Communication method and apparatus for integrated access and backhaul, iab, network

Abstract

The application provides a communication method and device of an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) network. The method comprises: an IAB donor central unit (donor-CU) determining at least one first IAB node in a paging area of a terminal device, an IAB mobile terminal (IAB-MT) of the first IAB node being in an energy saving state; then, the donor-CU sends a first paging message, the first paging message comprising information for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal device. Through the communication method and device, the terminal device in the energy saving state can be efficiently paged when the IAB node is in the energy saving state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus for accessing and backhauling an integrated IAB network. Background Technology

[0002] The 3GPP Rel-15 integrated access and backhaul (IAB) system introduces IAB nodes and IAB donors. The IAB donor can be an upgraded gNB. The IAB donor consists of two parts: a centralized unit (donor CU) and a distributed unit (donor DU). The IAB node consists of two parts: a distributed unit (IAB-DU) and a mobile terminal (IAB-MT).

[0003] For NR systems, existing technologies have proposed corresponding energy-saving solutions. Specifically, energy saving of gNB can be achieved by deactivating / disabling gNB-DU cells, and energy saving of terminal equipment can be achieved by the terminal equipment entering the Discontinuous Reception (DRX) state, idle state, or inactive state.

[0004] For IAB systems, since an IAB node consists of two parts, IAB-DU and IAB-MT, if IAB-MT is in power-saving mode while IAB-DU is in non-power-saving mode, IAB-MT will be unable to provide data backhaul to IAB-DU, leading to data accumulation on IAB-DU, buffer overflow, and further packet loss. If IAB-MT is in non-power-saving mode while IAB-DU is in power-saving mode, IAB-MT will remain in non-power-saving mode due to lack of data transmission, resulting in wasted air interface resources. Therefore, it is a more reasonable scenario for both IAB-MT and IAB-DU to be in power-saving mode simultaneously.

[0005] However, existing technologies do not provide a solution for efficiently paging energy-saving terminal devices when the IAB node is in energy-saving mode. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a communication method and apparatus for accessing and backhauling an integrated IAB network, which solves problems such as how to efficiently page energy-saving terminal devices when IAB nodes are in energy-saving mode.

[0007] In a first aspect, this application provides an IAB network communication method applied to an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU). The method includes: determining at least one first IAB node within the paging area of ​​a terminal device, wherein the IAB mobile terminal (IAB-MT) of the first IAB node is in an energy-saving state; and sending a first paging message, the first paging message including information for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal device.

[0008] This IAB network communication method carries information about the paging terminal device in the paging message of the paging energy-saving IAB node. After receiving the paging message paging itself, the energy-saving IAB node can extract the information for paging the terminal device and complete the paging of the terminal device based on the extracted information. This solves the problem of paging energy-saving terminal devices when the IAB-MT is in energy-saving mode and improves the efficiency of paging terminal devices.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the information used for paging the terminal device includes: a discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: the first paging message includes an F1 interface application protocol F1AP paging message, and the F1AP paging message includes the information for paging the terminal device.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: the first paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein the RRC paging message includes an identifier of the terminal device.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the information used to page the IAB-MT of the first IAB node includes: a discontinuous DRX cycle for paged the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, or the timing for paged the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the aforementioned energy-saving state includes either an inactive state or an idle state.

[0014] Secondly, this application provides an IAB network communication method applied to a first node, which is a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU). The method includes: receiving a first paging message from an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the first paging message including information for paging an IAB mobile terminal (IAB-MT) of the first IAB node and information for paging a terminal device, wherein the IAB-MT of the first IAB node is in an energy-saving state and the first IAB node is within the paging area of ​​the terminal device; and sending a second paging message according to the first paging information, the second paging message including the information for paging the terminal device and an identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the information used for paging the terminal device includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first paging message or the second paging message includes information for the paging terminal device, including: the first paging message or the second paging message includes an F1AP paging message, and the F1AP paging message includes information for the paging terminal device.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the first paging message or the second paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: the first paging message or the second paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein the RRC paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device.

[0018] Thirdly, this application provides an integrated access and backhaul IAB network communication method applied to a first IAB node, comprising: receiving a second paging message from the first node, the second paging message including information for paging terminal devices and the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, the first node being a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU); and sending a third paging message according to the second paging message, the third paging message including the identifier of the terminal device.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: when the IAB-DU of the first IAB node receives a response message from the third paging message of the terminal device, the IAB-MT initiates an RRC connection recovery process.

[0020] In this implementation, the energy-saving IAB node triggers the RRC connection recovery process only when it pages the terminal device. This reduces the additional latency caused by waking up the IAB node before paging the terminal device. At the same time, it avoids the waste of air interface resources caused by the IAB node still being woken up when the terminal device is not within the cell range of a certain energy-saving IAB node.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the information used for paging the terminal device includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the second paging message includes information for paging terminal equipment, including: the second paging message includes an F1 interface application protocol F1AP paging message, and the F1AP paging message includes the information for paging terminal equipment.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the second paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: the second paging message includes the third paging message and the timing of paging the terminal device.

[0024] Fourthly, this application provides an integrated access and backhaul IAB network communication method, applied to a host centralized unit (donor-CU). The method includes: receiving first information from an IAB node; and determining, based on the first information, whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving mode.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

[0027] In one possible implementation, before receiving the first information from the IAB node, the method further includes: sending first indication information to the IAB node, the first indication information being used to instruct the IAB node to send the first information to the donor-CU.

[0028] In one possible implementation, before receiving the first information from the IAB node, the method further includes: sending a second indication message to the IAB node, the second indication message being used to consult the IAB node whether it wants to enter an energy-saving state.

[0029] In one possible implementation, before receiving the first information from the IAB node, the method further includes: sending a first threshold to the IAB node, the first threshold being used by the IAB node to send the first information to the donor-CU when the IAB node determines that its battery balance is lower than or equal to the first threshold.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: determining to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state; sending a second energy-saving indication message to the IAB node; and receiving synchronization signal block (SSB) information from the IAB node.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: determining to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state; generating SSB information for the IAB node; and sending the SSB information to the IAB node.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the SSB information is carried in a second energy-saving indication message sent to the IAB node.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the method further includes receiving SSB information that allows adjustment sent by the IAB-DU.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: carrying the second energy-saving indication message on the first energy-saving indication message; wherein the first energy-saving indication message is used to indicate that the IAB-MT enters the energy-saving state, and the second energy-saving indication message is used to indicate that the IAB-DU of the IAB node enters the energy-saving state.

[0035] In this implementation, the design of encapsulating the second indication message within the first indication message allows the donor-CU to control both IAB-MT and IAB-DU to enter energy-saving mode with just one message, saving signaling overhead. Furthermore, this implementation, controlling both IAB-MT and IAB-DU to enter energy-saving mode, avoids the problem of IAB-MT being in energy-saving mode while IAB-DU is in non-energy-saving mode, preventing IAB-MT from providing data feedback to IAB-DU and causing buffer overflow due to data accumulation on IAB-DU; it also avoids the waste of air interface resources caused by IAB-MT being in non-energy-saving mode while IAB-DU is in energy-saving mode, resulting in IAB-MT remaining in non-energy-saving mode due to lack of data transmission.

[0036] Fifthly, this application provides an IAB network communication method applied to an IAB node, comprising: sending first information to an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), wherein the first information is used by the donor-CU to determine whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state based on the first information.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving mode.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

[0039] In one possible implementation, before sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the method further includes: receiving first indication information from the donor-CU; sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU) includes: sending the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU.

[0040] In one possible implementation, before sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the method further includes: receiving second instruction information from the donor-CU; sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU) includes: sending the energy-saving request information to the donor-CU according to the second instruction information.

[0041] In one possible implementation, before sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the method further includes: receiving second instruction information from the donor-CU; sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU) includes: sending the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU according to the second instruction information.

[0042] In one possible implementation, before sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the method further includes: receiving a first threshold from the donor-CU; sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU) includes: if it is determined that the power of the IAB node is lower than or equal to the first threshold, then sending the first information to the donor-CU.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: after the IAB-DU of the IAB node receives a second energy-saving indication message from the donor-CU indicating that the IAB-DU enters an energy-saving state, it adjusts the synchronization signal block SSB information to obtain SSB information; and sends the SSB information to the donor-CU.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: the IAB-DU of the IAB node receiving SSB information from the donor-CU; if the IAB-DU determines that the SSB information cannot meet the requirements, it sends SSB information that allows adjustment to the donor-CU.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the SSB information is carried in a second energy-saving indication message that instructs the IAB-DU to enter an energy-saving state.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT of the IAB node receives a first energy-saving instruction message from the donor-CU, and the second energy-saving instruction message is carried in the first energy-saving instruction message; the IAB-MT controls itself to enter an energy-saving state according to the first energy-saving instruction message, and extracts the second energy-saving instruction message from the first energy-saving instruction message, and sends the second energy-saving instruction message to the IAB-DU of the IAB node; the IAB-DU controls itself to enter an energy-saving state according to the second energy-saving instruction message.

[0047] Sixthly, this application provides an IAB network communication method applied to an IAB node, the method comprising: generating a Flow Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packet; and sending a first Radio Resource Control (RRC) message to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the first RRC message carrying the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0048] In the aforementioned IAB network communication method, the SCTP heartbeat packet is transmitted through the RRC resume procedure, eliminating the need to establish a user plane transmission channel DRB between IAB-MT and donor-CU. This saves the overhead of establishing a DRB and further accelerates the transmission of the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0049] In one possible implementation, before sending the first RRC message to the donor-CU, the method further includes sending a second RRC message to the donor-CU, the second RRC message carrying a cause value, the cause value being used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the second RRC message is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0050] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: receiving a third RRC message sent by the donor-CU, the third RRC message carrying an SCTP heartbeat response packet generated by the donor-CU.

[0051] In one possible implementation, the first RRC message is an RRC connection recovery complete message.

[0052] In one possible implementation, the second RRC message is an RRC Resume Request message.

[0053] In one possible implementation, the third RRC message is an RRC connection release message (RRC Release).

[0054] Seventhly, this application provides an IAB network communication method applied to an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU). The method includes: receiving a first RRC message from an IAB node, the first RRC message carrying a Flow Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packet; generating an SCTP heartbeat response packet corresponding to the SCTP heartbeat packet; and sending a third RRC message to the IAB node, the third RRC message carrying the SCTP heartbeat response packet.

[0055] In one possible implementation, before receiving the first RRC message from the IAB node, the method further includes: receiving a second RRC message from the IAB node, the second RRC message carrying a cause value, the cause value being used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the second RRC message is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0056] In one possible implementation, the first RRC message is an RRC Resume Complete message indicating that the RRC connection has been restored.

[0057] In one possible implementation, the second RRC message is an RRC Resume Request message.

[0058] In one possible implementation, the third RRC message is an RRC connection release message (RRC Release).

[0059] Eighthly, this application provides an IAB network communication method applied to an IAB node. The method includes: generating a Flow Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packet; sending a first message to a first node on pre-configured resources, the first message carrying the SCTP heartbeat packet, the first node being a second IAB node or an IAB Host Distributed Unit (donor-DU).

[0060] In the aforementioned IAB network communication method, SCTP heartbeat packets are transmitted on pre-configured resources, eliminating the need to establish a user plane transmission channel DRB between IAB-MT and donor-CU. This saves the overhead of establishing a DRB and further accelerates the transmission of SCTP heartbeat packets.

[0061] In one possible implementation, sending a first message to a first node on pre-configured resources includes: sending a first message to the first node on pre-configured resources when sending a first random access preamble to the first node.

[0062] In one possible implementation, the first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble comes from the IAB node, and the third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node maintains a power-saving state.

[0063] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: receiving a timer sent by the first node; if no SCTP heartbeat response packet is received before the timer expires, controlling the mobile terminal IAB-MT of the IAB node to always listen to the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH).

[0064] In one possible implementation, the timer is carried in a second message.

[0065] In one possible implementation, the second message is a first random access response message (RAR).

[0066] In one possible implementation, before sending the first message to the first node on the pre-configured resources, the method further includes: receiving a system broadcast message or a radio resource control (RRC) message sent by the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), wherein the system broadcast message or RRC message carries the resources pre-configured by the donor-CU for the IAB node.

[0067] Ninthly, this application provides an IAB network communication method applied to a first node, which is a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU). The method includes: receiving a first message from an IAB node, the first message being sent by the IAB node on pre-configured resources, the first message carrying an SCTP heartbeat packet; and sending a timer to the IAB node according to the first message, the timer indicating that if the IAB node does not receive an SCTP heartbeat response packet before the timer expires, it controls the IAB node's mobile terminal (IAB-MT) to continuously listen to the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH).

[0068] In one possible implementation, the timer is carried in a second message.

[0069] In one possible implementation, the second message is a first random access response message (RAR).

[0070] In one possible implementation, receiving a first message from an IAB node includes receiving a first random access preamble from the IAB node and the first message.

[0071] In one possible implementation, the first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble was sent by the IAB node, and the third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sent the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node is in a power-saving state.

[0072] In a tenth aspect, this application provides an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), comprising: a determining module, configured to determine at least one first IAB node within the paging area of ​​a terminal device, wherein the IAB mobile terminal (IAB-MT) of the first IAB node is in an energy-saving state; and a sending module, configured to send a first paging message, the first paging message including information for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal device.

[0073] In one possible implementation, the information used for paging the terminal device includes: a discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

[0074] In one possible implementation, the first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: the first paging message includes an F1 interface application protocol F1AP paging message, and the F1AP paging message includes the information for paging the terminal device.

[0075] In one possible implementation, the first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including:

[0076] The first paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein, the RRC paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device.

[0077] In one possible implementation, the information used to page the IAB-MT of the first IAB node includes: a discontinuous DRX cycle for paged the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, or the timing for paged the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0078] In one possible implementation, the energy-saving state includes either an inactive state or an idle state.

[0079] Eleventhly, this application provides a node, comprising: a receiving module, configured to receive a first paging message from an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the first paging message including information for paging an IAB mobile terminal (IAB-MT) of a first IAB node and information for paging a terminal device, wherein the IAB-MT of the first IAB node is in an energy-saving state and the first IAB node is within the paging area of ​​the terminal device; and a sending module, configured to send a second paging message according to the first paging information, the second paging message including the information for paging the terminal device and an identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0080] In one possible implementation, the information used for paging the terminal device includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

[0081] In one possible implementation, the first paging message or the second paging message includes information for the paging terminal device, including: the first paging message or the second paging message includes an F1AP paging message, and the F1AP paging message includes information for the paging terminal device.

[0082] In one possible implementation, the first paging message or the second paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: the first paging message or the second paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein the RRC paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device.

[0083] In a twelfth aspect, this application provides an IAB node, comprising: an IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT, configured to receive a second paging message from a first node, the second paging message including information for paging a terminal device and an identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, the first node being a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit donor-DU; and an IAB distributed unit IAB-DU, configured to send a third paging message according to the second paging message, the third paging message including an identifier of the terminal device.

[0084] In one possible implementation, when the IAB-DU receives a response message from the third paging message of the terminal device, the IAB-MT is also used to initiate an RRC connection recovery process.

[0085] In one possible implementation, the information used for paging the terminal device includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

[0086] In one possible implementation, the second paging message includes information for paging terminal equipment, including: the second paging message includes an F1 interface application protocol F1AP paging message, and the F1AP paging message includes the information for paging terminal equipment.

[0087] In one possible implementation, the second paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: the second paging message includes the third paging message and the timing of paging the terminal device.

[0088] In a thirteenth aspect, this application provides an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), comprising: a receiving module for receiving first information from an IAB node; and a determining module for determining, based on the first information, whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state.

[0089] In one possible implementation, the first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving mode.

[0090] In one possible implementation, the first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

[0091] One possible implementation further includes: a sending module, configured to send first indication information to the IAB node before the receiving module receives the first information from the IAB node, the first indication information being used to instruct the IAB node to send the first information to the donor-CU.

[0092] One possible implementation further includes: a sending module, configured to send a second indication message to the IAB node before the receiving module receives the first information from the IAB node, the second indication message being used to inquire whether the IAB node wants to enter an energy-saving state.

[0093] One possible implementation further includes: a sending module, configured to send a first threshold to the IAB node before the receiving module receives the first information from the IAB node, wherein the first threshold is used by the IAB node to send the first information to the donor-CU when the IAB node determines that the power balance of the IAB node is lower than or equal to the first threshold.

[0094] In one possible implementation, the determining module is further configured to determine whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state; the sending module is further configured to send a second energy-saving indication message to the IAB node; and the receiving module is further configured to receive synchronization signal block (SSB) information from the IAB node.

[0095] One possible implementation further includes: a generation module; the determining module is also used to determine whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state; the generation module is used to generate SSB information for the IAB node; and the sending module is also used to send the SSB information to the IAB node.

[0096] In one possible implementation, the SSB information is carried in a second energy-saving indication message sent to the IAB node.

[0097] In one possible implementation, the receiving module is also used to receive the SSB information that allows adjustment sent by the IAB-DU.

[0098] In one possible implementation, the determining module is further configured to carry the second energy-saving indication message on the first energy-saving indication message; wherein the first energy-saving indication message is used to indicate that the IAB-MT enters the energy-saving state, and the second energy-saving indication message is used to indicate that the IAB-DU of the IAB node enters the energy-saving state.

[0099] In a fourteenth aspect, this application provides an IAB node, including: an IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT and an IAB distributed unit IAB-DU; the IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is used to send first information to the IAB host centralized unit donor-CU, the first information being used by the donor-CU to determine whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state based on the first information.

[0100] In one possible implementation, the first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving mode.

[0101] In one possible implementation, the first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

[0102] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is further configured to: receive first indication information from the donor-CU; and send the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU.

[0103] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is further configured to: receive second instruction information from the donor-CU; and send the energy-saving request information to the donor-CU according to the second instruction information.

[0104] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is further configured to: receive second indication information from the donor-CU; and, based on the second indication information, send the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU.

[0105] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is further configured to: receive a first threshold from the donor-CU; and if it is determined that the power of the IAB node is lower than or equal to the first threshold, send the first information to the donor-CU.

[0106] In one possible implementation, the IAB-DU is also used to: adjust the SSB information of the synchronization signal block to obtain SSB information; and send the SSB information to the donor-CU.

[0107] In one possible implementation, the IAB-DU is further configured to: receive SSB information from the donor-CU; and if the IAB-DU determines that the SSB information cannot meet the requirements, send SSB information that allows adjustment to the donor-CU.

[0108] In one possible implementation, the SSB information is carried in a second energy-saving indication message that instructs the IAB-DU to enter an energy-saving state.

[0109] One possible implementation further includes: the IAB-MT is also used to: receive a first energy-saving indication message from the donor-CU, the second energy-saving indication message being carried in the first energy-saving indication message; control the IAB-MT to enter an energy-saving state according to the first energy-saving indication message, extract the second energy-saving indication message from the first energy-saving indication message, and send the second energy-saving indication message to the IAB-DU of the IAB node; the IAB-DU is also used to control the IAB-DU to enter an energy-saving state according to the second energy-saving indication message.

[0110] In a fifteenth aspect, this application provides an IAB node, comprising: an IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT and an IAB distributed unit IAB-DU; the IAB-DU is used to generate a Flow Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packet; the IAB-MT is used to send a first Radio Resource Control (RRC) message to an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the first RRC message carrying the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0111] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT is also used to: send a second RRC message to the donor-CU, the second RRC message carrying a cause value, the cause value being used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the second RRC message is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0112] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT is also used to: receive a third RRC message sent by the donor-CU, the third RRC message carrying an SCTP heartbeat response packet generated by the donor-CU.

[0113] In one possible implementation, the first RRC message is an RRC connection recovery complete message.

[0114] In one possible implementation, the second RRC message is an RRC Resume Request message.

[0115] In one possible implementation, the third RRC message is an RRC connection release message (RRC Release).

[0116] In a sixteenth aspect, this application provides an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), comprising: a receiving module for receiving a first RRC message from an IAB node, the first RRC message carrying a Flow Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packet; a generating module for generating an SCTP heartbeat response packet corresponding to the SCTP heartbeat packet; and a sending module for sending a third RRC message to the IAB node, the third RRC message carrying the SCTP heartbeat response packet.

[0117] In one possible implementation, the receiving module is further configured to receive a second RRC message from the IAB node, the second RRC message carrying a cause value, the cause value being used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the second RRC message is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0118] In one possible implementation, the first RRC message is an RRC Resume Complete message indicating that the RRC connection has been restored.

[0119] In one possible implementation, the second RRC message is an RRC Resume Request message.

[0120] In one possible implementation, the third RRC message is an RRC connection release message (RRC Release).

[0121] In a seventeenth aspect, this application provides an IAB node, comprising: an IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT and an IAB distributed unit IAB-DU; the IAB-DU is used to generate a Flow Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packet; the IAB-MT is used to send a first message to a first node on pre-configured resources, the first message carrying the SCTP heartbeat packet, the first node being a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit donor-DU.

[0122] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT is specifically used to: send a first message to the first node on pre-configured resources when sending the first random access preamble to the first node.

[0123] In one possible implementation, the first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble comes from the IAB node, and the third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node maintains a power-saving state.

[0124] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT is specifically used to: receive a timer sent by the first node; if no SCTP heartbeat response packet is received before the timer expires, the mobile terminal IAB-MT controlling the IAB node will always listen to the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH).

[0125] In one possible implementation, the timer is carried in a second message.

[0126] In one possible implementation, the second message is a first random access response message (RAR).

[0127] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT is further configured to: receive system broadcast messages or radio resource control (RRC) messages sent by the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), wherein the system broadcast message or RRC message carries resources pre-configured by the donor-CU for the IAB node.

[0128] Eighteenthly, this application provides a node, comprising: a receiving module, configured to receive a first message from an IAB node, the first message being sent by the IAB node on pre-configured resources, the first message carrying an SCTP heartbeat packet; and a sending module, configured to send a timer to the IAB node according to the first message, the timer being configured to instruct the IAB node that if it does not receive an SCTP heartbeat response packet before the timer expires, it will control the IAB node's mobile terminal IAB-MT to continuously listen to the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH).

[0129] In one possible implementation, the timer is carried in a second message.

[0130] In one possible implementation, the second message is a first random access response message (RAR).

[0131] In one possible implementation, the receiving module is specifically used to: receive a first random access preamble and the first message from the IAB node.

[0132] In one possible implementation, the first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble was sent by the IAB node, and the third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sent the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node is in a power-saving state.

[0133] In a nineteenth aspect, this application provides a donor-CU, comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to implement the method provided in the first aspect by executing the executable instructions.

[0134] In a twentieth aspect, this application provides a node comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to implement the method provided in the second aspect by executing the executable instructions.

[0135] In a twentieth aspect, this application provides an IAB node, comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to implement the method provided in the third aspect by executing the executable instructions.

[0136] In a twentieth aspect, this application provides a donor-CU, comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to implement the method provided in the fourth aspect by executing the executable instructions.

[0137] In a twentieth aspect, this application provides an IAB node, comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to implement the method provided in the fifth aspect by executing the executable instructions.

[0138] In a twentieth aspect, this application provides an IAB node, comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to implement the method provided in the sixth aspect by executing the executable instructions.

[0139] In a twentieth aspect, this application provides a donor-CU, comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to implement the method provided in the seventh aspect by executing the executable instructions.

[0140] In a twentieth aspect, this application provides an IAB node, comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to implement the method provided in the eighth aspect by executing the executable instructions.

[0141] In a twentieth aspect, this application provides a node comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to implement the method provided in the ninth aspect by executing the executable instructions.

[0142] The IAB network communication method and apparatus provided in this application can solve a series of problems such as how to trigger IAB nodes to enter power-saving mode, how to page idle / inactive terminal devices when IAB nodes are in power-saving mode, and how to ensure the normal transmission of SCTP heartbeat packets. Attached Figure Description

[0143] Figure 1 The NR system architecture diagram provided for this application;

[0144] Figure 2 The IAB system architecture diagram provided for this application;

[0145] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0146] Figure 3A Another flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0147] Figure 3B Another schematic flowchart of an embodiment of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0148] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a second embodiment of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0149] Figure 5 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0150] Figure 6 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0151] Figure 7 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0152] Figure 8 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0153] Figure 9 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0154] Figure 10 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0155] Figure 11 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0156] Figure 12 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0157] Figure 13 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0158] Figure 14 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 2 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0159] Figure 15 A flowchart illustrating Embodiment 3 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0160] Figure 16 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 3 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0161] Figure 17 Another schematic flowchart of Embodiment 3 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application;

[0162] Figure 18This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the IAB node 21 provided in this application;

[0163] Figure 19 A schematic diagram of the structure of the host centralized unit donor-CU22 provided in this application;

[0164] Figure 20 This application provides a structural schematic diagram of the first node 23.

[0165] Figure 21 This is a structural schematic diagram of the IAB node 24 provided in this application;

[0166] Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the structure of the host centralized unit donor-CU25 provided in this application;

[0167] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of IAB node 26 provided in this application;

[0168] Figure 24 A schematic diagram of the structure of the host centralized unit donor-CU27 provided in this application;

[0169] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the IAB node 28 provided in this application;

[0170] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of the donor-DU29 provided in this application;

[0171] Figure 27 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the IAB node 30 provided in this application;

[0172] Figure 28 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the donor-CU31 provided for this application;

[0173] Figure 29 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the first node 32 provided in this application;

[0174] Figure 30 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the IAB node 33 provided in this application;

[0175] Figure 31 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the donor-CU34 provided for this application;

[0176] Figure 32 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the IAB node 35 provided in this application;

[0177] Figure 33 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the donor-CU36 provided for this application;

[0178] Figure 34 Schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the IAB node 37 provided by this application;

[0179] Figure 35 Schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the first node 38 provided by this application. Detailed implementation manners

[0180] To make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of this application clearer, the technical solutions in this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in this application. Obviously, the described embodiments are some but not all of the embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments in this application without any creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0181] In this application, it should be explained that the terms "first" and "second" are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. In addition, "at least one" means one or more, and "multiple" means two or more. "And / or" describes the association relationship of associated objects and indicates that three relationships may exist. For example, A and / or B may represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone, where A and B may be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item)" or its similar expression refers to any combination of these items, including any combination of single item (item) or plural items (items). For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c may represent: a alone, b alone, c alone, the combination of a and b, the combination of a and c, the combination of b and c, or the combination of a, b, and c, where a, b, and c may be single or multiple.

[0182] In the 3GPP Rel-15 New Radio (NR) of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), the base station gNB can adopt a separated architecture of gNB-CU and gNB-DU, as Figure 1As shown, the gNB-CU and gNB-DU are connected via the F1 interface, and the gNB-CU is connected to the 5G core network via the NG interface. User equipment (UE) terminals access the gNB-CU through the gNB-DU. The functions of the Physical (PHY), Radio Link Control (RLC), and Medium Access Control (MAC) layers, which are equivalent to those of the terminal devices, reside on the gNB-DU. The functions of the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP), Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP), and Radio Resource Control (RRC) layers, which are equivalent to those of the terminal devices, reside on the gNB-CU.

[0183] To extend gNB coverage, 3GPP Rel-15 introduced the Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) network. (See [link]) Figure 2 As shown, an IAB node is introduced ( Figure 2 IAB node1 and IAB node2) and IAB host node ( Figure 2 (IAB donor), where the IAB donor can be the upgraded gNB. Figure 2 The diagram illustrates the IAB system architecture in a two-hop data backhaul scenario. The IAB donor consists of two parts: a centralized unit (donor CU) and a distributed unit (donor DU). The donor-CU and... Figure 1 The gNB-CU in China has similar functions, as does the donor-DU. Figure 1 The gNB-DU in China functions similarly. An IAB node consists of two parts: the distributed unit IAB-DU and the mobile terminal IAB-MT. IAB-DU and Figure 1 The gNB-DU in China functions similarly, providing access services to its child nodes. The IAB-MT functions as a terminal device, providing data backhaul to its child nodes.

[0184] IAB nodes can be further divided into access IAB nodes and intermediate IAB nodes. The IAB node to which the terminal device connects is called the access IAB node, and the IAB nodes on the path between the access IAB node and the IAB donor are called intermediate IAB nodes. Figure 2For example, if a terminal device accesses IAB node2, then IAB node2 is called the terminal device's access IAB node, the link between the terminal device and IAB node2 is called the access link, IAB node1 is called the intermediate IAB node, and the link between IAB node1 and IAB node2, as well as the link between IAB node1 and the IAB donor, are all called backhaul links.

[0185] Additionally, IAB node2 is also called the parent node of the terminal device, and the terminal device is called the child node of IAB node2. The parent node of IAB node1 is the IAB donor, and the child node of IAB node1 is IAB node2. The functions of the PHY, MAC, and RLC layers, which are equivalent to those of the terminal device, are located on the IAB-DU of IAB node2, while the functions of the PDCP, SDAP, and RRC layers, which are equivalent to those of the terminal device, are located on the donor-CU.

[0186] against Figure 1 For the NR system shown, existing technologies have proposed corresponding energy-saving solutions. Specifically, energy saving of gNB can be achieved by deactivating / disabling gNB-DU cells, and energy saving of terminal equipment can be achieved by the terminal equipment entering discontinuous reception DRX state, idle state, or inactive state.

[0187] However, in response to Figure 2 The IAB network shown introduces an IAB node between the terminal device and the IAB donor. Since the IAB node consists of two parts, IAB-DU and IAB-MT, the IAB-DU and gNB-DU have similar functions, and the IAB-MT and the terminal device have similar functions. Energy saving of IAB-DU can be achieved by deactivating / disabling the IAB-DU cell or by the IAB-DU cell entering the Discontinuous Transmission (DTX) state. Energy saving of IAB-MT can be achieved by the IAB-MT entering the Discontinuous Reception (DRX) state, the idle state, or the inactive state. However, there are no corresponding solutions in the existing technology for the following problems when the IAB node is in the energy-saving state.

[0188] 1. How to page idle / inactive terminal devices within the coverage area of ​​an energy-saving IAB node.

[0189] 2. How to determine whether an IAB node can enter the power-saving state, how to trigger the IAB-DU to enter the power-saving state, and how to adjust its SSB information when the IAB-DU enters the power-saving state.

[0190] 3. How to ensure the normal transmission of SCTP heartbeat packets when the IAB node enters power-saving mode.

[0191] The solution to the above problems in this application will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0192] It should be noted that in this application, the IAB node being in power-saving state means that the IAB-DU of the IAB node is in a deactivated / closed state or a DTX state, and the IAB-MT of the IAB node is in an idle state or an inactive state.

[0193] Regarding question 1 above, Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the IAB network communication method provided in this application. The IAB network communication method provided in this embodiment includes:

[0194] S301, the donor-CU determines at least one first IAB node.

[0195] In one possible implementation, prior to S301, the method provided in this embodiment may further include: the donor-CU receiving first information sent by the core network device, specifically:

[0196] When the terminal device is in an idle state, the aforementioned core network equipment is the access and mobility management function (AMF). Specifically, after the User Plane Function (UPF) receives downlink data from the idle terminal device, it sends a Downlink Data Notification (DDN) message to the AMF through the Session Management Function (SMF). This allows the AMF to send NGAP paging messages to each donor-CU within the Tracking Area (TA) where the idle terminal device is located, based on the DDN message. The NGAP paging message carries the terminal device's Temporary Mobile Station Identifier (S-TMSI), the discontinuous reception DRX period of the paging terminal device, and a Tracking Area Identity (TAI) list. The TAI list can be used to determine the paging cell list of the terminal device, and the TAI list belongs to the aforementioned first information.

[0197] When the terminal device is in an inactive state, the aforementioned core network device is a UPF. Specifically, after receiving downlink data from the inactive terminal device, the UPF maps the downlink data to the corresponding General Data Transfer Platform (GTP) tunnel and sends it to the donor-CU. The donor-CU can determine which inactive terminal device's downlink data it received from based on the GTP tunnel identifier, and further determine information such as the terminal device's Radio Network Temporary Identifier (I-RNTI), the discontinuous reception DRX period of the paging terminal device, and the paging cell list. The GTP tunnel identifier is part of the first piece of information mentioned above. The GTP tunnel identifier can be, for example, a GTP tunnel endpoint identifier (TEID) and an IP address.

[0198] Regardless of whether the terminal device is in idle or inactive state, the RRC connection between the terminal device and its parent node is disconnected. The donor-CU is not sure which cell the terminal device is in. Considering that the terminal device may be in the cell of an energy-saving IAB node (the scenario corresponding to question 1 above), after receiving the first information, the donor-CU first determines whether there is an energy-saving IAB node in the paging area of ​​the terminal device. If there is, these energy-saving IAB nodes are taken as the first IAB node.

[0199] It should be noted that when an IAB-DU cell is deactivated / disabled, it means that the IAB-DU cell no longer transmits public messages, such as Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), system broadcasts, and paging messages. The network side cannot then use this IAB-DU cell to page idle or inactive terminal devices. To avoid the impact of IAB node power saving on paging idle / inactive terminal devices, in this embodiment, the first IAB node being in power-saving mode refers to the IAB-DU in the first IAB node being in discontinuous transmission (DTX) mode, and the IAB-MT in the first IAB node being inactive. In this application, IAB-DU being in DTX mode refers to the IAB-DU cell being in DTX mode; therefore, for simplicity, we will simply refer to the IAB-DU cell being in DTX mode as the IAB-DU being in DTX mode.

[0200] S302, the donor-CU sends a first paging message, which includes information for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal equipment.

[0201] The first paging message is an F1AP paging message, sent from the donor-CU to the donor-DU, used to paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0202] For paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT, there are several methods:

[0203] In one possible implementation, the information used to page the IAB-MT of the first IAB node may include: the discontinuous reception DRX period for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, or the timing of paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node. Optionally, the information used to page the IAB-MT of the first IAB node may further include: the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node and the paging cell list for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0204] In another possible implementation, the donor-CU can determine the timing of paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT based on parameters such as the discontinuous reception DRX period of the paging first IAB node's IAB-MT, and generate an RRC paging message for paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT based on the identifier of the first IAB node's IAB-MT. The first paging message includes: the timing of paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT, and the RRC paging message for paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT. In this implementation, the information used for paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT includes: the timing of paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT. Optionally, the information used for paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT may also include: the identifier of the first IAB node's IAB-MT and the paging cell list for paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT. The identifier of the first IAB node's IAB-MT may be carried in the RRC paging message for paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT. In other words, the first paging message carries an RRC paging message for the IAB-MT of the first IAB node. Optionally, the first paging message may also carry the timing of paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, and the paging cell list for the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0205] For paging terminal equipment, there are several methods:

[0206] In one possible implementation, the information for the paging terminal device includes: the discontinuous reception DRX period of the paging terminal device, or the timing of the paging terminal device. Optionally, the information for the paging terminal device may further include: the identifier of the terminal device and the paging cell list of the paging terminal device.

[0207] In another possible implementation, after receiving the first information, the donor-CU further determines the timing of paging the paging terminal based on parameters such as the DRX cycle of the paging terminal, and generates an RRC paging message for the paging terminal based on the terminal's identifier. In this case, the information used for paging the terminal includes: the timing of paging the terminal; optionally, the information used for paging the terminal may also include: the terminal's identifier and the paging cell list for the paging terminal. The terminal's identifier can be carried in the RRC paging message of the paging terminal. That is, as... Figure 3A As shown, the first paging message may carry the RRC paging message of the paging terminal device. Optionally, the first paging message may also carry the timing of paging the terminal device, the identifier of the terminal device, and the paging cell list of the paging terminal device.

[0208] In another possible implementation, such as Figure 3B As shown, the first paging message mentioned above may include an F1AP paging message, which includes information for paging terminal devices. In this implementation, the information for paging terminal devices is encapsulated in an F1AP paging message before being sent, which avoids the information for paging terminal devices being visible to all entities passing through, thus improving data security.

[0209] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the timing of paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node refer to the paging frame (PF) and / or paging slot (PO) of the paging terminal device, and the paging frame (PF) and / or paging slot (PO) of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, respectively.

[0210] S303, the first node sends a second paging message based on the first paging information. The second paging message includes: information for paging terminal equipment and the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0211] The second paging message is an RRC paging message, which is used to paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0212] In one possible implementation, when the information for paging the terminal device in the first paging message includes: the discontinuous reception DRX period of the terminal device, or the timing of paging the terminal device, the information for paging the terminal device in the second paging message also includes: the discontinuous reception DRX period of the terminal device, or the timing of paging the terminal device. Optionally, the information for paging the terminal device may further include: the identifier of the terminal device and the paging cell list of the terminal device.

[0213] Another possible implementation, such as Figure 3A As shown, the first paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein, the RRC paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device. Optionally, the first paging message also includes a list of paging cells for the terminal device.

[0214] It should be noted that when the terminal device and the IAB donor are connected via a single-hop IAB node, i.e., the terminal device is within the cell range of a first IAB node, and that first IAB node is within the cell range of the donor-DU, then the first node in S303 refers to the donor-DU (i.e., the first node in this application can be replaced by the donor-DU). This embodiment uses this scenario as an example to illustrate the communication method provided in this application. When the terminal device and the IAB donor are connected via a multi-hop IAB node, i.e., the terminal device is within the cell range of a first IAB node, and that first IAB node is within the cell range of another IAB node (referred to as the second IAB node for ease of description), then the first node in S303 refers to the second IAB node (i.e., the first node in this application can be replaced by the second IAB node). In this case, the donor-CU first sends the first paging message to the donor-DU, and the donor-DU sends the first paging message to the second IAB node through the Backhaul Radio Link Control Channel (BH RLC CH).

[0215] In another possible implementation, such as Figure 3B As shown, when the first paging message includes an F1AP paging message, which includes information for paging terminal equipment, the second paging message also includes the F1AP paging message, which includes information for paging terminal equipment.

[0216] It should be noted that the second paging message is an RRC paging message used to paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node. In this implementation, the F1AP paging message containing information for paging terminal devices is encapsulated in the RRC paging message and sent. That is to say, the RRC paging message for paging the first IAB node carries the F1AP paging message for the paging terminal device. Therefore, the IAB system needs to support the protocol stack architecture of encapsulating F1AP messages in RRC messages.

[0217] The following describes a possible method for the first node to obtain the IAB-MT paging timing of the first IAB node:

[0218] In one possible implementation, the information in the first paging message used to paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node includes: the discontinuous reception DRX cycle of the paging terminal equipment. After receiving the first paging message, the first node can determine the paging timing of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node based on the DRX cycle and other information, and generate an RRC paging message for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node based on the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node. Based on the determined paging timing, the generated RRC paging message for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node is sent to a cell in the aforementioned paging cell list, i.e., the second paging message.

[0219] In another possible implementation, the donor-CU generates a second paging message. The second paging message and the timing of paging the first IAB node's IAB-MT are carried in the first paging message. Optionally, the first paging message may also include a list of paging cells for the first IAB node's IAB-MT. In this case, the first node can directly extract the second paging message and the timing of the first IAB node's IAB-MT from the first paging message, and send the second paging message to a cell in the paging cell list based on the paging timing.

[0220] It should be noted that the second paging message is an RRC paging message used to paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node. This application carries not only the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node in the second paging message, but also information for paging the terminal device, such as the RRC paging message for the terminal device and the timing of the paging. This allows the first IAB node to extract the information for paging the terminal device from the second paging message and complete the paging of the terminal device based on the extracted information, thereby solving the problem described above (1).

[0221] S304, the IAB-MT of the first IAB node sends the information for paging terminal equipment to the IAB-DU.

[0222] Specifically, after the IAB-MT of the first IAB node receives the second paging message sent by the donor-DU, it extracts the information for paging terminal equipment from the second paging message, and then sends the information for paging terminal equipment to the IAB-DU through the internal interface.

[0223] Specifically, since the second paging message carries the identifier of the first IAB node, after receiving the second paging message, the IAB-MT extracts the identifier of the first IAB node from the second paging message, compares its own identifier with the extracted identifier, and if the comparison is successful, it determines that the second paging message is used to page itself, and then sends the information for paging terminal equipment to the IAB-DU.

[0224] S305, IAB-DU sends a third paging message, which includes the identifier of the terminal device.

[0225] Specifically, the IAB-DU sends a third paging message to a cell in the terminal device's paging cell list based on the paging timing. The following describes the possible methods for the IAB-DU to obtain the terminal device's paging timing:

[0226] In one possible implementation, the information in the second paging message used for paging the terminal device includes: a discontinuous reception DRX cycle for paging the terminal device. After receiving the information for paging the terminal device, the IAB-DU can determine the paging timing of the terminal device based on the DRX cycle and other information, and generate an RRC paging message for the terminal device based on the identifier of the terminal device. Based on the determined paging timing, the generated RRC paging message for the terminal device is sent to a cell in the aforementioned paging cell list, i.e., the third paging message.

[0227] In another possible implementation, the donor-CU generates a third paging message, which, along with the timing of paging the terminal device, is carried in the second paging message. Optionally, the second paging message may also include a list of paging cells for the terminal device. In this case, after receiving the second paging message, the IAB-DU can directly extract the third paging message and the timing of paging the terminal device from the second paging message. Based on this paging timing, the third paging message is sent to a cell in the paging cell list.

[0228] In another possible implementation, the second paging message includes an F1AP paging message, which includes information for paging terminal equipment. The IAB-DU can parse the F1AP paging message to obtain the information for paging terminal equipment, and then send the third paging message through the two implementation methods described above.

[0229] Optionally, the method provided in this embodiment further includes:

[0230] S306, the IAB-DU in the first IAB node receives the response message of the third paging message.

[0231] S307, the IAB-DU in the first IAB node sends the response message of the third paging message to the IAB-MT in the first IAB node.

[0232] Optionally, to save overhead, after receiving the response message of the third paging message, the IAB-DU in the first IAB node sends an indication message to the IAB-MT in the first IAB node to instruct the IAB-MT to trigger the RRC connection recovery process.

[0233] S308, the IAB-MT in the first IAB node triggers the RRC connection recovery process.

[0234] It should be noted that: Figure 3 The execution order shown is only an example; S308 can also be executed after S303 or after S304.

[0235] In one possible implementation, the response message of the aforementioned third paging message can be an RRCSetupRequest message sent by the terminal device. After receiving the RRCSetupRequest message, the IAB-DU generates an F1AP message, such as an Initial UL RRC Message Transfer message. This F1AP message carries the RRCSetupRequest message. After the IAB-MT receives the F1AP message sent by the IAB-DU, it can determine that the RRC connection recovery process can be triggered.

[0236] In one possible implementation, to prevent the IAB-MT from immediately triggering the RRC connection recovery procedure upon receiving the second paging message, the second paging message can carry an indication message to indicate whether the IAB-MT should immediately trigger the RRC connection recovery procedure upon receiving the second paging message. For example, if the IAB-MT does not receive the indication message, or if it receives the indication message and its value is the first value, then the IAB-MT will immediately trigger the RRC connection recovery procedure after receiving the second paging message containing its identifier. If the IAB-MT receives the indication message, or if it receives the indication message and its value is the second value, then the IAB-MT will not immediately trigger the RRC connection recovery procedure, but will wait until it receives the response message to the third paging message before triggering the RRC connection recovery procedure. The first value can be an error (false), and the second value can be a true value (true), or vice versa.

[0237] because, Figure 3 The design of S306-S308 ensures that after the IAB-MT receives the second paging message, it does not immediately trigger the RRC connection recovery process. Instead, it waits until the IAB-DU paging the terminal device before triggering the RRC connection recovery process. This reduces the paging delay caused by waking up the first IAB node before triggering the paging of the terminal device. It also avoids the waste of resources caused by the first IAB node exiting the energy-saving state when the terminal device is not within the cell range of the first IAB node.

[0238] The IAB network communication method provided in this embodiment carries terminal device information in the paging message of the energy-saving IAB node. This allows the energy-saving IAB node to extract the information for paging the terminal device after receiving a paging message, and complete the paging of the terminal device based on the extracted information, thus solving problem 1 mentioned above. Furthermore, the energy-saving IAB node only triggers the RRC connection recovery process when the terminal device is successfully paged, avoiding the waste of air interface resources caused by the IAB node being woken up even when the terminal device is not within the cell range of an energy-saving IAB node.

[0239] Regarding question 2 above, Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a second embodiment of the IAB network communication method provided in this application. The IAB network communication method provided in this embodiment includes:

[0240] S401, the IAB node sends the first message to the donor-CU.

[0241] S402, the donor-CU determines whether to switch the IAB node to power-saving mode based on the first information.

[0242] In one possible implementation, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 5 As shown, the first information mentioned above is energy-saving request information, which instructs the donor-CU to switch the aforementioned IAB node to energy-saving mode. After receiving the energy-saving request information, the donor-CU determines whether to switch the IAB node to energy-saving mode. For example, after receiving the energy-saving request information, the donor-CU may consider at least one of the following factors to determine whether to switch the IAB node to energy-saving mode: the operating status of all IAB nodes in the entire network topology, or the operating status of the IAB node (e.g., service load, service traffic), or the service situation in the network (e.g., service load or service traffic).

[0243] In another possible implementation, see Figure 6 As shown, the first piece of information is either the power balance information or the power consumption information of the IAB node. After receiving the power balance information or the power consumption information, the donor-CU determines whether the power balance information or the power consumption information meets the conditions for entering the energy-saving state. If it does, the IAB node is switched to the energy-saving state; otherwise, no switching process is performed.

[0244] The above-mentioned electricity consumption information can be considered as the percentage of energy consumed.

[0245] In another possible implementation, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 As shown, in Figure 6Based on the method shown, before the IAB node sends the first information to the donor-CU, the donor-CU may send the first indication information to the IAB node. After receiving the first indication message, the IAB node sends the power balance information or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU.

[0246] In another possible implementation, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 8 As shown, in Figure 5 Based on the method shown, before the IAB node sends the first information to the donor-CU, the donor-CU can send a second indication message to the IAB node. This second indication message is used to consult the IAB node whether it wants to enter energy-saving mode. After receiving the second indication message, the IAB node determines whether to enter energy-saving mode based on its own power balance information or power consumption information. If it wants to enter energy-saving mode, it sends an energy-saving request message to the donor-CU.

[0247] In another possible implementation, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 9 As shown, in Figure 6 Based on the method shown, before the IAB node sends the first information to the donor-CU, the donor-CU can send a second indication message to the IAB node. This second indication message is used to consult the IAB node whether it wants to enter energy-saving mode. After receiving the second indication message, the IAB node directly sends its own power balance information or power consumption information to the donor-CU. After receiving the power balance information or power consumption information, the donor-CU determines whether the power balance information or power consumption information meets the conditions for entering energy-saving mode. If it does, the IAB node is switched to energy-saving mode; otherwise, no switching process is performed.

[0248] In another possible implementation, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 10 As shown, in Figure 5 Based on the method shown, before the IAB node sends the first information to the donor-CU, the donor-CU can send a first threshold to the IAB node. After receiving the first threshold, the IAB node determines whether its own power balance is lower than or equal to the first threshold. If its own power balance is lower than or equal to the first threshold, it sends an energy-saving request information to the donor-CU.

[0249] It should be noted that the above-mentioned battery balance information or used battery information can be presented as a percentage, such as battery balance information showing 60% remaining, or used battery information showing 40% used. It can also be presented as a specific battery value, or in other forms; this embodiment is not limited to any particular form.

[0250] It should be noted that: Figures 4-10 Information exchanged between the donor-CU and the IAB node can be carried in F1AP messages between the IAB-DU and the donor-CU, or in RRC messages between the IAB-MT and the donor-CU. The F1AP message can be an existing F1AP message, such as the gNB-DU Configuration Update message, or the gNB-CU Configuration Update, or the gNB-CU Configuration Update Acknowledge message. It can also be a newly defined F1AP message. Similarly, the RRC message can be an existing RRC message, such as the terminal device AssistanceInformation message, or the RRCReconfiguration message. It can also be a newly defined RRC message.

[0251] To enable better control by the donor-CU, the IAB-DU needs to notify the donor-CU of its SSB information. The following describes how the IAB-DU adjusts its SSB information when the IAB node enters a power-saving state (e.g., the IAB-DU enters the DTX state, and the IAB-MT enters the inactive state):

[0252] In one possible implementation, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 11 As shown, the method provided in this embodiment further includes:

[0253] S110, after the IAB-DU receives the second energy-saving indication message sent from the donor-CU, indicating that the IAB-DU has entered the energy-saving state.

[0254] S111, adjust the SSB information of the cell's synchronization signal block, for example, by increasing the SSB transmission period to obtain the adjusted SSB information.

[0255] S112, the adjusted SSB information is sent to the donor-CU. The IAB-DU can send the adjusted SSB information to the donor-CU via the gNB-CUConfiguration Update Acknowledge message.

[0256] In another possible implementation, see Figure 12 As shown, the method provided in this embodiment further includes:

[0257] S120, when the donor-CU determines to switch the IAB node to energy-saving mode, it adjusts the synchronization signal block SSB information of the IAB-DU cell to obtain the adjusted SSB information.

[0258] S121, the adjusted SSB information is sent to the IAB-DU, and the IAB-DU cell directly uses the adjusted SSB information.

[0259] In another possible implementation, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 13 As shown, the method provided in this embodiment further includes:

[0260] S130, when the donor-CU determines to switch the IAB node to energy-saving mode, it adjusts the synchronization signal block SSB information of the IAB-DU cell to obtain the adjusted SSB information.

[0261] S131, the adjusted SSB information is sent to the IAB-DU. If the IAB-DU determines that the adjusted SSB information cannot meet the requirements, it sends SSB information that allows adjustment to the donor-CU.

[0262] S132, Receive SSB information indicating that adjustment is permitted from IAB-DU.

[0263] In the second and third implementation methods described above, the adjusted SSB information can be carried in the second energy-saving indication message that instructs the IAB-DU cell to enter the energy-saving state.

[0264] The following describes the possible ways to trigger IAB-DU and IAB-MT to enter power-saving mode when the donor-CU determines to switch the IAB node to power-saving mode:

[0265] In one possible implementation, the donor-CU sends a first energy-saving indication message and a second energy-saving indication message to both the IAB-MT and IAB-DU. The first energy-saving indication message instructs the IAB-MT to enter an inactive state, and the second energy-saving indication message instructs the IAB-DU cell to enter a discontinuous transmission (DTX) state. Upon receiving the first energy-saving indication message, the IAB-MT controls itself to enter an energy-saving state, and upon receiving the second energy-saving indication message, the IAB-DU controls itself to enter an energy-saving state. Specifically, the first energy-saving indication message is an RRC message, and the second energy-saving indication message is an F1AP message. The donor-CU sends both the first and second energy-saving indication messages to the IAB-MT and IAB-DU respectively.

[0266] In another possible implementation, see Figure 14 As shown, the method provided in this embodiment includes:

[0267] S140, the donor-CU sends a first energy-saving instruction message to the IAB-MT. The first energy-saving instruction message includes a second energy-saving instruction message. The first energy-saving instruction message is used to instruct the IAB-MT to enter the energy-saving state, and the second energy-saving instruction message is used to instruct the IAB-DU to enter the energy-saving state.

[0268] S141, after receiving the first energy-saving instruction message, IAB-MT controls IAB-MT to enter the energy-saving state.

[0269] S142, IAB-MT will extract the second instruction message from the first instruction message and send the second instruction message to IAB-DU.

[0270] S143, after receiving the second indication message, the IAB-DU is controlled to enter the power-saving state. In this implementation, the design of encapsulating the second indication message in the first indication message allows the donor-CU to control both the IAB-MT and IAB-DU to enter the power-saving state with only one message, saving signaling overhead.

[0271] The two implementation methods described above can control both IAB-MT and IAB-DU to enter the power-saving state, avoiding the problem that when IAB-MT is in the power-saving state but IAB-DU is in the non-power-saving state, IAB-MT cannot provide data backhaul to IAB-DU, resulting in data accumulation on IAB-DU and buffer overflow. They also avoid the waste of air interface resources caused by IAB-MT being in the non-power-saving state while IAB-DU is in the power-saving state, and IAB-MT remaining in the non-power-saving state due to no data transmission.

[0272] The IAB network communication method provided in this embodiment offers a way to determine whether an IAB node can enter an energy-saving state, a way to adjust its SSB information when an IAB-DU enters an energy-saving state, and a way to trigger an IAB-DU to enter an energy-saving state, thereby solving problem 2 mentioned above.

[0273] To address issue 3 above, and to ensure rapid resumption of data transmission between the IAB-DU and donor-CU after the IAB node exits power-saving mode, when the IAB node is in power-saving mode (IAB-DU in DTX mode or in a deactivated / closed state, IAB-MT in an inactive state), the F1 interface between the IAB-DU and donor-CU can be maintained without releasing the connection, thus preserving the Flow Control Protocol (SCTP) connection between them. The SCTP connection detects link status by sending SCTP heartbeat packets. To ensure normal transmission of SCTP heartbeat packets when the IAB node is in power-saving mode, this application provides the following embodiment.

[0274] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating Embodiment 3 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application. This embodiment provides an implementable method for transmitting SCTP heartbeat packets when an IAB node enters an energy-saving state. Specifically, the IAB network communication method proposed in this embodiment includes:

[0275] S1501, the IAB node generates Flow Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packets.

[0276] S1502, the IAB node sends a second RRC message to the donor-CU. This second RRC message carries a reason value, which indicates that the reason for the IAB node sending the second RRC message is to transmit an SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0277] In one possible implementation, the IAB-DU generates an SCTP heartbeat packet, which is then sent to the IAB-MT via an internal interface. The IAB-MT then sends the second RRC message to the donor-CU via the donor-DU.

[0278] In one possible implementation, the second RRC message can be an RRC Resume Request message. After receiving the RRC Resume Request message, the donor-CU sends an RRC Resume message to the IAB node through the donor-DU.

[0279] S1503, the IAB node sends the first RRC message to the donor-CU, which carries an SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0280] In one possible implementation, the first RRC message can be an RRC Resume Complete message. After receiving the RRC Resume message, the IAB node sends the generated SCTP heartbeat packet in the RRC Resume Complete message to the donor-CU.

[0281] S1504, donor-CU generates SCTP heartbeat response packet.

[0282] In one possible implementation, after the donor-CU receives the aforementioned reason value and SCTP heartbeat packet, it determines that the reason the IAB node initiated the RRC resume is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, and then generates an SCTP heartbeat response packet.

[0283] S1505, the donor-CU sends a third RRC message to the IAB node, which carries the SCTP heartbeat response packet generated in S1504.

[0284] In one possible implementation, the third RRC message can be an RRC Release message. The donor-CU sends the SCTP heartbeat response packet in the RRC Release message to the IAB-MT in the IAB node. After receiving the RRC Release message, the IAB-MT enters the inactive state, extracts the SCTP heartbeat response from the RRC Release message, and sends the SCTP heartbeat response to the IAB-DU. Figure 15 The IAB network communication method provided in the illustrated embodiment transmits SCTP heartbeat packets carried in the signaling of the RRCresume procedure, eliminating the need to establish a user plane transmission channel DRB between IAB-MT and donor-CU, thereby saving the overhead of establishing a DRB and further accelerating the transmission of SCTP heartbeat packets.

[0285] Figure 16 This is another flowchart illustrating Embodiment 3 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application. This embodiment provides another possible way to transmit SCTP heartbeat packets when an IAB node enters an energy-saving state. Specifically, the IAB network communication method proposed in this embodiment includes:

[0286] S1601, the IAB node generates Flow Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packets.

[0287] S1602, the IAB node sends a second RRC message to the donor-CU. The second RRC message carries a reason value and an SCTP heartbeat packet. The reason value is used to indicate that the reason for the IAB node to send the second RRC message is to transmit an SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0288] In one possible implementation, the IAB-DU generates an SCTP heartbeat packet, which is then sent to the IAB-MT via an internal interface. The IAB-MT then sends the second RRC message to the donor-CU via the donor-DU.

[0289] In one possible implementation, the second RRC message can be an RRC Resume Request message.

[0290] S1603, donor-CU generates SCTP heartbeat response packet.

[0291] In one possible implementation, after the donor-CU receives the aforementioned reason value and SCTP heartbeat packet, it determines that the reason the IAB node initiated the RRC resume is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, and then generates an SCTP heartbeat response packet.

[0292] S1604, the donor-CU sends a third RRC message to the IAB node, which carries the SCTP heartbeat response packet generated in S1603.

[0293] In one possible implementation, the third RRC message can be an RRC Reject message. The donor-CU sends the SCTP heartbeat response packet in the RRC Reject message to the IAB-MT. After receiving the RRC Reject message, the IAB-MT enters / maintains an inactive state, extracts the SCTP heartbeat response from the RRC Reject message, and sends the SCTP heartbeat response to the IAB-DU.

[0294] and Figure 15 Compared to the embodiments shown, Figure 16 In the illustrated embodiment, both the cause value and the SCTP heartbeat packet are carried in the second RRC message. The donor-CU does not need to send an RRC Resume message to the IAB node, and the IAB node does not need to send a first RRC message to the donor-CU. This ensures the normal transmission of the SCTP heartbeat packet while saving signaling overhead.

[0295] Figure 17 This is another flowchart illustrating Embodiment 3 of the IAB network communication method provided in this application. This embodiment provides another possible way to transmit SCTP heartbeat packets when an IAB node enters an energy-saving state. Specifically, the IAB network communication method proposed in this embodiment includes:

[0296] S1701, the IAB node generates Flow Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packets.

[0297] S1702, the IAB node sends a first message to the donor-DU on the pre-configured resources, the first message carrying the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0298] In one possible implementation, the IAB-DU generates an SCTP heartbeat packet, which is then sent to the IAB-MT via an internal interface. The IAB-MT then sends the first preamble and the first message to the donor-DU. The IAB-MT can send the first preamble on the Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) and the first message on pre-configured resources.

[0299] In one possible implementation, when the donor-CU determines that the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, it can know that it will receive an SCTP heartbeat packet sent by the IAB-DU. Therefore, the donor-CU can request pre-configured network resources from the donor-DU and send the pre-configured network resources to the IAB node through a system broadcast message or an RRC message.

[0300] In one possible implementation, the first message also carries indication information of the IAB node, and / or, third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble was sent by the IAB node, and the third indication information is used to indicate that the reason for the IAB node sending the first preamble is to transmit an SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries an SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node will remain in power-saving mode.

[0301] S1703, based on the first message, the donor-DU sends the second message to the IAB node.

[0302] The second message carries a timer. Optionally, the second message also carries downlink resources, which are used to instruct the IAB-MT to listen for SCTP heartbeat responses on those downlink resources. For example, the second message could be a first random access response (RAR) message.

[0303] S1704 If the IAB node does not receive an SCTP heartbeat response packet before the timer expires, the mobile terminal IAB-MT controlling the IAB node will always listen to the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH).

[0304] The aforementioned timer design ensures that the IAB-MT will not listen to the PDCCH channel indefinitely, but will listen before the timer expires. After the timer expires, the IAB-MT will automatically enter / maintain a power-saving state.

[0305] Figure 17The IAB network communication method provided in the illustrated embodiment is explained using a single-hop scenario as an example. Specifically, the IAB node is directly within the coverage area of ​​the donor-DU, and the SCTP heartbeat packets are transmitted on the pre-configured network resources of the donor-CU. This eliminates the need to establish a user plane transmission channel (DRB) between the IAB-MT and the donor-CU, thus saving the overhead of establishing a DRB and further accelerating the transmission of SCTP heartbeat packets. Similarly, the solution in this embodiment is also applicable to multi-hop scenarios, where the IAB node is within the coverage area of ​​the second IAB node, which is also within the coverage area of ​​the donor-DU; or, the second IAB node is within the coverage area of ​​the third IAB node, which is also within the coverage area of ​​the donor-DU, and so on. In this scenario, simply replace the donor-DU with the IAB-DU in the second IAB node.

[0306] The IAB network communication method provided in this embodiment can transmit SCTP heartbeat packets through the RRC resume process or pre-configured network resources when the IAB node is in power-saving mode, which can ensure the normal transmission of SCTP heartbeat packets, solve the problem 3 mentioned above, and eliminate the need to establish a user plane transmission channel DRB between IAB-MT and donor-CU, thereby saving the overhead of establishing DRB and further accelerating the transmission of SCTP heartbeat packets.

[0307] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the IAB node 21 provided in this application. The IAB node 21 provided in this application includes: IAB-MT 210, used to receive a second paging message from a first node, the second paging message including information for paging a terminal device and the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, the first node being a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU); and IAB-DU 211, used to send a third paging message according to the second paging message, the third paging message including the identifier of the terminal device.

[0308] In one possible implementation, when the IAB-DU211 receives a response message from the third paging message of the terminal device, the IAB-MT210 is also used to initiate an RRC connection recovery process.

[0309] In one possible implementation, the information for paging the terminal device includes: the discontinuous reception DRX period of paging the terminal device, or the timing of paging the terminal device.

[0310] In one possible implementation, the second paging message includes information for paging terminal equipment, including: the second paging message includes an F1 Interface Application Protocol (F1AP) paging message, wherein the F1AP paging message includes the information for paging terminal equipment.

[0311] In one possible implementation, the second paging message includes the information for paging the terminal device, including: the second paging message includes the third paging message and the timing of paging the terminal device.

[0312] The IAB node 21 provided in this application can perform the steps executed on the IAB node side in the first embodiment of the above method. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0313] Figure 19 A schematic diagram of the structure of the host centralized unit, donor-CU22, provided in this application. The donor-CU22 provided in this application includes:

[0314] The determining module 221 is used to determine at least one first IAB node within the paging area of ​​the terminal device, wherein the IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT of the first IAB node is in power-saving mode.

[0315] The sending module 222 is used to send a first paging message, the first paging message including information for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal device.

[0316] In one possible implementation, the information for paging the terminal device includes: a discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

[0317] In one possible implementation, the first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: the first paging message includes an F1 Interface Application Protocol (F1AP) paging message, wherein the F1AP paging message includes the information for paging the terminal device.

[0318] In one possible implementation, the first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including:

[0319] The first paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein, the RRC paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device.

[0320] In one possible implementation, the information for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node includes: a discontinuous reception DRX period for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, or the timing for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0321] In one possible implementation, the energy-saving state includes an inactive state or an idle state.

[0322] The donor-CU22 provided in this application can perform the steps executed on the donor-CU side in the first embodiment of the above method. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0323] Figure 20 A structural schematic diagram of the first node 23 provided in this application. The first node provided in this application includes:

[0324] The receiving module 231 is configured to receive a first paging message from the IAB host centralized unit donor-CU. The first paging message includes information for paging the IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal device, wherein the IAB-MT of the first IAB node is in power-saving mode and the first IAB node is within the paging area of ​​the terminal device.

[0325] The sending module 232 is used to send a second paging message according to the first paging information. The second paging message includes the information of the paging terminal device and the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

[0326] In one possible implementation, the information for paging the terminal device includes: the discontinuous reception DRX period of paging the terminal device, or the timing of paging the terminal device.

[0327] In one possible implementation, the first paging message or the second paging message includes information for the paging terminal device, including: the first paging message or the second paging message includes an F1AP paging message, wherein the F1AP paging message includes information for the paging terminal device.

[0328] In one possible implementation, the first paging message or the second paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: the first paging message or the second paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein, the RRC paging message includes an identifier of the terminal device.

[0329] The first node 23 provided in this application can perform the steps executed on the first node side in the above method embodiment one. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0330] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the IAB node 24 provided in this application. The IAB node 24 provided in this application includes: IAB-DU241 and IAB-MT242. Either IAB-DU241 or IAB-MT242 can be used to send first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU). The first information is used by the donor-CU to determine whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state based on the first information.

[0331] In one possible implementation, the first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving state.

[0332] In one possible implementation, the first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

[0333] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT242 or the IAB-DU241 is further configured to: receive first indication information from the donor-CU; and send the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU.

[0334] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT242 or the IAB-DU241 is further configured to: receive second indication information from the donor-CU; and send the energy-saving request information to the donor-CU according to the second indication information.

[0335] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT242 or the IAB-DU241 is further configured to: receive second indication information from the donor-CU; and send the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU according to the second indication information.

[0336] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT242 or the IAB-DU241 is further configured to: receive a first threshold from the donor-CU; and if it is determined that the power of the IAB node is lower than or equal to the first threshold, send the first information to the donor-CU.

[0337] In one possible implementation, the IAB-DU241 is further configured to: adjust the synchronization signal block SSB information to obtain SSB information; and send the SSB information to the donor-CU.

[0338] In one possible implementation, the IAB-DU241 is further configured to: receive SSB information from the donor-CU; and if the IAB-DU determines that the SSB information cannot meet the requirements, send SSB information allowing adjustment to the donor-CU.

[0339] In one possible implementation, the SSB information is carried in a second energy-saving indication message that instructs the IAB-DU to enter an energy-saving state.

[0340] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT242 is further configured to: receive a first energy-saving indication message from the donor-CU, wherein a second energy-saving indication message is carried in the first energy-saving indication message; control the IAB-MT to enter an energy-saving state according to the first energy-saving indication message, extract a second energy-saving indication message from the first energy-saving indication message, and send the second energy-saving indication message to the IAB-DU of the IAB node; the IAB-DU241 is further configured to control the IAB-DU to enter an energy-saving state according to the second energy-saving indication message.

[0341] The IAB node 24 provided in this application can perform the steps executed on the IAB node side in the above-described method embodiment 2. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0342] Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the structure of the host centralized unit, donor-CU25, provided in this application. The donor-CU25 provided in this application includes:

[0343] Receiver module 251 is used to receive first information from the IAB node;

[0344] The determination module 252 is used to determine whether to switch the IAB node to energy-saving state based on the first information.

[0345] In one possible implementation, the first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving state.

[0346] In one possible implementation, the first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

[0347] In one possible implementation, the donor-CU25 further includes a sending module 253, which is used to send first indication information to the IAB node before the receiving module 251 receives the first information from the IAB node. The first indication information is used to instruct the IAB node to send the first information to the donor-CU.

[0348] In one possible implementation, the sending module 253 is further configured to send a second indication message to the IAB node before the receiving module 251 receives the first information sent by the IAB node. The second indication message is used to consult the IAB node whether it wants to enter an energy-saving state.

[0349] In one possible implementation, the sending module 253 is further configured to send a first threshold to the IAB node, wherein the first threshold is used by the IAB node to send the first information to the donor-CU when the IAB node determines that the power of the IAB node is lower than or equal to the first threshold.

[0350] In one possible implementation, the determining module 252 is further configured to determine to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state; the sending module 253 is further configured to send a second energy-saving indication message to the IAB node; and the receiving module 251 is further configured to receive synchronization signal block (SSB) information from the IAB node.

[0351] In one possible implementation, the donor-CU25 further includes a generation module 254, a determination module 252 which is further configured to determine whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state; the generation module 254 is configured to generate SSB information of the IAB node; and the sending module 253 is further configured to send the SSB information to the IAB node.

[0352] In one possible implementation, the SSB information is carried in a second energy-saving indication message sent to the IAB node.

[0353] In one possible implementation, the receiving module 251 is further configured to receive the SSB information that allows adjustment sent by the IAB-DU.

[0354] In one possible implementation, the determining module 252 is further configured to carry the second energy-saving indication message on the first energy-saving indication message; wherein the first energy-saving indication message is used to indicate that the IAB-MT enters the energy-saving state, and the second energy-saving indication message is used to indicate that the IAB-DU of the IAB node enters the energy-saving state.

[0355] The donor-CU25 provided in this application can perform the steps executed on the donor-CU side in the second embodiment of the above method. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0356] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the IAB node 26 provided in this application. The IAB node provided in this application is in an energy-saving state. The IAB node includes:

[0357] IAB-DU261 is used to generate Stream Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packets.

[0358] IAB-MT262 is used to send a first RRC message to the host centralized unit (donor-CU), the first RRC message carrying the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0359] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT262 is further configured to send a second RRC message to the donor-CU. The second RRC message carries a cause value, which indicates that the reason the IAB node sends the second RRC message is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0360] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT262 is further configured to receive a third RRC message sent by the donor-CU, the third RRC message carrying an SCTP heartbeat response packet generated by the donor-CU;

[0361] In one possible implementation, the first RRC message is an RRC Resume Complete message.

[0362] In one possible implementation, the second RRC message is an RRC Resume Request message.

[0363] In one possible implementation, the third RRC message is an RRC Release message.

[0364] The IAB node 26 provided in this application can execute the method described in Embodiment 3 above. Figure 18 The steps performed on the IAB node side shown are similar in principle and have similar beneficial effects, so they will not be repeated here.

[0365] Figure 24 A schematic diagram of the structure of the host centralized unit donor-CU27 provided in this application. The donor-CU27 provided in this application includes:

[0366] The receiving module 271 is used to receive a first RRC message sent by the IAB node, the first RRC message carrying a Flow Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packet; wherein the IAB node is in a power-saving state.

[0367] The sending module 272 can be used to send RRC Resume messages.

[0368] In one possible implementation, the receiving module 271 is further configured to receive a second RRC message sent by the IAB node, the second RRC message carrying a cause value, the cause value being used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the second RRC message is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0369] In one possible implementation, the donor-CU27 further includes a generation module 273 for generating an SCTP heartbeat response packet, and a sending module 272 for sending a third RRC message to the IAB node, the third RRC message carrying the SCTP heartbeat response packet.

[0370] In one possible implementation, the first RRC message is an RRC Resume Complete message.

[0371] In one possible implementation, the second RRC message is an RRC Resume Request message.

[0372] In one possible implementation, the third RRC message is an RRC Release message.

[0373] The donor-CU27 provided in this application can perform the above-described method in embodiment three. Figure 18 The steps performed on the donor-CU side are similar in principle and have similar beneficial effects, so they will not be repeated here.

[0374] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the IAB node 28 provided in this application. The IAB node provided in this application is in an energy-saving state. The IAB node includes:

[0375] IAB-DU281 is used to generate Stream Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packets.

[0376] IAB-MT282 is used to send a first message to a first node on pre-configured resources. The first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet. The first node is a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU).

[0377] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT282 is specifically used to: send a first message to the first node on pre-configured resources when sending the first random access preamble to the first node.

[0378] In one possible implementation, the first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble comes from the IAB node, and the third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node maintains a power-saving state.

[0379] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT282 is specifically used to: receive a timer sent by the first node; if no SCTP heartbeat response packet is received before the timer expires, control the mobile terminal IAB-MT of the IAB node to always listen to the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH).

[0380] In one possible implementation, the timer is carried in a second message.

[0381] In one possible implementation, the second message is a first random access response message (RAR).

[0382] In one possible implementation, the IAB-MT282 is further configured to: receive system broadcast messages or radio resource control (RRC) messages sent by the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), wherein the system broadcast message or RRC message carries resources pre-configured by the donor-CU for the IAB node.

[0383] The IAB node 28 provided in this application can execute the method described in Embodiment 3 above. Figure 20 The steps performed on the IAB node side shown are similar in principle and have similar beneficial effects, so they will not be repeated here.

[0384] Figure 26 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first node 29 provided in this application. The first node 29 provided in this application includes:

[0385] The receiving module 291 is used to receive a first message from the IAB node, the first message being sent by the IAB node on a pre-configured resource, and the first message carrying an SCTP heartbeat packet.

[0386] The sending module 292 is used to send a timer to the IAB node according to the first message. The timer is used to instruct the IAB node that if it does not receive an SCTP heartbeat response packet before the timer expires, it will control the mobile terminal IAB-MT of the IAB node to always listen to the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH).

[0387] In one possible implementation, the timer is carried in a second message.

[0388] In one possible implementation, the second message is a first random access response message (RAR).

[0389] In one possible implementation, the receiving module 291 is specifically used to: receive a first random access preamble and the first message from the IAB node.

[0390] In one possible implementation, the first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble was sent by the IAB node, and the third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sent the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node is in a power-saving state.

[0391] The first node 29 provided in this application can execute the method described in Embodiment 3 above. Figure 20 The steps performed on the donor-DU side are similar in principle and have similar beneficial effects, so they will not be repeated here.

[0392] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the IAB node 30 provided in this application. Figure 27 As shown, the IAB node 30 provided in this embodiment may include:

[0393] Memory 301 is used to store program instructions.

[0394] The processor 302 is used to implement the steps executed on the IAB node side in the first embodiment of the above method when the program instructions are executed. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be described again here.

[0395] Figure 28 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the donor-CU31 provided in this application. Figure 28 As shown, the donor-CU31 provided in this application embodiment may include:

[0396] Memory 311 is used to store program instructions.

[0397] The processor 312 is used to implement the steps executed on the donor-CU side in the first embodiment of the above method when the program instructions are executed. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be described again here.

[0398] Figure 29This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the first node 32 provided in this application. Figure 29 As shown, the first node 32 provided in this application embodiment may include:

[0399] Memory 321 is used to store program instructions.

[0400] The processor 322 is used to implement the steps executed on the first node side in the first embodiment of the above method when the program instructions are executed. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0401] This application provides an IAB system, including Figure 27 IAB node 30 is shown. Figure 28 The donor-CU31 shown and Figure 29 The first node is shown as 32.

[0402] Figure 30 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the IAB node 33 provided in this application. Figure 30 As shown, the IAB node 33 provided in this embodiment may include:

[0403] Memory 331 is used to store program instructions.

[0404] The processor 332 is used to implement the steps executed on the IAB node side in the second embodiment of the above method when the program instructions are executed. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be described again here.

[0405] Figure 31 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the donor-CU34 provided in this application. Figure 31 As shown, the donor-CU34 provided in this application embodiment may include:

[0406] Memory 341 is used to store program instructions.

[0407] The processor 342 is used to implement the steps executed on the donor-CU side in the second embodiment of the above method when the program instructions are executed. Its implementation principle and beneficial effects are similar, and will not be described again here.

[0408] This application provides an IAB system, including Figure 30 As shown, IAB node 33 and Figure 31 The donor-CU34 is shown.

[0409] Figure 32 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the IAB node 35 provided in this application. Figure 32 As shown, the IAB node 35 provided in this embodiment may include:

[0410] Memory 351 is used to store program instructions.

[0411] Processor 352 is configured to implement the method in embodiment three above when the program instructions are executed. Figure 18 The steps performed on the IAB node side shown are similar in principle and have similar beneficial effects, so they will not be repeated here.

[0412] Figure 33 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the donor-CU36 provided in this application. Figure 33 As shown, the donor-CU36 provided in this application embodiment may include:

[0413] Memory 361 is used to store program instructions.

[0414] Processor 362 is configured to implement the method in embodiment three above when the program instructions are executed. Figure 18 The steps performed on the donor-CU side are similar in principle and have similar beneficial effects, so they will not be repeated here.

[0415] This application provides an IAB system, including Figure 32 As shown, IAB node 35 and Figure 33 The donor-CU36 is shown.

[0416] Figure 34 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the IAB node 37 provided in this application. Figure 34 As shown, the IAB node 37 provided in this embodiment may include:

[0417] Memory 371 is used to store program instructions.

[0418] Processor 372 is configured to implement the method in embodiment three above when the program instructions are executed. Figure 20 The steps performed on the IAB node side shown are similar in principle and have similar beneficial effects, so they will not be repeated here.

[0419] Figure 35 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the first node 38 provided in this application. Figure 35 As shown, the first node 38 provided in this embodiment may include:

[0420] Memory 381 is used to store program instructions.

[0421] Processor 382 is configured to implement the method in embodiment three above when the program instructions are executed. Figure 20 The steps performed on the donor-DU side are similar in principle and have similar beneficial effects, so they will not be repeated here.

[0422] This application provides an IAB system, including Figure 34 As shown, IAB node 37 and Figure 35 The first node shown is 38.

[0423] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of modules is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0424] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0425] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or in a combination of hardware and software functional units.

[0426] The integrated units implemented as software functional units described above can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. These software functional units, stored in a storage medium, include several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) or processor to execute some steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0427] It should be understood that the processor described in the embodiments of this application can be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, such as a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), or an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in this application can be directly implemented by a hardware processor, or implemented by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0428] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A method for integrated access and backhaul communication in an IAB network, applied to an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), characterized in that, The method includes: Identify at least one first IAB node within the paging area of ​​the terminal device, wherein the IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT of the first IAB node is in power-saving mode. Send a first paging message, which includes information for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The information used for paging the terminal device includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: The first paging message includes an F1 interface application protocol F1AP paging message, and the F1AP paging message includes the information used to paging the terminal device.

4. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: The first paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein, the RRC paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The information used for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node includes: the discontinuous reception DRX period for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, or the timing for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The energy-saving state includes the inactive state or the idle state.

7. A method for integrated access and backhaul IAB network communication, applied to a first node, wherein the first node is a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU), the method comprising: Receive a first paging message from the IAB host centralized unit donor-CU. The first paging message includes information for paging the IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal device, wherein the IAB-MT of the first IAB node is in power-saving mode and the first IAB node is within the paging area of ​​the terminal device. Based on the first paging message, a second paging message is sent, the second paging message including information about the paging terminal device and the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The information used for paging terminal devices includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first paging message or the second paging message includes the information for the paging terminal device, including: The first paging message or the second paging message includes an F1AP paging message, which includes information about the paging terminal device.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first paging message or the second paging message includes the information for the paging terminal device, including: The first paging message or the second paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein, the RRC paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device.

11. A method for integrated access and backhaul communication in an IAB network, applied to a first IAB node, characterized in that, The method includes: Receive a second paging message from the first node, the second paging message including information for paging terminal equipment and the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, the first node being the second IAB node or the IAB Host Distributed Unit (donor-DU); Based on the second paging message, a third paging message is sent, the third paging message including the identifier of the terminal device.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the IAB-DU of the first IAB node receives a response message to the third paging message from the terminal device, the IAB-MT initiates an RRC connection recovery process.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The information used for paging terminal devices includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The second paging message includes information for paging terminal devices, including: The second paging message includes an F1 interface application protocol F1AP paging message, which includes information for paging terminal equipment.

15. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The second paging message includes the information for the paging terminal device, including: The second paging message includes the third paging message and the timing of paging the terminal device.

16. A method for integrated access and backhaul communication in an IAB network, applied to an IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), characterized in that, The method includes: Receive the first message from the IAB node; Based on the first information, determine whether to switch the IAB node to power-saving mode; If it is determined that the IAB node should be switched to power-saving mode, a first power-saving indication message and a second power-saving indication message are sent to the IAB node; wherein, the first power-saving indication message is used to instruct the IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT to enter power-saving mode, and the second power-saving indication message is used to instruct the IAB node's IAB-DU to enter power-saving mode, and the second power-saving indication message is carried in the first power-saving indication message.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving state.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, Before receiving the first information from the IAB node, the method further includes: Send a first indication message to the IAB node, the first indication message being used to instruct the IAB node to send the first message to the donor-CU.

20. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, Before receiving the first information from the IAB node, the method further includes: A second indication message is sent to the IAB node, which is used to consult the IAB node whether it wants to enter an energy-saving state.

21. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, Before receiving the first information from the IAB node, the method further includes: A first threshold is sent to the IAB node. The first threshold is used by the IAB node to send the first information to the donor-CU when the IAB node determines that the battery balance of the IAB node is lower than or equal to the first threshold.

22. The method according to any one of claims 16-21, characterized in that, After sending the second energy-saving indication message to the IAB node, the method further includes: Receive synchronization signal block (SSB) information from the IAB node.

23. The method according to any one of claims 16-21, characterized in that, Before sending the second energy-saving indication message to the IAB node, the method further includes: Generate the SSB information of the IAB node; The SSB information is carried in the second energy-saving instruction message.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the SSB information that allows adjustment sent by the IAB-DU.

25. An IAB network communication method, applied to IAB nodes, characterized in that, The method includes: Send first information to the IAB host centralized unit donor-CU, the first information being used by the donor-CU to determine whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state based on the first information; The IAB-MT of the IAB node receives a first energy-saving indication message from the donor-CU, and a second energy-saving indication message is carried in the first energy-saving indication message; The IAB-MT controls itself to enter an energy-saving state according to the first energy-saving indication message, extracts the second energy-saving indication message from the first energy-saving indication message, and sends the second energy-saving indication message to the IAB-DU of the IAB node; The IAB-DU is controlled to enter the energy-saving state according to the second energy-saving instruction message.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that, The first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving state.

27. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, The first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, Before sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the method further includes: Receive first instruction information from the donor-CU; Sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU) includes: Send the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU.

29. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, Before sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the method further includes: Receive second instruction information from the donor-CU; Sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU) includes: According to the second instruction information, the energy-saving request information is sent to the donor-CU.

30. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, Before sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the method further includes: Receive second instruction information from the donor-CU; Sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU) includes: According to the second instruction information, send the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU.

31. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, Before sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), the method further includes: Receive the first threshold from the donor-CU; Sending the first information to the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU) includes: If it is determined that the power of the IAB node is lower than or equal to the first threshold, then the first information is sent to the donor-CU.

32. The method according to any one of claims 25-31, characterized in that, The method further includes: After receiving a second energy-saving indication message from the donor-CU instructing the IAB-DU to enter an energy-saving state, the IAB-DU of the IAB node adjusts the synchronization signal block SSB information to obtain the SSB information. The SSB information is sent to the donor-CU.

33. The method according to any one of claims 25-31, characterized in that, The method further includes: The IAB-DU of the IAB node receives SSB information from the donor-CU, and the SSB information is carried in the second energy-saving indication message; If the IAB-DU determines that the SSB information cannot meet the requirements, it sends SSB information that allows adjustment to the donor-CU.

34. An IAB network communication method, applied to IAB nodes, characterized in that, The method includes: Generate Stream Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packets; When sending the first random access preamble to the first node, a first message is sent to the first node on pre-configured resources. The first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet. The first node is a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU). The first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble comes from the IAB node. The third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node maintains an energy-saving state.

35. The method according to claim 34, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the timer sent by the first node; If no SCTP heartbeat response packet is received before the timer expires, the mobile terminal IAB-MT controlling the IAB node will continuously listen to the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH).

36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that, The timer is carried in the second message.

37. The method according to claim 36, characterized in that, The second message is the first random access response message (RAR).

38. The method according to any one of claims 34-37, characterized in that, Before sending the first message to the first node on the pre-configured resources, the method further includes: The system receives system broadcast messages or radio resource control (RRC) messages sent by the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), wherein the system broadcast message or RRC message carries resources pre-configured by the donor-CU for the IAB node.

39. An IAB network communication method, applied to a first node, wherein the first node is a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU), characterized in that, The method includes: Receive a first random access preamble and a first message from the IAB node, the first message being sent by the IAB node on pre-configured resources, the first message carrying an SCTP heartbeat packet; According to the first message, a timer is sent to the IAB node. The timer is used to instruct the IAB node that if it does not receive an SCTP heartbeat response packet before the timer expires, the mobile terminal IAB-MT of the IAB node will always listen to the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH). The first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble was sent by the IAB node, and the third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sent the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node is in a power-saving state.

40. The method according to claim 39, characterized in that, The timer is carried in the second message.

41. The method according to claim 40, characterized in that, The second message is the first random access response message (RAR).

42. A host-centralized unit (donor-CU) for IAB (Integrated Automation System), characterized in that, include: The determination module is used to determine at least one first IAB node within the paging area of ​​the terminal device, wherein the IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT of the first IAB node is in power-saving mode. The sending module is used to send a first paging message, which includes information for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal device.

43. The donor-CU according to claim 42, characterized in that, The information used for paging the terminal device includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

44. The donor-CU according to claim 43, characterized in that, The first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: The first paging message includes an F1 interface application protocol F1AP paging message, and the F1AP paging message includes the information used to paging the terminal device.

45. The donor-CU according to claim 43, characterized in that, The first paging message includes information for paging the terminal device, including: The first paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein, the RRC paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device.

46. ​​The donor-CU according to any one of claims 42-45, characterized in that, The information used for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node includes: the discontinuous reception DRX period for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node, or the timing for paging the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

47. The donor-CU according to any one of claims 42-45, characterized in that, The energy-saving state includes the inactive state or the idle state.

48. A node, characterized in that, include: The receiving module is configured to receive a first paging message from the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU). The first paging message includes information for paging the IAB mobile terminal (IAB-MT) of the first IAB node and information for paging the terminal device. The IAB-MT of the first IAB node is in an energy-saving state, and the first IAB node is within the paging area of ​​the terminal device. The sending module is configured to send a second paging message based on the first paging message, the second paging message including information about the paging terminal device and the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node.

49. The node according to claim 48, characterized in that, The information used for paging terminal devices includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

50. The node according to claim 49, characterized in that, The first paging message or the second paging message includes the information for the paging terminal device, including: The first paging message or the second paging message includes an F1AP paging message, which includes information about the paging terminal device.

51. The node according to claim 49, characterized in that, The first paging message or the second paging message includes the information for the paging terminal device, including: The first paging message or the second paging message includes an RRC paging message for paging the terminal device and the timing of paging the terminal device; wherein, the RRC paging message includes the identifier of the terminal device.

52. An IAB node, characterized in that, include: The IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT is used to receive a second paging message from a first node. The second paging message includes information for paging terminal devices and the identifier of the IAB-MT of the first IAB node. The first node is either a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU). The IAB Distributed Unit (IAB-DU) is used to send a third paging message based on the second paging message, the third paging message including the identifier of the terminal device.

53. The IAB node according to claim 52, characterized in that, When the IAB-DU receives a response message from the third paging message from the terminal device, the IAB-MT is also used to initiate an RRC connection recovery process.

54. The IAB node according to claim 52 or 53, characterized in that, The information used for paging terminal devices includes: the discontinuous DRX reception period for paging the terminal device, or the timing for paging the terminal device.

55. The IAB node according to claim 54, characterized in that, The second paging message includes information for paging terminal devices, including: The second paging message includes an F1 interface application protocol F1AP paging message, which includes information for paging terminal equipment.

56. The IAB node according to claim 54, characterized in that, The second paging message includes the information for the paging terminal device, including: The second paging message includes the third paging message and the timing of paging the terminal device.

57. A host-centralized unit (donor-CU) for IAB (Indoor Application Block) architecture, characterized in that: include: The receiving module is used to receive the first information from the IAB node; The determining module is used to determine, based on the first information, whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state; The sending module is configured to send a first energy-saving indication message and a second energy-saving indication message to the IAB node when it is determined that the IAB node will be switched to an energy-saving state; wherein, the first energy-saving indication message is used to instruct the IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT to enter the energy-saving state, and the second energy-saving indication message is used to instruct the IAB node's IAB-DU to enter the energy-saving state, and the second energy-saving indication message is carried in the first energy-saving indication message.

58. The donor-CU according to claim 57, characterized in that, The first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving state.

59. The donor-CU according to claim 58, characterized in that, The first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

60. The donor-CU according to claim 59, characterized in that, Also includes: The sending module is further configured to send first indication information to the IAB node before the receiving module receives the first information from the IAB node, the first indication information being used to instruct the IAB node to send the first information to the donor-CU.

61. The donor-CU according to claim 59, characterized in that, Also includes: The sending module is further configured to send a second indication message to the IAB node before the receiving module receives the first information from the IAB node. The second indication message is used to consult the IAB node whether it wants to enter an energy-saving state.

62. The donor-CU according to claim 59, characterized in that, Also includes: The sending module is further configured to send a first threshold to the IAB node before the receiving module receives the first information from the IAB node. The first threshold is used by the IAB node to send the first information to the donor-CU when it determines that the battery balance of the IAB node is lower than or equal to the first threshold.

63. The donor-CU according to any one of claims 57-62, characterized in that, The receiving module is also used to receive synchronization signal - block SSB information from the IAB node.

64. The donor-CU according to any one of claims 57-62, characterized in that, Also includes: Generate modules; The generation module is used to generate SSB information for the IAB node and carry the SSB information in the second energy-saving indication message.

65. The donor-CU according to claim 64, characterized in that, The receiving module is also used to receive the SSB information that allows adjustment sent by the IAB-DU.

66. An IAB node, characterized in that, include: IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT and IAB distributed unit IAB-DU; The IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is used to send first information to the IAB host centralized unit donor-CU. The first information is used by the donor-CU to determine whether to switch the IAB node to an energy-saving state based on the first information. The IAB-MT is also used for: Receive a first energy-saving instruction message from the donor-CU, and a second energy-saving instruction message is carried in the first energy-saving instruction message; According to the first energy-saving indication message, the IAB-MT is controlled to enter the energy-saving state, and the second energy-saving indication message is extracted from the first energy-saving indication message and sent to the IAB-DU of the IAB node; The IAB-DU is also used to control the IAB-DU to enter an energy-saving state according to the second energy-saving instruction message.

67. The IAB node according to claim 66, characterized in that, The first information is energy-saving request information, which is used to request the donor-CU to switch the IAB node to energy-saving state.

68. The IAB node according to claim 67, characterized in that, The first information includes: the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node.

69. The IAB node according to claim 68, characterized in that, The IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is also used for: Receive first instruction information from the donor-CU; Send the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU.

70. The IAB node according to claim 67, characterized in that, The IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is also used for: Receive second instruction information from the donor-CU; According to the second instruction information, the energy-saving request information is sent to the donor-CU.

71. The IAB node according to claim 68, characterized in that, The IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is also used for: Receive second instruction information from the donor-CU; According to the second instruction information, send the power balance information of the IAB node or the power consumption information of the IAB node to the donor-CU.

72. The IAB node according to claim 68, characterized in that, The IAB-MT or the IAB-DU is also used for: Receive the first threshold from the donor-CU; If it is determined that the power of the IAB node is lower than or equal to the first threshold, then the first information is sent to the donor-CU.

73. The IAB node according to any one of claims 66-72, characterized in that, The IAB-DU is also used for: The SSB information of the synchronization signal block is adjusted to obtain the SSB information; The SSB information is sent to the donor-CU.

74. The IAB node according to any one of claims 66-72, characterized in that, The IAB-DU is also used for: Receive SSB information from the donor-CU, the SSB information being carried in the second energy-saving indication message; If the IAB-DU determines that the SSB information cannot meet the requirements, it sends SSB information that allows adjustment to the donor-CU.

75. An IAB node, characterized in that, include: IAB mobile terminal IAB-MT and IAB distributed unit IAB-DU; The IAB-DU is used to generate Stream Control Transfer Protocol (SCTP) heartbeat packets; When sending a first random access preamble to the first node, the IAB-MT is used to send a first message to the first node on pre-configured resources. The first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet. The first node is a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU). The first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble comes from the IAB node. The third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sends the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node maintains an energy-saving state.

76. The IAB node according to claim 75, characterized in that, The IAB-MT is specifically used for: Receive the timer sent by the first node; If no SCTP heartbeat response packet is received before the timer expires, the mobile terminal IAB-MT controlling the IAB node will continuously listen to the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH).

77. The IAB node according to claim 76, characterized in that, The timer is carried in the second message.

78. The IAB node according to claim 77, characterized in that, The second message is the first random access response message (RAR).

79. The IAB node according to any one of claims 75-78, characterized in that, The IAB-MT is also used for: The system receives system broadcast messages or radio resource control (RRC) messages sent by the IAB host centralized unit (donor-CU), wherein the system broadcast message or RRC message carries resources pre-configured by the donor-CU for the IAB node.

80. A node, characterized in that, include: The receiving module is used to receive a first random access preamble and a first message from the IAB node. The first message is sent by the IAB node on a pre-configured resource and carries an SCTP heartbeat packet. The sending module is used to send a timer to the IAB node according to the first message. The timer is used to instruct the IAB node that if it does not receive an SCTP heartbeat response packet before the timer expires, the mobile terminal IAB-MT of the IAB node will always listen to the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH). The first message also carries IAB node indication information and / or third indication information. The IAB node indication information is used to indicate that the first preamble was sent by the IAB node, and the third indication information is used to indicate that the reason the IAB node sent the first preamble is to transmit the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the first message carries the SCTP heartbeat packet, or to indicate that the IAB node is in a power-saving state.

81. The node according to claim 80, characterized in that, The timer is carried in the second message.

82. The node according to claim 81, characterized in that, The second message is the first random access response message (RAR).

83. A host-centralized unit (donor-CU) for IAB (Integrated Automation System), characterized in that, include: processor; as well as Memory for storing the executable instructions of the processor; The processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 1-6 by executing the executable instructions.

84. A node, wherein the node is a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU), characterized in that, include: processor; as well as Memory for storing the executable instructions of the processor; The processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 7-10 by executing the executable instructions.

85. An IAB node, characterized in that, include: processor; as well as Memory for storing the executable instructions of the processor; The processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 11-15 by executing the executable instructions.

86. A host-centralized unit (donor-CU) for IAB (Indoor Application Block) architecture, characterized in that: include: processor; as well as Memory for storing the executable instructions of the processor; The processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 16-24 by executing the executable instructions.

87. An IAB node, characterized in that, include: processor; as well as Memory for storing the executable instructions of the processor; The processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 25-33 by executing the executable instructions.

88. An IAB node, characterized in that, include: processor; as well as Memory for storing the executable instructions of the processor; The processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 34-38 by executing the executable instructions.

89. A node, wherein the node is a second IAB node or an IAB host distributed unit (donor-DU), characterized in that, include: processor; as well as Memory for storing the executable instructions of the processor; The processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 39-41 by executing the executable instructions.

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