458] Optionally, the bits available in non-AP sites belong to one or more of the following fields:

[0459] Uplink length field (UL length);

[0460] More trigger frames (TFs);

[0461] Carrier Listen Field (CS) required;

[0462] Low-density parity check code extra symbol segment (LDPC);

[0463] Phase error disambiguity field (PE Disambiguity);

[0464] Uplink Spatial Reuse field (UL);

[0465] Bandwidth mode field HE / EHT P160;

[0466] The internal frame verification sequence contains the field IFCS Present.

[0467] It should be noted that some fields in non-AP sites can have their bits reused or used to indicate relevant information. These fields may have their own functions under normal circumstances, but under specific needs, their bits can be reused to improve the information carrying capacity of the frame structure and the flexibility of the communication system. For example, the uplink length field is originally used to indicate the length of uplink data transmission, but one of its bits can be used to indicate other important information when needed.

[0468] In this embodiment, the first station first sends a third message to the second station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The third message indicates to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous transmit / receive NSTR or simultaneous transmit / receive STR link pair between the first link and other links, corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios. The third message is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation. Then, in response to receiving a sixth indication message from the second station, the first station performs the channel switching operation. The sixth indication message indicates that the first station is allowed to perform non-triggered uplink transmission. Then, the first station sends a fourth message to the second station, indicating that the first station transmits data through the switched channel. Thus, by sending the third message before performing the channel switching operation, the first station informs the second station of the link pair status in advance, providing precise control basis for channel switching. The second station can prepare for receiving data based on this information, ensuring that it can quickly and accurately receive data from the first station after the switch, reducing data transmission interruption time and error rate. The sixth indication message allows the first station to perform non-triggered uplink transmission, which increases the flexibility of data transmission. The first station, based on its own data preparation and channel status, can promptly transmit data through the switched channel after receiving permission. This improves channel resource utilization, avoids wasted time waiting for trigger signals, and makes data transmission more efficient. By first indicating the link status and then switching channels and transmitting data accordingly, the two stations can better coordinate their work. In complex network environments and various channel switching scenarios, the system can operate more stably, reducing failures caused by improper channel switching or transmission incoordination, and enhancing the reliability of the entire multi-link device communication system.

[0469] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the tenth embodiment of this disclosure.

[0470] As shown in Figure 18, this communication method is performed by the first station, and the method includes:

[0471] Step 1100: Send third information to the second station. The first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The third information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links, corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios. The third information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation.

[0472] It should be noted that the specific implementation of step 2100 can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0473] Step 1200: In response to receiving the seventh indication information sent by the second station, a channel switching operation is performed, wherein the seventh indication information indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is not allowed.

[0474] The seventh indication message has specific content and function, indicating that the second station does not allow the first station to perform untriggered uplink transmissions. Untriggered uplink transmission is a data transmission method in which a station can initiate uplink data transmission without waiting for a specific trigger signal, and the seventh indication message prohibits the first station from using this transmission method.

[0475] Optionally, after receiving the seventh instruction information, the first station may perform a channel switching operation, that is, the first station may switch from the currently used channel to another channel for communication.

[0476] It should be noted that the specific description of the channel switching operation can be found in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0477] Step 1300: In response to receiving the fifth message sent by the second station, a sixth message is sent to the second station. The fifth message is used to schedule uplink data transmission, and the sixth message instructs the first station to transmit data through the switched channel.

[0478] After receiving the fifth message, the first station can send a sixth message to the second station. The sixth message indicates to the second station that the first station will transmit data through the switched channel according to the previous channel switching operation and the scheduling requirements of the fifth message. This allows the second station to make the necessary preparations for receiving the data, ensuring that the data can be transmitted accurately between the two stations.

[0479] In this system, the second station sends a fifth message to the first station, which can schedule the first station's uplink data transmission. This message can specify the time, method, and priority for sending uplink data. The second station can use this fifth message to arrange data transmission based on its own receiving capabilities, current network load, and other relevant factors, ensuring the efficient and orderly operation of the entire communication system.

[0480] In this embodiment, the first station first sends a third message to the second station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The third message indicates to the second station the state of the non-simultaneous transmission / reception (NSTR) or simultaneous transmission / reception (STR) link pairs between the first link and other links, corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios. The third message is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation. Then, in response to receiving a seventh indication message from the second station, the first station performs the channel switching operation. The seventh indication message indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is not allowed. Subsequently, in response to receiving a fifth message from the second station, the first station sends a sixth message to the second station. The fifth message is used to schedule uplink data transmission, and the sixth message instructs the first station to transmit data through the switched channel. Thus, by sending the third message before the channel switching, the first station enables the second station to understand the state of the NSTR or STR link pairs between the first link and other links in advance. This helps the second station prepare in advance, such as adjusting reception strategies and allocating resources, thereby optimizing the channel switching process, reducing data loss and transmission interruptions during the switching process, and improving the stability and reliability of the system. The seventh instruction explicitly prohibits non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station, making uplink data transmission more orderly and controllable. This precise control avoids channel conflicts and data corruption caused by the first station arbitrarily performing non-triggered transmissions, ensuring that uplink data is transmitted according to system scheduling requirements, thus improving channel resource utilization and data transmission efficiency. The fifth message is used to schedule uplink data transmission, while the sixth message instructs the first station to transmit data through the switched channel. This message interaction mechanism ensures that the first station sends data at the correct time and through the correct channel, and that the second station accurately receives the data. Coordination between the two stations through explicit message instructions reduces the possibility of data transmission errors and guarantees the accuracy and integrity of data transmission.

[0481] Figure 19 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the eleventh embodiment of this disclosure.

[0482] As shown in Figure 19, this communication method is performed by the second station, and the method includes:

[0483] Step 2100: Receive third information sent by the first station. The first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The third information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links, corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios. The third information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation.

[0484] It should be noted that, since the second station in step 2100 of the eleventh embodiment of this disclosure and the first station in step 801 of the eighth embodiment of this disclosure are respectively the receiver and sender of the third message, and the first station and the second station jointly complete the data transmission, the relevant descriptions in the embodiments of this disclosure can refer to the above-mentioned eighth embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0485] Optionally, the second station may send a sixth indication message to the second station, indicating that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is permitted, or send a seventh indication message to the second station, indicating that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is not permitted.

[0486] The descriptions of the sixth and seventh instruction information can be found in the above embodiments.

[0487] Optionally, in some embodiments, if non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is not permitted, the first station may send a fifth message to the second station, the fifth frame being used to schedule uplink data transmission. Alternatively, in some cases where non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is permitted, the first station may also send a fifth message to the second station.

[0488] Optionally, the second station can perform corresponding operations based on the current channel switching scenario and third information.

[0489] As one possible approach, the second station can determine the status of the non-simultaneous transmission and reception (NSTR) or simultaneous transmission and reception (STR) link pairs between the first link and other links based on the third information, and then perform the corresponding operation according to the status of the non-simultaneous transmission and reception (NSTR) or simultaneous transmission and reception (STR) link pairs between the first link and other links.

[0490] Optionally, the second station may maintain the current transmission mode while keeping the link pair status between the first and second links unchanged.

[0491] Alternatively, the second station may stop using the NSTR transmission rule if the link pair status between the first and second links changes from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair.

[0492] Alternatively, the second station may use the NSTR transmission rule if the link pair status between the first and second links changes from STR link pair to NSTR link pair.

[0493] Optionally, the second station may respond to the first station with a seventh message in response to receiving the fourth message sent by the first station, wherein the fourth message indicates that the first station transmits data through the switched channel.

[0494] Optionally, the second station may respond to the first station with a seventh message in response to receiving the sixth message sent by the first station, wherein the seventh message indicates that the second station transmits data through the switched channel.

[0495] The descriptions of the fourth, sixth, and seventh messages can be found in the above embodiments.

[0496] In this embodiment, the second station receives third information sent by the first station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The third information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous transmission / reception (NSTR) or simultaneous transmission / reception (STR) link pairs between the first link and other links, corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios. The third information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation. Therefore, by sending the third information before performing the channel switching operation, the first station can inform the second station in advance of the status of the NSTR or STR link pairs between the first link and other links corresponding to the channel switching scenario. This allows the second station to be aware of the upcoming channel switching and related link status changes in advance, thus having sufficient time to prepare and adjust accordingly, avoiding data transmission interruptions or errors due to sudden channel switching. After learning the link status, the second station can take appropriate measures according to the specific situation, such as adjusting the data transmission strategy, buffering data, or waiting for a suitable time to transmit data, to ensure continuous and stable data transmission during the channel switching process, reduce data loss and transmission delay, and improve the reliability and performance of the entire multi-link device communication system. This information interaction mechanism helps auxiliary stations between different multi-link devices to work together better. The first and second stations can coordinate based on third information, enabling them to remain synchronized during channel switching, adapt to channel changes together, improve the overall operating efficiency and stability of the system, and better meet the communication needs of multi-link devices in complex network environments.

[0497] Figure 20 is another signaling diagram of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 20, the first station can first interact with the second station to determine whether channel switching is supported, and then the first station can send a third message to the second station. After receiving the third message, the second station can perform corresponding operations based on the third message and other information (the current channel switching scenario). The first station can perform channel switching. If the second station does not allow the first station to perform non-triggered uplink transmission, it can send a fifth message to the first station to schedule the first station's uplink data transmission, and then the first station can reply to the second station with a sixth message, indicating that transmission should be performed on the switched channel. If the second station allows the first station to perform non-triggered uplink transmission, the first station can directly reply to the second station with a fourth message. Then, the second station can reply to the first station with a seventh message.

[0498] Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the twelfth embodiment of this disclosure.

[0499] As shown in Figure 21, this communication method is performed by the first station, and the method includes:

[0500] Step 3100: If the first site meets the first condition, the channel switching operation is initiated. The first site is an auxiliary site at one end of the first link between different multi-link devices.

[0501] Optionally, channel switching operations can be disabled if the second condition is met at the first site.

[0502] Optionally, the system may receive a first condition and / or a second condition sent by a second station, wherein the second station is an affiliated station of the first station in the first link.

[0503] Optionally, the first condition includes at least one of the following:

[0504] The first station performing a channel switching operation does not change the NSTR state of other stations on the link.

[0505] The channel switching operation performed by the first site does not change the link relationship between the first link and other links;

[0506] The channel handover operation performed at the first site does not cause the following changes: the link pair between the first link and the second link changes from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair;

[0507] The channel switching operation performed by the first station causes the link pair of the first link and the second link to change from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, and the first station and the second station can transmit normally according to the NSTR transmission rules.

[0508] The channel switching operation performed by the first station does not cause the frequency interval between the first link and the second link to change from greater than or equal to the first preset parameter to less than the first preset parameter;

[0509] The first station performs a channel switching operation, causing the frequency interval between the first link and the second link to change from less than the first preset parameter to greater than or equal to the first preset parameter, and the first station and the second station can transmit normally according to the NSTR transmission rules.

[0510] The stations on the second link did not perform channel switching operations, and the channel switching operations performed by the first station did not cause a change in the link relationship between the first link and the second link;

[0511] A station on the second link performs a channel handover operation, and the channel handover operation by the first station does not cause a change in the link relationship between the first and second links.

[0512] The second link is any link between different multi-link devices other than the first link, and the second station is an auxiliary station of the first station in the first link.

[0513] It should be noted that the channel switching operation performed by the first station does not change the NSTR state of stations on other links. This means that if the channel switching will not affect the NSTR state of stations on links other than the first link, then this condition can be met, and channel switching can be considered. For example, in a multi-link network, if other links are stably conducting NSTR mode communication, the channel switching of the first station should not interfere with this state.

[0514] It should be noted that the channel switching operation performed by the first site does not change the link relationship between the first link and other links. This link relationship includes the link's connection status, priority, data transmission cooperation mode, etc. If switching channels does not change these relationships, this first condition is met. For example, if the first link and other links previously transmitted data independently, this independent relationship should be maintained after the switch.

[0515] It should be noted that the channel handover operation at the first site does not cause the following change: the link pair between the first and second links changes from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair. This is because STR link pairs and NSTR link pairs have different transmission characteristics and application scenarios. If the handover operation does not cause this change in the link pair state, it meets the first condition.

[0516] It should be noted that the channel switching operation performed by the first station causes the link pair between the first and second links to change from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair. Furthermore, both the first and second stations can transmit normally according to the NSTR transmission rules. This means that even though the switching causes the link pair state to change from NSTR to STR, as long as the two stations can still transmit data normally according to the NSTR transmission rules, the first condition is still met. This is usually because although the link pair state changes, the current NSTR rules can still guarantee the stability and effectiveness of data transmission.

[0517] It should be noted that channel switching at the first site does not cause the frequency spacing between the first and second links to change from greater than or equal to a first preset parameter to less than the first preset parameter. Frequency spacing does affect link communication quality. If switching does not reduce the frequency spacing below the first preset parameter, channel switching can be enabled. For example, the first preset parameter specifies that a suitable frequency spacing should be greater than or equal to a certain value to avoid inter-link interference; the switching operation must not violate this condition.

[0518] It should be noted that the channel handover operation performed by the first station causes the frequency spacing between the first link and the second link to change from less than the first preset parameter to greater than or equal to the first preset parameter, and the first station and the second station can transmit normally according to the NSTR transmission rules. That is, when the handover can increase the frequency spacing from a smaller value to meet the preset parameter requirements, and the stations can transmit normally according to the NSTR rules, the first condition is met. This indicates that the handover improves the frequency spacing condition without affecting data transmission.

[0519] It should be noted that if the stations on the second link do not perform channel switching, and the channel switching operation of the first station does not change the link relationship between the first and second links, then the first condition is met when the stations on the second link do not perform channel switching, and the switching of the first station does not change the relationship between the two links. This ensures that, under the condition that other links are relatively stable, the switching of the first station will not cause chaos.

[0520] It should be noted that if a station on the second link performs a channel handover operation, and the channel handover operation of the first station does not change the link relationship between the first and second links, then even if a station on the second link is also performing a channel handover, as long as the handover of the first station does not affect the relationship between the two links, the first condition is still met. This reflects the requirement for link relationship stability in complex multi-link channel handover scenarios.

[0521] Optionally, the second condition includes at least one of the following:

[0522] The first station performs a channel switching operation to change the NSTR state of other stations on the link;

[0523] The first site performs a channel switching operation to change the link relationship between the first link and other links;

[0524] The channel handover operation performed at the first site does not cause the following changes: the link pair between the first link and the second link changes from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair;

[0525] The channel switching operation performed by the first site causes the link pair between the first link and the second link to change from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair;

[0526] The channel switching operation performed by the first station causes the frequency interval between the first link and the second link to change from being greater than or equal to the first preset parameter to being less than the first preset parameter.

[0527] The station on the second link performs a channel switching operation;

[0528] A station on the second link performs a channel switching operation, and the channel switching operation of the first station causes a change in the link relationship between the first link and the second link.

[0529] The channel switching operation performed by the first site causes the link pair between the first and second links to change from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, and causes the first site to adopt the STR transmission rule while the second site adopts the NSTR transmission rule.

[0530] The channel switching operation performed by the first station causes the frequency interval between the first link and the second link to change from greater than or equal to a first preset parameter to less than the first preset parameter, and causes the first station to use the STR transmission rule while the second station uses the NSTR transmission rule.

[0531] The second link is any link between different multi-link devices other than the first link, and the second station is an auxiliary station of the first station in the first link.

[0532] It should be noted that if the first station performs a channel switching operation, changing the NSTR state of other stations on the link, then, contrary to the first condition, the second condition is satisfied if the channel switching changes the NSTR state of other link stations. For example, other links that were originally working normally in NSTR mode may be unable to perform NSTR communication normally due to the switching.

[0533] It should be noted that when the first site performs a channel switching operation, it changes the link relationship between the first link and other links. If the switching operation has an adverse effect on the link relationship, such as disrupting the original cooperative transmission relationship, then channel switching must be disabled.

[0534] It should be noted that the channel handover operation performed by the first station does not cause the following changes: the link pair of the first link and the second link changes from a STR link pair to an NSTR link pair. This is the same as the description in the first condition, but the meaning in the second condition is that if it is desired that the link pair state changes from STR to NSTR to optimize communication, and the handover operation cannot achieve this change, then the second condition is satisfied.

[0535] It should be noted that when the first station performs a channel switching operation, the link pair between the first link and the second link changes from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair. If this change in the link pair state does not meet the current communication requirements of the system, such as the need to maintain an STR link pair in certain situations to achieve high-speed transmission, then the second condition is met.

[0536] It should be noted that the channel switching operation performed by the first site causes the frequency interval between the first link and the second link to change from being greater than or equal to the first preset parameter to being less than the first preset parameter. Conversely, when the switching causes the frequency interval to decrease and fall below the preset parameter, it may cause problems such as inter-link interference. Therefore, the second condition is met.

[0537] It should be noted that if a station on the second link is already performing a channel switching operation, in order to avoid the complexity and uncertainty caused by too many switching operations, the channel switching of the first station may be disabled.

[0538] It should be noted that when a station on the second link performs a channel switching operation, and the first station performs a channel switching operation, the link relationship between the first and second links changes. When switching between the second and first links would disrupt the relationship between the two links, it is obvious that the channel switching of the first station should be disabled.

[0539] It should be noted that the channel switching operation performed by the first station causes the link pair between the first and second links to change from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, and causes the first station to use the STR transmission rule while the second station uses the NSTR transmission rule. This inconsistent transmission rule may lead to communication chaos, thus satisfying the second condition.

[0540] It should be noted that the channel switching operation performed by the first station caused the frequency interval between the first link and the second link to change from greater than or equal to the first preset parameter to less than the first preset parameter. This also caused the first station to use the STR transmission rule and the second station to use the NSTR transmission rule. This indicates that the change in frequency interval, coupled with the inconsistent transmission rules, seriously affects the communication quality, thus satisfying the second condition.

[0541] In summary, this ensures that the link status of the entire multi-link device system remains relatively stable during channel switching, and that the channel switching of the first site will not cause unexpected changes in the status of other links, thereby maintaining the normal operation of the system and the stability of data transmission.

[0542] Figure 22 is a data interaction diagram between multi-link devices provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The first and fourth stations belong to the first MLD, and the second and third stations belong to the second MLD. First, the second station can switch to the second channel and then send a fourth frame to the first station. The fourth frame contains first information indicating that the relationship between the second and third stations changes from STR to NSTR. Then, after receiving the first information, the first station can enable the NSTR transmission rule, and the first and fourth stations perform PPDU end-time alignment. The third station switches to the fourth channel and sends the first information to the fourth station, indicating that its relationship with the second station changes from NSTR to STR. Then, the first and fourth stations cancel the NSTR transmission rule. The second station switches to the first primary channel, and its relationship with the third station changes from STR to NSTR. Afterwards, the first and fourth stations enable the NSTR transmission rule, the third station switches back to the second primary channel, and its relationship with the second station reverts from NSTR to the initial STR relationship by default. Then, the first and fourth stations cancel the NSTR transmission rule.

[0543] Figure 23 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 111 provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 23, the communication device 111 includes a processor 211 and a memory 311, which are communicatively connected. The communication device 111 can be, for example, but not limited to, an access point site, a non-access point site, an environmental power supply device, etc. In some embodiments, the communication device 111 may further include a transceiver for transmitting / receiving data, or may only include a transmitting circuit for transmitting data, or only include a receiving circuit for receiving data. The memory 311 of the communication device 111 is used to store program instructions, which can be executed by the processor 211 to implement the wireless communication method described in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0544] It should be understood that the processor in this embodiment of the disclosure may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, the steps of the above method embodiments can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by software instructions.

[0545] It is understood that the memory in the embodiments of this disclosure may be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. It should be noted that the memory of the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory. Embodiments of this disclosure also provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program.

[0546] Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium can be applied to the communication device in any embodiment of this disclosure, and the computer program causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the communication device in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For simplicity, further details are omitted here. Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium can be applied to the access point in any embodiment of this disclosure, and the computer program causes the computer to execute the processes implemented by the access point in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For simplicity, further details are omitted here. Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium can be applied to an ambient power supply device or a non-access point site in any embodiment of this disclosure, and the computer program causes the computer to execute the processes implemented by the ambient power supply device or the non-access point site in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For simplicity, further details are omitted here.

[0547] This disclosure also provides a computer program product, including computer program instructions.

[0548] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the communication device in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the computer program instructions cause the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the communication device in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0549] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software 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 disclosure.

[0550] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments.

[0551] In each of the disclosed embodiments, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of the embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0552] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0553] It is understood that some optional features in the embodiments of this disclosure 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. Accordingly, the apparatus given in the embodiments of this disclosure can also implement these features or functions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0554] In this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other. In the various embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise specified or there is a logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced mutually. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships. The following descriptions of the embodiments of this disclosure do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0555] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this disclosure, but the scope of protection of this disclosure is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection of this disclosure should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, wherein, Performed by the first site, including: Send the first message to the second station. Wherein, the first site and the second site are auxiliary sites at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The channel switching operation is to switch from the first primary channel to another channel, where the first primary channel is the primary channel currently in which the first station is located.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The link relationship between the first link and other links changes in one of the following ways: Keep the non-simultaneous NSTR link pairs unchanged; Maintain the simultaneous transmit and receive STR link pairs unchanged; The NSTR link pair was converted into an STR link pair; The STR link pairs are converted into NSTR link pairs.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The other links include one or more links, and the link relationship between the first link and other links is an NSTR link pair or an STR link pair.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first information includes first indication information and / or second indication information, wherein, The first indication information indicates the status of the first link and other links' STR or NSTR link pairs through a bitmap; The second indication information indicates the state changes of the first link and other links' STR or NSTR links through a bit map.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, The message carrying the first information includes one or more of the following: The NSTR status update field is used to indicate changes in the link relationship between the first link and other links; The NSTR bitmap length field is used to indicate the length of the NSTR state update bitmap or the NSTR indicator bitmap. The NSTR state update presence field is used to indicate whether the NSTR state update bitmap or the NSTR indication bitmap exists.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, The bitmap corresponding to the first indication information contains one or more first bits, each first bit representing the STR or NSTR link pair status between the i-th link and the j-th link, wherein the i-th link and the j-th link are links among the first link and other links; or, The bitmap corresponding to the second indication information contains one or more second bits, each second bit indicating whether the state of the STR or NSTR link pair between the i-th link and the j-th link has changed.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first information is an indication of data transmission applicable after the current channel switch; or, The first information is an indication of the current channel switching operation and subsequent channel switching operations.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first site is an auxiliary site of the first multi-link device (MLD), and the first multi-link device (MLD) is of one of the following types: Enhanced multi-link single-RF station; Multi-link single RF station; Enhanced multi-link, multi-RF station; or Multi-link, multi-RF station.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first site is an auxiliary site of the first multi-link device (MLD). The second site is an auxiliary site of the second multi-link device (MLD). The first MLD is an access-type AP device or a non-access-type non-AP device; The second MLD is an access device; The first site is either an access-type AP site or a non-access-type non-AP site. The second site is an access-type AP site.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The first information is used to instruct the second station: The state relationship of the NSTR link pair corresponding to the first MLD and / or the change in the state relationship of the NSTR link pair.

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The channel switching operation is of the following types: Dynamic Subchannel Switching (DSO) operation, Non-Main Channel Access (NPCA) operation, or Enhanced Multi-Link (EML) operation.

13. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Before sending the first information to the second station, the process also includes: Receive the second information sent by the second station; The second information indicates that the station has the NSTR link pair status update capability.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The second information is located in the Ultra-High Reliability Media Access Control (UHRA) capability information, which includes the NSTR status update field and the NPCA capability field for NPCA support. The NSTR status update field for NPCA support indicates whether the site has NSTR link pair status update capability during NPCA. The NPCA capability field indicates whether the site supports NPCA switching operations.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The second information is indicated by the Multilink Element (MLIE) information.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The MLIE information includes a common information field, a multi-link control field, and a link information field.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The second information is carried in the multi-link control field and / or the shared information field; The second information is shared by all stations on the multi-link device where the second station is located.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The second information is carried in the link information field; The second information is possessed by some stations on the multi-link device where the second station is located, and the partial stations are one or more stations.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein, The link information field and the multi-link control field include a second information existence field, a second information length field, and a second information field; or, the multi-link control field includes only the second information existence field and the second information length field. The shared information field includes the second information field; The second information length field indicates the length of the second information field. If the second information existence field indicates that it exists, then the second information length field and / or the second information field exists.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The link information fields include site control fields, site information fields, and site configuration file fields. The second information field is located in the site control field, the site information field, or the site configuration file field.

21. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Before sending the first information to the second station, the method further includes: In response to receiving the third indication information sent by the second station, a channel switching operation is performed; The first information is carried in the first message, and the third indication information indicates that the first site is allowed to perform non-triggered uplink transmission.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein, The first message is the Initial Control Frame (ICF).

23. The method according to claim 21, wherein, The first message is either a buffer status report polling BSRP frame or a BSRP guard interval GI3 frame. or, The first message is carried in a non-high-throughput physical layer protocol data unit (non-HT PPDU) format. or, The first message is carried in the format of non-high throughput duplicate physical layer protocol data unit (non-HT duplicate PPDU).

24. The method according to claim 21, wherein, The first message indicates the first information through the reserved bits in the common information field; or, The first message indicates the first information by triggering relevant shared information fields or special user fields; or, The first message indicates the first information through the ultra-high reliability special user information field in the common information field, and the ultra-high reliability special user information field is marked in advance.

25. The method according to claim 21, wherein, The first message indicates the receiving station in the user information field, wherein, When the number of receiving stations is one, the receiving station is the first station. Alternatively, if there are multiple receiving stations, the receiving stations are the first station and other stations in the MLD where the first station is located. The first message indicates the receiving station via an associated identifier.

26. The method according to claim 21, wherein, The first message is sent via unicast, and the receiving address field in the header of the first message indicates the receiving station.

27. The method according to claim 21, wherein, When the first message is a BSRP GI3 frame, the guard interval and the high-performance / ultra-high-throughput / ultra-high-reliability long training field type GI And HE / EHT / UHR-LTF Type indication are set to the first preset value, and / or the physical layer protocol data unit (PPDU) sent in response to the first message uses the non-HT PPDU format or the non-HT duplicate PPDU format; or, In the case that the first message is a BSRP frame, the GI And HE / EHT / UHR-TLF Type indication is not the first preset value, and the PPDU sent in response to the first message uses the triggered response TB PPDU format.

28. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Before sending the first information to the second station, the method further includes: In response to receiving the fourth indication information sent by the second station, a channel switching operation is performed. The fourth indication indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission is not allowed at the first station.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein, Also includes: Receive a second message sent by the second station, the second message being used to schedule uplink data transmission. The first information is carried in the third message.

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The second message is an Initial Control Frame (ICF), and the type of the second message includes any of the following: Multi-User Request to Send Frame, BSRP Frame, or BSRP GI3 Frame.

31. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The second message contains a fifth indication, which indicates whether the second message was sent in the switched channel. The second message indicates the fifth indication information through the reserved bits in the shared information field; or, The second message indicates the fifth indication information by triggering relevant shared information fields or special user fields; or, The fifth indication information is carried in the ultra-high reliability special user information field in the common information field of the second message, and the ultra-high reliability special user information field is marked in advance.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein, The second message is a multi-user request to send a frame, and the fifth indication information is carried in any of the following fields: Uplink length field; High-efficiency long training field pattern for multiple users, multiple inputs, and multiple outputs; High efficiency in reducing the number of symbols in long training fields and the periodicity of the mid-guide frequency field; Uplink spatial time block encoding field; Low-density parity check code extra symbol segment; Access point transmit power field; Forward error correction pre-population factor field; Phase error disambiguation field; Uplink space reuse field; or Doppler field.

33. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The second message is a trigger frame, and the resource unit allocation field of the trigger frame is indexed based on the switched channel.

34. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The third message is either an Initial Response Frame (ICR) or a Control Response Frame (CRF), and the second message is an ICF. In the case that the second message is a multi-user request to send a MU-RTS frame, the third message is a clearing message to send a CTS frame.

35. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The third message indicates the receiving station in the user information field, wherein, When there is only one receiving station, the receiving station is the first station; or, when there are multiple receiving stations, the receiving station is the first station and other stations.

36. The method according to claim 35, wherein, The third message indicates the receiving station via an associated identifier. or, The third message indicates the receiving station via an 11-bit or 12-bit association identifier.

37. The method of claim 35, wherein, The third message indicates the receiving station via the identifier of the access point (AP) station.

38. The method according to claim 29, wherein, In the case that the second message is a BSRP frame, the third message is a frame that includes BSR information.

39. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The third message is a frame or CTS frame that includes BSR information, and also includes: If the first condition is met, a third message is sent to the second station; Alternatively, if the second condition is met, the third message may not be sent.

40. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The third message contains first control information, which is used to instruct the first message, wherein... The control information includes control flags, which are used to identify the type of control information. The control flag in the first control information indicates that the control information type is the first information.

41. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The frame structure of the third message is a Multi-Site Block Confirmation (MBA) frame, and the MBA frame contains one or more: Association Identifier - Traffic Identifier Information (AID) TID Info field; The first information is placed in the AID TID Info field or the block confirmation bitmap field.

42. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The third message contains an associated identifier. When the associated identifier is a first target value, the AID TID Info field corresponding to the first target value contains the first information. or, The first information is located in the associated identifier.

43. The method according to claim 29, wherein, The third message is an MBA frame. The first combined value indicates whether the target indication information field exists, and the first information is located in the target indication information field.

44. The method according to claim 43, wherein, The target indication information field includes a block confirmation start sequence control field and a block confirmation bitmap field, wherein the block confirmation bitmap field indicates the first information or NSTR link status update information.

45. A communication method, wherein, Performed by the second site, including: Receive first information sent by the first station, wherein the first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices; The first information is used to indicate to the second station the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links after the channel switching operation.

46. ​​The method according to claim 45, wherein, After receiving the first information sent by the first station, the method further includes: Based on the first information, perform the corresponding operation.

47. The method according to claim 46, wherein, The step of performing the corresponding operation based on the first information includes: If the link relationship between the first link and the second link remains unchanged as indicated by the first information, the current transmission method shall remain unchanged. or, If the first information indicates that the link relationship between the first link and the second link has changed from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, then the NSTR transmission rule is stopped. or, When the first information indicates that the link relationship between the first link and the second link has changed from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair, the NSTR transmission rule is adopted.

48. The method according to claim 46, wherein, Before receiving the first information sent by the first station, the method further includes: Send a third or fourth instruction message to the first station. The third indication information indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission is permitted at the first station; The fourth indication indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission is not allowed at the first site.

49. The method according to claim 48, wherein, Before receiving the first information sent by the first station, the method further includes: A second message is sent to the first station, the second message being used to schedule uplink data transmission.

50. The method of claim 46, wherein, Also includes: Send the second message to the first station; The second information indicates that the station has the NSTR link pair status update capability.

51. A communication method, wherein, Performed by the first site, the method includes: Send a third message to the second station. The first and second stations are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The third piece of information is used to instruct the second station: Corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios, the status of the non-simultaneous transmission and reception (NSTR) or simultaneous transmission and reception (STR) link pairs between the first link and other links, the third information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation.

52. The method according to claim 51, wherein, The number of other links is one or more, and the second link belongs to any of the other links. The channel switching scenario includes one or more of the following: The first link / first station switches from the first primary channel to the first secondary channel, while the second link remains on the second primary channel; The first link / first site switches from the first main channel to the first channel, and the second link switches from the second main channel to the second channel.

53. The method according to claim 51, wherein, The link relationship between the first link and the second link changes in one of the following ways: Keep non-NSTR link pairs unchanged; Keep the STR link pairs unchanged; The NSTR link pair was converted into an STR link pair; The STR link pairs are converted into NSTR link pairs.

54. The method according to claim 51, wherein, In any channel handover scenario, the corresponding content is: if the first link and the second link are an NSTR link pair after the channel handover, the third information indicates that the link pair changes for each channel handover scenario as follows: the first link and the second link are an NSTR link pair after the channel handover; or, In each channel switching scenario, the corresponding content is as follows: if the first link and the second link are STR link pairs after the channel switching, the third information indicates that the link pairs corresponding to each channel switching scenario change as follows: the first link and the second link are STR link pairs after the channel switching.

55. The method according to claim 51, wherein, After sending the third information to the second station, the following is also included: Perform a channel switching operation.

56. The method according to claim 51, wherein, Also includes: In response to receiving the sixth or seventh indication information sent by the second station, a channel switching operation is performed, wherein... The sixth indication information indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission is permitted at the first station; The seventh indication indicates that non-triggered uplink transmission is not allowed at the first site.

57. The method according to claim 56, wherein, A fourth message is sent to the second station, wherein the fourth message instructs the first station to transmit data through the switched channel.

58. The method according to claim 56, wherein, Also includes: In response to receiving the fifth message from the second station, a sixth message is sent to the second station. The fifth message is used to schedule uplink data transmission. The sixth message instructs the first station to transmit data through the switched channel.

59. The method according to claim 57, wherein, The fourth message is sent in unicast form, and the receiving address in the fourth message frame header indicates that the receiving station is the second station.

60. The method of claim 57, wherein, After sending the fourth message to the second station, the method further includes: The system receives a seventh message in response from the second station, wherein the seventh message indicates that the second station transmits data through the switched channel.

61. The method according to claim 60, wherein, When the fourth message is an initial control frame, the bearer format of the seventh message is either a non-HT PPDU format or a non-HT duplicate PPDU format; or, In the case that the fourth message is a BSRP GI3 frame, the seventh message is a Multi-Site Block Acknowledgment (MBA) frame.

62. The method according to claim 57, wherein, The fourth message indicates that it is sent via the switched channel in one or more of the following ways: Indicated in the common information field; Indicated by the reserved bits in the common information field; Indicated in the common information field related to the trigger frame; Indicated in the special user field; Use the bit indications available at non-AP sites; This is indicated by the ultra-high reliability special user information field in the common information field, which is pre-marked.

63. The method according to claim 62, wherein, The available bits in the non-AP site belong to one or more of the following fields: Uplink length field; More trigger frame fields; Carrier sensing field required; Low-density parity check code extra symbol segment; Phase error disambiguation field; Uplink space reuse field; Bandwidth mode field; The internal frame verification sequence contains fields.

64. The method according to claim 51, wherein, Sending the third information to the second station includes: If the second station notifies the first station that it supports the channel switching operation, and the first station supports the channel switching operation, then the third information is sent to the second station. or, If the first station supports channel switching operations, the third information is sent to the second station.

65. The method according to claim 51, wherein, Also includes: A fourth message is sent to the second station, the fourth message being used to notify the second station whether the first station supports channel switching operations.

66. The method according to claim 51, wherein, The third piece of information is carried within the ultra-high reliability media access control capability information; or, The third information is carried in the Operations Management Notification (OMN) or the Operations Management Instruction (OMI); or, The third information is carried in the structure of the Multilink Element (MLIE); or, The third information is carried in a variant structure of the Multilink Element (MLIE); or, The third piece of information is used as an operation parameter; or, When the channel switching operation is an NPCA operation, the content of the third information is carried by the action frame AF.

67. A communication method, wherein, Performed by the second site, including: The system receives third information sent by the first station, where the first station and the second station are auxiliary stations at both ends of the first link between different multi-link devices. The third piece of information is used to instruct the second station: Corresponding to one or more channel switching scenarios, the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pairs between the first link and other links. The third piece of information is sent by the first station before performing the channel switching operation.

68. The method according to claim 67, wherein, Also includes: Send a sixth indication message to the second station, the sixth indication message indicating that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is permitted; or, A seventh indication message is sent to the second station, indicating that non-triggered uplink transmission by the first station is not permitted.

69. The method according to claim 67, wherein, A fifth message is sent to the second station, the fifth frame being used to schedule uplink data transmission.

70. The method of claim 67, wherein, After receiving the third information sent by the first station, the method further includes: Based on the current channel switching scenario and the third information, perform the corresponding operation.

71. The method according to claim 70, wherein, The step of performing corresponding operations based on the current channel switching scenario and the third information includes: Based on the third information, determine the state of the non-simultaneous NSTR or simultaneous STR link pair between the first link and other links corresponding to the current channel switching scenario. Based on the status of the non-simultaneous NSTR transmission and reception or simultaneous STR transmission and reception link pairs between the first link and other links, perform the corresponding operation.

72. The method according to claim 71, wherein, The step of performing corresponding operations based on the state of the non-simultaneous NSTR transmission and reception or simultaneous STR transmission link pair between the first link and other links includes: While keeping the link pair state between the first and second links unchanged, the current transmission method remains unchanged; or, If the link pair status between the first link and the second link changes from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, the NSTR transmission rule will be stopped. or, When the link pair status between the first link and the second link changes from STR link pair to NSTR link pair, the NSTR transmission rule is adopted.

73. The method according to claim 70, wherein, After performing the corresponding operation based on the current channel switching scenario and the third information, the method further includes: In response to receiving a fourth message from the first station, a seventh message is sent back to the first station, wherein the fourth message indicates that the first station transmits data through the switched channel; or, In response to receiving a sixth message from the first station, the second station replies with a seventh message to the first station, wherein the seventh message indicates that the second station transmits data through the switched channel.

74. A communication method, wherein, Performed by the first site, the method includes: If the first condition is met at the first site, the channel handover operation is initiated. The first site is an auxiliary site at one end of the first link between different multi-link devices.

75. The method according to claim 74, wherein, Also includes: If the second condition is met at the first site, the channel switching operation is disabled.

76. The method of claim 75, wherein, Also includes: Receive the first condition and / or the second condition sent by the second station, wherein the second station is an affiliated station of the first station in the first link.

77. The method according to claim 74, wherein, The first condition includes at least one of the following: The channel switching operation performed by the first station does not change the NSTR state of the stations in the other links; The channel switching operation performed by the first station does not change the link relationship between the first link and the other links; The channel switching operation performed by the first station does not cause the following changes: the link pair of the first link and the second link changes from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair; The first station performs a channel switching operation, causing the link pair between the first link and the second link to change from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, and the first station and the second station can transmit normally according to the NSTR transmission rules. The channel switching operation performed by the first station does not cause the frequency interval between the first link and the second link to change from greater than or equal to the first preset parameter to less than the first preset parameter; The first station performs a channel switching operation, causing the frequency interval between the first link and the second link to change from less than the first preset parameter to greater than or equal to the first preset parameter, and the first station and the second station can transmit normally according to the NSTR transmission rules; The stations on the second link did not perform channel switching operations, and the channel switching operations performed by the first station did not cause a change in the link relationship between the first link and the second link; A station on the second link performs a channel switching operation, and the channel switching operation performed by the first station does not cause a change in the link relationship between the first link and the second link. Wherein, the second link is any link between the different multi-link devices other than the first link, and the second station is an auxiliary station of the counterpart of the first station in the first link.

78. The method according to claim 75, wherein, The second condition includes at least one of the following: The first station performs a channel switching operation to change the NSTR state of the other stations in the link; The first station performs a channel switching operation to change the link relationship between the first link and the other links; The channel switching operation performed by the first station does not cause the following changes: the link pair of the first link and the second link changes from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair; The channel switching operation performed by the first station causes the link pair between the first link and the second link to change from an STR link pair to an NSTR link pair; The first station performs a channel switching operation, causing the frequency spacing between the first link and the second link to change from greater than or equal to the first preset parameter to less than the first preset parameter; The stations on the second link perform channel switching operations; The station on the second link performs a channel switching operation, and the channel switching operation of the first station causes a change in the link relationship between the first link and the second link; The channel switching operation performed by the first station causes the link pair between the first link and the second link to change from an NSTR link pair to an STR link pair, and causes the first station to adopt the STR transmission rule while the second station adopts the NSTR transmission rule. The channel switching operation performed by the first station causes the frequency spacing between the first link and the second link to change from greater than or equal to the first preset parameter to less than the first preset parameter, and causes the first station to adopt the STR transmission rule while the second station adopts the NSTR transmission rule. Wherein, the second link is any link between the different multi-link devices other than the first link, and the second station is an auxiliary station of the counterpart of the first station in the first link.

79. A communication device, wherein, It includes a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program, and the processor running the computer program in the memory to perform the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 78.

80. A computer-readable storage medium, wherein, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program adapted for loading by a processor to perform the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 78.

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