A non-terrestrial network communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The application provides a non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication method and device to solve the problem that when a UE performs a time-sensitive communication service, it cannot distinguish between a cell covered by a ground base station and a cell covered by a satellite, and may select a cell covered by a satellite. The method comprises: a first network device determining cell type information of a cell covered by a second network device, the cell type information being used to indicate whether the cell is a ground network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell. The first network device sends the cell type information to a third network device. In the embodiment of the application, when the first network device and the third network device establish an interface connection in an NTN scenario, the relevant NTN indication (i.e. the cell type information of the second network device) is carried, which can be beneficial to the third network device to further understand the capabilities and characteristics of the first network device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a non-terrestrial network communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) include satellite communication networks. Satellite communication can be communication conducted by ground base stations using satellites as relays. The higher the satellite's orbit, the larger its coverage area, but the longer the communication latency.

[0003] In satellite communication, a terrestrial base station connected to a satellite can have its signal relayed by the satellite. The signal from this satellite-connected terrestrial base station, after being relayed, has characteristics such as wide coverage and higher latency, unlike the signal from a typical terrestrial base station. This difference can significantly impact the user equipment (UE) service and further affect handover decisions. For example, when a UE performs latency-sensitive communication services, it may not be able to distinguish between cells covered by a terrestrial base station and cells covered by the satellite, and might choose the cell covered by the satellite, resulting in poor communication quality and a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an NTN communication method and apparatus to solve the problem that when a UE performs latency-sensitive communication services, it cannot distinguish between cells covered by terrestrial base stations and cells covered by satellite, and may choose cells covered by satellite, resulting in poor communication quality.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides an NTN communication method, which can be applied to a network device, a chip, a chipset, or a functional module within a chip that executes the method, etc. Taking a network device as an example, the method includes: a first network device determining cell type information of a cell covered by a second network device, the cell type information indicating whether the cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell; and the first network device sending the cell type information to a third network device.

[0006] In this embodiment of the application, when the first network device and the third network device establish an interface connection in an NTN scenario, the inclusion of relevant NTN indications (i.e., cell type information of the second network device) helps the third network device understand the capabilities and characteristics of the second network device. Since the first and second network devices have a communication connection, this embodiment allows the third network device to further understand the capabilities and characteristics of the first network device. Therefore, when the terminal device performs cell handover, it can distinguish between cells covered by terrestrial networks and cells covered by satellite, thus avoiding switching latency-sensitive communication services to satellite cells and improving communication quality.

[0007] In one possible design, the second network device is used to forward signals from the first network device. In this design, sending relay satellite indication information to the third network device allows the third network device to better understand the NTN capabilities of the first network device.

[0008] In one possible design, cell type information is also used to indicate whether neighboring cells are terrestrial network communication cells or non-terrestrial network communication cells. By indicating whether a neighboring cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the above design can help the third network further understand the capabilities and characteristics of the first network device.

[0009] In one possible design, if the cell type information indicates that the cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information is also used to indicate the orbit type of the second network device, including low Earth orbit, medium Earth orbit, and geostationary orbit. By indicating the orbit information of the relay satellite in the above design, the third network device can better understand the NTN capabilities of the first network device.

[0010] In one possible design, cell type information is also used to indicate whether the cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell. By indicating the type of satellite cell in the above design, the third network device can better understand the NTN capabilities of the first network device.

[0011] In one possible design, the first network device can be a base station, and the third network device can be a core network device.

[0012] In one possible design, the first network device is a distributed unit (DU) of the base station, and the third network device is a centralized unit (CU) of the base station.

[0013] In one possible design, the first network device is the first base station, and the third network device is the second base station;

[0014] In one possible design, the first network device is a centralized unit control plane (CU-CP), and the third network device is a centralized unit user plane (CU-UP).

[0015] Secondly, this application provides an NTN method, which can be applied to a network device, a chip, a chipset, or a functional module within a chip that executes the method, etc. Taking a network device as an example, the method includes: a third network device receiving cell type information sent by a first network device, the cell type information indicating whether the cell covered by the second network device is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell. The third network device stores the cell type information.

[0016] In this embodiment of the application, when the first network device and the third network device establish an interface connection in an NTN scenario, the inclusion of relevant NTN indications (i.e., cell type information of the second network device) helps the third network device understand the capabilities and characteristics of the second network device. Since the first and second network devices have a communication connection, this embodiment allows the third network device to further understand the capabilities and characteristics of the first network device. Therefore, when the terminal device performs cell handover, it can distinguish between cells covered by terrestrial networks and cells covered by satellite, thus avoiding switching latency-sensitive communication services to satellite cells and improving communication quality.

[0017] In one possible design, the second network device is used to forward signals from the first network device. In this design, sending relay satellite indication information to the third network device allows the third network device to better understand the NTN capabilities of the first network device.

[0018] In one possible design, cell type information is also used to indicate whether neighboring cells are terrestrial network communication cells or non-terrestrial network communication cells. By indicating whether a neighboring cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the above design can help the third network further understand the capabilities and characteristics of the first network device.

[0019] In one possible design, if the cell type information indicates that the cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information is also used to indicate the orbit type of the second network device, including low Earth orbit, medium Earth orbit, and geostationary orbit. By indicating the orbit information of the relay satellite in the above design, the third network device can better understand the NTN capabilities of the first network device.

[0020] In one possible design, cell type information is also used to indicate whether the cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell. By indicating the type of satellite cell in the above design, it is possible for a third network device to further understand the NTN capabilities of the first network device.

[0021] In one possible design, the first network device can be a base station, and the third network device can be a core network device.

[0022] In one possible design, the first network device is the DU of the base station, and the third network device is the CU of the base station.

[0023] In one possible design, the first network device is the first base station, and the third network device is the second base station;

[0024] In one possible design, the first network device is CU-CP and the third network device is CU-UP.

[0025] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which may be a network device or a chip within a network device. The device may include a processing unit, a transceiver unit, and a receiving unit. It should be understood that the transmitting unit and receiving unit may also be transceivers. When the device is a network device, the processing unit may be a processor, and the transmitting and receiving units may be transceivers; the communication device may also include a storage unit, which may be a memory; the storage unit is used to store instructions, and the processing unit executes the instructions stored in the storage unit to cause a first network device to perform the method of the first aspect or any possible design of the first aspect, or to cause a second network device to perform the method of the second aspect or any possible design of the second aspect. When the device is a chip within a network device, the processing unit may be a processor, and the transmitting and receiving units may be input / output interfaces, pins, or circuits, etc.; the processing unit executes the instructions stored in the storage unit to cause the chip to perform the method of the first aspect or any possible design of the first aspect, or to cause the chip to perform the method of the second aspect or any possible design of the second aspect. The storage unit is used to store instructions. The storage unit can be a storage unit inside the chip (e.g., a register, cache, etc.) or a storage unit located outside the chip in the terminal device (e.g., a read-only memory, random access memory, etc.).

[0026] Fourthly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in the first or second aspect.

[0027] Fifthly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer program product containing a program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in the first or second aspect.

[0028] A sixth aspect provides a communication device, comprising: a processor, a communication interface, and a memory. The communication interface is used for transmitting information, and / or messages, and / or data between the device and other devices. The memory is used to store computer-executable instructions, and when the device is running, the processor executes the computer-executable instructions stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the method as described in the first aspect or any design of the first aspect, the second aspect or any design of the second aspect.

[0029] In a seventh aspect, an embodiment of this application provides a chip coupled to a memory, which executes the methods of the first aspect and any possible design thereof, and the second aspect and any possible design thereof, of the embodiments of this application.

[0030] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a chip including a communication interface and at least one processor, the processor being configured to execute the methods described in the first aspect or any design of the first aspect, the second aspect, and any possible design thereof of embodiments of this application.

[0031] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, "coupling" refers to two components being directly or indirectly combined with each other.

[0032] Ninthly, embodiments of this application also provide a communication system, including the aforementioned first network device, second network device, and third network device. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0034] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a stationary cell provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a mobile cell provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating an NTN application scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating another NTN application scenario provided in this application embodiment;

[0038] Figure 6A A schematic diagram illustrating another NTN application scenario provided in this application embodiment;

[0039] Figure 6B An interface diagram provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 7 A schematic diagram illustrating another NTN application scenario provided in this application embodiment;

[0041] Figure 8 A schematic diagram illustrating another NTN application scenario provided in this application embodiment;

[0042] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating an NTN communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 10 A schematic diagram illustrating an interface establishment process provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration update process provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an NTN communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0047] The following explanations of some terms used in this application are provided to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0048] 1) Communication equipment refers to devices used by a communication system to establish connections with other devices to achieve data communication. In the embodiments of this application, the communication equipment includes a base station, core network equipment in the core network that can connect to the base station (e.g., access and mobility management function (AMF) entities), and may also include devices with some base station functions, such as distributed units (DUs) and centralized units (CUs), and may also be relay devices / RRUs in the access network that can connect to the base station.

[0049] In this embodiment, two communication devices need to establish a communication connection through corresponding interfaces to connect the terminal device to the DN, ultimately enabling the terminal device to perform its services. Furthermore, one of the communication devices has frequent / multiple connection establishment requirements; for example, communication device a needs to repeatedly establish connections with communication devices b, c, etc. Exemplarily, communication device a can have high-speed mobility; for example, communication device a is installed in high-speed moving facilities such as satellites, high-speed trains, automobiles, ships, and airplanes. In the following embodiments of this application, a satellite is used as an example to illustrate the high-speed mobility of the communication device.

[0050] 2) The connection between two communication devices is achieved through corresponding interfaces. When the communication devices are different, the connection and the interfaces used between them are also different.

[0051] For example, in an LTE communication system (also known as a 4G communication system), the connection between two base stations is achieved through the X2 interface, which can be simply referred to as an X2 connection; in a 5G communication system, the connection between two base stations is achieved through the Xn interface, which can be simply referred to as an Xn connection; the connection between a base station and the AMF entity in the Evolved Packet Core (EPC) (also known as a 4G core network) is achieved through the N2 interface, which can be simply referred to as an N2 connection; the connection between a base station and the AMF entity in the 5G core network (5G core, 5GC) is achieved through the Ng interface, which can be simply referred to as an Ng connection; and the connection between the DU and CU is achieved through the F1 interface, which can be simply referred to as an F1 connection.

[0052] It should be noted that maintaining the connection (or interface) between two communication devices requires both devices to store the configuration information of the other device. For example, if communication device a and communication device b maintain their connection, communication device a needs to store the configuration information of communication device b, and communication device b also needs to store the configuration information of communication device a. In this way, communication device a can send signaling and data to communication device b based on the configuration information of communication device b; similarly, communication device b can send signaling and data to communication device a based on the configuration information of communication device a. In this embodiment of the invention, the configuration information can be context information.

[0053] 3) The configuration information of the communication devices is sent to the other communication device during the connection establishment process, so that the other communication device can perform interface maintenance. The configuration information of the communication devices varies depending on the interface between them.

[0054] For example, in a scenario where a connection is established between a base station and an AMF entity, the base station needs to receive and save the configuration information of the AMF entity, such as: the identifier of the AMF entity, the capability information of the AMF entity, the list of supported public networks, the list of supported slices, etc.; the AMF entity also needs to receive and save the configuration information of the base station, such as: the identifier of the base station, the name of the base station, the tracking area (TA) information supported by the base station, and the default paging cycle, etc.

[0055] For example, in a scenario where a connection is established between base stations, each base station needs to receive and save the configuration information of the other base station, such as: the base station's identifier, the TA information supported by the base station, the AMF entity information to which the base station belongs, the cell information (including 4G cells and / or 5G cells), interface entity indication, etc.

[0056] For example, in a scenario where a connection is established between a DU and a CU, the CU needs to receive and save the DU's configuration information sent by the DU, such as the DU's identifier, DU's name, the list of cells managed by the DU, and the DU's RRC version; the DU also needs to receive and save the CU's configuration information, such as the CU's name, the list of cells to be activated, and the CU's RRC version.

[0057] The embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] The network elements involved in the embodiments of this application include network devices and terminal devices.

[0059] Network equipment, also known as communication equipment, can be either access network equipment or core network equipment. Access network equipment is an entity on the network side used to transmit or receive signals, such as a next-generation Node B (gNodeB). Access network equipment can be used to communicate with mobile devices. It can be an access point (AP) in a wireless local area network (WLAN), an evolved Node B (eNB or eNodeB) in Long Term Evolution (LTE), a relay station, access point, or integrated access and backhaul (IAB), or access network equipment in vehicle-mounted devices, wearable devices, and future 5G networks, or in future public land mobile networks (PLMNs), or a gNodeB (gNB) in an NR system, etc. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the access network equipment provides services to a cell, and the terminal device communicates with the access network equipment through the transmission resources (e.g., frequency domain resources, or spectrum resources) used by the cell. The access network device in this application embodiment can refer to a central unit (CU) or a distributed unit (DU). Alternatively, the access network device can also be composed of CUs and DUs, for example, such as... Figure 1As shown. The CU and DU can be physically separated or deployed together; this embodiment does not specifically limit this. One CU can connect to one DU, or multiple DUs can share one CU, which can save costs and facilitate network expansion. The CU and DU can be partitioned according to the protocol stack. One possible approach is to deploy the Radio Resource Control (RRC), Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP), and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layers on the CU, and the remaining Radio Link Control (RLC), Media Access Control (MAC), and physical layers on the DU. This invention does not completely limit the above protocol stack partitioning method; other partitioning methods are also possible. The CU and DU are connected via the F1 interface. The CU represents the gNB and connects to the core network via the Ng interface. In this embodiment, the access network device can refer to a Centralized Unit Control Plane (CU-CP) node or a Centralized Unit User Plane (CU-UP) node, or the network device can be both CU-CP and CU-UP. CU-CP is responsible for control plane functions, mainly including RRC and PDCP-C. PDCP-C is mainly responsible for control plane data encryption / decryption, integrity protection, and data transmission. CU-UP is responsible for user plane functions, mainly including SDAP and PDCP-U. SDAP is mainly responsible for processing core network data and mapping flows to bearers. PDCP-U is mainly responsible for data plane encryption / decryption, integrity protection, header compression, sequence number maintenance, and data transmission. CU-CP and CU-UP are connected via an E1 interface. CU-CP represents the gNB and connects to the core network via an Ng interface. It connects to the DU via F1-C (control plane). CU-UP connects to the DU via F1-U (user plane). Alternatively, PDCP-C may also be located within CU-UP. The access network equipment mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a device including a CU, or a DU, or a device including both CU and DU, or a control plane CU node (CU-CP node), a user plane CU node (CU-UP node), and a DU node. Furthermore, in other possible cases, the access network equipment can be other devices that provide wireless communication functions for terminal devices. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the access network equipment. For ease of description, in the embodiments of this application, the device that provides wireless communication functions for terminal devices is referred to as an access network equipment.

[0060] Terminal devices can be wireless terminal devices capable of receiving scheduling and instruction information from access network devices. They can be devices providing voice and / or data connectivity to users, handheld devices with wireless connectivity, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem. Wireless terminal devices can communicate with one or more core networks or the Internet via a radio access network (e.g., radioaccess network, RAN). They can be mobile terminal devices, such as mobile phones (or "cellular" phones), computers, and data cards. For example, they can be portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-embedded, or vehicle-mounted mobile devices that exchange voice and / or data with the radio access network. Examples include personal communications service (PCS) phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablets, and computers with wireless transceiver capabilities. Wireless terminal equipment can also be referred to as a system, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station, mobile station (MS), remote station, access point (AP), remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, user agent, subscriber station (SS), customer premises equipment (CPE), terminal, user equipment (UE), mobile terminal (MT), etc. Wireless terminal equipment can also be wearable devices and next-generation communication systems, such as terminal equipment in 5G networks, terminal equipment in future PLMN networks, and terminal equipment in new radio (NR) communication systems.

[0061] Furthermore, the embodiments of this application can also be applied to other future communication technologies. The network architecture and service scenarios described in this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in this application. As those skilled in the art will understand, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new service scenarios, the technical solutions provided in this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0062] It should be noted that the embodiments of this application do not limit the type and standard of the above communication system. For example, the communication system may be: the 5th Generation (5G) communication system, the Long Term Evolution (LTE) communication system, etc.

[0063] The embodiments of this application can be applied to fourth-generation mobile communication systems (4G), 5G systems, NTN systems, vehicle to everything (V2X), LTE-vehicle (LTE-V), vehicle to vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), machine-type communications (MTC), the Internet of Things (IoT), LTE-machine to machine (LTE-M), machine to machine (M2M), the Internet of Things, or future mobile communication systems.

[0064] As one possible application scenario, an NTN system can include a satellite system. Based on satellite altitude, i.e., satellite orbital altitude, satellite systems can be categorized into highly elliptical orbit (HEO) satellites, geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellites, medium earth orbit (MEO) satellites, and low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites. Furthermore, an NTN system can also include aerial network equipment such as high altitude platform station (HAPS) communication systems; the network equipment involved in this invention is not limited to the examples mentioned above.

[0065] As an example, the mechanism by which GEO and LEO satellites provide coverage cells is briefly described below.

[0066] 1. GEO satellites: Also known as geostationary satellites, these satellites move at the same speed as the Earth's rotation system, thus remaining stationary relative to the ground. Correspondingly, the cell area of ​​a GEO satellite is also stationary. GEO satellite cells have a relatively large coverage area, typically with a cell diameter of 500 km.

[0067] 2. LEO Satellites: There are many types of non-geostationary satellites; let's take LEO satellites as an example. LEO satellites move relatively fast relative to the ground, approximately 7 km / s, therefore the coverage area they provide also moves. LEO satellites project two types of cells onto the ground: fixed cells and moving cells.

[0068] A fixed cell, meaning a cell projected onto the ground is stationary relative to the ground. LEO satellites overhead adjust their antenna angles to maintain coverage of the same location on the ground. When one LEO satellite can no longer provide coverage, another LEO satellite takes over. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the mapping method of stationary cells refers to the fact that the location of the cells on the ground is fixed, and the moving satellites form these cells by adjusting their beams. For example, at time T1: cells 1 and 2 are covered by the beam of gNB1, and cells 3 and 4 are covered by the beam of gNB2; at time T2: although gNB1 and gNB2 have moved to the left, they can still adjust their beams to ensure coverage of cells 1, 2, 3, and 4; at time T3: compared to time T1, gNB1 and gNB2 have moved a sufficient distance, and gNB1 can no longer provide coverage for cell 2 by adjusting its beam, and gNB2 can no longer provide coverage for cell 4 by adjusting its beam. At this time, gNB2 can provide coverage for cell 2, and gNB3 can provide coverage for cell 4.

[0069] A moving cell, meaning a cell projected onto the ground moves along with the LEO satellite. During this movement, the LEO satellite's antenna direction remains unchanged; for example, the LEO satellite's antenna is always perpendicular to the ground. Figure 3 As shown, the mapping method of a ground mobile cell means that the moving satellite does not dynamically adjust its beam direction; the beam generated by the moving satellite moves on the ground as the satellite moves. For example: at time T1: (e.g.) Figure 2 The area shown is covered by cells 1, 2, 3, and 4 of gNB1 and gNB2, while at time T3, the area is covered by cells 2, 3, 4, and 5 of gNB1, gNB2, and gNB3.

[0070] The following section, with reference to the accompanying diagrams, provides a detailed introduction to each application scenario.

[0071] For example, in the reference Figure 4 In the application scenario shown, the satellite can act as a base station to establish N2 or Ng connections with the AMF entity in the core network, providing wireless access services for terminal devices.

[0072] For example, in a communication system, two base stations in a RAN can establish an X2 or Xn connection to transmit data such as cell information, thereby enabling cell reselection and handover for terminal equipment. For instance, the two base stations establishing a connection in the RAN can be: a satellite acting as a base station and another satellite acting as a base station, a satellite acting as a base station and a traditional base station, a base station with multiple functional components and a traditional base station, or a base station with multiple functional components and a satellite acting as a base station, etc. Figure 5 In the application scenario shown, a connection can be established between two satellites acting as base stations to exchange data and signaling.

[0073] For example, in a communication system supporting carrier aggregation, dual-connectivity (DC) technology can be used to provide users with higher data rates and improved spectrum efficiency. In this system, a terminal device supporting dual-connectivity can connect to two base stations simultaneously to increase the throughput of a single user. The two base stations to which the terminal device connects simultaneously also need to establish a connection through corresponding interfaces for data and signaling exchange. See [reference needed]. Figure 6A As shown. It should be noted that when a terminal device connects to two base stations simultaneously, one acts as the primary base station and the other as the secondary base station. When the core networks connected to the base stations differ, and the types of the two base stations are different, the interfaces between the AMF entity and the base stations, as well as the interfaces between the two base stations, will also change accordingly, such as... Figure 6B The diagrams of the various interfaces are shown below.

[0074] For example, in Figure 7 In the application scenarios shown, satellites can also serve as relay devices between terminal devices and base stations, or as remote radio units (RRUs) of base stations. In this scenario, the satellite is primarily responsible for L1 relay, used for physical layer forwarding, and is not visible to higher layers.

[0075] For example, in Figure 8 In the application scenario shown, the base station in the RAN is divided into two functional parts: DU and CU, where the satellite can serve as the DU. In this application scenario, the interface between the DU and CU is the F1 interface.

[0076] It should also be noted that the above Figures 4-8 The application scenarios shown are merely examples of application scenarios applicable to this application, and the communication devices that require multiple connection establishments in the above examples are only satellites.

[0077] In NTN systems, satellite communication architectures fall into two main categories: transparent and regenerative. In transparent architecture, the satellite acts only as a relay or amplifier, performing functions such as RF filtering and amplification to regenerate the signal. Regenerative architecture, on the other hand, allows the satellite to function as a gNB, distributed unit (DU), or relay. This regeneration differs from the first type; it's no longer simply a relay but also possesses signal processing capabilities, similar to an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node or other relay nodes. When a satellite functions as a gNB, DU, IAB, or other relay node, its functionality is similar to that of a regular gNB, DU, IAB, or other relay node.

[0078] NTN communication systems provide seamless coverage for terminal devices by deploying access network equipment or part of its functionality on non-terrestrial devices (such as high-altitude platforms or satellites). Since non-terrestrial devices are less affected by natural disasters, this improves the reliability of the communication system. For ease of explanation and understanding of the embodiments of this application, this application will subsequently use an NTN communication system with access network equipment deployed on a satellite as an example. Furthermore, for convenience, "access network equipment on a satellite" will be referred to as "satellite" in this application. That is, the communication between the terminal device and the satellite discussed later in this application actually refers to the communication between the terminal device and the access network equipment on the satellite. This will be consistently stated here and will not be repeated later.

[0079] In satellite communication, a ground base station connected to a satellite relays its signal. This satellite-connected ground base station signal, after being relayed, has characteristics such as wide coverage and high latency, differing from the signal of a typical ground base station. This difference significantly impacts UE service and further affects handover decisions. Currently, during UE cell handover, it's impossible to distinguish between cells covered by ground base stations and cells covered by satellite. This can lead to the UE selecting an inappropriate cell during handover. For example, if a UE performs latency-sensitive communication services and chooses a cell covered by satellite, it will result in poor communication quality and a poor user experience.

[0080] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide an NTN communication method and apparatus to address the problem that when a UE performs latency-sensitive communication services, it cannot distinguish between cells covered by terrestrial base stations and cells covered by satellite, and may choose cells covered by satellite. The method and apparatus are based on the same inventive concept. Since the principles by which the method and apparatus solve the problem are similar, the implementations of the apparatus and method can be mutually referred to, and repeated details will not be elaborated further.

[0081] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0082] It should be understood that in the description of this application, the words "first" and "second" are used only for the purpose of distinguishing descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or order.

[0083] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, "cells covered by the second network device" can also be understood as cells projected onto the ground by the first network device, or cells projected onto the ground by the first network device through the relay relay of signals by the second network device. It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "cells covered by the second network device," "cells projected onto the ground by the first network device," and "cells projected onto the ground by the first network device through the relay relay of signals by the second network device" are understood to have the same meaning.

[0084] The NTN communication method provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0085] like Figure 9 The illustration shows an NTN communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The NTN communication method provided in this application can be applied in NTN systems, specifically in scenarios involving the initial establishment (NG / XN / F1 / E1) or configuration update of various interfaces by ground base stations connected to satellites. The NTN communication method may specifically include:

[0086] S901, the first network device determines the cell type information of the cell covered by the second network device. The cell type information is used to indicate whether the cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell (or it can be called a satellite cell).

[0087] The second network device can be used to forward signals from the first network device. Alternatively, it can be understood as a relay device providing relay forwarding services to the first network device. It can be understood that if the cell covered by the second network device is a terrestrial network communication cell, then the second network device is a terrestrial base station, and the first network device is connected to the terrestrial base station. If the cell covered by the second network device is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, then the second network device is a non-terrestrial base station (such as a satellite), and the first network device is connected to the satellite.

[0088] It is understandable that the cell covered by the second network device is formed by the second network device transmitting the signal of the first network device. Therefore, the cell covered by the second network device can also be understood as the cell covered by the first network device.

[0089] For example, non-terrestrial communication devices may include, but are not limited to, satellites, aircraft, airborne workstations, hot air balloons, etc. In one possible implementation, if the cell covered by the second network device is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, that is, the second network device is a non-terrestrial communication device, the cell type information may also indicate the type of the second network device, for example, indicating that the second network device is a satellite, or for example, indicating that the second network device is an airborne workstation, etc.

[0090] If the cell covered by the second network device is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information can also be used to indicate the orbit type of the second network device, including MEO, GEO, and LEO. In one exemplary embodiment, the cell type information can indicate whether the second network device is a GEO satellite, MEO satellite, or LEO satellite.

[0091] In addition, cell type information can also be used to indicate whether a cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell.

[0092] In one implementation, the cell type information may further include cell information for the corresponding cell. Cell information may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: cell global identifier (CGI), physical cell identifier (PCI), and cell frequency.

[0093] In one implementation, the cell type information can also be used to indicate whether a neighboring cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell. The neighboring cell can be a neighboring cell of a cell covered by the first network device, or a neighboring cell of a cell formed after the signal from the first network device is transmitted through the second network device (i.e., a cell covered by the second network device).

[0094] For example, if a neighboring cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the neighboring cell can be a cell covered by a non-terrestrial communication device that acts as a base station, or the neighboring cell can be a cell formed by a non-terrestrial communication device that acts as a relay device that transmits signals from other base stations.

[0095] In addition, if the neighboring cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information can also indicate the track type of the neighboring cell.

[0096] Cell type information can also indicate whether a neighboring cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell.

[0097] The cell type information can also indicate information about neighboring cells.

[0098] In one implementation, the cell type information indicates whether the neighboring cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information indicates the track type of the neighboring cell, the cell type information indicates whether the neighboring cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell, and the cell type information indicates the cell information of the neighboring cell. For details, please refer to the relevant descriptions of the cell type information indicating whether the cell covered by the second network device is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information indicating the track type of the cell covered by the second network device, the cell type information indicating whether the cell covered by the second network device is a moving cell or a fixed cell, and the cell type information indicating the cell information of the cell covered by the second network device. It will not be repeated here.

[0099] S902, the first network device sends cell type information to the third network device. Correspondingly, the third network device receives the cell type information sent by the first network device.

[0100] In one exemplary embodiment, the first network device can be a centralized base station or a distributed base station. If the first network device is a distributed base station, it can specifically be a CU, or more specifically, a CU-CP. The third network device can be a core network device, such as an AMF, or a terrestrial communication device, such as a terrestrial base station, or other communication devices that establish an interface connection with the first network device. These will not be described in detail here.

[0101] In another exemplary description, the first network device may be a DU, and the third network device may be a CU, specifically a CU-CP.

[0102] In another exemplary embodiment, the first network device may be a CU-CP. The third network device may be a CU-UP.

[0103] In one implementation, when the first network device sends cell type information to the third network device, it can explicitly send the cell type information, for example, the first network device sends a message to the third network device that carries the cell type information.

[0104] In another implementation, when the first network device sends cell type information to the third network device, it can send cell type information implicitly. For example, the first network device can send indication information to the third network device, which is used to indicate the communication connection relationship of the first network device.

[0105] For example, the communication connection relationship of the first network device may include at least one of the following: connected to a Transparent LEO with a fixed cell; connected to a Transparent LEO with a moving cell; connected to a Transparent GEO; connected to a Transparent MEO; connected to a LEO with a fixed cell; connected to a LEO with a moving cell; connected to a GEO; connected to a MEO; connected to a ground base station; connected to an airborne workstation; connected to a hot air balloon, etc.

[0106] S903, the third network device stores cell type information.

[0107] In one implementation, after saving the cell type information, the third network device can send a response message to the first network device, which indicates that the third network device has saved the cell type information.

[0108] In one possible implementation, after step S903, the third network device may send an acknowledgment message to the first network device, the acknowledgment message being used to notify the first network device that the third network device has saved the cell type information.

[0109] In this embodiment of the application, when the first network device and the third network device establish an interface connection in the NTN scenario, the relevant NTN indication (i.e., the cell type information of the second network device) is included, which can help the third network device to further understand the capabilities and characteristics of the first network device.

[0110] To better understand the NTN communication method provided in the embodiments of this application, the following description is provided in conjunction with specific scenarios. It should be understood that the interfaces involved in the following scenarios are merely illustrative examples and do not specifically limit the interface between the first network device and the third network device.

[0111] Scenario 1: The first network device and the third network device initially establish an interface connection. Assume the first network device is a ground base station connected to a LEO satellite, and the second network device is the LEO satellite. The third network device can be a core network device (such as an AMF) or an access network device (such as a ground base station).

[0112] like Figure 10 As shown, the process of establishing an interface connection between the first network device and the third network device is as follows:

[0113] S1001, the first network device sends an interface establishment request message to the third network device. The interface establishment request message carries the NTN indication information of the first network device. The NTN indication information is used to indicate the cell type information of the cell projected by the first network device onto the ground.

[0114] In one example, the naming of the interface establishment request message differs depending on the interface connection scenario. For instance, in the NG interface connection scenario, the interface establishment request message could be named NG SETUP REQUEST. In the Xn interface connection scenario, it could be named Xn SETUP REQUEST. In the F1 interface connection scenario, it could be named F1 SETUP REQUEST. In the E1 interface connection scenario, it could be named E1 SETUP REQUEST.

[0115] For example, the first network device is a base station, and the third network device is an AMF. An NG interface is established between the first network device and the third network device, and the first network device can send an NG SETUP REQUEST to the third network device. The first network device can be a centralized base station or a distributed base station. If the first network device is a distributed base station, it can specifically be a CU, or more specifically, a CU-CP.

[0116] For example, a first network device and a third network device are base stations. An Xn interface is established between the first and third network devices, and the first network device can send an Xn SETUP REQUEST to the third network device. The first and second network devices can be centralized base stations or distributed base stations. If the first and second network devices are distributed base stations, they can specifically be CUs (Complex Units), and further, they can be CU-CPs (Complex Unit-Content Providers).

[0117] For example, the first network device is DU, and the third network device is CU. An F1 interface is established between the first network device and the third network device, and the first network device can send an F1 SETUP REQUEST to the third network device. Specifically, the third network device can be CU-CP.

[0118] For example, the first network device could be a CU-CP, and the third network device could be a CU-UP. An E1 interface is established between the first and third network devices, and the first network device can send an E1 SETUPREQUEST to the third network device.

[0119] It is understandable that the cell projected onto the ground by the first network device can be understood as either a cell covered by the first network device or a cell covered by the second network device (i.e., the LEO satellite). The first network device is a ground base station connected to the LEO satellite. The signal of the first network device is relayed to the ground by the LEO satellite. Therefore, the cell projected onto the ground by the first network device is a satellite cell.

[0120] For example, the NTN indication information can indicate that the cell projected onto the ground by the first network device is a satellite cell and the satellite orbit type is LEO. The NTN indication information can also indicate whether the cell is a fixed cell or a moving cell.

[0121] In one exemplary embodiment, the NTN indication information of the first network device can be cell-level information. For example, if the third network device is a terrestrial base station, the first network device can send cell-level NTN indication information to the third network device. Another example is when the first network device is a DU and the third network device is a CU; the first network device can send cell-level NTN indication information to the third network device. Yet another example is when the first network device is a CU-CP and the third network device is a CU-UP; the first network device can send cell-level NTN indication information to the third network device.

[0122] For example, if the number of cells projected onto the ground by the first network device (i.e., the cells projected onto the ground by the first network device through the relay of the signal by the second network device) is 3, the NTN indication information may include: cell 1, connected to transparent LEO with fixed cell; cell 2, connected to transparent GEO; cell 3, connected to transparent LEO with moving cell.

[0123] For example, NTN indication information can also indicate whether a neighboring cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell.

[0124] If the neighboring cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the NTN indication information can also indicate the track type of the neighboring cell.

[0125] NTN indication information can also indicate whether a neighboring cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell.

[0126] NTN indication information can also indicate information about neighboring cells.

[0127] S1002, the third network device sends an interface establishment response message to the first network device. This interface establishment response message can be used to indicate that the third network device has received the aforementioned indication information.

[0128] In one example, the naming of the interface establishment response message differs depending on the interface connection scenario. For instance, in the NG interface connection scenario, the interface establishment response message could be named NG SETUP RESPONSE. In the Xn interface connection scenario, it could be named Xn SETUP RESPONSE. In the F1 interface connection scenario, it could be named F1 SETUP RESPONSE. In the E1 interface connection scenario, it could be named E1 SETUP RESPONSE.

[0129] For example, the first network device is a base station, and the third network device is an AMF. An NG interface is established between the first and third network devices, and the third network device can send an NG SETUP RESPONSE to the first network device. The first network device can be a centralized base station or a distributed base station. If the first network device is a distributed base station, it can specifically be a CU, and further, it can be a CU-CP.

[0130] For example, a first network device and a third network device are base stations. An Xn interface is established between the first and third network devices, and the third network device can send an Xn SETUP RESPONSE to the first network device. The first and second network devices can be centralized or distributed base stations. If the first and second network devices are distributed base stations, they can specifically be CUs (Combined Units), and further, they can be CU-CPs (Combined Unit-Content Providers).

[0131] For example, the first network device is DU, and the third network device is CU. An F1 interface is established between the first network device and the third network device, and the third network device can send an F1 SETUP RESPONSE to the first network device. Specifically, the third network device can be CU-CP.

[0132] For example, the first network device could be a CU-CP, and the third network device could be a CU-UP. An E1 interface is established between the first and third network devices, and the third network device can send an E1 SETUPRESPONSE to the first network device.

[0133] Optionally, the interface establishment response message may also carry the above-mentioned indication information.

[0134] In one implementation, the interface establishment response message can also carry NTN-related capabilities of the third network device, such as the third network device being connected to another regenerative gNB. This implementation helps the first network device understand the capabilities and characteristics of the third network device.

[0135] Scenario 2: The configuration information of the first network device changes.

[0136] Assume the first network device is a ground base station connected to the LEO satellite, meaning the second network device is the LEO satellite. The third network device can be either a core network device (such as an AMF) or an access network device (such as a ground base station).

[0137] like Figure 11 As shown, the process of updating the configuration information of the first network device is as follows:

[0138] S1101, the first network device sends a node configuration update message to the third network device. The node configuration update message carries the NTN indication information of the first network device. The NTN indication information is used to indicate the cell type information of the cell projected by the first network device onto the ground.

[0139] For details on NTN indication information, please refer to the relevant description of NTN indication information in Scenario 1, which will not be repeated here.

[0140] For example, a node configuration update message can be named "Node configuration update".

[0141] In some embodiments, a change in the configuration information of the first network device may refer to a change in the relay device to which the first network device is connected. For example, the relay device may change its orbit type, such as changing from LEO to MEO, etc. Alternatively, the relay device's mode may change, such as changing from a fixed cell to a moving cell, etc. Or, the type of relay device may change, such as changing from one of the following five types of devices to another of the following five types of devices: LEO satellite, MEO satellite, GEO satellite, other non-terrestrial communication equipment (such as aircraft, airborne workstations, hot air balloons, etc., which can act as relay devices), or a ground base station. Alternatively, the first network device may change from being connected to a relay device to not being connected to a relay device.

[0142] In one possible implementation, the node configuration update message may carry the full amount of NTN indication information.

[0143] In another possible implementation, the first network device initiates differential configuration (such as delta configuration) to the third network device, that is, the node configuration update message can carry the amount of change between the updated NTN indication information and the NTN indication information before the update.

[0144] S1102, the third network device sends a node configuration update confirmation message to the first network device. The node configuration update confirmation message is used to instruct the third network device to complete the update of the configuration information of the first network device.

[0145] For example, a node configuration update acknowledgment message can be named Node configuration updateacknowledge.

[0146] In one implementation, if the third network device does not support the updated configuration information of the first network device, the third network device can also send a failure indication to the first network device. Optionally, the failure indication can be placed in a node configuration update failure message.

[0147] In scenarios one and two above, the terrestrial network base station relaying signals via satellite can send NTN indications (i.e., cell type information of cells projected onto the terrestrial network by the terrestrial network base station via satellite relay) to the AMF. This helps the AMF to further understand the capabilities and characteristics of the terrestrial network base station. Consequently, when configuring quality of service (QoS) parameters for UEs communicating with this terrestrial network base station, the AMF can make relevant adjustments, such as increasing latency, increasing the maximum tolerable packet loss rate, and raising priority, so that the UE can obtain better service and user experience under the signal coverage of this terrestrial network base station.

[0148] Alternatively, the first ground base station, relaying signals via satellite, can send its own NTN indication (i.e., cell type information of the cells projected onto the ground by the first ground base station via satellite relay) to the second ground base station. This allows the second ground base station to better understand the capabilities and characteristics of the first ground base station. Furthermore, when making cell handover decisions, the second ground base station can determine, based on the NTN indication from the first ground base station, whether to shut down certain cells, change the signal direction and transmission power of certain cells, etc. For example, when making cell handover decisions for UEs with latency requirements, the second ground base station can shut down cells projected onto the ground by the first ground base station via satellite relay to prevent the UE from switching to satellite cells with higher latency, thus allowing the UE to obtain better service continuity and signal quality.

[0149] Based on the same inventive concept as the method embodiments, this application provides a communication device, the structure of which can be as follows: Figure 12 As shown, it includes a transceiver module 1201 and a processing module 1202.

[0150] In one specific implementation, the communication device can be used to implement Figures 9-10. Figure 11 In the embodiments, the method executed by the first network device can be the first network device itself, or a chip or chipset within the first network device, or a part of the chip that performs the relevant method function. Specifically, the processing module 1202 is used to determine the cell type information of the cell covered by the second network device, the cell type information indicating whether the cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell. The transceiver module 1201 is used to send the cell type information to the third network device.

[0151] The second network device can be used to forward signals from the first network device.

[0152] For example, if the cell type information indicates that the cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information is also used to indicate the orbit type of the second network device, including low orbit, medium orbit and geostationary orbit.

[0153] For example, cell type information is also used to indicate whether a cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell.

[0154] In one specific implementation, the communication device can be used to implement Figures 9-10. Figure 11 In the embodiments, the method executed by the third network device can be the third network device itself, or a chip or chipset within the third network device, or a part of the chip used to execute the relevant method function. Specifically, the transceiver module 1201 is used to receive cell type information sent by the first network device, the cell type information indicating whether the cell covered by the second network device is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell; the processing module 1202 is used to store the cell type information.

[0155] The second network device can be used to forward signals from the first network device.

[0156] For example, if the cell type information indicates that the cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information is also used to indicate the orbit type of the second network device, including low orbit, medium orbit and geostationary orbit.

[0157] For example, cell type information is also used to indicate whether a cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell.

[0158] The module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and represents only one logical functional division. In actual implementation, other division methods may be used. Furthermore, the functional modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into a single processor, exist as separate physical entities, or be integrated into a single module. The integrated modules described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules. It is understood that the functions or implementations of the modules in the embodiments of this application can be further described in the relevant descriptions of the method embodiments.

[0159] Figure 13 This is a structural diagram of a network device (such as a first network device or a third network device) provided in an embodiment of this application, such as a structural diagram of a base station. Figure 13 As shown, the base station can perform the above... Figures 9-11The method embodiments describe the functions of the first or third network device. Base station 130 may include one or more distributed units (DUs) 1301 and one or more centralized units (CUs) 1302. Each DU 1301 may include at least one antenna 13011, at least one radio frequency unit 13015, at least one processor 13013, and at least one memory 13014. The DU 1301 is primarily used for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals, converting radio frequency signals to baseband signals, and performing some baseband processing. Each CU 1302 may include at least one processor 13022 and at least one memory 13021. CU 1302 and DU 1301 can communicate via an interface, where the control plane interface can be Fs-C (e.g., F1-C) and the user plane interface can be Fs-U (e.g., F1-U).

[0160] The CU 1302 is mainly used for baseband processing and base station control. The DU 1301 and CU 1302 can be physically installed together or separately, i.e., a distributed base station. The CU 1302 is the control center of the base station, also known as a processing unit, and is mainly used to complete baseband processing functions. For example, the CU 1302 can be used by the first network device to perform the above-mentioned functions. Figures 9-11 The method embodiment describes the operation flow for communication between the first network device and the third network device. Alternatively, the CU 1302 can be used by the third network device to perform the above-described operation. Figures 9-11 The method embodiment describes the operation flow for communication between the first network device and the third network device.

[0161] Specifically, the baseband processing on the CU and DU can be divided according to the protocol layer of the wireless network. For example, the functions of the PDCP layer and above are set in the CU, while the functions of the protocol layers below PDCP, such as the RLC layer and MAC layer, are set in the DU. For another example, the CU implements the functions of the RRC and PDCP layers, while the DU implements the functions of the RLC, MAC, and physical (PHY) layers.

[0162] Optionally, base station 130 may include one or more radio frequency units (RU), one or more DUs, and one or more CUs. A DU may include at least one processor 13013 and at least one memory 13014, an RU may include at least one antenna 13011 and at least one radio frequency unit 13015, and a CU may include at least one processor 13022 and at least one memory 13021.

[0163] In one example, the CU1302 can be composed of one or more single boards. Multiple single boards can collectively support a single access indication wireless access network (such as a 5G network), or they can each support wireless access networks with different access standards (such as LTE, 5G, or other networks). The memory 13021 and processor 13022 can serve one or more single boards. That is, each single board can have its own memory and processor, or multiple single boards can share the same memory and processor. Furthermore, each single board can also have necessary circuitry. Similarly, the DU1301 can be composed of one or more single boards. Multiple single boards can collectively support a single access indication wireless access network (such as a 5G network), or they can each support wireless access networks with different access standards (such as LTE, 5G, or other networks). The memory 13014 and processor 13013 can serve one or more single boards. That is, each single board can have its own memory and processor, or multiple single boards can share the same memory and processor. Furthermore, each single board can also have necessary circuitry.

[0164] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing computer software instructions required to execute the processor, including a program required to execute the processor.

[0165] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of the present invention are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., a solid-state drive (SSD)).

Claims

1. A non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication method, characterized in that, include: The first network device determines the cell type information of the cell covered by the second network device. The cell type information is used to indicate whether the cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell. The second network device is a relay device that provides relay forwarding services to the first network device. The first network device sends the cell type information to the third network device. The cell type information is used by the third network device to configure QoS parameters for the terminal device, or the cell type information is used by the third network device to make cell handover decisions for the terminal device.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, If the cell type information indicates that the cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information is also used to indicate the orbit type of the second network device, the orbit type including low orbit, medium orbit and geostationary orbit.

3. The method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The cell type information is also used to indicate whether the cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The cell type information is also used to indicate whether a neighboring cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The first network device is a base station, and the third network device is a core network device; Alternatively, the first network device may be a distributed unit (DU) of the base station, and the third network device may be a centralized unit (CU) of the base station. Alternatively, the first network device may be a first base station, and the third network device may be a second base station; Alternatively, the first network device may be a centralized unit control plane (CU-CP), and the third network device may be a centralized unit user plane (CU-UP).

6. A non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication method, characterized in that, include: The third network device receives cell type information sent by the first network device. The cell type information is used to indicate whether the cell covered by the second network device is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell. The second network device is a relay device that provides relay forwarding services to the first network device. The third network device stores the cell type information, which is used by the third network device to configure QoS parameters for the terminal device, or the cell type information is used by the third network device to make cell handover decisions for the terminal device.

7. The method as described in claim 6, characterized in that, If the cell type information indicates that the cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information is also used to indicate the orbit type of the second network device, the orbit type including low orbit, medium orbit and geostationary orbit.

8. The method as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The cell type information is also used to indicate whether the cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6-8, characterized in that, The cell type information is also used to indicate whether a neighboring cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6-9, characterized in that, The first network device is a base station, and the third network device is a core network device; Alternatively, the first network device may be a distributed unit (DU) of the base station, and the third network device may be a centralized unit (CU) of the base station. Alternatively, the first network device may be a first base station, and the third network device may be a second base station; Alternatively, the first network device may be a centralized unit control plane (CU-CP), and the third network device may be a centralized unit user plane (CU-UP).

11. A non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication device, characterized in that, The device is a first network device, or the device is applied to the first network device, and the device includes: The processing module is used to determine the cell type information of the cell covered by the second network device. The cell type information is used to indicate whether the cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell. The second network device is a relay device that provides relay forwarding services to the first network device. The transceiver module is used to send the cell type information to a third network device. The cell type information is used by the third network device to configure QoS parameters for the terminal device, or the cell type information is used by the third network device to make cell handover decisions for the terminal device.

12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, If the cell type information indicates that the cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information is also used to indicate the orbit type of the second network device, the orbit type including low orbit, medium orbit and geostationary orbit.

13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The cell type information is also used to indicate whether the cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The cell type information is also used to indicate whether a neighboring cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 11-14, characterized in that, The first network device is a base station, and the third network device is a core network device; Alternatively, the first network device may be a distributed unit (DU) of the base station, and the third network device may be a centralized unit (CU) of the base station. Alternatively, the first network device may be a first base station, and the third network device may be a second base station; Alternatively, the first network device may be a centralized unit control plane (CU-CP), and the third network device may be a centralized unit user plane (CU-UP).

16. A non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication device, characterized in that, The device is a third network device, or the device is applied to the third network device, and the device includes: The transceiver module is used to receive cell type information sent by the first network device. The cell type information is used to indicate whether the cell covered by the second network device is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell. The second network device is a relay device that provides relay forwarding services for the first network device. The processing module is used to store the cell type information, which is used by the third network device to configure QoS parameters for the terminal device, or by the third network device to make cell handover decisions for the terminal device.

17. The apparatus as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, If the cell type information indicates that the cell is a non-terrestrial network communication cell, the cell type information is also used to indicate the orbit type of the second network device, the orbit type including low orbit, medium orbit and geostationary orbit.

18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 17, characterized in that, The cell type information is also used to indicate whether the cell is a moving cell or a fixed cell.

19. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16-18, characterized in that, The cell type information is also used to indicate whether a neighboring cell is a terrestrial network communication cell or a non-terrestrial network communication cell.

20. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16-19, characterized in that, The first network device is a base station, and the third network device is a core network device; Alternatively, the first network device may be a distributed unit (DU) of the base station, and the third network device may be a centralized unit (CU) of the base station. Alternatively, the first network device may be a first base station, and the third network device may be a second base station; Alternatively, the first network device may be a centralized unit control plane (CU-CP), and the third network device may be a centralized unit user plane (CU-UP).

21. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a transceiver, a processor, and a memory; the memory stores program instructions; when the program instructions are executed, the communication device performs the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, or the communication device performs the method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10.

22. A chip, characterized in that, The chip is coupled to a memory in an electronic device, such that the chip, during operation, calls program instructions stored in the memory to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, or to implement the method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10.

23. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions that, when executed on the device, cause the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

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