[0001]　The present disclosure relates to a communication device and a communication method.
Background technique
[0002]
　In recent years, the spread of the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 802.11 wireless LAN, which is representative (Local Area Network) is progressing. In addition, it is also increasing wireless LAN enabled products along with it.
[0003]
　In contrast, techniques for efficient communication have been developed for a plurality of communication devices. Such techniques include, for example, multicast method for transmitting a frame at a time to one or more communication devices.
[0004]
　Here, from the viewpoint of improving the reliability of communication, for the multicast frame, similarly to the unicast frame, acknowledgment for a frame (hereinafter, also referred to as ACK (Acknowledgment).) In some cases it is desirable to perform to take . Such acknowledgment, there is BA (Block ACK) for the acknowledgment for a plurality of frames.
[0005]
　For example, in Patent Document 1, after transmitting the multicast frame to each terminal, BAR (Block ACK Request) frame the terminal the transmission and reception of the BA frame to be responding to the BAR frame indicating a transmission request of the BA frame invention is disclosed according to the radio communication apparatus for performing sequentially each time for each.
CITATION
Patent Literature
[0006]
Patent Document 1: JP 2009-049704 JP
Summary of the Invention
Problems that the Invention is to Solve
[0007]
　However, in the invention disclosed in Patent Document 1, there are cases where efficient use of radio communication resources is difficult. For example, wireless communication resources for acknowledgment for multicast frames are allocated in time series every terminal as the acknowledgment of the subject. Therefore, until the acknowledgment for all of the terminal is terminated, it may be difficult to assign a radio communication resource to another communication.
[0008]
　Further, the above is not limited to the multicast communication, a frame to a plurality of destinations are transmitted, it may occur also in other communications such as frame multiplexing communication.
[0009]
　Therefore, in the present disclosure proposes that can satisfy both the effective use of the reliability and the wireless communication resources of the communication frame into a plurality of destinations are transmitted, a new and improved communication apparatus and communication method .
Means for Solving the Problems
[0010]
　According to the present disclosure, a communication unit that communicates a frame, the communication unit comprises a frequency allocation information transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame is identified, the acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame transmitted, on the basis of the frequency assignment information, to receive the acknowledgment frame that is frequency division multiplexing, a communication device is provided.
[0011]
　Further, according to the present disclosure, a communication unit that communicates a frame, the communication unit comprises a frequency allocation information transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame is identified, the delivery confirmation request for the acknowledgment frame receives the frame, transmitting the acknowledgment frame on the basis of the frequency assignment information, the acknowledgment frame is frequency-division multiplexed communication system is provided.
[0012]
　Further, according to the present disclosure, be transmitted by a communication unit for communicating a frame, the transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame includes frequency allocation information specified, the acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame and , based on the frequency allocation information includes receiving the acknowledgment frame that is frequency division multiplexing, a communication method is provided.
[0013]
　Further, according to the present disclosure, the communication unit for communicating frames include frequency allocation information transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame is specified, receives an acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame and includes, and transmitting the acknowledgment frame on the basis of the frequency assignment information, the acknowledgment frame is frequency-division multiplexing communication method is provided.
Effect of the invention
[0014]
　According to the present disclosure described above, a communication apparatus and a communication method capable of achieving both effective use of reliability and radio communications resources of the communications frame into a plurality of destinations it is transmitted is provided . Incidentally, the above effect is not necessarily restrictive, with the above effects, or instead of the above effects, any effects shown herein, or other effects that may be grasped from the description, it may be achieved.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015]
Is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication system according to an embodiment of FIG. 1 the present disclosure.
It is a diagram for explaining an acknowledgment in [2] conventional multicast communication.
3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an existing BAR frame.
4 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic functional configuration of the AP and STA according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
It is a diagram for explaining an example of assignment of AP of the wireless communication resources according to [5] The present embodiment.
It is a diagram for explaining another example of assignment of AP of the wireless communication resources according to [6] The present embodiment.
7 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the acknowledgment request frame transmitted by the AP according to the present embodiment.
8 is a flowchart conceptually showing a process of an AP according to the present embodiment.
9 is a flowchart conceptually showing a process of a STA according to the present embodiment.
10 is a diagram for an example of allocation of radio communication resources of the AP according to the first modification will be described in this embodiment.
11 is a diagram for explaining an example of allocation of radio communication resources of the AP according to the second modification of the present embodiment.
Is a block diagram illustrating an example of FIG. 12 schematic configuration of a smart phone.
13 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a car navigation system.
14 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a wireless access point.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0016]
　Reference will now be described in detail preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. In the specification and the drawings, components having substantially the same function and structure are a repeated explanation thereof by referring to the figures.
[0017]
　Further, in the present specification and drawings, a plurality of structural elements having substantially the same functional configuration may be distinguished by affixing a different number after the same reference numerals. For example, distinguished as a substantially more components having the same functions, such as STA 20 # 1 and STA 20 # 2 as necessary. However, substantially when it is not necessary to distinguish the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numeral. For example, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the STA 20 # 1 and STA 20 # 2 are simply referred to as STA 20.
[0018]
　The description will be made in the following order.
　1. Outline of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
　2. Communication apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
　　2-1. Configuration of the apparatus
　　2-2. Technical features
　　2-3. Processing of the device
　　2-4. Modification
　3. Application Example
　4. Conclusion
[0019]
　<1. Overview of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure>
　First, with reference to FIG. 1, an outline of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0020]
　Communication system, and a communication device 10 and the plurality of communication devices 20. The communication device 10 and the communication device 20 has a wireless communication function. In particular, the communication apparatus 10 has the function of multicast communication for transmitting a frame to one or more communication devices. The communication device 10 includes an access point (hereinafter, also referred to as AP (Access Point).) Operates as the communication device 20 the station (hereinafter, STA (also referred to as Station).) Operating as. Hereinafter, it refers to the communication apparatus 10 also AP 10, also referred to as a communication device 20 STA 20. Therefore, the communication system may multicast communication from AP10 to multiple STA 20. In addition, DL (downlink) the communication from the AP10 to STA20, also refers to the communication from the STA20 to AP10 UL and (uplink).
[0021]
　For example, the communication system, as shown in FIG. 1, may be configured in AP10 and more STA20 # 1 ~ 20 # 4. AP10 and STA20 # 1 ~ 20 # 4 is connected via a wireless communication to transmit and receive directly the frame to each other. For example, AP 10 is a communication device that conforms to IEEE 802.11, and transmits the multicast frames destined for each of the STA20 # 1 ~ 20 # 4.
[0022]
　Here, in order to improve the reliability of the multicast communication, it is conceivable to perform the acknowledgment for multicast frames. Specifically, as acknowledgment of the multicast frame, BAR frame and BA frame after the transmission of the multicast frame (hereinafter also acknowledgment frame referred to.) Exchange is carried out. Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 2, the acknowledgment in the conventional multicast communication. Figure 2 is a diagram for explaining the delivery confirmation in the conventional multicast communication.
[0023]
　Wireless communication resources for transmission of the acknowledgment frame for multicast frames are allocated in time series for each STA acknowledgment object. For example, BAR # wireless communication resources for 1 ~ # 4 frame and BA # 1 ~ # 4 frame transmission is, in turn respectively allocated along the time axis as shown in FIG. 2 for STA # 1 to # 4 It is.
[0024]
　The following describes how the communication for conventional multicast communication and acknowledgment.
[0025]
　First, AP, after transmitting the multicast frame to each STA, transmits a BAR frame for chronologically each STA. For example, AP after the transmission of the multicast frame, each of the STA # 1 ~ # 4, BAR # 1 ~ # respectively turn the 4-frame time to transmit as shown in FIG.
[0026]
　Also, each of the STA, the BAR frame is received, and transmits a BA frame to the AP. For example, each of the STA # 1 ~ # 4, when BAR # 1 ~ # 4 frames are received respectively, and transmits the BA # 1 ~ # 4 frame as shown in FIG. 2, each AP.
[0027]
　Thus, in the delivery confirmation in the conventional multicast communication, wireless communication resources for acknowledgment is assigned in time series for each STA. Therefore, until the acknowledgment for all STA is terminated, there are cases where it is difficult to allocate the radio communication resource to another communication. This also is not limited to the multicast communication, a frame to a plurality of destinations are transmitted, it may occur also in communication, such as a frame multiplexing communication.
[0028]
　Also, if the amount than less data to be transmitted in the frame data for the transmission confirmation is subject to its acknowledgment, there is the radio communication resources are wasted. Referring to FIG. 3 will be described in detail waste of radio communication resources in a communication for delivery confirmation. Figure 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an existing BAR frame.
[0029]
　Here, communication for acknowledgment is generally performed using a bandwidth substantially identical to the bandwidth used in transmission of frames to be acknowledgment of the subject. For example, BAR frame and BA frame is transmitted in the same bandwidth as the bandwidth used for the transmission of the multicast frame.
[0030]
　On the other hand, the data size for transmission confirmation, if smaller than the data size of the data frame is not low. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, BAR frame, a PHY (Physical Layer) Header (PHY header), MAC (Media Access Control) Header (MAC header), BA Control, BA Info and FCS (Frame Check Sequence) including. The data size of the BAR frame is the most 152 octets (bytes), as shown in FIG. 3, the data size of the data frame is larger than most 152 octets (bytes). Therefore, in such a case would excessive bandwidth allocated to communication for acknowledgment.
[0031]
　Accordingly, the present disclosure proposes effective utilization and capable of both communication devices improve wireless communication resources in the reliability of communication frame into a plurality of destinations are transmitted. The following will explain the details. Incidentally, in FIG. 1 as an example of a communication system, the communication system has been described an example composed of AP10 and STA 20, instead of AP10, one of the STA 20 with multiple direct links with other STA 20 it may be a communication device. In that case, the DL described above "simultaneous transmissions from one STA to multiple STA", UL described above may be read as "simultaneous transmissions from a plurality of STA to one STA".
[0032]
　<2. Communication device> according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
　has been described above overview of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Next, a description will be given AP10 and STA20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the following, the acknowledgment request frame and acknowledgment frame, an example of the BAR frame and BA frames are exchanged.
[0033]
　　<2-1. Configuration of Apparatus>
　First, with reference to FIG. 4 describes the basic functional configuration of the AP10 and STA20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic functional configuration of the AP10 and STA20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0034]
　AP10 and STA20 comprises as shown in FIG. 4, the data processing unit 11, wireless communication unit 12, the control unit 13 and the storage unit 14.
[0035]
　The data processing unit 11, as part of the communication unit performs a process for transmitting and receiving the data. Specifically, the data processing unit 11 generates a frame based on the data from the communication upper layer, providing a frame to be generated to the radio communication unit 12. For example, the data processing unit 11 generates a frame (or packet) from the data, performs processing such as addition of additional and error detection code of the MAC header for medium access control (MAC) in the frame to be generated. The data processing unit 11 extracts the data from the frame received, provides data extracted in communication upper layer. For example, the data processing unit 11, the frame to be received, the analysis of the MAC header, detection and correction of bit error, and to obtain data by performing reordering processing.
[0036]
　The wireless communication unit 12, as part of the communication unit, and a signal processing function and a wireless interface function, and the like.
[0037]
　Signal processing function is a function for performing signal processing such as modulation for the frame. Specifically, the radio communication unit 12 adds the frame provided from the data processing unit 11, in accordance with coding and modulation schemes such as are set by the control unit 13, the encoding performs interleaving and modulation, preamble, a PHY header generating a symbol stream by. The radio communication unit 12, the symbol stream obtained by the processing of the radio interface functions, acquires the frame by performing demodulation and decoding, etc., to provide a frame to be acquired to the data processing unit 11 or the control unit 13.
[0038]
　Wireless interface function is a function of transmitting and receiving signals via the antenna. Specifically, the radio communication unit 12, a signal according to the symbol stream obtained by the processing of the signal processing functions, is converted into an analog signal, amplifies, filters, and frequency upconverts. The wireless communication unit 12 transmits the signal processed through the antenna. The wireless communication unit 12 performs the signal obtained from the antenna, the inverse of the processing and during the signal transmission, for example, a frequency down-conversion and digital signal conversion, and the like.
[0039]
　Control unit 13, as part of the communication unit to generally control operations of AP10 or STA 20. Specifically, the control unit 13, transfer of information between each function, setting of the communication parameters, and the process of scheduling such frames (or packets) in the data processing unit 11 performs.
[0040]
　The storage unit 14 stores information used for processing of the data processing unit 11 or the control unit 13. Specifically, the storage unit 14, information stored in the transmission frame, and stores the information of the information obtained from the received frame and communication parameters.
[0041]
　　<2-2. Technical features>
　will be described characteristic features of the AP10 and STA20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0042]
　　　((Function of AP))
　will be described first characteristic function of AP 10.
[0043]
　　　　(Transmission of the multicast
　frame) AP 10 transmits a multicast frame to STA 20. Specifically, the control unit 13, the data processing unit 11 to generate a multicast frame to the one or more STA20 and destination, the wireless communication unit 12 transmits the multicast frame generated. For example, the multicast frame may be a data frame. Incidentally, the multicast frame may be a control frame or a management frame.
[0044]
　　　　(Acknowledgment subject of the
　decision) AP 10 determines the STA20 of interest for delivery confirmation of a multicast frame. Specifically, the control unit 13 determines the number of STA20 to be acknowledgment target, from STA20 as a multicast frame destination, selects the STA20 number less determined as acknowledgment object.
[0045]
　More specifically, the control unit 13 determines the number of STA20 to be acknowledgment object based on the congestion degree of the communications. For example, the control unit 13 determines the number of STA20 to be acknowledgment target, depending on the amount of available radio communication resources. The control unit 13 may determine the number of STA20 to be acknowledgment object based on a value determined in advance. For example, the value is predetermined and stored in the storage unit 14.
[0046]
　The control unit 13, the STA 20 which is a multicast frame destination, selects the STA 20 to be acknowledgment object based on the reception characteristics of the STA 20. For example, reception characteristics of the STA20, the bit error rate, SN ratio (Signal Noise ratio), communication throughput and STA20 is at least one of the number of multicast frames received successfully. Then, the control unit 13, low reception characteristics is selected as preferentially acknowledgment object e.g. the lower the SN ratio STA 20. In this case, by the communication reliability STA20 lower than other STA20 is selected as a delivery confirmation target, it is possible to improve the overall reliability of the multicast communication effectively.
[0047]
　Thus, AP 10 determines the number of STA20 to be acknowledgment target, from STA20 as a multicast frame destination, selects the STA20 number less determined as acknowledgment object. Therefore, due to the number of STA20 as a multicast frame destination increases, tight radio transmission resources for the delivery confirmation can be suppressed. As a result, it is possible to perform the acknowledgment for efficient multicast frame.
[0048]
　　　　(Wireless allocation of communication resources for acknowledgment)
　AP 10, for each of the STA20 determined as the acknowledgment object, allocates the radio communication resources for delivery confirmation. Specifically, the control unit 13, for each of the STA20 acknowledgment target, as the transmission frequency, determines the center frequency and bandwidth used in the delivery acknowledgment. Furthermore, with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, it will be described in detail allocation of radio communication resources. Figure 5 is a view for explaining an example of allocation of radio communication resources of AP10 according to the present embodiment, FIG. 6 illustrates another example of allocation of radio communication resources of AP10 according to the present embodiment it is a diagram for.
[0049]
　Control unit 13, a destination or center frequency allocated to each STA 20, which is selected as the acknowledgment object BAR frame transmitted in the same period, to determine the center frequency that is different for each said STA 20. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, although the wireless communication resources are allocated to the same period in BA # 1 ~ # 4 frame, the center frequency of each of the allocated radio communication resource are different. The center frequency between allocated to different time periods the wireless communication resources may be the same.
[0050]
　Here, by the method for determining the center frequency, it is when the radio communication resources are allocated disproportionately to a specific band. In some cases, the band allocated radio communication resource biased such is congested. In this case, the communication efficiency in the delivery acknowledgment may be reduced.
[0051]
　Therefore, AP 10 disperses the STA20 selected band used for transmitting the acknowledgment frame as acknowledgment object. Specifically, the control unit 13 determines the center frequency based on at least one of time information in the identification information and the device itself for STA20 selected.
[0052]
　For example, the identification information is connection identifier such as AID (Association Identifier), the time information TSF (Time Synchronization Function) like time stamp obtained using a (hereinafter, also referred to as TSFv.). Then, the control unit 13 determines the center frequency using the following equation.
[0053]
[Number 1]

[0054]
　In the above formula (1), Ch represents an index indicating the channel number or center frequency, CH_NUM denotes the number of channels available to confirm delivery. Incidentally, the center frequency is uniquely specified from Ch. Further, TSFv because fine-grained, it is desirable that TSFv rounded to the extent that an error does not occur between the AP10 and STA20 used.
[0055]
　The control unit 13, the center frequency to be the allocation may be determined with the center frequency different from the center frequency for multicast frames. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the center frequency allocated to BA # 1 ~ # 4 frame is different from the center frequency assigned to the multicast frame. Of course, the center frequency of the wireless communication resources for acknowledgment may be the same as the center frequency assigned to the multicast frame.
[0056]
　The control unit 13, the bandwidth allocated for each STA 20 to be selected as the destination That acknowledgment target BAR frame, to determine the different bandwidths between at least a portion of each of the STA 20. Specifically, the control unit 13, based on other assignments whether the STA 20 of the center frequency that is adjacent to the center frequency allocated to a STA 20, which determines the bandwidth of the certain STA 20.
[0057]
　Here, the IEEE 802.11, BAR frame is to be transmitted in a bandwidth that is, one channel of 20MHz. Therefore, if the available bandwidth is 2 or more channels, it is possible to transmit the same BAR frame using a bandwidth of more than 2 channels. As a result, since the communication device That STA20 the reception side, at least one of the plurality of the BAR frame will be sufficient if successfully received, the frequency diversity effect is obtained, the communication of the acknowledgment it is possible to improve the reliability.
[0058]
　For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the center frequency that is adjacent to the center frequency of the BA # 2 frame is not assigned to another STA 20, i.e. acknowledgment of the other STA 20 with the center frequency of the adjacent performed since there, the BA # 2 frame is allocated bandwidth than the bandwidth of the BA # 1 frame. Incidentally, of course, it may be assigned the same bandwidth to each STA 20. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the same bandwidth is allocated to the BA # 1 ~ # 4 frame.
[0059]
　Even when adjacent center frequencies are not assigned to another STA 20, may not necessarily bandwidth is expanded. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, but vacant center frequencies adjacent to the center frequency of the BA # 1 frame, BA # 1 is not widened bandwidth.
[0060]
　In addition to the assignment presence to other STA20 adjacent center frequency, other conditions may be used for the determination of the bandwidth. For example, the control unit 13 determines the bandwidth based on the reception characteristics of the assignment presence and STA20 to other STA20 adjacent center frequency.
[0061]
　The control unit 13, the bandwidth used for transmitting the acknowledgment frame at the same period may be determined on the bandwidth different from the bandwidth of the multicast frame. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the total bandwidth allocated to BA # 1 ~ # 2 frames transmitted in the same period is narrower than the bandwidth allocated to the multicast frame. The total bandwidth allocated to BA frame may be the same as the bandwidth allocated to the multicast frame, may be wider than the bandwidth allocated to the multicast frame.
[0062]
　The control unit 13, the bandwidth allocated to each STA 20, may be determined on the bandwidth different from the bandwidth of the multicast frame. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the bandwidth allocated to BA # 1 ~ # 4 frame is narrower than the bandwidth allocated to the multicast frame. Of course, the bandwidth of wireless communication resources for acknowledgment may be the same as the bandwidth allocated to the multicast frame, may be wider than the bandwidth allocated to the multicast frame.
[0063]
　　　　(Acknowledgment request frame transmissions)
　AP 10, the information transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame is identified (hereinafter, also referred to as frequency allocation information.) Including, it transmits an acknowledgment request frame for the acknowledgment frame . Specifically, the control unit 13 to generate a BAR frame including frequency assignment information transmission frequency of the BA frame is specified for the multicast frames to the data processing unit 11. The wireless communication unit 12 transmits the BAR frame generated. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, BAR frame for multicast frame (MBAR: Multi-Channel BAR) is a multicast group which is the destination of the multicast frame (e.g., group A) is transmitted to each of the STA20 belonging to. Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 7 will be described in detail MBAR frame according to the present embodiment. Figure 7 is a diagram showing a configuration example of MBAR frame transmitted in AP10 according to the present embodiment.
[0064]
　First, a description will be given of the overall configuration of MBAR frame. For example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 7, MBAR frame, PHY Header, MAC Header, BAR information for each STA20 acknowledgment target (hereinafter, simply referred to as BAR information.) And an FCS. Note that the MAC Header of RA (Receiver Address) field as the destination information MBAR frame, a multicast group ID for multicast frames transmitted is stored. Incidentally, only the STA20 acknowledgment object may be stored as the destination information of the MBAR frame.
[0065]
　Next, a description will be given of BAR information field of each STA20 acknowledgment object. For example, as shown in the upper part of FIG. 7, BAR information field of each STA20 acknowledgment subject as field STA ID as a field, each responding device information is stored, the BA Control and frequency allocation information is stored including the field, such as the Channel Info.
[0066]
　Further, described Channel Info field. For example, as shown in the lower part of FIG. 7, Channel Info field includes a field such as Center Frequency and Channel Width.
[0067]
　The Center Frequency field, as frequency allocation information, information center frequency of the transmission frequency for the acknowledgment frame is identified (hereinafter, also referred to as the primary channel information.) Is stored. For example, the primary channel information is information indicating a center frequency determined for each STA20 individually.
[0068]
　The Channel Width field, as frequency allocation information, information bandwidth of the transmission frequency for the acknowledgment frame is identified (hereinafter, also referred to as bandwidth information.) Is stored. For example, bandwidth information is information indicating a bandwidth determined for each of the STA20 individually.
[0069]
　Incidentally, Channel Info has been described an example that is provided for each STA 20 acknowledgment target, one common Channel Info may be provided in the STA 20. Specifically, the Center Frequency field, information relating to the calculation formula for calculating the center frequency is stored. For example, the primary channel information is information indicating information and CH_NUM indicating the TSFv in information and equation (1) shows the above equation (1). Additionally, primary channel information, when STA20 are known for formula (1) and CH_NUM, may be only information indicating TSFv. In this case, STA 20 by applying a TSFv included in AID and primary channel information of the own device in the formula (1), and calculates the bandwidth of the own device. Thus, the data amount of MBAR frame than when the primary channel information for each STA20 are stored is reduced, it is possible to effectively utilize the wireless communication resources.
[0070]
　In addition, the Channel Width field, information indicating the maximum bandwidth and minimum bandwidth of the bandwidth allocated to STA20 to be selected is stored. For example, STA 20 sends a BA frame using any bandwidth between maximum bandwidth from the minimum bandwidth stored in the bandwidth information. In this case, the data amount of MBAR frame as compared with the case where the bandwidth information for each STA20 are stored is reduced, it is possible to effectively utilize the wireless communication resources.
[0071]
　Note that only one of the Center Frequency field or Channel Width field may be a field for storing a piece of information that is common acknowledgment eligible STA20 as described above.
[0072]
　　　　(Reception acknowledgment frame)
　AP 10, based on the frequency allocation information, receives the acknowledgment frame that is frequency division multiplexing. Specifically, the radio communication unit 12 is transmitted at a transmission frequency specified by the frequency allocation information is notified to the STA20 in MBAR frame, it receives the BA frame to be frequency division multiplexed. For example, wireless communication unit 12, after the transmission of the BAR frame, as a response to the BAR frame, the center frequency for receiving the frequency division multiplexed BA frame group, and notifies the respective STA20 acknowledgment object in the BAR frame and obtaining each of the BA frame of the STA20 from the BA frame group based on the bandwidth. Note that acknowledgment frame is received STA20 only identified from the response device information included in the acknowledgment request frame.
[0073]
　　　((Functionality STA))
　The following describes the characteristic features of the STA 20.
[0074]
　　　　(Receive multicast
　frames) STA 20 receives the multicast frames from AP 10. The control unit 13, a multicast frame is set in advance communication frequency of the self apparatus to the center frequency and bandwidth are received successfully.
[0075]
　　　　(Acknowledgment receipt of a request
　frame) STA 20 receives the acknowledgment request frame including frequency assignment information from the AP 10. Specifically, the radio communication unit 12, after receiving a multicast frame, receives the MBAR frame from AP 10. When MBAR frame is received by the wireless communication unit 12, the data processing unit 11, when the own apparatus belongs to a multicast group which is the destination of MBAR frame, acquires BAR information matching the STA ID of its own device from the MBAR frame to.
[0076]
　　　　(Setting of the transmission frequency)
　STA 20 is the acknowledgment request frame including frequency assignment information is received, and sets the transmission frequency of the own device to the transmission frequency for transmitting the acknowledgment frame. Specifically, the control unit 13 sets the transmission frequency specified by the frequency assignment information included in the BAR information acquired by the data processing unit 11. For example, the control unit 13 sets the transmission frequency of the own apparatus to the center frequency and bandwidth are identified respectively from the primary channel information and bandwidth information included in MBAR frame.
[0077]
　Incidentally, if it contains only the information for calculating the center frequency and bandwidth MBAR frame as described above, the control unit 13, calculates the center frequency and bandwidth on the basis of the primary channel information and bandwidth information to.
[0078]
　　　　(Acknowledgment transmission of a response frame)
　STA 20 on the basis of the frequency assignment information included in the acknowledgment request frame, and transmits the acknowledgment frame for the acknowledgment request frame is received. Specifically, the radio communication unit 12, after receiving a MBAR frame, and transmits the BA frame using the transmission frequency specified by the frequency assignment information included in the MBAR frame. For example, the control unit 13, if included BAR information matching the STA ID of its own device to MBAR frame received is to generate a BA frame in response to the MBAR frame to the data processing unit 11. The wireless communication unit 12, the center frequency and bandwidth are set based on the frequency assignment information included in the BAR information acquired, and transmits the BA frames generated AP 10. Note that the BA frame transmitted from STA 20, is frequency-division multiplexed as a result, the frequency division multiplexed BA frame group is received by the AP 10.
[0079]
　　<2-3. Processing apparatus>
　Next, a description is given of processing of the AP10 and STA20 according to the present embodiment.
[0080]
　　　(AP processing)
　First, with reference to FIG. 8, a description will be given of a process of AP10 according to the present embodiment. Figure 8 is a flowchart conceptually showing a process of AP10 according to the present embodiment.
[0081]
　AP10 transmits a multicast frame to each STA 20 (step S102). Specifically, the control unit 13, the data processing unit 11 to generate a multicast frame to each of the STA20 and the destination. The wireless communication unit 12 transmits the multicast frame generated.
[0082]
　Then, AP 10 transmits a BAR frame to each STA 20 (step S104). Specifically, the control unit 13, a multicast group of the multicast frames transmitted to the data processing unit 11 destined to generate a MBAR frame including frequency assignment information about the STA20 acknowledgment object. The wireless communication unit 12 transmits the MBAR frame generated. Incidentally, MBAR frame may be multicast frame and aggregation.
[0083]
　Then, AP 10 performs reception setting based on the transmission frequency of the BA frame (step S106). Specifically, the control unit 13, as BA frame transmitted at the center frequency and bandwidth are identified based on the frequency allocation information contained in MBAR frame is received, the reception frequency to the radio communication section 12 to set.
[0084]
　Then, AP 10 determines whether the BA frame is received (step S108). Specifically, the control unit 13, after the transmission of MBAR frame, determines whether BA frame as a response to the MBAR frame has been received from each of the STA20 acknowledgment object. If BA frame from STA20 acknowledgment object is determined not to have been received, the control unit 13 causes the retransmit BAR frame or MBAR frame for BA frame not received on the radio communication unit 12. In the case where BA frame is not received within a predetermined time, is returned to step S102, the STA 20 BA frame has not been received may be performed retransmission of the multicast frame or a data frame.
[0085]
　　　(STA processing)
　Next, with reference to FIG. 9, a description will be given of a process of STA20 according to the present embodiment. Figure 8 is a flowchart conceptually showing a process of STA20 according to the present embodiment.
[0086]
　STA20 receives a multicast frame from AP 10 (step S202). Specifically, the radio communication unit 12 receives the multicast frames from AP 10.
[0087]
　Then, STA 20 receives the BAR frame from AP 10 (step S204). Specifically, the radio communication unit 12, after receiving a multicast frame, receives the MBAR frame. When MBAR frame is received, the control unit 13, when the own apparatus belongs to a multicast group that is the destination of the MBAR frame, obtains the BAR information matching the STA ID of its own device. In the case where BAR information matching the STA ID, or if its own device is not the device itself belongs to the multicast group does not exist, the processing is terminated.
[0088]
　When BAR frame is received, STA 20 sets the transmission frequency of the own device to the transmission frequency specified (step S206). Specifically, the control unit 13 sets the transmission frequency of the own apparatus based on the primary channel information and the bandwidth information included in the BAR information obtained from the received MBAR frame.
[0089]
　Then, STA 20 sends a BA frame to the AP 10 (step S208). Specifically, the control unit 13 to generate a BA frame to the data processing unit 11 a response to the MBAR frame. The wireless communication unit 12 is a transmission frequency that is set, and transmits the generated BA frame to AP 10.
[0090]
　　<2-4. Summary> of one embodiment of the present disclosure
　Thus, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, AP 10 includes frequency allocation information transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame is identified, the delivery of the acknowledgment frame transmits a confirmation request frame, based on the frequency allocation information, it receives the acknowledgment frame that is frequency division multiplexing. Moreover, STA 20 receives the acknowledgment request frame, and transmits the acknowledgment frame on the basis of the frequency assignment information. As a result, acknowledgment frame is frequency-division multiplexed. Therefore, by acknowledgment according to the communication frame is transmitted to a plurality of destinations is performed by using a frequency division multiplex communication, while improving the reliability of the communication, a time series communication for delivery acknowledgment compared with the case which is performed by making it possible to make effective use of radio communication resources.
[0091]
　Further, acknowledgment frames, by STA 20, is transmitted at the transmission frequency specified by the frequency assignment information. Therefore, reliability is improved, which acknowledgment frame is received by the AP 10, it is possible to enhance the communication efficiency.
[0092]
　Further, acknowledgment frame includes an acknowledgment frame for multicast frames. Therefore, while improving the reliability of the multicast communication, it is possible to effectively utilize the wireless communication resources.
[0093]
　The acknowledgment request frame may be coupled to the frame to be acknowledgment of the subject. Therefore, by waiting time between the transmission of the multicast frame to the transmission of the acknowledgment request frame is omitted, it is possible to reduce the wireless communication resources used for shortening i.e. acknowledgment of the time the delivery confirmation .
[0094]
　The acknowledgment request frame includes a response device information communication device for which transmission acknowledgment frame is required is identified, AP 10, the delivery acknowledgment from the communication device identified based on the response unit information to receive the frame. Moreover, STA 20 may be a communication device by the local apparatus is identified from the response device information, and transmits the acknowledgment frame. Therefore, by transmitting the acknowledgment frame is performed for only a desired communication device, it is possible to further effective use of the radio communication resources.
[0095]
　The frequency allocation information includes information center frequency of the transmission frequency is identified. Thus, by the center frequency is notified through the frame to the STA 20, AP 10 may dynamically allocate center frequency, it can be performed appropriate to the state of the communication environment or STA 20 acknowledgment and Become.
[0096]
　The center frequency of the above, different for each destination of the acknowledgment request frame transmitted in the same period. Therefore, by the interference of the collision or the signal frame in the delivery acknowledgment is performed using the center frequency is avoided, the communication efficiency in the delivery confirmation response is possible.
[0097]
　The center frequency of the is specified based on at least one of time information in the identification information and the device itself for the destination of the acknowledgment request frame. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the allocated disproportionately to band center frequency is congested.
[0098]
　The frequency allocation information includes information bandwidth of the transmission frequency is identified. Therefore, by bandwidth is notified through the frame to the STA 20, AP 10 may dynamically can allocate bandwidth, it is possible to perform the delivery acknowledgment that matches the state of the communication environment or STA 20 .
[0099]
　Also, the bandwidth of the above, differs between at least a portion of the destination of the acknowledgment request frame. Therefore, by being assigned a bandwidth suitable for each STA 20, together with the bandwidth in the delivery acknowledgment STA 20 is effectively utilized, it is possible to enhance the communication efficiency.
[0100]
　The center frequency of the above, different from the center frequency of the frame to be acknowledgment of the subject. Also, the bandwidth used for transmitting the acknowledgment frame at the same period is different from the bandwidth of the frame to be acknowledgment of the subject. Therefore, the degree of freedom for the allocation of wireless communication resources for delivery acknowledgment is increased, it becomes possible to improve the efficiency of the delivery acknowledgment.
[0101]
　　<2-5. Modification>
　has been described above an embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that this embodiment is not limited to the aforementioned example. The following describes first and second modifications of the embodiment.
[0102]
　　　(First Modification)
　As a first modification of this embodiment, acknowledgment frame may be time division. Specifically, the acknowledgment request frame further comprises a transmission time information acknowledgment frame transmission time (transmission timing) is identified. For example, it includes a transmission time field MBAR Channel Info sent to field time information of the frame as shown in FIG. 7 is stored. Sending time information, for example the multicast frame or MBAR frame waiting time between the receipt of IFS may be (Inter Frame Space) information indicating, but may be information indicating the transmission time. Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 10, it describes in detail a processing of the present modification. Figure 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of allocation of radio communication resources of AP10 according to the first modification of the present embodiment.
[0103]
　AP10, depending on the degree of congestion of the communication of the acknowledgment frame, to determine the presence or absence of a time division acknowledgment frame. Specifically, AP 10 determines the presence or absence of a time division based on the number of acknowledgment subject to available bandwidth STA 20. For example, the control unit 13 determines the number of STA20 assignable for available bandwidth may equal or exceed the number of STA20 acknowledgment subject to time-division multiplexing the acknowledgment frame. It may be determined whether the time-division multiplexed based on a comparison of the predetermined is the threshold to the number of STA20 acknowledgment object. Further, acknowledgment frame is not a multiplexed communication order in time series may be determined.
[0104]
　Then, AP 10 is, in the case of time-division multiplexing the acknowledgment frame, determines the transmission time information to acknowledgment frame are time division multiplexed. For example, the control unit 13, as shown in FIG. 10, BA # 1 and allocates transmission period following the transmission of MBAR frame for # 2 frame, BA # 3 and # the about 4 frames BA # 1 and # 2 assign the next transmission period following the transmission period of the frame. Then, the control unit 13, so that each of the acknowledgment frame to the transmission period is transmitted, determines the transmission time, respectively.
[0105]
　Then, AP 10 sends a delivery acknowledgment request frame including the frequency allocation information and the transmission period information. For example, the data processing unit 11 generates a MBAR frame stored respectively in the transmission time field of the BAR information or Channel Info field for each STA20 acknowledgment subject each transmission time determined. Then, MBAR frame generated is sent by the wireless communication unit 12. Incidentally, when the case where division multiplexing is not performed, may be transmitted acknowledgment request frame transmission time information to the transmission duration field is not stored, acknowledgment request frame transmission period field is not provided is transmitted it may be.
[0106]
　It has received the acknowledgment request frame STA20 transmits the acknowledgment frame to the transmission period assigned to the own device. For example, STA 20 # 1 and # 2, when MBAR is received, each transmit a BA # 1 and # 2 frames temporally adjacent timing the transmission of MBAR frame as shown in FIG. 10. Moreover, STA 20 # 3 and # 4, after MBAR is received, respectively transmits the BA # 3 and # 4 frames BA # 1 and # 2 frames temporally adjacent to the timing for the transmission of, as shown in FIG. 10 to. As a result, BA # 1 and # 2 frames and BA # 3 and # 4 frames are time division multiplexed.
[0107]
　Thus, according to a first modification of this embodiment, the acknowledgment request frame further comprises a transmission time information transmission time acknowledgment frame is identified, acknowledgment frames, the transmission time information It is transmitted to the transmission time specified from the time division. Therefore, many more STA20 it is possible to make the acknowledgment target, it is possible to improve the reliability of communication of the multicast communication.
[0108]
　Further, the acknowledgment request frame is time-divided on the basis of the degree of congestion of the communication of the acknowledgment frame. Here, the STA20 to be the communication of the multicast communication or the like is increased, by the frequency resources for the acknowledgment is insufficient, the number of STA20 whose acknowledgment is not performed can be increased. However, according to this structure, by division multiplexing is used when in addition to the frequency-division multiplexing, the wireless communication resources for delivery acknowledgment is additionally secured, lowering of the reliability of the multicast communication by increasing STA20 it is possible to suppress the.
[0109]
　　　(Second Modification)
　As a second modification of this embodiment, acknowledgment frame may be an acknowledgment frame for the multiplexing frame. Specifically, acknowledgment frame includes an acknowledgment frame for a frame that is frequency division multiplexing, or space division multiplexing. Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 11, it describes in detail a processing of the present modification. Figure 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of allocation of radio communication resources of AP10 according to the second modification of the present embodiment.
[0110]
　AP10, instead of transmitting the data frame using the multicast method, the space division multiplexing, and transmits the frequency division multiplexed frame group to STA 20. For example, AP 10 transmits the data frame DATA # 1 ~ # 4 that is spatially-multiplexed and frequency-division multiplexed as shown in FIG. 11 in each of the STA20 # 1 ~ # 4. The data frame DATA # 1 ~ # 4 can be frequency division multiplexed only, or may be made only space division multiplexing.
[0111]
　Then, AP 10 sends a delivery acknowledgment request frame for the multiplexed frame group in each of the STA20 acknowledgment object. For example, AP 10 sends a MBAR that contains BAR information for each of the data frame DATA # 1 ~ # 4. Instead of MBAR frame, the data frame DATA # 1 ~ # BAR # 1 ~ # 4 frame is frequency-division multiplexing or space division multiplexed BAR frame group for each of the 4 may be transmitted. In that case, the respective BAR frame corresponding to each of the data frames may be connected respectively (the aggregation).
[0112]
　Then, STA 20 that has received the acknowledgment request frame transmits the acknowledgment frame on the basis of the frequency assignment information included in the acknowledgment request frame. For example, each of the STA20 # 1 ~ # 4, respectively transmits a BA # 1 ~ # 4 frame, the BA # 1 ~ # 4 frame is frequency division multiplexed. Incidentally, if the STA20 is compatible with space division multiplex communication, the BA frame group may be space division multiplexing.
[0113]
　Thus, according to the second modification of this embodiment, acknowledgment frame is frequency-division multiplexing, or a acknowledgment frame for the frame to be spatially multiplexed. Therefore, also these multiplex communication, while improving the reliability of communication, it is possible to effectively utilize the wireless communication resources.
[0114]
　<3. Applications>
　technology according to the present disclosure is applicable to various products. For example, the communication device 20 That STA20 smartphones, tablet PC (Personal Computer), laptop PC, a portable game terminal or a mobile terminal such as a digital camera, a fixed terminal such as a television receiver, a printer, a digital scanner or a network storage, or it may be implemented as an in-vehicle terminal such as a car navigation system. Moreover, STA 20 is a smart meter, a vending machine is implemented as a remote monitoring device or POS, such as (Point Of Sale) terminal, (also called MTC (Machine Type Communication) terminal) M2M (Machine To Machine) terminal that performs communications it may be. Furthermore, STA 20 includes a wireless communication module mounted on these terminals (e.g., an integrated circuit module consists of a single die) may be used.
[0115]
　On the other hand, for example, the communication device 10 That AP10 may be implemented as no have or router functions a router function wireless LAN access point (also referred to as a radio base station). Further, AP 10 may be implemented as a mobile wireless LAN router. Furthermore, AP 10 includes a wireless communication module mounted on these devices (e.g., integrated circuit module consists of a single die) may be used.
[0116]
　　<3-1. First application example>
　FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the smartphone 900 technology according to the present disclosure may be applied. Smartphone 900, processor 901, memory 902, storage 903, an external connection interface 904, a camera 906, a sensor 907, a microphone 908, an input device 909, display device 910, a speaker 911, a wireless communication interface 913, an antenna switch 914, antenna 915, a bus 917, a battery 918 and the auxiliary controller 919.
[0117]
　The processor 901 may be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or SoC (System on Chip), which controls the functions of the application layer and other layers of the smartphone 900. Memory 902 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory), and stores programs and data executed by the processor 901. Storage 903 may include a storage medium such as a semiconductor memory or a hard disk. External connection interface 904 is an interface for connecting an external device such as a memory card or USB (Universal Serial Bus) device to a smart phone 900.
[0118]
　The camera 906 is, for example, an image pickup element such as CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), and generates a captured image. Sensor 907 may include, for example, the positioning sensor, a gyro sensor, the sensor group, such as a geomagnetic sensor and an acceleration sensor. The microphone 908 converts a voice inputted to the smartphone 900 to the audio signal. Input device 909, for example, a touch sensor, a keypad for detecting a touch to the screen of the display device 910, a keyboard includes a button or switch, and accepts an operation or information input from a user. Display device 910 has a screen such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, and displays the output image of the smartphone 900. Speaker 911 converts the audio signal output from the smart phone 900 to the audio.
[0119]
　Wireless communication interface 913, IEEE802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, support one or more of the wireless LAN standards such as 11ac and 11ad, executes wireless communication. Wireless communication interface 913 in the infrastructure mode may communicate via other devices and the wireless LAN access point. The wireless communication interface 913, in the direct communication mode, such as the ad hoc mode or Wi-Fi Direct (TM), may communicate directly with other devices. In the Wi-Fi Direct, although one of the two terminals different from the ad hoc mode operates as an access point, the communication takes place directly between those terminals. Wireless communication interface 913 is typically the baseband processor may include such RF (Radio Frequency) circuit and a power amplifier. Wireless communication interface 913, a memory for storing a communication control program may be a one-chip module with an integrated processor and associated circuitry to execute the program. Wireless communication interface 913, in addition to wireless LAN systems, short-range wireless communication system, other types of wireless communication systems, such as the proximity wireless communication system or cellular communication system may support. Antenna switch 914, a plurality of circuits included in the wireless communication interface 913 (e.g., different circuits for wireless communication system) switches the connection destination of the antenna 915 between. Antenna 915, a single or multiple antenna elements (e.g., a plurality of antenna elements of MIMO antennas) has, are used for transmission and reception of radio signals by the wireless communication interface 913.
[0120]
　The invention is not limited to the example of FIG. 12, the smartphone 900, a plurality of antennas (e.g., antennas and proximity wireless communication method for an antenna for a wireless LAN, etc.) may be provided. In that case, the antenna switch 914 may be omitted from the configuration of the smartphone 900.
[0121]
　Bus 917, a processor 901, memory 902, storage 903, an external connection interface 904, a camera 906, a sensor 907, a microphone 908, an input device 909, display device 910, a speaker 911, connects the wireless communication interface 913 and the auxiliary controller 919 to each other . Battery 918 via a power supply line partially indicated by broken lines in the figure, supplies power to each block of the smartphone 900 shown in FIG. 12. Auxiliary Controller 919, for example, in the sleep mode, to operate the required minimum functionality of the smartphone 900.
[0122]
　In the smartphone 900 shown in FIG. 12, the data processing unit 11 described with reference to FIG. 4, the wireless communication unit 12, the control unit 13 and the storage unit 14 may be implemented in a wireless communication interface 913. At least some of these functions may be implemented in the processor 901 or the auxiliary controller 919. For example, the control unit 13, by setting the transmission frequency based on the frequency assignment information included in MBAR frames received wireless communication unit 12, acknowledgment responses using frequency division multiple access in a communication of the multicast communication and the like transmission and reception of the frame is possible. Thereby, it becomes possible to achieve both effective use of improved wireless communication resources of reliability of communication of the multicast communication.
[0123]
　Incidentally, the smartphone 900, by the processor 901 executes the access point function at the application level, may operate as a wireless access point (software AP). The wireless communication interface 913 may have a wireless access point function.
[0124]
　　<3-2. Second application example>
　FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the car navigation device 920 technology according to the present disclosure may be applied. Car navigation device 920, processor 921, memory 922, GPS (Global Positioning System) module 924, sensor 925, data interface 926, content player 927, a storage medium interface 928, an input device 929, display device 930, a speaker 931, a wireless communication interface 933, antenna switch 934, an antenna 935 and a battery 938.
[0125]
　The processor 921 may be, for example, a CPU or SoC, controls the navigation functions and other functions of the car navigation device 920. Memory 922 includes RAM and ROM, for storing programs and data executed by the processor 921.
[0126]
　GPS module 924 uses the GPS signal received from the GPS satellites, measures the position of the car navigation device 920 (e.g., latitude, longitude and altitude). Sensor 925 is, for example, a gyro sensor may include sensors such as a geomagnetic sensor, and pressure sensor. Data interface 926 is connected to, for example, vehicle network 941 through a terminal (not shown), we obtain the data generated by the vehicle, such as vehicle speed data.
[0127]
　Content player 927, storage medium to be inserted into the storage medium interface 928 (e.g., CD or DVD) to reproduce the content stored in the. Input device 929 may, for example, a touch sensor for detecting a touch on the screen of the display device 930 includes a button or switch, and accepts an operation or information input from a user. Display device 930 has a screen such as an LCD or OLED display, and displays an image of content navigation function or reproducing. Speaker 931 outputs sound of content navigation function or reproducing.
[0128]
　Wireless communication interface 933, IEEE802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, support one or more of the wireless LAN standards such as 11ac and 11ad, executes wireless communication. Wireless communication interface 933 in the infrastructure mode may communicate via other devices and the wireless LAN access point. The wireless communication interface 933, in the ad hoc mode or Wi-Fi Direct, etc. Direct communication mode can directly communicate with other devices. Wireless communication interface 933 is typically the baseband processor may comprise an RF circuit and a power amplifier. Wireless communication interface 933, a memory for storing a communication control program may be a one-chip module with an integrated processor and associated circuitry to execute the program. Wireless communication interface 933, in addition to wireless LAN systems, short-range wireless communication system, other types of wireless communication systems, such as the proximity wireless communication system or cellular communication system may support. Antenna switch 934 switches the connection destination of the antenna 935 between the plurality of circuits included in the wireless communication interface 933. Antenna 935 has a single or multiple antenna elements are used for transmission and reception of radio signals by the wireless communication interface 933.
[0129]
　The invention is not limited to the example of FIG. 13, the car navigation device 920 may comprise a plurality of antennas. In that case, the antenna switch 934 may be omitted from the configuration of the car navigation device 920.
[0130]
　Battery 938, via a feed line partially indicated by broken lines in the figure, supplies power to each block of the car navigation device 920 shown in FIG. 13. Further, the battery 938 accumulates electric power fed from the vehicle side.
[0131]
　In car navigation device 920 shown in FIG. 13, the data processing unit 11 described with reference to FIG. 4, the wireless communication unit 12, the control unit 13 and the storage unit 14 may be implemented in a wireless communication interface 933. At least some of these functions may be implemented in the processor 921. For example, the control unit 13, by setting the transmission frequency based on the frequency assignment information included in MBAR frames received wireless communication unit 12, acknowledgment responses using frequency division multiple access in a communication of the multicast communication and the like transmission and reception of the frame is possible. Thereby, it becomes possible to achieve both effective use of improved wireless communication resources of reliability of communication of the multicast communication.
[0132]
　The wireless communication interface 933 operates as AP10 described above, may provide a wireless connection to the terminal user has to get on the vehicle. At that time, for example, the control unit 13, by transmitting via the data processing unit 11 and the wireless communication unit 12 MBAR frame, transmission and reception of acknowledgment frame using a frequency division multiple access in a communication of the multicast communication and the like It can become. Thereby, it becomes possible to achieve both effective use of improved wireless communication resources of reliability of communication of the multicast communication.
[0133]
　Further, the technology according to the present disclosure includes one or more blocks of the car navigation device 920 described above, the vehicle network 941 may be implemented as an in-vehicle system (or vehicle) 940 that includes a vehicle-side module 942. Vehicle module 942, the vehicle speed, generates a vehicle data such as engine speed or failure information, and outputs the generated data to the vehicle network 941.
[0134]
　　<3-3. Third Application Example>
　FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the wireless access point 950 technology according to the present disclosure may be applied. Wireless access point 950 includes a controller 951, a memory 952, an input device 954, display device 955, a network interface 957, a wireless communication interface 963, an antenna switch 964 and antenna 965.
[0135]
　The controller 951 may be, for example, a CPU or DSP (Digital Signal Processor), various functions of the wireless access point 950 IP (Internet Protocol) layer and a layer above (e.g., access restrictions, routing, encryption, firewalls and log management, etc.) to operate. Memory 952 includes RAM and ROM, a program executed by the controller 951, and various control data (e.g., terminal list, the routing table, an encryption key, such as security settings and log) for storing.
[0136]
　Input device 954 includes, for example, a button or switch, and accepts an operation from a user. Display device 955 includes an LED lamp, and displays the operation status of the wireless access point 950.
[0137]
　Network interface 957, wireless access point 950 is a wired communication interface for connecting to a wired communication network 958. Network interface 957 may include a plurality of connection terminals. Wired communication network 958 may be a LAN such as Ethernet (registered trademark), or a WAN (Wide Area Network).
[0138]
　Wireless communication interface 963, IEEE802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, support one or more of the wireless LAN standards such as 11ac and 11ad, provide wireless connectivity as an access point to the vicinity of the terminal. Wireless communication interface 963 is typically the baseband processor may comprise an RF circuit and a power amplifier. Wireless communication interface 963, a memory for storing a communication control program may be a one-chip module with an integrated processor and associated circuitry to execute the program. Antenna switch 964 switches the connection destination of the antenna 965 between the plurality of circuits included in the wireless communication interface 963. Antenna 965 has a single or multiple antenna elements are used for transmission and reception of radio signals by the wireless communication interface 963.
[0139]
　In the wireless access point 950 shown in FIG. 14, the data processing unit 11 described with reference to FIG. 4, the wireless communication unit 12, the control unit 13 and the storage unit 14 may be implemented in a wireless communication interface 963. At least some of these functions may be implemented in the controller 951. For example, the control unit 13, by transmitting the MBAR frame for multicast frame or the like via the data processing unit 11 and the wireless communication unit 12, the delivery acknowledgment frame using a frequency division multiple access in a communication of the multicast communication and the like transmission and reception is possible. Thereby, it becomes possible to achieve both effective use of improved wireless communication resources of reliability of communication of the multicast communication.
[0140]
　<4. Conclusion>
　As described above, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, by acknowledgment according to the communication frame is transmitted to a plurality of destinations is performed by using a frequency division multiplex communication, to improve the reliability of the communication while, it is possible to effectively utilize the wireless communication resources as compared with the case where the communication of the delivery acknowledgment is performed in time series.
[0141]
　Having described in detail preferred embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. It would be appreciated by those skilled in the art of the present disclosure, within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims, it is clear that to cover various modifications, combinations, for these It is also understood to belong to the technical scope of the present disclosure.
[0142]
　For example, in the above embodiment, and it includes both primary channel information and bandwidth information to the acknowledgment request frame or BAR information, the present technology is not limited to such an example. For example, the acknowledgment request frame, may include only the primary channel information. For example, if the bandwidth allocated to the STA 20 is known to STA 20, only Center Frequency field to Channel Info of MBAR frame is provided, only the primary channel information is stored. In this case, by the data amount of the acknowledgment request frame is reduced as compared with the case where the bandwidth information is included in the acknowledgment request frame, the amount of communication is reduced, it is possible to effectively utilize the wireless communication resources.
[0143]
　Similarly, when the center frequency allocated to the STA 20 is known to STA 20, it may include only bandwidth information BAR information. Also, if the transmission time for each STA 20 is known to STA 20, acknowledgment request frame contains no transmission time information may be transmitted. Also, of course, if both the center frequency and bandwidth are known to STA 20, it may include only the transmission time to the BAR information.
[0144]
　In the above embodiment, the primary channel information has been described an example where the information about the information or formula showing the center frequency, the primary channel information may be information indicating a channel number. In this case, STA 20 identifies the center frequency from the channel number indicated by the primary channel information.
[0145]
　Further, in the above embodiment, the BAR information field of the acknowledgment request frame has been described the examples included in the portion corresponding to the payload, BAR information field may be included in the PHY header or the MAC header.
[0146]
　The frame in the above embodiment, the acknowledgment request frame has been described an example that is transmitted in a multicast manner or frame multiplexing acknowledgment request frame, the STA 20 BAR frame of each addressed acknowledgment target is aggregation it may be sent as.
[0147]
　Further, in the above embodiment, the acknowledgment frame or acknowledgment request frame has been described an example in which frequency division multiplexing or space division multiplexing each other frame is frequency-division multiplexing or space division multiplexing it may be. For example, may be frequency-division multiplexing or space division multiplexing using a frequency or spatial streams is empty and BAR frame group and data frames shown in FIG. 11.
[0148]
　In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which there is an empty space in the band 6 for illustration, from the viewpoint of effective utilization of radio communication resource, the radio so that it can not free the band as shown in FIG. 5 it is more preferable that the communication resources are allocated.
[0149]
　In the above embodiment, FIG. 5, 6, 10, and the bandwidth used for communication in FIG. 11 is described as an example a 80MHz or 40 MHz, even bandwidth greater or less than that good.
[0150]
　The effects described herein are not limiting be those that only illustrative or exemplary. In other words, the technology according to the present disclosure, together with the above effects, or instead of the above effects, can exhibit the apparent other effects to those skilled in the art from the description herein.
[0151]
(1)
　comprises a communication unit for communicating a frame,
　the communication unit comprises a frequency allocation information transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame is identified, it transmitted the acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame,
　on the basis of the frequency assignment information, to receive the acknowledgment frame that is frequency division multiplexing, a communication device.
(2)
　the acknowledgment frame is transmitted at the transmission frequency specified by the frequency assignment information, the communication device according to (1).
(3)
　the acknowledgment frame includes an acknowledgment frame for the multicast frame, the communication apparatus according to (1) or (2).
(4)
　the acknowledgment frame includes an acknowledgment frame for the frame to be frequency-division multiplexing or space division multiplexing, wherein (1) a communication device according to any one of - (3).
(5)
　the acknowledgment request frame is coupled to the frame to be acknowledgment of the subject, the (1) The communication apparatus according to any one of - (4).
(6)
　the acknowledgment request frame, the further comprises a transmission time information transmission time acknowledgment frame is specified,
　the communication unit, based on the transmission time information, time divided the delivery acknowledgment receiving frames (1) the communication apparatus according to any one of - (5).
(7)
　the acknowledgment request frame includes a response device information by the communication apparatus transmitting the acknowledgment frame is required is identified,
　the communication unit is configured to be specified based on the response device information receiving the acknowledgment frame from the communication device, wherein (1) a communication device according to any one of - (6).
(8)
　the frequency allocation information comprises information center frequency of the transmission frequency is identified, the (1) The communication apparatus according to any one of (1) to (7).
(9)
　the center frequency is sent to the same period different for each destination of the acknowledgment request frame, the communication apparatus according to (8).
(10)
　the center frequency is specified based on at least one of time information in the identification information and the device itself for the destination of the acknowledgment request frame, the communication apparatus according to (8) or (9) .
(11)
　the center frequency is different from the center frequency of the frame to be acknowledgment of the subject, the (8) The communication apparatus according to any one of - (10).
(12)
　the frequency allocation information comprises information bandwidth of the transmission frequency is identified, the (8) The communication apparatus according to any one of - (11).
(13)
　the bandwidth, the different between at least a portion of the acknowledgment request frame for the destination, the communication device according to (12).
(14)
　the bandwidth used for transmission of the acknowledgment request frame in the same period is different from the bandwidth of the frame to be acknowledgment of the target, the communication apparatus according to (12) or (13).
(15)
　comprises a communication unit for communicating a frame,
　the communication unit comprises a frequency allocation information transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame is specified, receives the acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame,
　wherein transmitting the acknowledgment frame on the basis of the frequency assignment information,
　the acknowledgment frame is frequency-division multiplexed communication system.
(16)
　the communication unit transmits the acknowledgment frame at the transmission frequency specified by the frequency assignment information, the communication device according to (15).
(17)
　the acknowledgment request frame further comprises a transmission time information transmission time of the acknowledgment frame is specified,
　the communication unit, the acknowledgment frame to the transmission time specified by the transmission time information It sends,
　the acknowledgment frame is time-divided communication apparatus according to (15) or (16).
(18)
　the acknowledgment request frame includes a response device information by the communication apparatus transmitting the acknowledgment frame is required is identified,
　the communication unit, the own device is identified from the response device information If it is the communication device, transmitting the acknowledgment frame, wherein (15) the communication apparatus according to any one of - (17).
(19)
　by a communication unit for communicating the frame, and that the transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame includes frequency allocation information specified, and transmits the acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame,
　wherein the frequency assignment information based on, receiving the acknowledgment frame that is frequency division multiplexing,
　including communication methods.
(20)
　by a communication unit for communicating the frame, and that the transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame includes frequency allocation information specified, receives an acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame,
　wherein the frequency assignment information wherein transmitting a acknowledgment frame, based on
　include,
　the acknowledgment frame is frequency-division multiplexing communication method.
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS
[0152]
　10 communication device,
　AP 11 data processing unit
　12 the wireless communication unit
　13 control unit
　14 storage unit
　20 communication device, STA

WE claims

[Claim 1]　A communication unit that communicates a frame,
　the communication unit, the transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame includes frequency allocation information specified, transmitted the acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame,
　wherein the frequency assignment based on the information, to receive the acknowledgment frame that is frequency division multiplexing, a communication device.
[Claim 2]
　The acknowledgment frame is transmitted at the transmission frequency specified by the frequency assignment information, the communication device according to claim 1.
[Claim 3]
　The acknowledgment frame includes an acknowledgment frame for the multicast frame, the communication apparatus according to claim 1.
[Claim 4]
　The acknowledgment frame includes an acknowledgment frame for the frame to be frequency-division multiplexing or space division multiplexing communication apparatus according to claim 1.
[Claim 5]
　The acknowledgment request frame is coupled to the frame to be acknowledgment of the target communication device according to claim 1.
[Claim 6]
　The acknowledgment request frame, the comprise acknowledgment frame further transmission time information transmission time is specified,
　the communication unit, based on the transmission time information, receiving the divided said acknowledgment frame when to, the communication apparatus according to claim 1.
[Claim 7]
　The acknowledgment request frame includes a response device information by the communication apparatus transmitting the acknowledgment frame is required is identified,
　the communication unit from the communication device specified based on the response device information receiving the acknowledgment frame, the communication apparatus according to claim 1.
[8.]
　The frequency allocation information comprises information center frequency of the transmission frequency is specified, the communication apparatus according to claim 1.
[Claim 9]
　The center frequency is sent to the same period different for each destination of the acknowledgment request frame, the communication apparatus according to claim 8.
[Claim 10]
　The center frequency, the is specified based on at least one of time information in the identification information and the device itself for the destination of the acknowledgment request frame, the communication apparatus according to claim 8.
[Claim 11]
　The center frequency is different from the center frequency of the frame to be acknowledgment of the target, the communication apparatus according to claim 8.
[Claim 12]
　The frequency allocation information comprises information bandwidth of the transmission frequency is specified, the communication apparatus according to claim 8.
[Claim 13]
　The bandwidth is different between at least a portion of the destination of the acknowledgment request frame, the communication apparatus according to claim 12.
[Claim 14]
　The bandwidth used for transmission of the acknowledgment request frame in the same period is different from the bandwidth of the frame to be acknowledgment of the target communication device according to claim 12.
[Claim 15]
　A communication unit that communicates a frame,
　the communication unit, the transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame includes frequency allocation information specified to receive the acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame,
　wherein the frequency assignment transmitting the acknowledgment frame on the basis of the information,
　the acknowledgment frame is frequency-division multiplexed communication system.
[Claim 16]
　The communication unit transmits the acknowledgment frame at the transmission frequency specified by the frequency assignment information, the communication device according to claim 15.
[Claim 17]
　The acknowledgment request frame, the comprise acknowledgment frame transmitted further transmission time information time is specified,
　the communication unit transmits the acknowledgment frame to the transmission time specified by the transmission time information ,
　the acknowledgment frame is time-divided communication device according to claim 15.
[Claim 18]
　The acknowledgment request frame includes a response device information by the communication apparatus transmitting the acknowledgment frame is required is identified,
　the communication unit, the communication device by the local apparatus is identified from the response device information If it is, transmitting the acknowledgment frame, the communication apparatus according to claim 15.
[Claim 19]
　The communication unit for communicating a frame, the transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame includes frequency allocation information identified, and transmitting the acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame,
　on the basis of the frequency assignment information , receiving the acknowledgment frame that is frequency division multiplexing,
　including communication methods.
[Claim 20]
　The communication unit for communicating a frame, the transmission frequency of the acknowledgment frame includes frequency allocation information specified, and receiving the acknowledgment request frame for said acknowledgment frame,
　on the basis of the frequency assignment information wherein transmitting a acknowledgment frame,
　wherein the
　said acknowledgment frame is frequency-division multiplexing communication method.