Method and apparatus for transmitting reference signals

Abstract

This application provides a method and apparatus for transmitting reference signals. The method includes: generating resource configuration information for the reference signal, wherein the frequency domain density of the reference signal resources indicated by the resource configuration information is 1; and sending the resource configuration information to a terminal device. By setting the frequency domain density of the reference signal resources to 1, up to 12 cells can be supported to transmit reference signals simultaneously, which can effectively improve cell reuse capability compared to the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and specifically to a method and apparatus for transmitting reference signals. Background Technology

[0002] The downlink positioning method for cellular network-based terminal devices involves the serving cell and neighboring cells sending downlink reference signals to the terminal device. The terminal device receives these downlink reference signals and obtains a measurement based on them. The positioning server, serving cell, or the terminal device itself can then determine the terminal device's current location information based on this measurement. For example, this downlink reference signal can be called a positioning reference signal (PRS).

[0003] In the downlink positioning method of the aforementioned terminal equipment, the PRS measured by the terminal equipment may come from a relatively distant cell. In this case, the field strength when the PRS reaches the terminal equipment may be weak. To ensure the reliability of PRS transmission, the industry has proposed using dedicated resources to transmit PRS. Furthermore, to improve resource utilization, the industry has proposed frequency division multiplexing of this dedicated resource for PRS in each cell.

[0004] Current technologies have limited cell reuse capabilities; for example, current technologies support a maximum of six cells for PRS frequency division multiplexing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a method and apparatus for transmitting reference signals, which can improve cell reuse capability compared to the prior art.

[0006] In a first aspect, a method for transmitting a reference signal is provided, the method comprising: generating resource configuration information for the reference signal, wherein the frequency domain density of the reference signal resources indicated by the resource configuration information is 1; and sending the resource configuration information to a terminal device.

[0007] A frequency domain density of 1 means that, within a resource block (RB), the average number of resource elements (REs) occupied by each port signal is 1.

[0008] Optionally, if the reference signal resource occupies multiple RBs, the frequency domain density of each RB is 1.

[0009] For a single-port signal, a frequency domain density of 1 means that within one RB, the single-port signal occupies one RE. Here, a single-port signal represents a reference signal transmitted using a single port.

[0010] The reference signal in this application can be a single-port signal.

[0011] It should be understood that, when the reference signal is a single-port signal, configuring the reference signal resources using the scheme provided in this application can ensure that the number of REs occupied by the reference signal in each cell within one RB is 1. This can support frequency division multiplexing of reference signals from up to 12 cells, meaning that up to 12 cells can transmit reference signals simultaneously.

[0012] Therefore, in this application, by making the frequency domain density of the reference signal 1, the cell reuse capability can be effectively improved compared to the prior art.

[0013] Optionally, in downlink positioning scenarios, the reference signal in this paper can be PRS.

[0014] Besides positioning scenarios, this application can also be applied to other scenarios involving multiple cells transmitting reference signals to terminal devices via frequency division multiplexing. Depending on the application scenario, the reference signal is given different names.

[0015] The following description uses PRS as the reference signal.

[0016] Taking the PRS as a reference signal as an example, the method provided in the first aspect includes: generating resource configuration information of the PRS, wherein the frequency domain density of the PRS resource indicated by the resource configuration information is 1; and sending the resource configuration information to the terminal device.

[0017] Therefore, in this application, by setting the frequency domain density of PRS to 1, it is possible to support up to 12 cells transmitting PRS simultaneously, which can effectively improve cell reuse capability compared to existing technologies.

[0018] In this application, given a frequency domain density of 1, there can be a variety of different PRS patterns. In other words, in this application, the PRS pattern is configurable.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the absolute value of the offset of the PRS resource mapped to the RE on adjacent symbols within the time slot is 1 or 2.

[0020] In this implementation, optionally, the PRS resource includes a number of symbols greater than 6 and less than or equal to 12, and the absolute value of the offset is 1 or 2.

[0021] In this implementation, optionally, the number of symbols included in the PRS resource is less than or equal to 6, the absolute value of the offset is 2, and the time slot includes 12 or 14 symbols.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the generation of resource configuration information for the reference signal includes: acquiring a PRS pattern; and generating resource configuration information for the PRS based on the PRS pattern. The PRS pattern satisfies formula (1) or formula (2) in the embodiments below. Alternatively, the PRS pattern is acquired according to formula (1) or formula (2) in the embodiments below.

[0023] In this application, the PRS pattern is obtained based on formula (1) or formula (2). During the configuration of PRS resources, the offset of the mapping RE between adjacent symbols is introduced, which can realize the flexible configuration of PRS resources.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the absolute value of the offset of the PRS resource mapping resource element RE on adjacent symbols within half a time slot is 1.

[0025] Optionally, in this implementation, among the N symbols included in the reference signal resource, the latter N / 2 symbols have an offset of 6 REs relative to the former N / 2 symbols.

[0026] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the generation of resource configuration information for the reference signal includes: acquiring a PRS pattern; and generating resource configuration information for the PRS based on the PRS pattern. The PRS pattern satisfies formula (3), formula (4), or formula (5) in the embodiments below. Alternatively, the PRS pattern is acquired according to formula (3), formula (4), or formula (5) in the embodiments below.

[0027] By obtaining the PRS pattern using formula (3) or formula (4), the REs mapped by the PRS resources within a time slot can have a half-time slot reset attribute. Therefore, this application can support frequency division multiplexing of the PRS of NR cells and the PRS of LTE cells. In addition, by obtaining the PRS pattern using formula (3) or formula (4), the REs mapped by the PRS resources can also be made to occupy as many REs as possible within a RB.

[0028] In this article, PRS can be either a single-port signal or a two-port signal.

[0029] For a two-port signal, a frequency domain density of 1 means that within 1 RB, the two-port signal effectively occupies 2 REs. For example, this can include the following two cases.

[0030] Case 1: Each port in a two-port signal occupies 2 REs, but these two ports occupy the same two REs and are distinguished by orthogonal codes or different sequences on the two REs.

[0031] Scenario 2: Each port occupies 1 RE, and the two ports occupy different REs.

[0032] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the generation of resource configuration information for the reference signal includes: acquiring a PRS pattern; and generating resource configuration information for the PRS based on the PRS pattern. The PRS pattern satisfies formula (6) or formula (7) in the embodiments below. Alternatively, the PRS pattern is acquired according to formula (6) or formula (7) in the embodiments below.

[0033] Obtaining the PRS pattern using formula (6) or formula (7) can not only improve the cell reuse capability compared to existing technologies, but also support the configuration of two-port PRS.

[0034] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the method further includes: sending the PRS to the terminal device based on the resource configuration information of the PRS.

[0035] The first aspect describes the solution provided in this application from the perspective of network equipment. The second aspect, which will be described below, describes the solution provided in this application from the perspective of terminal equipment. It should be understood that the description of the second aspect corresponds to the description of the first aspect, and the explanation of the relevant content and beneficial effects described in the second aspect can be referred to the description in the first aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0036] In a second aspect, a method for transmitting a reference signal is provided, the method comprising: receiving resource configuration information of a PRS from a network device, wherein the frequency domain density of the PRS resources indicated by the resource configuration information is 1; and acquiring the PRS resources according to the resource configuration information.

[0037] Therefore, in this application, by setting the frequency domain density of PRS to 1, it is possible to support up to 12 cells transmitting PRS simultaneously, which can effectively improve cell reuse capability compared to existing technologies.

[0038] In this application, given a frequency domain density of 1, there can be a variety of different PRS patterns. In other words, in this application, the PRS pattern is configurable.

[0039] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation of the second aspect, the absolute value of the offset of the PRS resource mapping resource element (RE) on adjacent symbols within the time slot is 1 or 2.

[0040] In this implementation, optionally, the PRS resource includes a number of symbols greater than 6 and less than or equal to 12, and the absolute value of the offset is 1 or 2.

[0041] In this implementation, optionally, the number of symbols included in the PRS resource is less than or equal to 6, the absolute value of the offset is 2, and the time slot includes 12 or 14 symbols.

[0042] In this implementation, optionally, the PRS pattern of the PRS resource satisfies formula (1) or formula (2) in the following embodiments.

[0043] In this application, the PRS pattern is obtained based on formula (1) or formula (2). During the configuration of PRS resources, the offset of the mapping RE between adjacent symbols is introduced, which can realize the flexible configuration of PRS resources.

[0044] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation of the second aspect, the absolute value of the offset of the PRS resource mapping resource element RE on adjacent symbols within half a time slot is 1.

[0045] Optionally, in this implementation, among the N symbols included in the reference signal resource, the latter N / 2 symbols have an offset of 6 REs relative to the former N / 2 symbols.

[0046] Optionally, in this implementation, the PRS pattern of the PRS resource satisfies formula (3), formula (4) or formula (5) in the following embodiments.

[0047] By obtaining the PRS pattern using formula (3) or formula (4), the REs mapped by the PRS resources within a time slot can have a half-time slot reset attribute. Therefore, this application can support frequency division multiplexing of the PRS of NR cells and the PRS of LTE cells. In addition, by obtaining the PRS pattern using formula (3) or formula (4), the REs mapped by the PRS resources can also be made to occupy as many REs as possible within a RB.

[0048] In this article, PRS can be either a single-port signal or a two-port signal.

[0049] For a two-port signal, a frequency domain density of 1 means that within 1 RB, the two-port signal effectively occupies 2 REs. For example, this can include the following two cases:

[0050] Case 1: Each port in a two-port signal occupies 2 REs, but these two ports occupy the same two REs and are distinguished by orthogonal codes or different sequences on the two REs.

[0051] Scenario 2: Each port occupies 1 RE, and the two ports occupy different REs.

[0052] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation of the second aspect, the PRS pattern of the PRS resource satisfies formula (6) or formula (7) in the embodiments below.

[0053] Obtaining the PRS pattern using formula (6) or formula (7) can not only improve the cell reuse capability compared to existing technologies, but also support the configuration of two-port PRS.

[0054] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation of the second aspect, the method further includes: receiving a PRS sent by a network device on the PRS resource.

[0055] Thirdly, a communication device is provided that can be used to perform the methods in the first or second aspect.

[0056] Optionally, the communication device may include a module for performing the method in the first aspect or the second aspect.

[0057] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, the communication device including a processor coupled to a memory for storing computer programs or instructions, the processor for executing the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, such that the method of the first aspect or the second aspect is executed.

[0058] For example, a processor is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in memory, causing the communication device to perform the methods in the first or second aspect.

[0059] Optionally, the communication device may include one or more processors.

[0060] Optionally, the communication device may also include a memory coupled to the processor.

[0061] Optionally, the communication device may include one or more memories.

[0062] Alternatively, the memory can be integrated with the processor or set up separately.

[0063] Optionally, the communication device may also include a transceiver.

[0064] Fifthly, a chip is provided, which includes a processing module and a communication interface. The processing module is used to control the communication interface to communicate with the outside, and the processing module is also used to implement the method in the first or second aspect.

[0065] In a sixth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program (also referred to as instructions or code) for implementing the method of the first or second aspect is stored.

[0066] For example, when the computer program is executed by a computer, it enables the computer to perform the methods in the first or second aspect. The computer can be a communication device.

[0067] In a seventh aspect, a computer program product is provided, comprising a computer program (also referred to as instructions or code) that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to implement the methods of the first or second aspect. The computer may be a communication device.

[0068] Eighthly, a communication system is provided, comprising a communication device provided by a third aspect for performing the method provided by a first aspect, and a communication device provided by a third aspect for performing the method provided by a second aspect.

[0069] The communication apparatus provided in the third aspect for performing the method provided in the first aspect may be referred to as a network device or a cell base station. Optionally, a cell base station may be equivalent to a cell. The communication apparatus provided in the third aspect for performing the method provided in the second aspect may be referred to as a terminal device.

[0070] Therefore, in this application, by making the frequency domain density of the reference signal 1, the cell reuse capability can be effectively improved compared to the prior art. Attached Figure Description

[0071] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the downlink positioning scheme for terminal devices.

[0072] Figure 2 and Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to this application.

[0073] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of time and frequency resources.

[0074] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a method for transmitting a reference signal according to an embodiment of this application.

[0075] Figures 6 to 12 These are schematic diagrams of the PRS patterns in the embodiments of this application.

[0076] Figure 13 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0077] Figure 14 This is another schematic block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0078] Figure 15 This is a schematic block diagram of a network device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0079] Figure 16 This is a schematic block diagram of a terminal device according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0080] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0081] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of one application scenario of this application. Figure 1 In this context, 110 represents the network devices participating in the downlink positioning of the terminal device, and 120 represents the terminal device being located. Multiple network devices 110 send downlink reference signals to the terminal device 120. The terminal device 120 receives and measures the downlink reference signals sent by the multiple network devices 110, obtaining multiple measurements. Based on these measurements and the positions of the multiple network devices 110, the position of the terminal device 120 can be determined. It should be understood that in a downlink positioning scheme for a terminal device, at least three network devices should participate in the positioning. As an example, Figure 1 The image shows three network devices participating in the positioning process, but this application does not limit this number; in practical applications, more network devices may participate in the positioning process.

[0082] Figure 1 The network device 110 shown may include network devices in the serving cell and network devices in neighboring cells. The network devices in the serving cell may be referred to as serving base stations, and the network devices in neighboring cells may be referred to as neighboring base stations.

[0083] Optionally, the term "network device" in this document can be replaced with "cell," where the cell refers to the cell where the network device is located.

[0084] For example, Figure 1 The downlink positioning scheme of the terminal device shown can be described as follows: the serving cell and neighboring cells send downlink reference signals to the terminal device, the terminal device receives the downlink reference signals sent by the serving cell and neighboring cells, and obtains a measurement by measuring the downlink reference signals. The positioning server, serving cell, or terminal device can obtain the current location information of the terminal device based on the measurement.

[0085] exist Figure 1 In the positioning scenario shown, the downlink reference signal can be called the positioning reference signal (PRS).

[0086] As described above, in current technology, each cell uses dedicated resources through frequency division multiplexing to transmit PRS to terminal devices. However, current technology cannot support more than six cells transmitting PRS simultaneously, resulting in low cell reuse capability.

[0087] To address the aforementioned issues, this application proposes a PRS resource pattern with a frequency domain density of 1, which allows up to 12 cells to be reused within one symbol, thus supporting simultaneous PRS transmission by 12 cells. Compared to existing technologies, this improves cell reuse capability. Embodiments of this application will be described below.

[0088] It should be noted that, Figure 1 The downlink positioning scenario shown is one application scenario of this application, but this application is not limited to this. For example, this application can also be applied to other scenarios involving frequency division multiplexing of multiple cells.

[0089] exist Figure 1 In the downlink positioning scenario shown, the downlink reference signal transmitted by the network device can be called the Positioning Reference Signal (PRS). In other scenarios involving multiple frequency division multiplexing cells, the downlink reference signal transmitted by the network device can be given other names depending on the application requirements.

[0090] For ease of description rather than limitation, the following description will use PRS as the reference signal.

[0091] Before describing the embodiments of this application, the following will first refer to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The description can be applied to the communication system of the embodiments of this application.

[0092] The embodiments of this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, the 5th Generation (5G) mobile communication systems, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication systems, or other future evolutionary communication systems. The 5G radio interface technology is called New Radio (NR), and the 5G system can also be called an NR system.

[0093] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a communication architecture applicable to embodiments of this application. The communication architecture includes a terminal device ( Figure 2 The network is represented as UE, NG-RAN, and core network.

[0094] The core network includes access and mobility management functions (AMF) and location management functions (LMF), among other functions. AMF implements gateway functions, while LMF implements location center functions. AMF and LMF are connected via the NLs interface.

[0095] The NG-RAN (Next Generation Radio Access Network) comprises one or more ng-eNBs and gNBs. An ng-eNB represents a Long Term Evolution (LTE) base station accessing the 5G core network, and a gNB represents a 5G base station accessing the 5G core network. Communication between ng-eNBs and gNBs, or between two ng-eNBs, or between two gNBs, occurs via the Xn interface. The Xn interface can also be referred to as the XnAP interface.

[0096] The radio access network connects to the core network via the NG-C interface through the AMF.

[0097] The terminal device connects to the radio access network via the LTE-Uu interface through the ng-eNB. The terminal device can also connect to the radio access network via the NR-Uu interface through the gNB.

[0098] The core network can communicate directly with terminal devices via the LPP / NPP protocol.

[0099] It should be understood that this communication architecture may include one or more base stations (including ng-eNB and gNB).

[0100] It should also be understood that the communication architecture may include one or more terminal devices, such as one or more groups of terminal devices (e.g., ...). Figure 2 (UE set shown).

[0101] A gNB can send data or control signaling to one or more terminal devices. Multiple gNBs can also send data or control signaling to a single terminal device simultaneously.

[0102] Figure 2 In this context, ng-eNB can also be replaced with a transmission point (TP) (e.g., Figure 2 (TP shown).

[0103] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another communication architecture that can be applied to embodiments of this application. Figure 2 The difference in the communication architecture shown is that, in Figure 3 In the communication architecture shown, a location management component (LMC) is added to the gNB, which can perform some of the functions of the LMF (Location Management Component). To implement this LMF function performed by the LMC, the radio access network does not need to be introduced into the 5G core network via the AMF. For example, using this communication architecture, the gNB does not need to report measurement results reported by terminal devices to the core network, saving signaling overhead and thus reducing transmission latency. Figure 1 In the positioning scenarios shown, positioning efficiency can be improved.

[0104] Figure 3 The descriptions of the other parts shown are the same as those in the original text. Figure 2 I will not go into details.

[0105] As an example, in Figure 2 or Figure 3 In this context, UE is the terminal device being located; gNB or eNB is the serving base station or neighboring cell base station; LMF or LMC is the location server (or location service center), which is used to collect measurement information reported by UE and the location information of base stations, and also to perform location calculation based on the measurement information and the location of base stations to determine the location of UE.

[0106] The network device involved in this application embodiment can be used to communicate with one or more terminals, or to communicate with one or more base stations that have partial terminal functions (such as communication between macro base stations and micro base stations, such as access points). The base station can be an evolved Node B (eNB) in an LTE system, or a base station (gNB) in a 5G or NR system. Additionally, the base station can also be an access point (AP), a transport point (TRP), a central unit (CU), or other network entities, and can include some or all of the functions of the above network entities. For example, the network device in this application embodiment can be... Figure 2 or Figure 3 The gNB or eNB shown can also be an LMF.

[0107] The terminal equipment involved in the embodiments of this application can refer to user equipment (UE), access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device. Terminal equipment can also be a cellular phone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, computing device or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, vehicle-mounted device, wearable device, terminal equipment in a 5G network, or terminal equipment in a future evolved public land mobile network (PLMN), etc.

[0108] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following will first refer to... Figure 4 This section introduces the concepts of resource element (RE), subcarrier, resource block (RB), symbol, slot, subframe, and frame.

[0109] A frame is a concept in the time-frequency domain. One frame comprises multiple subframes in the time domain. For example... Figure 4 As shown, one frame consists of 10 subframes.

[0110] A subframe comprises two time slots in the time domain. For example... Figure 4 As shown, subframe #0 includes time slot #0 and time slot #1.

[0111] A time slot comprises multiple orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols (hereinafter referred to as symbols) in the time domain. For example, a regular cyclic prefix (CP) contains 14 symbols in one time slot, while an extended CP contains 12 symbols in one time slot.

[0112] A time slot comprises multiple resource blocks (RBs) in the frequency domain.

[0113] RB represents a resource element with a width of 12 consecutive subcarriers in the frequency domain. For example... Figure 4 The box marked RB is shown in the image. RB can also be called a physical resource block (PRB).

[0114] A resource element (RE) represents a resource unit consisting of one subcarrier in the frequency domain and one symbol in the time domain. For example... Figure 4 The box marked RE is shown in the middle.

[0115] It should be noted that the time-domain length of RB is not limited in this application. In this application, RB can be regarded as a concept in the frequency domain.

[0116] For example, it can be expressed as follows:

[0117] One time slot includes multiple RBs;

[0118] One symbol includes multiple RBs;

[0119] One RB consists of 12 REs.

[0120] It can be understood that within one RB, there is a one-to-one correspondence between subcarriers and REs.

[0121] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a method for transmitting a reference signal according to an embodiment of this application. The method includes the following steps.

[0122] S510, the network device generates resource configuration information for the PRS, and the frequency domain density of the PRS resources indicated by the resource configuration information is 1.

[0123] S520: Network devices send PRS resource configuration information to terminal devices.

[0124] It should be understood that after receiving the resource configuration information of the PRS, the terminal device can learn about the PRS resource and then receive the PRS issued by the network device on that PRS resource.

[0125] The frequency domain density of 1 mentioned in this article refers to the fact that, within 1 RB, the average number of REs occupied by each port signal is 1.

[0126] Optionally, if the PRS occupies multiple RBs, the frequency domain density of each RB is 1.

[0127] For example, for a single-port signal, a frequency domain density of 1 means that within one RB, the single-port signal occupies one RE. Here, a single-port signal represents a reference signal transmitted using a single port.

[0128] In this application, the PRS can be a single-port signal.

[0129] For example, when the PRS is a single-port signal, configuring PRS resources using the scheme provided in this application can ensure that the number of REs occupied by the PRS in each cell within one RB is 1. This can support PRS frequency division multiplexing for up to 12 cells, that is, it can support up to 12 cells transmitting PRS simultaneously.

[0130] Therefore, in this application, by setting the frequency domain density of PRS to 1, it is possible to support up to 12 cells transmitting PRS simultaneously, which can effectively improve cell reuse capability compared to existing technologies.

[0131] It should be understood that within one RB, each cell occupies one RE using frequency division multiplexing, meaning that different cells occupy different REs.

[0132] In this application, given a frequency domain density of 1, the PRS resource indicated by the PRS resource configuration information can have multiple PRS patterns.

[0133] In other words, the patterns of PRS resources in this application are configurable, thereby enabling flexible configuration of PRS resources.

[0134] The following describes several possible patterns for PRS resources. The PRS patterns mentioned below refer to the patterns of PRS resources.

[0135] An optional PRS pattern.

[0136] Optionally, the absolute value of the offset O of the PRS resource mapping RE on adjacent symbols within the time slot is 1 or 2.

[0137] For example, the offset O can have different values ​​in the following different situations.

[0138] Case 1: The number of PRS resource mapping symbols in a time slot is greater than 6 and less than or equal to 12, and the absolute value of offset O is 1 or 2.

[0139] Scenario 2: The number of PRS resource mapping symbols within a time slot is less than or equal to 6, and the absolute value of offset O is 2.

[0140] In scenarios 1 and 2 above, one time slot includes 12 or 14 symbols. For example, for a regular CP, one time slot includes 14 symbols, and for an extended CP, one time slot includes 12 symbols.

[0141] It should be understood that in practical applications, the value of the offset O of the PRS resource mapped to the RE on adjacent symbols within the time slot can be determined as appropriate according to application requirements.

[0142] Optionally, the PRS pattern satisfies the following formula (1).

[0143]

[0144]

[0145]

[0146] n = 0, 1, 2, ...

[0147] l′=0,1,2,...,N-1

[0148] The meanings of each variable or parameter in formula (1) are as follows.

[0149] This indicates that the port is p, the parameter set is μ, and the modulation symbol is on the RE with index (k,l).

[0150] p represents the PRS port number.

[0151] μ represents the subcarrier spacing. For example, μ = 1, 2, 3 correspond to subcarrier spacings of 15 kHz, 30 kHz, 60 kHz, and 120 kHz, respectively.

[0152] k represents the frequency domain index of the RE. It should be understood that k indicates the number of subcarriers between the frequency point of the RE and a certain fixed frequency point.

[0153] l represents the time-domain index of the RE. It should be understood that l indicates the index of the symbol corresponding to the RE within a time slot. For example, l = 0 indicates that the RE corresponds to the first symbol in the time slot.

[0154] Indicates time slot n s,f PRS sequence on inner symbol l.

[0155] n s,f This represents the time slot index. It should be understood that n s,f This indicates the number of time slots between this time slot and the first time slot of the system frame containing this time slot. For example, n s,f =0 indicates that this time slot is the first time slot of the system frame.

[0156] n represents the PRS sequence index.

[0157] This represents the number of REs within a given RB. Combined with... Figure 4 It can be understood that an RB contains 12 REs, that is...

[0158] N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource.

[0159] This indicates the initial frequency domain position of the PRS configuration, corresponding to the index of the RE within the RB occupied by the first symbol of the PRS pattern extended to the time slot. For example, The value can be any one of {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11}.

[0160] O represents the offset of the RE mapped between two adjacent symbols for the PRS resource.

[0161] This indicates the symbol index of the first symbol of the PRS resource within the time slot. For example... This indicates that the first symbol of the PRS resource is the first symbol of the time slot. For example, Can be taken Any one of them. This indicates the number of symbols in a time slot. For regular CP, For extended CP,

[0162] l′ represents the symbol index of a symbol within a PRS resource. For example, l′ = 0 indicates the first symbol in the PRS resource.

[0163] Where N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource. For example, N can be 12 or 6. For instance, the PRS resource might occupy 12 or 6 consecutive symbols within one time slot. It should be understood that in practical applications, the value of N can be determined based on application requirements.

[0164] Here, O represents the offset of the PRS resource mapped to the RE on two adjacent symbols. The value of O can be a negative integer or a positive integer.

[0165] Optionally, the values ​​of (N, O) are shown in Table 1.

[0166] Table 1

[0167] N 12 12 12 12 6 6 O -1 1 -2 2 -2 2

[0168] As shown in Table 1, (N, O) can have 6 different values. When N is 12, O can be -1, 1, -2, or 2. When N is 6, O can be 2 or -2.

[0169] From formula (1), we can see that the known variables The values ​​of N and O can be used to obtain the PRS pattern based on formula (1). Can be taken Any one of them, The value of can be any one of {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11}. When N equals 12, for a regular CP, It can take any one of {0, 1, 2}; for extended CP, It can take the value 0. When N equals 6, for a regular CP, It can take any one of {0, 1, 2, ..., 8}; for extended CP, It can take any one of {0,1,2,…,6}.

[0170] As an example, it is known that (N, O) = (12, -1), The PRS pattern obtained based on formula (1) is as follows: Figure 6 As shown.

[0171] As another example, it is known that, (N, O) = (12, -2), The PRS pattern obtained based on formula (1) is as follows: Figure 7As shown.

[0172] As yet another example, it is known that... (N, O) = (6, -2), The PRS pattern obtained based on formula (1) is as follows: Figure 8 As shown.

[0173] It should be understood that when N is 12, the absolute value of offset O is 1, which allows PRS resources to be mapped to all REs within a RB.

[0174] It should also be understood that when N is 6, the absolute value of offset O is 2, which allows PRS resources to be mapped more evenly to REs within an RB.

[0175] It should also be understood that when N is 12, the absolute value of the offset O is 2, which to some extent makes the PRS have a periodic pattern, which helps the terminal device estimate the frequency offset.

[0176] It should also be understood that Table 1 is only an example and not a limitation. In actual applications, the values ​​of (N, O) can be determined according to the application requirements.

[0177] In the above formula (1), the variable The meaning is the index of the RE in the RB that corresponds to the first symbol of the PRS pattern extended to the slot.

[0178] Optionally, the variables in formula (1) The meaning of can be replaced by the index of the RE occupied on the first symbol of the corresponding PRS resource in the RB. Accordingly, formula (1) is transformed into formula (2) as shown below.

[0179]

[0180]

[0181]

[0182] n = 0, 1, 2, ...

[0183] l′=0,1,2,...,N-1

[0184] In formula (2), besides the variables The meaning of has changed, but the meaning of the other variables or parameters remains the same. For details, please refer to the description of the corresponding variables or parameters in formula (1) above. It will not be repeated here.

[0185] Optionally, step S510 includes: obtaining a PRS pattern; and generating resource configuration information for the PRS based on the PRS pattern. For example, the PRS pattern satisfies formula (1) or formula (2) above.

[0186] Alternatively, in step S510, the PRS pattern is obtained according to the above formula (1) or formula (2).

[0187] It should be understood that by obtaining the PRS pattern based on formula (1) or formula (2), a flexible and configurable offset of the mapping RE between adjacent symbols is introduced during the configuration of PRS resources, thereby enabling flexible configuration of PRS resources.

[0188] Another optional PRS pattern.

[0189] Optionally, the absolute value of the offset of the RE mapped to the adjacent symbols of the PRS resource within half a time slot is 1.

[0190] Optionally, in this embodiment, the PRS resource includes N symbols, wherein the latter N / 2 symbols have an offset of 6 REs relative to the former N / 2 symbols.

[0191] If N is odd, the last f(N / 2) symbols have an offset of 6 REs relative to the first (Nf(N / 2)) symbols. Here, f(N / 2) represents the remainder when divided by (N / 2), which can be either up or down.

[0192] Alternatively, the PRS pattern can satisfy the following formula (3).

[0193]

[0194]

[0195]

[0196] n = 0, 1, 2, ...

[0197] l′=0,1,2,...,N-1

[0198] The meanings of each variable or parameter in formula (3) are as follows.

[0199] This indicates that the port is p, the parameter set is μ, and the modulation symbol is on the RE with index (k,l).

[0200] p represents the PRS port number.

[0201] μ represents the subcarrier spacing. For example, μ = 1, 2, 3 correspond to subcarrier spacings of 15 kHz, 30 kHz, 60 kHz, and 120 kHz, respectively.

[0202] k represents the frequency domain index of the RE. It should be understood that k indicates the number of subcarriers between the frequency point of the RE and a certain fixed frequency point.

[0203] l represents the time-domain index of the RE. It should be understood that l indicates the index of the symbol corresponding to the RE within a time slot. For example, l = 0 indicates that the RE corresponds to the first symbol in the time slot.

[0204] Indicates time slot n s,f PRS sequence on inner symbol l.

[0205] n s,f This represents the time slot index. It should be understood that n s,f This indicates the number of time slots between this time slot and the first time slot of the system frame containing this time slot. For example, n s,f =0 indicates that this time slot is the first time slot of the system frame.

[0206] n represents the PRS sequence index.

[0207] This represents the number of REs within a given RB. Combined with... Figure 4 It can be understood that an RB contains 12 REs, that is...

[0208] N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource.

[0209] This indicates the initial frequency domain position of the PRS configuration, corresponding to the index of the RE within the RB occupied by the first symbol of the PRS pattern extended to the time slot. For example, The value can be any one of {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11}.

[0210] O represents the offset of the RE mapped between two adjacent symbols for the PRS resource.

[0211] This indicates the number of symbols in a time slot. For example, for a regular CP, For extended CP,

[0212] This indicates the symbol index of the first symbol of the PRS resource within the time slot. For example... This indicates that the first symbol of the PRS resource is the first symbol of the time slot. For example, Can be taken Any one of them. This indicates the number of symbols in a time slot. For regular CP, For extended CP,

[0213] l′ represents the symbol index of a symbol within a PRS resource. For example, l′ = 0 indicates the first symbol in the PRS resource.

[0214] This indicates rounding down to the nearest integer.

[0215] Where N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource. Optionally, in formula (3), N can take values ​​including 12.

[0216] It should be understood that in practical applications, the value of N can be determined according to the application requirements.

[0217] O represents the offset of the PRS resource mapped to the RE on two adjacent symbols. The value of O can be a negative integer or a positive integer.

[0218] Optionally, in formula (3), the absolute value of the offset O can be 1.

[0219] For example, the values ​​of (N, O) are shown in Table 2.

[0220] Table 2

[0221] N 12 O -1

[0222] In formula (3), the formula for calculating variable k is:

[0223]

[0224] in, This can be called the first offset. This can be called the second offset.

[0225] Taking N as 12 as an example, the first offset indicates that the last 6 symbols in the 12 symbols of the PRS resource have an additional offset of 6 REs relative to the first 6 symbols. For example, it can be understood that the first offset of the first 6 symbols is 0, and the first offset of the last 6 symbols is 6.

[0226] The second offset indicates that the offset of the PRS resource mapping RE on adjacent symbols is only related to the symbol index within half a time slot.

[0227] From formula (3), we can see that the known variables The values ​​of N and O can be used to obtain the PRS pattern based on formula (3). Can be taken Any one of them, The value can be any one of {0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11}.

[0228] When N equals 12, for regular CP, It can take any one of {0, 1, 2}; for extended CP, It can take the value 0.

[0229] As an example, it is known that (N, O) = (12, -1), The PRS pattern obtained based on formula (3) is as follows: Figure 9 As shown.

[0230] As another example, it is known that, (N, O) = (12, -1), The PRS pattern obtained based on formula (3) is as follows: Figure 10 As shown.

[0231] Referring to formula (3), and as follows Figure 9 or Figure 10 As shown in the PRS pattern, the second offset enables the RE mapped by the PRS resource within a time slot to have a half-time slot reset attribute. That is, the offset O of the PRS resource mapping RE on adjacent symbols is only related to the symbol index within half a time slot. Therefore, this application can support frequency division multiplexing of the PRS of NR cells and the PRS of LTE cells.

[0232] For example, when NR cells and LTE cells are deployed on the same frequency, the NR cell can use the PRS configuration of the embodiment of this application to achieve frequency division multiplexing of the PRS of the NR cell and the PRS of the LTE cell.

[0233] Referring to formula (3), and as follows Figure 9 or Figure 10 The PRS pattern shown also shows that, based on the fact that the REs mapped by the PRS resource within a time slot have a half-time slot reset attribute, the first offset can make the REs mapped by the PRS resource fill as many REs as possible within an RB.

[0234] In formula (3), the variable The meaning is the index of the RE in the RB that corresponds to the first symbol of the PRS pattern extended to the slot.

[0235] Optionally, the variables in formula (3) The meaning of can be replaced by the index of the RE occupied on the first symbol of the corresponding PRS resource in the RB. Accordingly, formula (3) is transformed into formula (4) as shown below.

[0236]

[0237]

[0238]

[0239] n = 0, 1, 2, ...

[0240] l′=0,1,2,...,N-1

[0241] In formula (4), besides the variables The meaning of has changed, but the meanings of the other variables or parameters remain the same. Please refer to the description of the corresponding variables or parameters in formula (3) above. It will not be repeated here.

[0242] Optionally, step S510 includes: obtaining a PRS pattern; and generating resource configuration information for the PRS based on the PRS pattern. For example, the PRS pattern satisfies formula (3) or formula (4).

[0243] Alternatively, in step S510, the PRS pattern is obtained according to formula (3) or formula (4).

[0244] By obtaining the PRS pattern using formula (3) or formula (4), the REs mapped by the PRS resources within a time slot can have a half-time slot reset attribute. Therefore, this application can support frequency division multiplexing of the PRS of NR cells and the PRS of LTE cells. In addition, by obtaining the PRS pattern using formula (3) or formula (4), the REs mapped by the PRS resources can also be made to occupy as many REs as possible within a RB.

[0245] Alternatively, the PRS pattern can satisfy the following formula (5).

[0246]

[0247]

[0248]

[0249] n = 0, 1, 2, ...

[0250] l′=0,1,2,...,N-1

[0251] Compared to formula (3), formula (5) only considers the second offset when calculating variable k. The first offset was not considered.

[0252] The meanings of each variable or parameter in formula (5) are the same as those in formula (3), and will not be repeated here.

[0253] Optionally, step S510 includes: obtaining a PRS pattern; generating resource configuration information for the PRS based on the PRS pattern, wherein the PRS pattern satisfies formula (5).

[0254] Optionally, in step S510, the PRS pattern is obtained according to formula (5).

[0255] In the embodiments described above, the method for configuring PRS is illustrated using a single-port PRS signal as an example. It should be noted that the method for configuring PRS provided in this application can also be applied to the configuration of two-port PRS.

[0256] For a two-port signal, a frequency domain density of 1 means that within 1 RB, the two-port signal effectively occupies 2 REs. For example, this can include the following two cases:

[0257] Case 1: Each port in a two-port signal occupies 2 REs, but these two ports occupy the same two REs and are distinguished by orthogonal codes or different sequences on the two REs.

[0258] Scenario 2: Each port occupies 1 RE, and the two ports occupy different REs.

[0259] Alternatively, the two-port PRS pattern can satisfy the following formula (6).

[0260]

[0261] m′=nα+k′

[0262]

[0263]

[0264] n = 0, 1, 2, ...

[0265] l′=0,1,2,...,N-1

[0266] k′=0,...,X-1

[0267]

[0268] The meanings of each variable or parameter in formula (6) are as follows.

[0269] This indicates that the port is p, the parameter set is μ, and the modulation symbol is on the RE with index (k,l).

[0270] p represents the PRS port number.

[0271] μ represents the subcarrier spacing. For example, μ = 1, 2, 3 correspond to subcarrier spacings of 15 kHz, 30 kHz, 60 kHz, and 120 kHz, respectively.

[0272] k represents the frequency domain index of the RE. It should be understood that k indicates the number of subcarriers between the frequency point of the RE and a certain fixed frequency point.

[0273] l represents the time-domain index of the RE. It should be understood that l indicates the index of the symbol corresponding to the RE within a time slot. For example, l = 0 indicates that the RE corresponds to the first symbol in the time slot.

[0274] This represents a sequence of length 2. Assuming the PRS port numbers are p0 = 5000 and p0+1 = 5001, then... When PRS is a single-port signal, the port number is p0; when PRS is a two-port signal, the port numbers are p0 and p0+1.

[0275] Indicates time slot n s,f PRS sequence on inner symbol l.

[0276] n s,f This represents the time slot index. It should be understood that n s,f This indicates the number of time slots between this time slot and the first time slot of the system frame containing this time slot. For example, n s,f =0 indicates that this time slot is the first time slot of the system frame.

[0277] m′ represents the PRS sequence index.

[0278] n represents the RB index of the PRS resource mapping.

[0279] α is an intermediate variable related to the number of PRS ports. When the number of PRS ports is 1, α is 1; when the number of PRS ports is 2, α is 2.

[0280] X represents the number of ports of the PRS resource. X=1 indicates that the PRS is a single-port signal, and X=2 indicates that the PRS is a two-port signal.

[0281] k′ represents the index within the orthogonal cover code (OCC) in the frequency domain. When the number of PRS ports is 1, only 0 is taken, and when the number of PRS ports is 2, both 0 and 1 are taken.

[0282] This represents the number of REs within a given RB. Combined with... Figure 4 It can be understood that an RB contains 12 REs, that is...

[0283] N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource.

[0284] This indicates the initial frequency domain position of the PRS configuration, corresponding to the index of the RE within the RB occupied by the first symbol of the PRS pattern extended to the time slot.

[0285] O represents the offset of the RE mapped between two adjacent symbols for the PRS resource.

[0286] This indicates the symbol index of the first symbol of the PRS resource within the time slot. For example... This indicates that the first symbol of the PRS resource is the first symbol of the time slot. For example, Can be taken Any one of them. This indicates the number of symbols in a time slot. For regular CP, For extended CP,

[0287] l′ represents the symbol index of a symbol within a PRS resource. For example, l′ = 0 indicates the first symbol in the PRS resource.

[0288] Alternatively, the two-port PRS pattern can satisfy the following formula (7).

[0289]

[0290] m′=nα+k′+q

[0291]

[0292]

[0293] q=0,...,ρ-1

[0294] n = 0, 1, 2, ...

[0295] l′=0,1,2,...,N-1

[0296] k′=0,...,X-1

[0297]

[0298] The meanings of each variable or parameter in formula (7) are as follows.

[0299] This indicates that the port is p, the parameter set is μ, and the modulation symbol is on the RE with index (k,l).

[0300] p represents the PRS port number.

[0301] μ represents the subcarrier spacing. For example, μ = 1, 2, 3 correspond to subcarrier spacings of 15 kHz, 30 kHz, 60 kHz, and 120 kHz, respectively.

[0302] k represents the frequency domain index of the RE. It should be understood that k indicates the number of subcarriers between the frequency point of the RE and a certain fixed frequency point.

[0303] l represents the time-domain index of the RE. It should be understood that l indicates the index of the symbol corresponding to the RE within a time slot. For example, l = 0 indicates that the RE corresponds to the first symbol in the time slot.

[0304] This represents a sequence of length 2. Assuming the PRS port numbers are p0 = 5000 and p0+1 = 5001, then... When PRS is a single-port signal, the port number is p0; when PRS is a two-port signal, the port numbers are p0 and p0+1.

[0305] Indicates time slot n s,f PRS sequence on inner symbol l.

[0306] n s,f This represents the time slot index. It should be understood that n s,f This indicates the number of time slots between this time slot and the first time slot of the system frame containing this time slot. For example, n s,f =0 indicates that this time slot is the first time slot of the system frame.

[0307] m′ represents the PRS sequence index.

[0308] n represents the RB index of the PRS resource mapping.

[0309] α is an intermediate variable related to the number of PRS ports. When the number of PRS ports is 1, α is 1; when the number of PRS ports is 2, α is 2.

[0310] X represents the number of ports of the PRS resource. X=1 indicates that the PRS is a single-port signal, and X=2 indicates that the PRS is a two-port signal.

[0311] k′ represents the index within the orthogonal cover code (OCC) in the frequency domain. When the number of PRS ports is 1, only 0 is taken, and when the number of PRS ports is 2, both 0 and 1 are taken.

[0312] ρ represents the frequency domain density of the PRS resource. When ρ is 1, the frequency domain density of the PRS resource corresponding to the PRS pattern obtained according to formula (7) is 1. It should be understood that when ρ is 2, the frequency domain density of the PRS resource corresponding to the PRS pattern obtained according to formula (7) is 2.

[0313] q represents the RE index within an RB. As can be seen from formula (7), when ρ=1, the value of q is 0, and when ρ>1, the values ​​of q include 0, 1, ..., ρ-1.

[0314] This represents the number of REs within a given RB. Combined with... Figure 4 It can be understood that an RB contains 12 REs, that is...

[0315] N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource.

[0316] This indicates the initial frequency domain position of the PRS configuration, corresponding to the index of the RE within the RB occupied by the first symbol of the PRS pattern extended to the time slot.

[0317] O represents the offset of the RE mapped between two adjacent symbols for the PRS resource.

[0318] This indicates the symbol index of the first symbol of the PRS resource within the time slot. For example... This indicates that the first symbol of the PRS resource is the first symbol of the time slot. For example, Can be taken Any one of them. This indicates the number of symbols in a time slot. For regular CP, For extended CP,

[0319] l′ represents the symbol index of a symbol within a PRS resource. For example, l′ = 0 indicates the first symbol in the PRS resource.

[0320] This indicates rounding down to the nearest integer.

[0321] Where N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource. For example, in formulas (6) and (7), it can be seen that the supported values ​​of N include 12 and 6. For example, the PRS resource occupies 12 or 6 consecutive symbols within one time slot.

[0322] It should be understood that in practical applications, the value of N can also be determined according to the application requirements.

[0323] O represents the offset of the PRS resource mapped to the RE on two adjacent symbols. The value of O can be a negative integer or a positive integer. For example, in formulas (6) and (7), the supported values ​​of O include -1, 1, -2, and 2.

[0324] Optionally, the values ​​of (N, O) are shown in Table 3.

[0325] Table 3

[0326]

[0327] As can be seen, the values ​​of (N, O) shown in Table 3 for the case where PRS is a single-port signal are the same as the values ​​of (N, O) shown in Table 1.

[0328] It should be understood that formulas (6) and (7) can be applied to the case where PRS is a single-port signal or a two-port signal.

[0329] When PRS is a two-port signal (i.e., X = 2), and (N, O) = (12, -2), It can take any value from {0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10}. When N equals 12, for regular CP, The value can be any one of {0, 1, 2}; for extended CP, It can take the value 0. When N equals 6, for a regular CP, The value can be any one of {0, 1, ..., 8}; for extended CP, The value of can be any one of {0, 1, ..., 6}.

[0330] As an example, given that X = 2, (N, O) = (12, -2), The PRS pattern obtained based on formula (6) or formula (7) is as follows: Figure 11 As shown.

[0331] As an example, given that X = 2, (N, O) = (6, -2), The PRS pattern obtained based on formula (6) or formula (7) is as follows: Figure 12 As shown.

[0332] Obtaining the PRS pattern using formula (6) or formula (7) can not only improve the cell reuse capability compared to existing technologies, but also support the configuration of two-port PRS.

[0333] Optionally, in step S510, a PRS pattern is obtained; based on the PRS pattern, resource configuration information of the PRS is generated. The PRS pattern satisfies formula (6) or formula (7).

[0334] Alternatively, in step S510, the PRS pattern is obtained according to formula (6) or formula (7).

[0335] As can be seen from the description of the above embodiments, in step S510, the PRS pattern can be obtained based on any of the formulas (1) to (7); and the resource configuration information of the PRS is generated based on the PRS pattern.

[0336] It should be understood that the above formulas (1) to (7) are only examples and not limitations. In practical applications, other feasible formulas can also be used to obtain PRS patterns.

[0337] It should be understood that in this application, the PRS pattern is configurable, thus enabling flexible configuration of the PRS.

[0338] Optionally, Figure 5 The method in the illustrated embodiment further includes: the network device sending a PRS to the terminal device based on the PRS resource configuration information. That is, sending the PRS on the PRS resource indicated by the resource configuration information.

[0339] On the terminal device side, after receiving the resource configuration information of the PRS, it can parse and obtain the PRS resource, and then receive the PRS issued by the network device on the PRS resource.

[0340] As can be seen from the description of the above embodiments, by setting the frequency domain density of PRS to 1, this application can support up to 12 cells to transmit PRS simultaneously, which can effectively improve cell reuse capability compared with the prior art.

[0341] It should also be understood that if more than 12 cells need to transmit PRS, interference between PRS from different cells can be avoided by mutating. For example, when two or more cells have the same RE usage for their PRS, a mutating pattern can be configured for their PRS. The mutating pattern ensures that only one cell transmits PRS at any given time.

[0342] The various embodiments described herein can be independent solutions or combinations thereof based on their inherent logic, and all such solutions fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0343] It is understood that the methods and operations implemented by the terminal device in the above method embodiments can also be implemented by components (such as chips or circuits) that can be used in the terminal device, and the methods and operations implemented by the network device in the above method embodiments can also be implemented by components (such as chips or circuits) that can be used in the network device.

[0344] The method embodiments provided in this application have been described above. The apparatus embodiments provided in this application will be described below. It should be understood that the description of the apparatus embodiments corresponds to the description of the method embodiments. Therefore, any content not described in detail can be referred to the method embodiments above. For the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here.

[0345] The foregoing mainly describes the solutions provided in the embodiments of this application from the perspective of interaction between various network elements. It is understood that each network element, such as a transmitting or receiving device, includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules to perform the aforementioned functions. Those skilled in the art should recognize that, based on the units and algorithm steps of the examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of protection of this application.

[0346] This application embodiment can divide the transmitting or receiving device into functional modules based on the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated modules can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other feasible division methods may exist in actual implementation. The following description uses the division of functional modules according to each function as an example.

[0347] Figure 13 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 1300 provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1300 includes a transceiver unit 1310 and a processing unit 1320. The transceiver unit 1310 can communicate with external devices, and the processing unit 1310 is used for data processing. The transceiver unit 1310 can also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication unit.

[0348] The communication device 1300 can be used to perform the actions performed by the terminal device in the above method embodiment. In this case, the communication device 1300 can be referred to as the terminal device. The transceiver unit 1310 is used to perform the transceiver-related operations on the terminal device side in the above method embodiment, and the processing unit 1320 is used to perform the processing-related operations on the terminal device side in the above method embodiment.

[0349] Alternatively, the communication device 1300 can be used to perform the actions performed by the network device in the above method embodiment. In this case, the communication device 1300 can be referred to as the network device, the transceiver unit 1310 is used to perform the transceiver-related operations on the network device side in the above method embodiment, and the processing unit 1320 is used to perform the processing-related operations on the network device side in the above method embodiment.

[0350] As a design, the communication device 1300 is used to perform the actions performed by the network device in the above method embodiment. The processing unit 1320 is used to generate resource configuration information for the reference signal, wherein the frequency domain density of the reference signal resource indicated by the resource configuration information is 1. The transceiver unit 1310 is used to send the resource configuration information to the terminal device.

[0351] Optionally, the absolute value of the offset of the reference signal resource mapped to the RE on adjacent symbols within the time slot is 1 or 2.

[0352] Optionally, the reference signal resource includes a number of symbols greater than 6 and less than or equal to 12, and the absolute value of the offset is 1 or 2; or the reference signal resource includes a number of symbols less than or equal to 6, and the absolute value of the offset is 2, wherein the time slot includes 12 or 14 symbols.

[0353] Optionally, the absolute value of the offset of the reference signal resource mapping resource element RE on adjacent symbols within half a time slot is 1.

[0354] Optionally, in the N symbols included in the reference signal resource, the latter N / 2 symbols have an offset of 6 REs relative to the former N / 2 symbols.

[0355] Optionally, the reference signal is a two-port signal.

[0356] Optionally, the processing unit 1320 is configured to: acquire a resource pattern of a reference signal, wherein the resource pattern of the reference signal is configurable; and generate resource configuration information of the reference signal based on the resource pattern of the reference signal.

[0357] Optionally, the reference signal is PRS, and the PRS pattern satisfies any one of the formulas (1) to (7) described above.

[0358] Optionally, the reference signal is PRS, and the processing unit 1320 is used to obtain the resource pattern of the reference signal according to any one of the formulas (1) to (7) described above.

[0359] The processing unit 1320 in the above embodiments can be implemented by a processor or processor-related circuitry. The transceiver unit 1310 can be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuitry. The transceiver unit 1310 can also be referred to as a communication unit or communication interface.

[0360] like Figure 14 As shown, this application embodiment also provides a communication device 1400. The communication device 1400 includes a processor 1410, which is coupled to a memory 1420. The memory 1420 is used to store computer programs or instructions, and the processor 1410 is used to execute the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory 1420, so that the methods in the above method embodiments are executed.

[0361] Optionally, such as Figure 14 As shown, the communication device 1400 may also include a memory 1420.

[0362] Optionally, such as Figure 14 As shown, the communication device 1400 may further include a transceiver 1430 for receiving and / or transmitting signals. For example, a processor 1410 is used to control the transceiver 1430 to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0363] As one option, the communication device 1400 is used to implement the operations performed by the terminal device in the above method embodiments.

[0364] For example, processor 1410 is used to implement the processing-related operations performed by the terminal device in the above method embodiments, and transceiver 1430 is used to implement the sending and receiving-related operations performed by the terminal device in the above method embodiments.

[0365] As an alternative, the communication device 1400 is used to implement the operations performed by the network device in the above method embodiments.

[0366] For example, processor 1410 is used to implement the processing-related operations performed by the network device in the above method embodiments, and transceiver 1430 is used to implement the sending and receiving-related operations performed by the network device in the above method embodiments.

[0367] This application also provides a communication device 1500, which can be a terminal device or a chip. The communication device 1500 can be used to perform the operations performed by the terminal device in the above method embodiments.

[0368] When the communication device 1500 is a terminal device Figure 15 A simplified schematic diagram of a terminal device is shown. This is for ease of understanding and illustration. Figure 15 In this context, the terminal device is taken as a mobile phone. For example... Figure 15 As shown, the terminal device includes a processor, memory, radio frequency (RF) circuitry, antenna, and input / output devices. The processor is primarily used for processing communication protocols and data, controlling the terminal device, executing software programs, and processing software program data. The memory is mainly used to store software programs and data. The RF circuitry is mainly used for converting baseband signals to RF signals and processing RF signals. The antenna is mainly used for transmitting and receiving RF signals in the form of electromagnetic waves. Input / output devices, such as touchscreens, displays, and keyboards, are mainly used to receive user input data and output data to the user. It should be noted that some types of terminal devices may not have input / output devices.

[0369] When data needs to be sent, the processor performs baseband processing on the data to be sent and outputs the baseband signal to the radio frequency (RF) circuit. The RF circuit then processes the baseband signal and transmits it outward as electromagnetic waves through the antenna. When data is sent to the terminal device, the RF circuit receives the RF signal through the antenna, converts it into a baseband signal, and outputs the baseband signal to the processor. The processor then converts the baseband signal back into data and processes it. For ease of explanation, Figure 15 Only one memory and processor are shown in the illustration. In actual terminal device products, there may be one or more processors and one or more memories. Memory can also be called storage medium or storage device, etc. Memory can be set up independently of the processor or integrated with the processor; this application does not limit this.

[0370] In the embodiments of this application, the antenna and radio frequency circuit with transceiver function can be regarded as the transceiver unit of the terminal device, and the processor with processing function can be regarded as the processing unit of the terminal device.

[0371] like Figure 15 As shown, the terminal device includes a transceiver unit 1510 and a processing unit 1520. The transceiver unit 1510 can also be referred to as a transceiver, transceiver machine, transceiver device, etc. The processing unit 1520 can also be referred to as a processor, processing board, processing module, processing device, etc.

[0372] Optionally, the devices in transceiver unit 1510 used for receiving functions can be considered as receiving units, and the devices in transceiver unit 1510 used for transmitting functions can be considered as transmitting units. That is, transceiver unit 1510 includes both receiving and transmitting units. A transceiver unit may sometimes be called a transceiver, transceiver circuit, etc. A receiving unit may sometimes be called a receiver, receiver, or receiving circuit, etc. A transmitting unit may sometimes be called a transmitter, transmitter, or transmitting circuit, etc.

[0373] For example, in one implementation, the transceiver unit 1510 is used to perform... Figure 5 The receiving operation in step S520, and / or the transceiver unit 1510, is also used to perform other transceiver-related steps performed by the terminal device. For example, the transceiver unit 1510 is also used to receive a reference signal (e.g., PRS) sent by the network device based on the resource configuration information of the reference signal. The processing unit 1520 is used to perform other processing-related steps performed by the terminal device in this embodiment of the application. For example, the processing unit 1520 is used to parse the resource configuration information of the reference signal received by the transceiver unit 1510, and then obtain the reference signal resource.

[0374] It should be understood that Figure 15This is merely an example and not a limitation; the terminal device described above, which includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit, may not rely on... Figure 15 The structure shown.

[0375] When the communication device 1500 is a chip, the chip includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The transceiver unit can be an input / output circuit or a communication interface; the processing unit can be a processor, microprocessor, or integrated circuit integrated on the chip.

[0376] This application also provides a communication device 1600, which can be a network device or a chip. The communication device 1600 can be used to perform the operations performed by the network device in the above method embodiments.

[0377] When the communication device 1600 is a network device, such as a base station. Figure 16 A simplified schematic diagram of a base station structure is shown. The base station includes a 1610 section and a 1620 section. The 1610 section is mainly used for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals and converting radio frequency signals to baseband signals; the 1620 section is mainly used for baseband processing and base station control. The 1610 section is often referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, or transceiver. The 1620 section is usually the control center of the base station, often referred to as a processing unit, used to control the base station to perform the processing operations on the network device side in the above method embodiments.

[0378] The transceiver unit of section 1610, also known as a transceiver or transceiver unit, includes an antenna and radio frequency (RF) circuitry, where the RF circuitry is primarily used for RF processing. Optionally, the devices in section 1610 that implement the receiving function can be considered as receiving units, and the devices that implement the transmitting function can be considered as transmitting units; that is, section 1610 includes both receiving and transmitting units. The receiving unit can also be called a receiver, receiver circuit, or receiving unit, while the transmitting unit can be called a transmitter, transmitter, or transmitting circuit.

[0379] Section 1620 may include one or more single boards, each single board may include one or more processors and one or more memories. The processor is used to read and execute programs in the memory to implement baseband processing functions and control the base station. If multiple single boards exist, they can be interconnected to enhance processing capabilities. As an alternative implementation, multiple single boards may share one or more processors, multiple single boards may share one or more memories, or multiple single boards may simultaneously share one or more processors.

[0380] For example, in one implementation, the transceiver unit of section 1610 is used to perform... Figure 5The transmitting operation in step S520, and / or the transceiver unit in section 1610, is also used to perform other transmit / receive related steps performed by the network device in this embodiment. For example, section 1610 is also used to send a reference signal to the terminal device based on the resource configuration information of the reference signal. Section 1620 is used to perform... Figure 5 The middle steps S510 and / or 1620 are also used to perform processing-related steps performed by the network device in the embodiments of this application.

[0381] It should be understood that Figure 16 This is merely an example and not a limitation; the network devices described above, including transceiver units and processing units, may not rely on... Figure 16 The structure shown.

[0382] When the communication device 1600 is a chip, the chip includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The transceiver unit can be an input / output circuit or a communication interface; the processing unit is a processor, microprocessor, or integrated circuit integrated on the chip.

[0383] This application also provides a communication system, including the network device and terminal device described in the above embodiments.

[0384] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for implementing the methods executed by a terminal device or a network device in the above-described method embodiments.

[0385] For example, when the computer program is executed by a computer, it enables the computer to implement the method executed by the terminal device or the method executed by the network device in the above method embodiments.

[0386] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to implement the method executed by the terminal device or the method executed by the network device in the above method embodiments.

[0387] The explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant content in any of the communication devices provided above can be found in the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0388] In this embodiment, the terminal device or network device includes a hardware layer, an operating system layer running on top of the hardware layer, and an application layer running on top of the operating system layer. The hardware layer may include hardware such as a central processing unit (CPU), a memory management unit (MMU), and memory (also called main memory). The operating system layer can be any one or more computer operating systems that implement business processing through processes, such as Linux, Unix, Android, iOS, or Windows. The application layer may include applications such as browsers, address books, word processing software, and instant messaging software.

[0389] This application does not impose any particular limitation on the specific structure of the execution subject of the method provided in this application embodiment. As long as it is possible to communicate according to the method provided in this application embodiment by running a program that records the code of the method provided in this application embodiment. For example, the execution subject of the method provided in this application embodiment can be a terminal device or a network device, or a functional module in a terminal device or network device that can call and execute a program.

[0390] Various aspects or features of this application can be implemented as methods, apparatus, or articles of manufacture using standard programming and / or engineering techniques. As used herein, the term "article of manufacture" can encompass a computer program accessible from any computer-readable device, carrier, or medium. For example, computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to: magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks, or magnetic tapes), optical discs (e.g., compact discs (CDs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), etc.), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROMs), cards, sticks, or key drives, etc.).

[0391] The various storage media described herein may represent one or more devices and / or other machine-readable media used for storing information. The term "machine-readable media" may include, but is not limited to, wireless channels and various other media capable of storing, containing and / or carrying instructions and / or data.

[0392] It should be understood that the processor mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0393] It should also be understood that the memory mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM). For example, RAM can be used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, RAM can include a variety of forms, such as: static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0394] It should be noted that when the processor is a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic device, or discrete hardware component, the memory (storage module) can be integrated into the processor.

[0395] It should also be noted that the memory described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0396] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementations should not be considered beyond the scope of protection of this application.

[0397] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0398] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units 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 mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection of apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0399] 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.

[0400] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0401] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a computer software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions that cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium may include, but is not limited to, 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.

[0402] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0403] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for transmitting a reference signal, characterized in that, include: Resource configuration information for generating reference signals, wherein the frequency domain density of the reference signal resources indicated by the resource configuration information is 1; Send the resource configuration information to the terminal device; The reference signal resource includes a number of symbols greater than 6 and less than or equal to 12, and the absolute value of the offset of the resource element RE mapped on adjacent symbols within the time slot is 1 or 2; or, The reference signal resource includes a number of symbols less than or equal to 6, and the absolute value of the RE offset mapped on adjacent symbols within the time slot is 2; or, The absolute value of the offset of the reference signal resource mapping resource element RE on adjacent symbols within half a time slot is 1; The time slot includes 12 or 14 symbols.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the absolute value of the offset of the resource element RE mapped on adjacent symbols within half a time slot of the reference signal resource is 1, then in the N symbols included in the reference signal resource, the latter N / 2 symbols have an offset of 6 REs relative to the former N / 2 symbols.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The reference signal is a two-port signal.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The resource configuration information for generating the reference signal includes: Obtain the resource pattern of the reference signal, wherein the resource pattern of the reference signal is configurable; Based on the resource pattern of the reference signal, the resource configuration information of the reference signal is generated.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The reference signal is the positioning reference signal PRS; Wherein, the resource pattern of the reference signal satisfies either Formula 1 or Formula 2: Formula 1: Formula 2: The meanings of each variable or parameter in the formula are as follows: This indicates that the modulation symbol on the RE with port p, parameter set μ, and index (k, l) is a port p. p represents the PRS port number; μ represents the subcarrier spacing; k represents the frequency domain index of the RE; l represents the time-domain index of the RE; Indicates time slot n s,f PRS sequence on inner symbol l; n s,f Indicates the time slot index; n represents the PRS sequence index; This represents the number of REs within a resource block (RB). N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource; This indicates the index of the RE occupied in the RB on the first symbol of the PRS pattern extended to the slot; O represents the offset of the PRS resource mapped to the RE on two adjacent symbols; This indicates the symbol index of the first symbol of the PRS resource in the time slot; l′ represents the symbol index of the symbol in the PRS resource; Indicates the number of symbols in a time slot; This indicates rounding down to the nearest integer.

6. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The reference signal is a positioning reference signal (PRS); wherein, the resource pattern of the reference signal satisfies formula three or formula four: Formula 3: Formula 4: The meanings of each variable or parameter in the formula are as follows: This indicates that the modulation symbol on the RE with port p, parameter set μ, and index (k, l) is a port p. p represents the PRS port number; μ represents the subcarrier spacing; k represents the frequency domain index of the RE; l represents the time-domain index of the RE; Indicates time slot n s,f PRS sequence on inner symbol l; n s,f Indicates the time slot index; n represents the PRS sequence index; Represents the number of REs within a RB; N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource; This indicates the index of the RE occupied on the first symbol of the PRS resource within the RB; O represents the offset of the PRS resource mapped to the RE on two adjacent symbols; This indicates the symbol index of the first symbol of the PRS resource in the time slot; l′ represents the symbol index of the symbol in the PRS resource; Indicates the number of symbols in a time slot; This indicates rounding down to the nearest integer.

7. An apparatus for configuring a reference signal, characterized in that, include: A processing unit is configured to generate resource configuration information for a reference signal, wherein the frequency domain density of the reference signal resources indicated by the resource configuration information is 1. The transceiver unit is used to send the resource configuration information to the terminal device; The reference signal resource includes a number of symbols greater than 6 and less than or equal to 12, and the absolute value of the offset of the resource element RE mapped on adjacent symbols in the time slot is 1 or 2; or The reference signal resource includes a number of symbols less than or equal to 6, and the absolute value of the RE offset mapped on adjacent symbols within the time slot is 2; or, The absolute value of the offset of the reference signal resource mapping resource element RE on adjacent symbols within half a time slot is 1; The time slot includes 12 or 14 symbols.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that, If the absolute value of the offset of the resource element RE mapped on adjacent symbols within half a time slot of the reference signal resource is 1, then in the N symbols included in the reference signal resource, the latter N / 2 symbols have an offset of 6 REs relative to the former N / 2 symbols.

9. The apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The reference signal is a two-port signal.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that, The processing unit is used for: Obtain the resource pattern of the reference signal, wherein the resource pattern of the reference signal is configurable; Based on the resource pattern of the reference signal, the resource configuration information of the reference signal is generated.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The reference signal is the positioning reference signal PRS; Wherein, the resource pattern of the reference signal satisfies either Formula 1 or Formula 2: Formula 1: Formula 2: The meanings of each variable or parameter in the formula are as follows: This indicates that the modulation symbol on the RE with port p, parameter set μ, and index (k, l) is a port p. p represents the PRS port number; μ represents the subcarrier spacing; k represents the frequency domain index of the RE; l represents the time-domain index of the RE; Indicates time slot n s,f PRS sequence on inner symbol l; n s,f Indicates the time slot index; n represents the PRS sequence index; This represents the number of REs within a resource block (RB). N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource; This indicates the index of the RE occupied in the RB on the first symbol of the PRS pattern extended to the slot; O represents the offset of the PRS resource mapped to the RE on two adjacent symbols; This indicates the symbol index of the first symbol of the PRS resource in the time slot; l′ represents the symbol index of the symbol in the PRS resource; Indicates the number of symbols in a time slot; This indicates rounding down to the nearest integer.

12. The apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The reference signal is the positioning reference signal PRS; Wherein, the resource pattern of the reference signal satisfies formula three or formula four: Formula 3: Formula 4: The meanings of each variable or parameter in the formula are as follows: This indicates that the modulation symbol on the RE with port p, parameter set μ, and index (k, l) is a port p. p represents the PRS port number; μ represents the subcarrier spacing; k represents the frequency domain index of the RE; l represents the time-domain index of the RE; Indicates time slot n s,f PRS sequence on inner symbol l; n s,f Indicates the time slot index; n represents the PRS sequence index; Represents the number of REs within a RB; N represents the number of symbols contained in the PRS resource; This indicates the index of the RE occupied on the first symbol of the PRS resource within the RB; O represents the offset of the PRS resource mapped to the RE on two adjacent symbols; This indicates the symbol index of the first symbol of the PRS resource in the time slot; l′ represents the symbol index of the symbol in the PRS resource; Indicates the number of symbols in a time slot; This indicates rounding down to the nearest integer.

13. A communication device, characterized in that, The method includes a processor coupled to a memory for storing computer programs or instructions, and the processor for executing the computer programs or instructions in the memory such that the method of any one of claims 1 to 6 is performed.

14. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores a program or instructions for implementing the method of any one of claims 1 to 6.

15. A computer program product, said computer program product comprising computer program code, characterized in that, When the computer program code is run on a computer, it causes the computer to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

16. A chip, characterized in that, The chip is installed in a communication device. The chip includes a processor and a communication interface. The processor reads instructions and runs them through the communication interface, causing the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

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