Communication methods and related apparatuses

Abstract

Provided are a communication method and related apparatus. In the method, the position of a physical downlink control channel monitoring opportunity (PMO) in each search space group can be determined based on at least a synchronization signal block (SSB) in a corresponding SSB group, a monitoring period of a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), a duration of the PDCCH, and a plurality of parameters. The monitoring period is greater than the duration. The values of the plurality of parameters are related to the number of PMOs in each search space group and the number of system frames offset between two adjacent search space groups. The system frame in which the PMO in the search space group is located is between the system frames in which the two adjacent SSB groups are located, and there is more than one time slot offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in the group. Thus, the position of the PMO can be prevented from overlapping the position of the SSB, unnecessary blind detection by the terminal can be avoided, power consumption can be saved, and the time slots not occupied by the PMO can be used to transmit a random access response (RAR) message, which is conducive to improving the access performance of the terminal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to communication methods and related apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] If a terminal has not transmitted data for an extended period, it will enter a radio resource control (RRC) idle state (hereinafter referred to as idle state) to conserve power. If downlink data arrives while the terminal is in idle state, it will be paged by the network device. Therefore, the terminal can listen for paging messages while in idle state.

[0003] In one implementation, the terminal can blindly detect the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) in the search space. If the paging-radio network temporary identifier (P-RNTI) is decoded from the PDCCH, the terminal can obtain the paging message based on the resource allocation and modulation and coding scheme indicated by the PDCCH. If the paging message contains an identifier assigned to the terminal by the core network, such as a 5G (5G) identifier... th If the terminal obtains a temporary mobile subscription identifier (5G-S-TMSI) from the system architecture evolution (SAE) of the 5G generation (5G), it can initiate a paging response; otherwise, it continues to listen. The location of the search space can be configured by the radio access network equipment in system information block (SIB) 1, and the location of SIB1 can be configured in synchronization signal block (SSB). Therefore, the terminal can obtain SIB1 from the SSB, determine the search space based on the parameters configured in SIB1, and then listen to the PDCCH in the search space to obtain paging messages.

[0004] In non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), to meet coverage requirements, a large number of beams are needed for continuous random access within the coverage area. For example, satellite communication requires hundreds of beams, which are typically the beams of Service Blocks (SSBs), thus resulting in hundreds of SSBs. Considering compatibility with 5G SSB design, SSBs can be grouped. Each SSB group can include multiple SSBs, and the SSBs within each group can be centrally distributed within a single radio system frame (system frame). To ensure that terminal devices can complete the uplink synchronization process and access the network as quickly as possible after receiving an SSB, the radio access network equipment needs to send the corresponding SIB1 and SIBX for each SSB as soon as possible after receiving the SSB, and send paging messages, random access response (RAR) messages, and other system messages in the blank system frame between two SSB groups.

[0005] On the one hand, RAR messages have a reception window length. If the reception window length of RAR messages is concentrated in the first or second half of the system frame, it may cause some terminals to fail to receive RAR messages, affecting the terminal's access performance and increasing access latency. On the other hand, since SSB beams are directional, PDCCH monitoring occasions (PMOs) in the search space correspond to SSBs. If the PMO location is determined based on each received SSB, the PMO location corresponding to an SSB in a previous SSB group may overlap with the location of an SSB in a subsequent SSB group. The radio access network device will not transmit PDCCH at the location of the SSB, so blind detection at these overlapping locations is unnecessary, which may lead to low blind detection efficiency and high power consumption. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a method that can both ensure the terminal's access performance and avoid unnecessary blind detection, thus saving power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a communication method and related apparatus, which aims to avoid unnecessary blind detection of the terminal without affecting the terminal's access performance and save power consumption.

[0007] Firstly, a communication method is provided. This method can be applied to a terminal, for example, it can be executed by the terminal, or it can be executed by a component (such as a chip, chip system, etc.) configured in the terminal, or it can be implemented by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal functions, which is not limited in this application.

[0008] For example, the method includes: receiving a first SSB, the first SSB belonging to an SSB group, and the SSB group being one of multiple SSB groups; determining a first PMO based on the first SSB, and performing blind detection of the PDCCH on the first PMO; wherein the multiple SSB groups correspond one-to-one with multiple search space groups, each search space group includes one or more PMOs, each SSB group includes one or more SSBs, one or more PMOs included in one of the multiple search space groups include the first PMO, and the positions of one or more PMOs within each search space group are at least determined by... The monitoring period of each SSB and PDCCH in the corresponding SSB group, the duration of the PDCCH, and multiple parameters are determined. The location of the PMO in each search space group satisfies the following: the system frame where the PMO in each search space group is located is located between the system frames of two adjacent SSB groups, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group includes more than one time slot; wherein, the monitoring period is greater than the duration, and the values ​​of the multiple parameters are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups.

[0009] In other words, since the first PMO corresponds to the first SSB, the location of the first PMO is determined by at least the first SSB, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the duration of the PDCCH, and multiple parameters. It is understandable that each SSB can correspond to one or more PMOs, and the first PMO corresponding to the first SSB can also be one or more.

[0010] Since the terminal may receive SSBs from at least one of multiple SSB groups, the terminal can determine the location of each PMO within at least one search space group based on the at least one SSB group to which the received SSB belongs. Therefore, another possible implementation of the method provided in the first aspect is: determining the position of each PMO within at least one search space group, wherein the at least one search space group is included in multiple search space groups, the multiple search space groups correspond one-to-one with multiple SSB groups, each search space group includes one or more PMOs, each SSB group includes one or more SSBs, and the position of one or more PMOs within each search space group is determined at least by each SSB within the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the duration of the PDCCH, and multiple parameters. The determined position of the PMO within each search space group satisfies the following: the system frame where the PMO in each search space group is located is located between the system frames where two adjacent SSB groups are located, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs within each search space group includes more than one time slot; wherein the monitoring period of the PDCCH is greater than the duration of the PDCCH, and the values ​​of the multiple parameters are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups; and performing blind detection of the PDCCH on the PMOs within the at least one search space group.

[0011] It is understood that the first PMO mentioned above is a PMO within at least one search space group, and the first SSB mentioned above is an SSB in at least one SSB group corresponding to the at least one search space group.

[0012] It should be understood that the terminal does not necessarily need to determine the location of all PMOs within at least one search space group. Upon receiving a first SSB, the terminal can determine the location of the first PMO corresponding to the first SSB based on the received first SSB, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the duration of the PDCCH, and multiple parameters. However, it is understood that regardless of whether the terminal determines the location of all PMOs within the at least one search space group, the location of the PMOs within each search space group can satisfy the following: the system frame containing the PMO within each search space group is located between the system frames containing two adjacent SSB groups, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs within each search space group includes more than one time slot.

[0013] Secondly, a communication method is provided. This method can be applied to a wireless access network (WLAN) device, and can be executed by the WLAN device itself, or by a component (such as a chip, chip system, etc.) configured in the WLAN device, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the WLAN device; this application does not limit this. The WLAN device can be, for example, a satellite base station.

[0014] For example, the method includes: determining the location of each PMO within at least one search space group, the at least one search space group being included in a plurality of search space groups, the plurality of search space groups corresponding one-to-one with a plurality of SSB groups, each search space group including one or more PMOs, each SSB group including one or more SSBs, the location of the one or more PMOs within each search space group being determined by at least two of the following parameters: each SSB within the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the duration of the PDCCH, and the determined location of the PMO within each search space group satisfies that: the system frame containing the PMO within each search space group is located between the system frames containing two adjacent SSB groups, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs within each search space group includes more than one time slot; wherein, the monitoring period of the PDCCH is greater than the duration of the PDCCH, and the values ​​of the plurality of parameters are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups; and transmitting the PDCCH on the PMOs within the at least one search space group.

[0015] Since the radio access network (RAN) device may not transmit SSBs at the locations of multiple SSB groups, it may not be able to determine the location of the PMO within the multiple search space groups corresponding to those SSB groups. The RAN device can determine the location of each PMO within at least one corresponding search space group based on at least one transmitted SSB group, or it can determine the location of the corresponding PMO based on the transmitted SSB.

[0016] Therefore, the second aspect also provides another possible approach, as follows:

[0017] The location of the first PMO corresponding to the first SSB is determined, wherein the first SSB is one of a first SSB group, the first SSB group is one of multiple SSB groups, the multiple SSB groups correspond one-to-one with multiple search space groups, each search space group includes one or more PMOs, each SSB group includes one or more SSBs, and one or more PMOs included in one of the multiple search space groups include the first PMO. The location of one or more PMOs in each search space group is determined by at least two of the following parameters: each SSB in the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the duration of the PDCCH, and the location of the determined PMO in each search space group satisfies the following: the system frame where the PMO in each search space group is located is located between the system frames where two adjacent SSB groups are located, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group includes more than one time slot; wherein, the monitoring period of the PDCCH is greater than the duration of the PDCCH, and the values ​​of the multiple parameters are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups; the PDCCH is transmitted on the first PMO.

[0018] It should be understood that the method described in the first aspect corresponds to the method described in the second aspect. The terminal and the radio access network device can determine the location of the PMO within at least one search space group based on the same method. Subsequently, the terminal can perform blind PDCCH detection on one or more PMOs within the at least one search space group. The radio access network device can also transmit the PDCCH on one or more PMOs within the at least one search space group. In other words, the terminal does not necessarily perform blind PDCCH detection on all PMOs within the multiple search space groups corresponding to multiple SSB groups, and the radio access network device does not necessarily transmit the PDCCH on all PMOs within the multiple search space groups corresponding to the multiple SSB groups.

[0019] Optionally, the PMO for which the terminal performs blind detection is a subset of the PMOs used by the radio access network equipment to transmit the PDCCH.

[0020] In this context, a search space group can be viewed as a set of one or more PMOs corresponding to each SSB within an SSB group.

[0021] The monitoring period of PDCCH is longer than the duration of PDCCH. This means that the terminal's blind detection of PDCCH is periodic, but it does not continuously perform blind detection of PDCCH within the monitoring period. Instead, the terminal can continuously perform blind detection of PDCCH within the duration of PDCCH. In other words, PMO is distributed throughout the duration of PDCCH.

[0022] In the method provided in the first or second aspect, the terminal and the radio access network equipment can determine the location of the PMO corresponding to each SSB in the corresponding search space group based at least on each SSB in the SSB group, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the duration of the PDCCH, and multiple parameters. The monitoring period and duration of the PDCCH can be used to determine the location of the PMO, and the location of each determined PMO can correspond to an index of the PMO. The index of each SSB in an SSB group can be used to determine the index of each PMO in the corresponding search space group, thereby determining the location of the PMO corresponding to each SSB. However, since SSB groups and search space groups are interleaved in the time domain, some PMOs identified by SSBs in one SSB group may overlap with the system frames of the next SSB group. This could lead to some PMOs having overlapping positions with SSB and SIB messages. Therefore, this application combines multiple parameters to constrain the index of the PMOs corresponding to each SSB within the SSB group, thereby excluding PMOs that may have overlapping positions. The terminal does not perform blind PDCCH detection on these PMOs. This avoids unnecessary blind detection by the terminal and saves power consumption.

[0023] Furthermore, since the monitoring period of PDCCH is longer than the duration of PDCCH, the multiple PMOs within the search space group are discontinuous in the time domain. This makes it easier for the terminal to receive RAR messages and other signaling in these time slots not occupied by PMOs, which is beneficial for the successful reception of RAR messages by the terminal and ensures access performance.

[0024] In this application, for ease of distinction and explanation, PMOs determined based on the monitoring cycle and duration of the PDCCH are designated as candidate PMOs. The index of a PMO determined directly from the SSB index without considering the first to fourth parameters is designated as the index of a candidate PMO. Combining at least two of the first to fourth parameters allows the determination of a PMO within the candidate PMO range. It is understood that the position of each PMO corresponds to the index of a candidate PMO.

[0025] In conjunction with the first or second aspect, in some possible implementations, the plurality of parameters includes at least two of a first parameter, a second parameter, a third parameter, and a fourth parameter. The value of the first parameter is equal to the number of PMOs included in each search space group. The value of the second parameter is equal to the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups. The value of the third parameter is equal to the product of the values ​​of the first parameter and the second parameter. The value of the fourth parameter is equal to the difference between the value of the third parameter and the value of the first parameter.

[0026] For example, the plurality of parameters may include a first parameter and a second parameter, the values ​​of which are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups, including: the value of the first parameter is equal to the number of PMOs included in each search space group, and the value of the second parameter is equal to the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups.

[0027] In another example, the multiple parameters may include a third parameter and a fourth parameter, the values ​​of which are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups, including: the value of the third parameter is equal to the product of the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups, and the value of the fourth parameter is equal to the product of the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups minus the number of PMOs included in each search space group.

[0028] The examples of multiple parameters above are provided for ease of understanding only and should not constitute any limitation on this application.

[0029] Since multiple search space groups correspond one-to-one with multiple SSB groups, and these multiple search space groups and multiple SSBs are interleaved in the time domain, the offset between any two adjacent search space groups is equal to the offset between any two adjacent SSB groups. Therefore, the number of system frames included in the offset between any two adjacent search space groups mentioned above can be replaced with the number of system frames included in the offset between any two adjacent SSB groups.

[0030] For ease of explanation, one of the multiple search space groups is referred to as the first search space group, and the aforementioned first PMO can be one or more PMOs within the first search space group. The SSB group corresponding to the first search space group is referred to as the first SSB group, and the aforementioned first SSB can be one SSB within the first SSB group. This first SSB group is one of multiple SSB groups.

[0031] One possible design is that the index p of the candidate PMO corresponding to the position of each PMO in the first search space group of the multiple search space groups satisfies: p = x·s + (i-1)·M·L + k mod s, and (i-1)·M·L≤p<(i-1)·M·L+M·(L-1); where x = 0, 1, ..., X-1, where X is the maximum number of candidate PMOs corresponding to each SSB, and X is a positive integer; s is the number of SSBs included in each SSB group, and s is a positive integer; i is the group index of the first SSB group in multiple SSB groups, and i is a positive integer; k is the index of an SSB in the multiple SSB groups, and k is a natural number less than or equal to S-1, where S is the total number of SSBs included in the multiple SSB groups, and S is a positive integer; M is the value of the first parameter, and M is a positive integer; L is the value of the second parameter, and L is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2; M·L is the value of the third parameter; M·(L-1) is the value of the fourth parameter; mod represents the modulo operation.

[0032] As can be seen, the above formula can be derived when any two or more of the first to fourth parameters are known.

[0033] Where p = x·s + (i-1)·M·L + k mod s can be used to determine the index of the candidate PMO corresponding to the index of each SSB in the first SSB group, and (i-1)·M·L≤p<(i-1)·M·L+M·(L-1) can be used to limit the range of values ​​of the candidate PMO index, thereby controlling the position of each PMO corresponding to the SSB and avoiding the position of the PMO from overlapping with the position of the next SSB group or other signaling.

[0034] The SSB index can be based on the total number of SSBs, numbering them sequentially from 0, for example, 0, 1, ..., S-1; the candidate PMO index can be based on the first PMO in the time domain range where the terminal performs blind detection, numbered sequentially from 0, for example, 0, 1, ..., M-1. The time domain range can be predefined, or it can be based on certain conditions, such as the paging frame set, paging occasion (PO), etc., as described later.

[0035] It should be understood that the formulas above are merely examples, and those skilled in the art can make simple mathematical transformations based on the same concept. For example, the indices of the SSB and PMO are not necessarily numbered sequentially starting from 0, nor are they necessarily numbered consecutively. The formulas above can change accordingly when the indexing methods differ. Similarly, if the third and / or fourth parameters are represented by other letters, the formulas above will change accordingly. Furthermore, if one or more operations are performed on M and / or L, such as adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing by an arbitrary value, the formulas above will also change accordingly. And so on. It is understood that these changes are all simple mathematical transformations based on the same concept and should all fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0036] Optionally, the group index i of the first SSB group satisfies: i = , This indicates rounding up to the nearest integer.

[0037] Since the indices of each SSB within an SSB group are numbered sequentially starting from the first SSB among the S S SSBs, given a fixed number of SSBs in each SSB group, the group index of the SSB group corresponds to the index of the SSB. If the SSB indices are numbered consecutively starting from 0, and the group index i is numbered consecutively starting from 1, we can obtain i = The relationship.

[0038] Of course, the relationship between the group index of the SSB group and the index of the SSB is not limited to this. The relationship between the group index of the SSB group and the index of the SSB changes depending on the starting number of the group index and / or the index of the SSB. Those skilled in the art can obtain this relationship through simple mathematical transformations based on the same concept, and will not be elaborated further.

[0039] As can be seen from the formula shown above, given any two of the first to fourth parameters, M·L and M·(L-1) can be determined, and thus the different values ​​of p corresponding to different values ​​of k, as well as the range of values ​​of p, can be determined. Therefore, the position of PMO corresponding to SSB in each SSB group can also be determined.

[0040] Optionally, the plurality of parameters are predefined, for example, protocol predefined.

[0041] For example, by predefining the values ​​of multiple parameters, the overhead of indicating each parameter can be reduced.

[0042] Optionally, at least two of the plurality of parameters are configured by the network device, for example, by the wireless access network device via signaling (such as SIB1).

[0043] Therefore, network devices can flexibly configure various parameters for different terminals.

[0044] Since the values ​​of these parameters are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups, in another implementation, the number of PMOs included in each search space group can be predefined or configured by the network device, the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups can also be predefined or configured by the network device, or the offset between two adjacent search space groups can also be predefined or configured by the network device, or the offset between two adjacent SSB groups or the number of system frames included in that offset can also be predefined or configured by the network device.

[0045] Thirdly, a communication method is provided. This method can be applied to a terminal, for example, it can be executed by the terminal, or it can be executed by a component (such as a chip, chip system, etc.) configured in the terminal, or it can be implemented by a logic module or software capable of realizing all or part of the terminal functions, which is not limited in this application.

[0046] For example, the method includes: receiving a first SSB, the first SSB belonging to an SSB group, and the SSB group being one of multiple SSB groups; determining a first PMO based on the first SSB, and performing a blind detection of the PDCCH on the first PMO; wherein the multiple SSB groups correspond one-to-one with multiple search space groups, each search space group includes one or more PMOs, each SSB group includes one or more SSBs, one or more PMOs included in one of the multiple search space groups include the first PMO, and the positions of one or more PMOs within each search space group are at least determined by the positions within the corresponding SSB group. The monitoring period of each SSB and PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the first parameter, and the fifth parameter are determined. The location of the PMO in each search space group satisfies the following: the system frame where the PMO in each search space group is located is located between the system frames where two adjacent SSB groups are located, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group includes more than one time slot; wherein, the monitoring period is greater than the monitoring duration, the value of the first parameter is related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group, and the fifth parameter indicates the temporal distribution of one or more PMOs in each search space group.

[0047] In other words, since the first PMO corresponds to the first SSB, the location of the first PMO is determined at least by the first SSB, the monitoring cycle of the PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the first parameter, and the fifth parameter. It is understandable that each SSB can correspond to one or more PMOs, and the first PMO corresponding to the first SSB can also be one or more.

[0048] Since the terminal may receive SSBs from at least one of multiple SSB groups, the terminal can determine the location of each PMO within at least one search space group based on the at least one SSB group to which the received SSB belongs. Therefore, another possible implementation of the method provided in the third aspect is: determining the position of each PMO within at least one search space group, which is included in multiple search space groups, each of which corresponds one-to-one with multiple SSB groups. Each search space group includes one or more PMOs, and each SSB group includes one or more SSBs. The position of one or more PMOs within each search space group is determined at least by each SSB in the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, a first parameter, and a fifth parameter. The determined position of the PMO within each search space group satisfies the following: the system frame where the PMO in each search space group is located is located between the system frames where two adjacent SSB groups are located, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group includes more than one time slot; wherein, the monitoring period of the PDCCH is greater than the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the value of the first parameter is related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group, and the fifth parameter indicates the temporal distribution of one or more PMOs within each search space group; and performing blind detection of the PDCCH on the PMOs within the at least one search space group.

[0049] It is understood that the first PMO mentioned above is a PMO within at least one search space group, and the first SSB mentioned above is an SSB in at least one SSB group corresponding to the at least one search space group.

[0050] It should be understood that the terminal does not necessarily need to determine the location of all PMOs within at least one search space group. Upon receiving the first SSB, the terminal can determine the location of the first PMO corresponding to the first SSB based on the received first SSB, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the first parameter, and the fifth parameter. However, it is understood that regardless of whether the terminal determines the location of all PMOs within the at least one search space group, the location of the PMOs within each search space group can satisfy the following: the system frame containing the PMO within each search space group is located between the system frames containing two adjacent SSB groups, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs within each search space group includes more than one time slot.

[0051] Fourthly, a communication method is provided. This method can be applied to a wireless access network device, and can be executed by the wireless access network device itself, or by a component (such as a chip, chip system, etc.) configured in the wireless access network device, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the wireless access network device; this application does not limit this. The wireless access network device may be, for example, a satellite base station.

[0052] For example, the method includes: determining the location of each PMO within at least one search space group, the at least one search space group being included in a plurality of search space groups, the plurality of search space groups corresponding one-to-one with a plurality of SSB groups, each search space group including one or more PMOs, each SSB group including one or more SSBs, the location of one or more PMOs within each search space group being determined at least by each SSB within the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, a first parameter, and a fifth parameter, the determined location of the PMO within each search space group satisfying that: the system frame where the PMO is located in each search space group is located between the system frames where two adjacent SSB groups are located, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group includes more than one time slot; wherein, the monitoring period of the PDCCH is greater than the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the value of the first parameter is related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group, and the fifth parameter indicates the temporal distribution of one or more PMOs within each search space group; and transmitting the PDCCH on the PMOs within the at least one search space group.

[0053] Since the radio access network (RAN) device may not transmit SSBs at the locations of multiple SSB groups, it may not be able to determine the location of the PMO within the multiple search space groups corresponding to those SSB groups. The RAN device can determine the location of each PMO within at least one corresponding search space group based on at least one transmitted SSB group, or it can determine the location of the corresponding PMO based on the transmitted SSB.

[0054] Therefore, the fourth aspect also provides another possible approach, as follows:

[0055] The location of the first PMO corresponding to the first SSB is determined, where the first SSB is one of a first SSB group, and the first SSB group is one of multiple SSB groups. Each of the multiple SSB groups corresponds one-to-one with multiple search space groups. Each search space group includes one or more PMOs, and each SSB group includes one or more SSBs. One or more PMOs included in one of the multiple search space groups include the first PMO. The location of one or more PMOs within each search space group is determined at least by the SSBs within the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring cycle of the PDCCH, and the monitoring frequency of the PDCCH. The measurement duration, the first parameter, and the fifth parameter are determined, and the location of the PMO in each search space group satisfies the following: the system frame where the PMO in each search space group is located is located between the system frames where two adjacent SSB groups are located, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group includes more than one time slot; wherein, the monitoring period of the PDCCH is greater than the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the value of the first parameter is related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group, and the fifth parameter indicates the temporal distribution of one or more PMOs in each search space group; the PDCCH is transmitted on the first PMO.

[0056] It should be understood that the method described in the third aspect corresponds to the method described in the fourth aspect. The terminal and the radio access network device can determine the location of the PMO within at least one search space group based on the same method. Subsequently, the terminal can perform blind detection of the PDCCH on one or more PMOs within the at least one search space group. The radio access network device can also transmit the PDCCH on one or more PMOs within the at least one search space group. In other words, the terminal does not necessarily perform blind detection of the PDCCH on all PMOs within the multiple search space groups corresponding to multiple SSB groups, and the radio access network device does not necessarily transmit the PDCCH on all PMOs within the multiple search space groups corresponding to multiple SSB groups. The PMO for which the terminal performs blind detection and the PMO for which the radio access network device transmits the PDCCH may be the same PMO or different PMOs; this application does not limit this.

[0057] Each search space group can be viewed as a set of one or more PMOs corresponding to each SSB within the SSB group.

[0058] The monitoring period of the PDCCH is longer than the monitoring duration of the PDCCH. This means that the terminal performs blind PDCCH checks periodically, but not continuously throughout the monitoring period. The terminal can perform blind PDCCH checks within the monitoring duration. In other words, the PMOs are distributed throughout the PDCCH monitoring duration. The PDCCH monitoring duration is related to the offset between the first and last PMOs within the PDCCH monitoring period; specifically, the PDCCH monitoring duration does not exceed this offset. The PDCCH monitoring duration can also be represented by the number of time slots, for example, it can be greater than or equal to the number of time slots included in the offset between the first and last PMOs within the PDCCH monitoring period.

[0059] Unlike the duration of PDCCH, the time slots occupied by PMO during the monitoring duration of PDCCH can be discontinuous. In other words, there can be one or more time slots available for transmitting other signaling during the duration of PDCCH, and these time slots are not used for PDCCH transmission and blind detection.

[0060] The monitoring period of the PDCCH can be equal to the offset between the system frames containing two adjacent SSB groups, and the monitoring period of the PDCCH can be greater than the monitoring duration of the PDCCH. The PMO is distributed within the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, while the portion of the PDCCH monitoring period outside the monitoring duration can be used to transmit SSBs or other signaling within the next SSB group. In this way, by setting the monitoring period and monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the location of the PMO can be avoided from overlapping with the locations of other signaling.

[0061] In the method provided in the third or fourth aspect, the terminal and the radio access network equipment can determine the location of each PMO within the corresponding search space group based at least on each SSB in the SSB group, the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the first parameter, and the fifth parameter. Specifically, the time-domain distribution of the PMOs indicated by the PDCCH monitoring period, the PDCCH monitoring duration, and the fifth parameter can be used to determine the location of the PMOs, while the first parameter and each SSB in the SSB group can be used to determine their respective corresponding PMOs. The PMOs corresponding to each SSB determined in this way are discontinuous in the time domain, facilitating the terminal's reception of RAR messages and other signaling in time slots not occupied by PMOs, thus improving the terminal's successful reception of RAR messages and ensuring access performance. Furthermore, by designing the PDCCH monitoring period and duration, the location occupied by the PMO falls within the range of the PDCCH monitoring duration and does not overlap with the locations of other signaling, thereby avoiding invalid blind detection by the terminal and preventing unnecessary power consumption caused by blind detection.

[0062] It should be understood that in the methods provided in the third or fourth aspect, since the monitoring period of PDCCH is equal to the offset between the system frames where two adjacent SSBs are located, it is also equal to the offset between two adjacent search space groups. Since the monitoring duration of PDCCH is less than the monitoring period of PDCCH, the PMO within the monitoring duration of PDCCH is also the PMO within a search space group.

[0063] The following provides two possible designs for the fifth parameter as examples.

[0064] One possible design is that the fifth parameter includes the number of time slots included in the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group.

[0065] In other words, this fifth parameter can be used to indicate the offset between adjacent PMOs in a search space group, which can be represented by the number of time slots. Based on this offset, the temporal distribution of PMOs within a search space group can be determined.

[0066] The distribution of PMOs within each search space group can be the same or different. When the distribution of PMOs within each search space group is different, this fifth parameter can indicate the offset between adjacent PMOs for the distribution of PMOs in each search space group.

[0067] One possibility is that the PMOs within each search space group are equally spaced, and the distribution of PMOs is the same across all search space groups. In this case, the fifth parameter, indicating the offset between any two adjacent PMOs within any search space group, can determine the temporal distribution of PMOs within each search space group.

[0068] Another possible design is that the fifth parameter includes a bitmap comprising multiple bits that correspond one-to-one with multiple time slots, and the value of each bit is used to indicate whether the corresponding time slot is occupied by the PMO.

[0069] Using a bitmap to indicate the distribution of PMOs in the time domain allows for a more flexible indication of the distribution of PMOs within a search space group.

[0070] The multiple time slots corresponding to multiple bits can be multiple time slots included within the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, or multiple time slots included within the monitoring period of the PDCCH; this application does not limit this. It is understood that when multiple bits correspond one-to-one with multiple time slots within the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, fewer bits can be used to indicate the distribution of the PMO in the time domain, which can reduce bit overhead.

[0071] Optionally, the fifth parameter is predefined.

[0072] The predefinition of the fifth parameter can be seen as a predefinition of the distribution of PMOs in the time domain within the search space group. Predefining the fifth parameter can reduce signaling overhead.

[0073] Optionally, the fifth parameter is configured for the network device.

[0074] The fifth parameter of the network device configuration can also be seen as the network device configuring the distribution of PMOs in the time domain within the search space group. The network device can flexibly configure the distribution of PMOs in the time domain within the search space group according to the transmission requirements of other signaling.

[0075] In conjunction with the third or fourth aspect, in some possible implementations, the value of the first parameter is related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group, including: the value of the first parameter is equal to the number of PMOs included in each search space group.

[0076] Optionally, the first parameter is predefined.

[0077] The predefinition of the first parameter can be seen as a predefinition of the number of PMOs within the search space group. Predefining the first parameter can reduce signaling overhead.

[0078] Optionally, the first parameter is configured for the network device.

[0079] The first parameter of network device configuration can be considered as configuring the number of PMOs within a search space group. Network devices can flexibly configure the number of PMOs within a search space group based on current network conditions, resource utilization, and other factors.

[0080] Since the first parameter can be equal to the number of PMOs included in each search space group, in another implementation, the number of PMOs included in each search space group can be predefined or configured by the network device.

[0081] Optionally, the first parameter is determined based on the fifth parameter and the monitoring duration of the PDCCH.

[0082] When PMOs are evenly distributed within a search space group, the fifth parameter indicates the offset between every two PMOs within each search space group. In this case, the offset indicated by the fifth parameter, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, and the value of the first parameter are related. Therefore, the value of the first parameter can also be determined based on the fifth parameter and the monitoring duration of the PDCCH. This can further reduce signaling overhead.

[0083] It should be understood that the value of the first parameter is not necessarily equal to the number of PMOs included in each search space group. For example, the first parameter can also be obtained by performing any one or more mathematical transformations based on the number of PMOs included in each search space group. Such mathematical transformations include, for example, adding an arbitrary value, subtracting an arbitrary value, multiplying by an arbitrary value, or dividing by an arbitrary value, etc., which will not be elaborated further.

[0084] For ease of explanation, one of the multiple search space groups is referred to as the first search space group, and the aforementioned first PMO can be one or more PMOs within the first search space group. The SSB group corresponding to the first search space group is referred to as the first SSB group, and the aforementioned first SSB can be one SSB within the first SSB group. This first SSB group is one of multiple SSB groups.

[0085] One possible design is that the index p of each PMO in the first search space group of the plurality of search space groups satisfies: p = x·s + (i-1)·M·L + k mod s; where x = 0, 1, …, X-1, X is the maximum number of PMOs corresponding to each SSB, and X is a positive integer; s is the number of SSBs included in each SSB group, and s is a positive integer; i is the group index of the first SSB group corresponding to the first search space group in the plurality of SSB groups; k is the index of an SSB in the plurality of SSB groups, k is a natural number less than or equal to S-1, S is the total number of SSBs included in the plurality of SSB groups, and S is a positive integer; M is the value of the first parameter, and M is a positive integer; mod represents the modulo operation.

[0086] The relationship between the indexes of SSB, PMO, and SSB group and SSB indexes can be found in the previous explanation and will not be repeated here.

[0087] It should be understood that the formula above is merely an example. As mentioned earlier, those skilled in the art can make simple mathematical transformations based on the same concept, and these transformations should all fall within the scope of protection of this application. For example, if one or more operations are performed on M, such as adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing by an arbitrary value, etc., the formula above can also be changed accordingly; and so on, without further elaboration.

[0088] In conjunction with aspects one through four, in some possible implementations, the number of SSBs included in each SSB group is predefined, or configured by the network device.

[0089] In different communication systems, the total number of SSBs can be predefined. Based on the total number of SSBs and the number of SSBs included in an SSB group, the terminal and radio access network equipment can determine the number of SSB groups.

[0090] Since there is a one-to-one correspondence between SSB groups and search space groups, the number of SSB groups is equal to the number of search space groups. Therefore, the number of search space groups included in the paging frame set can be determined.

[0091] Combining aspects one through four, in some possible implementations, the maximum number of PMOs corresponding to each SSB is predefined, or configured by the network device.

[0092] By defining the maximum number of PMOs corresponding to each SSB, we can determine the number of rounds used to map the index of the SSB to obtain the index of the PMO, that is, the number of values ​​that x can take in the formula above, thereby determining the PMO corresponding to each SSB.

[0093] In combination with aspects one through four, in some possible implementations, each search space group resides in one or more system frames.

[0094] In other words, this application does not limit the number of system frames occupied in the time domain by a PMO within a search space group. A PMO within a search space group can be distributed within one system frame or across multiple system frames.

[0095] Optionally, the plurality of search space groups are search space groups in a paging frame set, which occupies a plurality of consecutive system frames in the time domain.

[0096] In other words, the PMOs within these multiple search space groups are PMOs within a paging frame set. The paging frame set is an example of the temporal range for blind detection by the terminal mentioned above. When the temporal range for blind detection by the terminal is the paging frame set, the PMO indices are numbered sequentially starting from the first PMO within the paging frame set.

[0097] Unlike paging frames (PF), paging frame sets can occupy multiple consecutive system frames. Terminals can perform blind detection of the PDCCH across multiple consecutive system frames.

[0098] The paging frame set is terminal-specific or terminal-level. Each terminal can determine its own paging frame set and then perform blind PDCCH detection on the PMO within its corresponding paging frame set.

[0099] One possible design is that the starting position of the paging frame set is related to the terminal's identifier. The terminal can determine the starting position of the paging frame set based on the identifier.

[0100] Optionally, the system frame containing the starting position of the paging frame set satisfies: (SFN + O) mod T = (T div )×(UE_ID mod ); where SFN is the system frame number of the system frame; O is the number of system frames included in the offset between the system frame where the paging frame set starts and the reference position; The number of paging frame sets included in one paging cycle. `<value>` is a positive integer; `UE_ID` is the terminal identifier; `T` is the paging cycle duration; `div` represents the return quotient operation; `mod` represents the modulo operation. The reference position is either predefined by the protocol or configured. For example, this reference position is the starting position of the system frame with frame number 0.

[0101] Optionally, the end position of the paging frame set is determined by the start position of the paging frame set and a sixth parameter, which includes: the duration of the paging frame set in the time domain, or the number of system frames included in the paging frame set, or the number of search space groups included in the paging frame set.

[0102] Once the starting position of the paging frame set is determined, the ending position can be determined by combining the duration of the paging frame set. The duration of the paging frame set can be represented by a sixth parameter, which can be expressed as a duration, or as the number of system frames included or the number of search space groups; this application does not limit this representation.

[0103] Optionally, the sixth parameter is predefined.

[0104] The predefinition of the sixth parameter can also be seen as the predefinition of the duration of the paging frame set. In other words, the duration of the paging frame set for each terminal can be the same and fixed.

[0105] Optionally, the sixth parameter is configured for the network device.

[0106] The sixth parameter can also be configured flexibly. For example, network devices can flexibly configure the paging frame set for terminals based on the current network status, resource usage, etc.

[0107] Furthermore, the paging frame set includes one or more POs, each PO occupying multiple consecutive system frames in the time domain.

[0108] The aforementioned multiple search space groups are search space groups within a paging frame set, including: the multiple search space groups are search space groups within one of the one or more POs included in the paging frame set.

[0109] A Point of Interest (PO) is another example of the temporal range for blind detection by a terminal. The granularity of a PO is smaller than the paging frame set; it is a subset of the paging frame set. When a PO represents the temporal range for blind detection by a terminal, the PMO index is sequentially numbered starting from the first PMO in that PO.

[0110] The PO is also associated with the terminal, or rather, it is at the terminal level. Each terminal can further determine its own PO from the determined set of paging frames, and then perform blind detection of PDCCH on the PMO within the PO.

[0111] Optionally, the index i_s corresponding to PO satisfies: i_s = ;in, The number of POs included in a paging frame set. It is a positive integer; The number of paging frame sets included in one paging cycle. It is a positive integer.

[0112] The time domain range for blind detection by the terminal can be the PO with index i_s within the paging frame set; or, in other words, the terminal can perform blind detection within the range of POs with index i_s within the paging frame set.

[0113] Fifthly, this application provides a communication apparatus capable of implementing the data transmission method described in the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof. The apparatus includes corresponding units or modules for performing the above-described methods. The units or modules included in the apparatus can be implemented in software and / or hardware. The apparatus can be, for example, a terminal or network device, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the implementation of the above-described methods in a terminal or wireless access network device, or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of a terminal or wireless access network device.

[0114] In a sixth aspect, this application provides a communication device, including a processor, the processor being configured to execute the communication methods described in the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof.

[0115] Optionally, the apparatus may further include a memory for storing instructions and data. The memory is coupled to the processor, which, when executing the instructions stored in the memory, can implement the methods described in the foregoing aspects.

[0116] Optionally, the device may further include a communication interface for communicating with other devices. For example, the communication interface may be a transceiver, circuit, bus, module, or other type of communication interface.

[0117] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a chip system including at least one processor for supporting the implementation of the functions involved in the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation of the first to fourth aspects, such as receiving or processing data and / or information involved in the above methods.

[0118] In one possible design, the chip system also includes a memory for storing program instructions and data, which may be located within or outside the processor.

[0119] The chip system can consist of chips or include chips and other discrete components.

[0120] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium including a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to implement the methods of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation of the first to fourth aspects.

[0121] Ninthly, this application provides a computer program product comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when the computer program is run, causes a computer to perform the methods of the first to fourth aspects and any possible implementation thereof.

[0122] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication system, including the aforementioned terminal and wireless access network device.

[0123] Optionally, the terminal can be used to implement the method in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, and the wireless access network device can be used to implement the method in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect.

[0124] Optionally, the terminal can be used to implement the method in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect, and the wireless access network device can be used to implement the method in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect.

[0125] It should be understood that the fifth to tenth aspects of this application correspond to the technical solutions of the first to fourth aspects of this application, and the beneficial effects obtained by each aspect and the corresponding feasible implementation are similar, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0126] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system applicable to the methods provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0127] Figure 2 This is a diagram of the communication architecture of satellite communication in bent pipe mode and regenerative mode;

[0128] Figure 3 This is another schematic diagram of the communication system applicable to the methods provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0129] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the satellite coverage area;

[0130] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a satellite using beams to scan its coverage area;

[0131] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the paging cycle defined in the current 5G protocol;

[0132] Figure 7 These are schematic diagrams of two current designs for the paging search space;

[0133] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0134] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the paging frame set and PO within the paging cycle provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0135] Figures 10A to 10C This is a schematic diagram of the search space group provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0136] Figure 11 This is another schematic diagram of the search space group provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0137] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the effective PMOs within the search space group corresponding to the SSB group provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0138] Figure 14 and Figure 15 These are two more schematic diagrams of the search space group provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0139] Figure 16 and Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the PMO within the search space group corresponding to the SSB group provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0140] Figure 18 This is a schematic block diagram of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0141] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the terminal structure provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0142] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0143] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following description is provided first:

[0144] First, in the embodiments of this application, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates an "or" relationship between the preceding and following related objects, but it does not exclude the possibility of indicating an "and" relationship. The specific meaning can be understood in conjunction with the context. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c; a and b; a and c; b and c; or a and b and c. Here, a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0145] Second, in the embodiments of this application, "when," "if," and "if" all refer to the device making corresponding processing under certain objective circumstances, and are not limited to a time, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when it is implemented, nor do they mean that there are other limitations.

[0146] Third, in the embodiments of this application, the use of prefixes such as "first" and "second" is merely for the purpose of distinguishing and describing different things belonging to the same name category, and does not constrain the order, size, or quantity of things. For example, "first SSB" indicates the SSB received by the terminal, not the first SSB; "first PMO" indicates the PMO corresponding to the first SSB, not the first PMO, and does not limit the number of PMOs; "first SSB group" indicates the SSB group to which the first SSB belongs, not the first SSB group. "First offset" and "second offset" are simply offsets with different definitions, and there is no temporal or magnitude relationship between them. "First parameter" and "second parameter" are simply parameters with different definitions, and there is no priority, temporal, or magnitude relationship between them.

[0147] Fourth, the term "simultaneously" in the embodiments of this application can be understood as at the same point in time, within a period of time, or within the same cycle. The specific meaning can be understood in conjunction with the context.

[0148] Fifth, in the embodiments of this application, "B corresponding to A" means that B is associated with A. "Determining B based on A" does not mean that B is determined solely based on A, but can also be determined based on A and / or other information.

[0149] Sixth, the predefined terms in this application can be understood as: definition, pre-defined, storage, pre-storage, pre-negotiation, pre-configuration, solidification, or pre-firing.

[0150] The network device configuration in this application can be understood as: the network device is configured by sending signaling to the terminal device. Specifically, it can be that the radio access network device configures the terminal by sending signaling, or the core network device forwards the signaling to the terminal through the radio access network device. This application does not limit this.

[0151] Seventh, the term "storage" in this application can refer to storage in one or more memory devices. These memory devices can be separate installations or integrated into an encoder, decoder, processor, or communication device. Alternatively, some memory devices can be separately installed, while others can be integrated into the decoder, processor, or communication device. The type of memory can be any form of storage medium, and this application does not limit this.

[0152] Eighth, this application involves mathematical operators in several places, as explained below:

[0153] mod: indicates that the remainder is returned when two numbers are divided. For example, a mod b = c means that the remainder c is returned when a is divided by b;

[0154] `div` indicates that the division of two numbers returns the quotient. For example, `a div b = d` means returning the quotient `d` of `a` divided by `b`.

[0155] : indicates rounding down;

[0156] : indicates rounding up.

[0157] Ninth, in the embodiments of this application, the terms "offset" and "offset amount" are used in multiple places. "Offset" can represent a deviation or distance between two objects. "Offset amount" can represent the degree of offset between two objects, or the distance between two objects, such as the distance between the starting positions of two objects, or the distance between the ending positions of two objects, etc. The "offset amount" in the time domain can be represented by the number of time slots or system frames included in the distance between two objects. For example, it can be obtained by subtracting the index or number of the time slot (or system frame) where the starting position of the two objects is located, or by subtracting the index or number of the time slot (or system frame) where the ending position of the two objects is located.

[0158] For example, the "offset" between two time slots can refer to the number of time slots offset between the two time slots, or the number of time slots included in the offset between two time slots. This can be obtained by subtracting the index or number of the two time slots. For example, the offset between time slot 1 and time slot 3 is 2 time slots, where 2 is obtained by subtracting 1 from 3.

[0159] In some embodiments, "offset" is also referred to as "interval," which has the same meaning as "offset."

[0160] Tenth, in the embodiments of this application, since the PMO is used to monitor the PDCCH, and from a time domain perspective, the scheduling unit of the PDCCH is one time slot, it is assumed that each PMO occupies one time slot. Of course, this application does not exclude the possibility that the number of time slots occupied by each PMO may be defined as other values ​​in future protocols. In this case, the solution provided by this application can still be applied.

[0161] Eleventh, in the embodiments of this application, terms such as paging frame set and search space group are introduced. These terms are introduced for ease of description only and should not constitute any limitation on this application. The paging frame set can be considered as a time period, which may occupy one or more system frames in the time domain, but does not represent a collection of paging frames. The paging frame set can be used to limit the time domain range for blind detection by the terminal. The search space group can be considered as a collection of PMOs corresponding to SSBs within the same SSB group. The naming shown herein is merely illustrative and should not constitute any limitation on this application. For example, the paging frame set can also be called a paging superframe, and the search space group can also be called a PMO group, PMO set, etc.

[0162] The solutions in this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as: Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), 5th Generation (5G) mobile communication systems, New Radio (NR) systems, or other evolved communication systems, as well as next-generation mobile communication systems of 5G, 6th Generation (6G) communication systems, or future communication systems, etc.

[0163] In the embodiments of this application, the radio access network (RAN) device can be a device with wireless transceiver capabilities. This RAN device can be a device providing wireless communication services, typically located on the network side, including but not limited to: next-generation base stations (gNodeB, gNB) in 5th generation (5G) communication systems, next-generation base stations in 6th generation (6G) mobile communication systems, base stations in future mobile communication systems, evolved node B (eNB), radio network controller (RNC), node B (NB), base station controller (BSC), home evolved Node B (or home Node B, HNB), base band unit (BBU), transmission reception point (TRP), transmitting point (TP), base transceiver station (BTS), etc. in LTE systems, and access nodes, wireless relay nodes, wireless backhaul nodes, etc. in wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) systems. Wireless access network equipment can also include wireless controllers, relay stations, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable devices, and network equipment in future evolved networks, all within the context of cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenarios.

[0164] In one network architecture, the wireless access network device may include centralized unit (CU) nodes or distributed unit (DU) nodes; or include CU nodes and DU nodes; or include control plane (CP) CU nodes and user plane (UP) CU nodes, as well as DU nodes.

[0165] Wireless access network (WLAN) devices can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors; they can also be deployed in the air, such as on airplanes, balloons, or satellites. The WLAN devices in this embodiment can be WLAN devices used in an NTN (Network Network Technology), such as satellite base stations.

[0166] In this application embodiment, the device for implementing the functions of a wireless access network can be a wireless access network device; it can also be a device capable of supporting the wireless access network device to implement corresponding functions, such as a chip system, communication module, or modem, etc., and this device can be installed in the wireless access network device. The chip system can be composed of chips, or it can include chips and other discrete components. This application embodiment does not limit the specific technology or specific device form used in the wireless access network device.

[0167] For ease of description, the following description uses a satellite base station as an example of a wireless access network device. A satellite base station can communicate with a terminal directly or via a relay station. A terminal can communicate with multiple base stations using different technologies; for example, it can communicate with a base station supporting LTE networks, a base station supporting 5G networks, and can also support dual connectivity with both LTE and 5G base stations.

[0168] The core network can be used to perform three main functions: registration, connection, and session management. Based on these different functions, the core network can be divided into different modules, such as the access and mobility management function (AMF) module, the session management function (SMF) module, and the user plane function (UPF) module. The specific names and functions of each module can be found in existing technologies, and this application does not limit them. Furthermore, this application does not limit the specific technologies or equipment forms used in each module.

[0169] In this embodiment of the application, the network device may include at least one of a wireless access network device and a core network device.

[0170] A terminal can be a device with wireless transceiver capabilities. A terminal can also be called a user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), etc., and can be an entity on the user side used to receive or transmit signals, such as a mobile phone. Terminals include handheld devices, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, or computing devices with wireless communication capabilities. For example, a UE can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, or computer with wireless transceiver capabilities. A terminal can also be a virtual reality (VR) terminal, an augmented reality (AR) terminal, a wireless terminal in industrial control, a wireless terminal in autonomous driving, a wireless terminal in telemedicine, a wireless terminal in a smart grid, a wireless terminal in a smart city, a wireless terminal in a smart home, and so on. Terminals can be widely used in various scenarios, such as device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, augmented reality, industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, and smart cities. Terminals can be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, wearable devices, vehicles, drones, helicopters, airplanes, ships, robots, robotic arms, smart home devices, etc.

[0171] The terminal can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld, wearable, or vehicle-mounted; it can also be deployed on water, such as on ships; and it can also be deployed in the air, such as on airplanes, balloons, and satellites.

[0172] In the embodiments of this application, the device for implementing the terminal's functions can be a terminal itself; it can also be a device capable of supporting the terminal in implementing these functions, such as a chip system, a communication module, or a modem, which can be installed in the terminal. The chip system can consist of chips or include chips and other discrete components. This application does not limit the specific technology or device form used in the terminal.

[0173] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system 1000 applicable to the methods provided in the embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 1As shown, the communication system 1000 includes a wireless access network 100 and a core network 200. Optionally, the communication system 1000 may also include an Internet 300. The wireless access network 100 may include at least one base station (e.g., Figure 1 (110a and 110b in the original text), may also include at least one terminal (such as...) Figure 1 (120a-120j in the middle).

[0174] The base station can be an airborne base station, such as a satellite base station 110a; or an indoor base station, such as a micro base station or an indoor base station 110b.

[0175] The terminal can be a terminal deployed in the air, such as... Figure 1 The 120i can be a helicopter or drone; it can also be a terminal deployed on the ground, such as... Figure 1 The following are examples: mobile phones 120a, 120e, 120f and 120j, vehicle 120b, computer 110b, printer 120h, etc.

[0176] Base stations and terminals can be fixed or mobile. For example, base stations and terminals can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; they can also be deployed on water; and they can also be deployed in the air on airplanes, balloons, and artificial satellites.

[0177] The roles of base stations and terminals can be relative, for example, Figure 1 The helicopter or drone 120i can be configured as a mobile base station. For those 120j accessing the wireless access network 100 via 120i, 120i is a base station; however, for 110a, 120i is a terminal, meaning that 110a and 120i communicate via a wireless air interface protocol. Of course, 110a and 120i can also communicate via a base station interface protocol; in this case, 120i is also a base station relative to 110a. Therefore, both base stations and terminals can be collectively referred to as communication equipment. Figure 1 The 110a, 110b, and 120a-120j in the text can be referred to as communication devices with their respective corresponding functions, such as communication devices with base station functions or communication devices with terminal functions.

[0178] Communication between base stations and terminals, between base stations, and between terminals can be conducted using licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or both simultaneously. Communication can be conducted using spectrum below 6 GHz, spectrum above 6 GHz, or both simultaneously. The embodiments of this application do not limit the spectrum resources used for wireless communication.

[0179] In the embodiments of this application, the functions of a satellite base station can also be executed by a module (such as a chip) in a wireless base station, or by a control subsystem that includes satellite base station functions. This control subsystem, including base station functions, can be a control center in the application scenarios of the aforementioned terminals, such as smart grids, industrial control, intelligent transportation, smart cities, environmental monitoring, public safety, smart homes, and smart hospitals. The functions of the terminal can also be executed by a module (such as a chip or modem) in the terminal, or by a device that includes terminal functions.

[0180] The method provided in this application can be applied to NTN communications, such as satellite communications. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the satellite communication architecture is shown.

[0181] Figure 2 Figures (a) and (b) illustrate the communication architecture in bent-pipe mode for satellite communication. The figures show the radio access network and core network in a 5G system, as well as the terminals connected to the radio access network. This radio access network includes satellites and terminals. In bent-pipe mode, the satellite can amplify, frequency-convert, and other processes received signals before forwarding them without requiring further signal processing. This type of satellite is also known as a bent-pipe satellite. Because the satellite transmits signals as if they were transparently transmitted, this mode is also called transparent transmission mode.

[0182] Satellites can access the network through non-3GPP (N3GPP) or NR access technologies, and terminals can also access the network through N3GPP or NR access technologies.

[0183] Figure 2(a) in the diagram illustrates the connection between the satellite and the terminal via N3GPP access technology. The satellite can connect to a non-3GPP interworking function (N3IWF) module via the N3GPP radio protocol. The N3IWF is responsible for connecting the non-3GPP access network to the 5G core network (5G core, 5GC). The interface between the N3IWF and 5GC is an NG interface, which may include a control plane (NG-C) interface (also known as the N2 interface) between NG-RAN and 5GC, and a user plane (NG-U) interface (also known as the N3 interface) between NG-RAN and 5GC. The specific process of the terminal accessing the satellite using N3GPP access technology can be found in existing technologies and will not be detailed here.

[0184] Figure 2 (b) in the diagram illustrates how the satellite and terminal access the network via NR access technology. The satellite can access terrestrial radio access network equipment, such as a gNB, via the NR radio protocol. The terrestrial radio access network equipment can connect to the 5GC via the NG interface. The terminal can access the satellite via the NR radio protocol. The specific process of the terminal accessing the satellite based on the NR radio protocol can be found in existing technologies and will not be detailed here. Because the satellite communicates with the terminal and the ground via NR technology, it can also be called a radio frequency repeater (RF repeater).

[0185] Figure 2 (c) in the diagram illustrates the communication architecture in the regeneration mode of satellite communication. Figure 2 (c) shows the radio access network and core network in a 5G system, as well as the terminals connected to the radio access network. This radio access network includes satellites and terminals. In regenerative mode, the satellite has some or all of the functions of a base station and can perform on-board processing of received signals; therefore, this satellite can also be called a regenerative satellite. Because the satellite transmits signals non-transparently, this mode can also be called non-transparent transmission mode.

[0186] Figure 2 The satellite in (c) can connect to a ground connection device via the F1 interface. This connection device can be, for example, a ground base station, an NTN gateway, or other equipment. This connection device can access the 5GC via the NG interface. Figure 2 The terminal in (c) can access the satellite based on the NR radio protocol. The specific process of the terminal accessing the satellite based on the NR radio protocol can be found in existing technologies and will not be described in detail here.

[0187] See Figure 3 , Figure 3This is a simplified schematic diagram of the communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. For simplicity, Figure 3 Only base station 310 and terminal 320 are shown. Base station 310 may be a satellite base station. Base station 310 includes interface 311 and processor 312. Processor 312 may optionally store program 314. Base station 310 may optionally include memory 313. Memory 313 may optionally store program 315. Terminal 320 includes interface 321 and processor 322. Processor 322 may optionally store program 324. Terminal 320 may optionally include memory 323. Memory 323 may optionally store program 325. These components work together to provide the various functions described in this application. For example, processor 312 and interface 311 work together to provide a wireless connection between base station 310 and terminal 320. Processor 322 and interface 321 work together to enable downlink and / or uplink transmissions of terminal 320.

[0188] A processor (e.g., processor 312 and / or processor 322) may include one or more processors and be implemented as a combination of computing devices. The processor (e.g., processor 312 and / or processor 322) may each include one or more of the following: microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor (DSP), digital signal processing device (DSPD), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), programmable logic device (PLD), gating logic, transistor logic, discrete hardware circuitry, processing circuitry, or other suitable hardware, firmware, and / or combinations of hardware and software, for performing the various functions described in this application. The processor (e.g., processor 312 and / or processor 322) may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor. For example, processor 312 and / or processor 322 may be a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). A baseband processor may be used to process communication protocols and communication data. A CPU may be used to enable base station 310 and / or terminal 320 to execute software programs and process data within the software programs.

[0189] An interface (e.g., interfaces 311 and / or 321) may include means for enabling communication with one or more computer devices (e.g., terminals and base stations, BSs). In some embodiments, the interface may include wires for coupling wired connections, pins for coupling wireless transceivers, or chips and / or pins for wireless connections. In some embodiments, the interface may include a transmitter, a receiver, a transceiver, and / or an antenna. The interface may be configured to use any available protocol (e.g., the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) protocol). rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standard).

[0190] The term "program" in this application is used broadly to refer to software. Non-limiting examples of software include program code, program, subroutine, instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, software modules, application programs, software applications, etc. Programs can run in a processor and / or computer to cause base station 310 and / or terminal 320 to perform the various functions and / or processes described in this application.

[0191] Memory (e.g., memory 313 and / or memory 323) may store data manipulated by a processor (e.g., processor 312 and / or processor 322) when executing software. Memory 313 and memory 323 may be implemented using any storage technology. For example, memory may be any available storage medium accessible to the processor and / or computer. Non-limiting examples of storage media include: random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), removable media, optical disk storage, magnetic storage media, magnetic storage devices, flash memory, registers, state memory, remotely mounted memory, local or remote memory components, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing software, data, or information and accessible by the processor / computer.

[0192] Memory (e.g., memory 313 and / or memory 323) and processor (e.g., processor 312 and / or processor 322) can be configured separately or integrated together. The memory can be used to connect to the processor, enabling the processor to read information from, store, and / or write information to the memory. Memory 313 can be integrated into processor 312. Memory 323 can be integrated into processor 322. The processor (e.g., processor 312 and / or processor 322) and memory (e.g., memory 313 and / or memory 323) can be disposed in an integrated circuit (e.g., the integrated circuit can be disposed in a UE, base station, or other network node).

[0193] Satellite communication inherently features a wide coverage area per satellite, and the coverage range is related to the satellite's scanning angle. Taking a low-Earth orbit satellite at an altitude of 500 kilometers (km) as an example, assuming the phased array antenna's scanning angle is (±30°) × (±45°), where ±45° is the scanning angle in the direction of satellite motion and ±30° is the scanning angle perpendicular to the direction of satellite motion, and assuming the satellite's ground coverage is calculated as a rectangle, the longer side of the rectangle in the direction of satellite motion is approximately 1000 km, and the shorter side perpendicular to the direction of satellite motion is approximately 650 km. Therefore, the total coverage area of ​​the satellite is approximately 650 × 1000 = 650,000 square kilometers. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the satellite coverage area. Figure 4 Each rectangle in the diagram represents the satellite's coverage area when its center point is the nadir point. As the satellite moves, its coverage area also moves with its direction of travel.

[0194] Similar to terrestrial networks, in satellite communication systems, satellites with base station capabilities can use beams to scan coverage areas to provide user access. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating how a satellite uses beams to scan its coverage area. Considering satellite hardware limitations and user access link budget constraints, the coverage area of ​​a single beam is relatively limited. For example, assuming a satellite uses a single channel for beam scanning with an array size of 40×40, the beamwidth required for access to the nadir point is approximately 4.5 degrees, resulting in a single-beam coverage area of ​​approximately 1200 square kilometers. This requires more than 530 beams to achieve single-satellite coverage. For edge points, the beamwidth required is approximately 1.5 degrees, resulting in a single-beam coverage area of ​​approximately 840 square kilometers. This requires more than 790 beams to achieve single-satellite coverage. The nadir point is the intersection of the line connecting the Earth's center and the satellite on the Earth's surface, while the edge point is a point on the Earth's surface located at the edge of the satellite's coverage area. Figure 5 The image shows the nadir and edge points within the satellite's coverage area.

[0195] Based on the above analysis, considering the unequal area coverage of the beams, 530 to 790 beams are needed to achieve seamless coverage within the satellite's coverage area to enable continuous random access within a single satellite's coverage area, requiring a relatively large number of scanning beams. Similar to terrestrial networks, satellites can also use SSBs for beam scanning. Therefore, 530 to 790 SSBs are also needed for beam scanning.

[0196] It should be understood that the above text, in combination with... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The scanning angle, coverage area, beamwidth, and required number of beams of the satellite in the satellite communication system are for illustrative purposes only and should not constitute any limitation on this application. It is understood that the coverage area and the required number of beams of the satellite are also related to multiple parameters such as the satellite's altitude above the Earth's surface, the satellite's scanning angle, and the beamwidth. For the sake of brevity, these are not listed here.

[0197] On the other hand, packet-based data streams are typically bursty. For power consumption reasons, if a terminal has not transmitted data for an extended period, the radio access network (RAN) device will release the terminal's RRC connection and request the core network to release the corresponding connection. The terminal will then enter an idle state. In the idle state, if the terminal needs to transmit uplink data, it can initiate an RRC connection request to the RAN device; if downlink data arrives, the network device can page the terminal. Therefore, a terminal in the idle state can listen for paging messages.

[0198] A terminal in idle state can periodically listen to the PDCCH on its corresponding PF (Power Point) during a specific paging cycle. If the P-RNTI is decoded from the PDCCH, it retrieves a paging message based on one or more of the resource allocation and modulation and coding scheme (MCS) indicated by the PDCCH. If the paging message carries the terminal's identifier, the terminal initiates a paging response; otherwise, it continues to listen to the PDCCH in the next paging cycle. The terminal's identifier can be an identifier assigned to it by the core network after it registers with the network, such as 5G-S-TMSI.

[0199] The following text combines Figure 6 The rules for terminals to listen to paging messages in the current 5G protocol are explained.

[0200] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the paging cycle defined in the current 5G protocol. For example... Figure 6As shown, a paging cycle can include N (N is a positive integer) PFs, a PF can include Ns (Ns is a positive integer) POs, a PO can include a group of PMOs, and a group of PMOs can include one or more PMOs. A PO can last for multiple slots, and a PF can be a system frame, which can contain one or more POs or the start positions of one or more POs.

[0201] In one possible implementation, the terminal can calculate the PF and PO of the received paging message according to the following rules:

[0202] The system frame number (SFN) corresponding to PF can satisfy: (SFN + PF_offset) modT = (T div N)×(UE_ID mod N);

[0203] The index i_s corresponding to PO can satisfy: i_s = .

[0204] Where T is the duration of the paging cycle of the terminal, for example, it can be equal to the duration of the discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle of the terminal. If the RRC layer or the upper layer configures a dedicated DRX value for the terminal, then T is the minimum value between the dedicated DRX value and the default DRX value broadcast in the system message (such as SIB1); if the RRC layer or the upper layer does not configure a dedicated DRX value for the terminal, then T is the default DRX value broadcast in the system message.

[0205] PF_offset is the offset of a PF relative to a reference position (such as SFN0), which can be represented by the number of time slots offset. N is the number of PFs in one paging cycle, and Ns is the number of POs in a PF. The values ​​of N and PF_offset can be derived from the SIB1 parameter "n and paging frame offset (nAndPagingFrameOffset)", and Ns can be configured via SIB1.

[0206] UE_ID is the identifier of the terminal, which can be calculated as: 5G-S-TMSI mod 1024. If the terminal does not have a 5G-S-TMSI, it means that the terminal has not yet registered with the network.

[0207] The terminal can determine the PMO according to the parameters "pagingSearchSpace" and "firstPDCCH-MonitoringOccasionOfPO" configured in SIB1 of the network device. Specifically, when the "pagingSearchSpaceId" parameter in "pagingSearchSpace" is 0, the PMO's position is the same as in SIB1, and Ns is 1 or 2. When Ns is 1, each PF has only one PO, starting from the first PMO of that PF (i.e., the initial PMO); when Ns is 2, the PO is in the first half-frame (i_s=0) or the second half-frame (i_s=1) of that PF. When the "pagingSearchSpaceId" parameter in "pagingSearchSpace" is not 0, the terminal monitors the PO with index i_s.

[0208] A PO contains one or more consecutive PMOs, where the (x·S + k)th PMO corresponds to the kth SSB. Here, x is an integer value that iterates through the range from 0 to X-1, i.e., x = 0, 1, ..., X-1; k is an integer value that iterates through the range from 0 to S-1, k = 0, 1, ..., S-1; X and S are both positive integers. S is the maximum number of SSBs that can be transmitted, configured by the parameter "SSB PositionsInBurst" in SIB1, and X is the number of PMOs corresponding to each SSB in each PO, configured by the parameter "R16-Number of PMOs Corresponding to Each SSB in PO (nrofPDCCH-MonitoringOccasionPerSSB-InPO-r16)" in SIB1. The PMO index can start from the first PMO within the PO and be numbered sequentially from 0; the SSB index is based on the maximum number S of SSBs configured in the parameter "ssb-PositionsInBurst" in SIB1, and is numbered sequentially from 0, for example, 0, 1, ..., S-1. The terminal can detect the PDCCH at the corresponding PMO position based on the received SSB index and the above correspondence.

[0209] It should be noted that the parameter "ssb-PositionsInBurst" can be a bitmap used to indicate which SSBs are actually transmitted in the SSB pattern. The SSB pattern includes bits corresponding to the maximum number of SSBs that can be transmitted. A specific value for this bit, such as 1, indicates that the SSB is actually transmitted. Each bit in the SSB pattern can correspond to an SSB index. For example, when "ssb-PositionsInBurst" includes 8 bits, it can indicate that the maximum number of SSBs is 8, and the 8 bits correspond to SSB indices 0-7. As another example, when "ssb-PositionsInBurst" includes 64 bits, it can indicate that the maximum number of SSBs is 64, and the 64 bits correspond to SSB indices 0-63. This SSB index can also be carried within the SSB itself. After receiving an SSB, the terminal can determine the index of the received SSB based on the index-related information carried by the received SSB. For example, the index of an SSB can be determined by one or more of the following: the sequence of the demodulation reference signal (DMRS) included in the received SSB; the scrambling code of the physical broadcast channel (PBCH) included in the SSB; or the information in the payload included in the PBCH. In other words, the index of an SSB can be carried by one or more of the following: the sequence of the DMRS included in the SSB; the scrambling code of the PBCH included in the SSB; or the information in the payload included in the PBCH. For example, some of the higher bits of the SSB index may be explicitly carried in the payload, while some of the lower bits may be implicitly carried through the sequence of the DMRS or the scrambling code of the PBCH; the specific method is not limited here. The SSB pattern can be used to determine the maximum number of SSBs that can be transmitted, as well as the index and distribution of each SSB in the SSB pattern. The total number of SSBs actually transmitted configured by the parameter "ssb-PositionsInBurst" shall not exceed the maximum number of SSBs determined by the SSB pattern. Furthermore, if the SSBs are grouped, the number of SSBs within each SSB group can be further determined based on the SSB pattern. For example, ssb-PositionInBurst can include 64 bits indicating the SSBs actually transmitted out of 64 SSBs. These 64 SSBs are indexed from 0 to 63, and they comprise 8 groups of SSBs, with each group containing 8 SSBs. For instance, a bit with a value of 0 indicates that the corresponding SSB was not transmitted, while a bit with a value of 1 indicates that the corresponding SSB was actually transmitted.It is understood that the embodiments of this application are described using the example of a group of SSBs including 8 SSBs, but the number of SSBs included in a group of SSBs can also be other values, and this application is not limited to that.

[0210] Based on the aforementioned rules, a terminal can perform blind PDCCH detection on a PMO within a PF (Power Provider) during a paging cycle. It can be seen that the PF and PO are determined based on the terminal's identifier and are at the terminal level. The PMO is determined based on relevant parameters of the paging search space and is at the cell level. The terminal can perform blind PDCCH detection on PMOs within the range of its corresponding PO.

[0211] Considering the design requirements for 5G SSB compatibility, the maximum number of SSBs configured in the "ssb-PositionsInBurst" parameter of SIB1 is 8 or 64, which is far less than the SSB requirements in satellite communication. To meet the needs of satellite communication while maintaining compatibility with 5G SSB design, a possible solution is to group the SSBs, with the SSBs in each group concentrated in the first few time slots of the same radio frame. To ensure that terminals in satellite communication can complete the uplink synchronization process and access the network as quickly as possible after receiving an SSB, the position immediately following the SSB can be used to send the SIB1 and SIBX corresponding to that SSB group. SIB1 contains the basic system information of the satellite cell, and SIBX contains the satellite's ephemeris information, which can be used to determine the satellite's position in space. On the system frame between two SSB groups, paging messages, RAR messages, etc., corresponding to each SSB can be sent.

[0212] The SIB1, SIBX, and paging messages corresponding to the SSB can be understood as follows: The SSB can carry the MIB of the satellite cell. This MIB can be used to indicate one or more of the following: whether the current cell is accessible, whether the terminal supports cell frequency reselection, and the information required for the terminal to receive further system information (such as the aforementioned SIB1, SIBX, etc.). The terminal can determine the resource location of SIB1 and SIBX based on the received MIB in the SSB, and then receive SIB1 and SIBX on the corresponding resources. The SIB1 contains the information required for initial access, such as the relevant parameters of the paging search space, such as "pagingSearchSpace", "firstPDCCH-MonitoringOccasionOfPO", and "nrofPDCCH-MonitoringOccasionPerSSB-InPO-r16". Therefore, the location of the paging search space can be determined based on the information in the SIB1. In other words, the SSB corresponds to the paging search space. The terminal can perform blind detection of the PDCCH in the paging search space, and then receive the paging message on the PDSCH based on the resource location of the physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) indicated in the received PDCCH. Since the location of the PDSCH carrying the paging message is determined based on the blindly detected PDCCH, and the PDCCH is transmitted in the paging search space, it can be concluded that the SSB corresponds to the paging message. In short, the SSB corresponds to SIB1, SIBX, and the paging message, which can be understood as the terminal being able to receive the corresponding SIB1, SIBX, and paging message based on the information in the SSB.

[0213] It should be understood that the paging search space is essentially a search space. Since the PDCCH transmitted within this search space indicates the resource location of the PDSCH used to carry paging messages, it can be named the paging search space. This application does not preclude the possibility of defining it under other names.

[0214] To better understand the correspondence between SSB and SIB1, SIBX, and the paging search space, the following section combines... Figure 7 This section explains SSB and its corresponding SIB1, SIBX, and paging search space.

[0215] Figure 7 (a) and (b) are schematic diagrams of two designs for the paging search space.

[0216] To make it easier to understand, firstly... Figure 7 The common characteristics of the patterns shown in (a) and (b) are described below: Figure 7 In (a) and (b), four system frames, SFN#0 to SFN#3, are shown respectively. Each system frame includes 20 time slots (assuming a sub-carrier space (SCS) of 30 kilohertz (kHz) and a time slot length of 0.5 milliseconds (ms)). Multiple SSB groups are distributed in even-numbered system frames, such as... Figure 7 In SFN#0 and SFN#2 shown in (a) and (b), an SSB group consists of 8 SSBs, concentrated in the first 4 time slots of a system frame, with 2 SSBs transmitted in each time slot. For example... Figure 7 As shown in (a) and (b), SSB#0 to SSB#7 are distributed in the first four time slots of SFN#0, and SSB#8 to SSB#15 are distributed in the first four time slots of SFN#2. To ensure that the terminal can quickly complete the initial access, the time slots of each SSB group are then used to intermittently transmit the SIB1 corresponding to that SSB group (e.g., ...). Figure 7 SIB1#0~SIB1#7 and SIB1#8~SIB1#15 shown in (a) and (b) respectively) and SIBX (as shown in (b) respectively) Figure 7 SIBX#0~SIBX#7 and SIBX#8~SIBX#15 are shown in (a) and (b) respectively. It can be seen that... Figure 7 In (a) and (b), SSB#0 can correspond to SIB1#0 and SIBX#0, SSB#1 can correspond to SIB1#1 and SIBX#1, and so on. They will not be listed one by one here.

[0217] The correspondence between SSBs and the paging search space can be reflected through the correspondence between SSBs and PMOs. For example, as mentioned above, the PMO with index (x·S + k) corresponds to the SSB with index k. Therefore, based on the index of each SSB, the index of its corresponding PMO can be determined from the aforementioned correspondence, thus determining the correspondence between SSBs and PMOs.

[0218] For example, assuming X=2, then x can take the values ​​0 and 1, and we can obtain... Figure 7 In (a) and (b), the PMOs corresponding to SSB#0 to SSB#7 are as follows: SSB#0 corresponds to PMO#0 and PMO#8; SSB#1 corresponds to PMO#2 and PMO#9; SSB#2 corresponds to PMO#3 and PMO#10; SSB#3 corresponds to PMO#3 and PMO#11; SSB#4 corresponds to PMO#4 and PMO#12; SSB#5 corresponds to PMO#5 and PMO#13; SSB#6 corresponds to PMO#6 and PMO#14; and SSB#7 corresponds to PMO#7 and PMO#15.

[0219] On the other hand, the location of the PMO corresponding to each index can be determined according to the configuration. Parameters used to configure the PMO location include: the PDCCH monitoring period, offset, and PDCCH duration. The PDCCH duration can be represented by the number of time slots included in the duration of the PDCCH in the time domain. The PDCCH monitoring period is the period during which the terminal blindly detects the PDCCH. The offset is used to determine the PMO within the PDCCH monitoring period and can be represented by the number of time slots by which the position of the first PMO within the PDCCH monitoring period is offset from the starting position of the PDCCH monitoring period. The PDCCH duration is the duration of the PDCCH in the time domain and can be represented by the number of consecutive time slots occupied by the PDCCH. Since the starting position of the PDCCH monitoring cycle can be predefined, such as the starting position of SFN#0, and the PDCCH monitoring cycle can be continuous in the time domain, the position of each PMO within the monitoring cycle of each PDCCH can be determined based on the above-mentioned PDCCH monitoring cycle, offset, and duration of PDCCH.

[0220] One possible form of the parameters used to configure the PMO location in the protocol is the "Search Space" carried in the SIB1 information element (IE). This "Search Space" can be used to determine the PMO's location. Specifically, the monitoring period and offset of the aforementioned PDCCH can be configured via the parameter "monitoringslotperiodicityAndOffset," and the duration of the PDCCH can be configured via the parameter "duration."

[0221] exist Figure 7 In this context, odd-numbered system frames located between two adjacent SSB groups can transmit paging messages, RAR messages, and other system messages corresponding to each SSB. For example, SFN#1 and SFN#3 in the diagram can be used to transmit paging messages, RAR messages, and other system messages. Therefore, the paging search space can be configured in odd-numbered system frames between two SSBs.

[0222] The following are combined with Figure 7 (a) and (b) in the text describe the patterns obtained based on two different designs.

[0223] An example of a design for the paging search space (hereinafter referred to as Design 1) is as follows: Figure 7As shown in (a) of the figure. The paging search space shown in the figure can be configured with the following parameters: the monitoring period of PDCCH is 40 time slots, the offset is 20 time slots, and the duration of PDCCH is 8 time slots. Assuming the reference position is the first time slot of SFN#0, the position of the first PMO in this paging search space can be determined to be the first time slot of SFN#1 based on the offset of 20 time slots. Since the monitoring period of PDCCH is 40 time slots, the paging search space includes 40 time slots. Combined with the offset, it can be determined that the paging search space is within the range of SFN#0 and SFN#1. Since the duration of PDCCH is 8 time slots, the PMOs in this paging search space occupy 8 consecutive time slots. In summary, it can be determined that the paging search space includes 8 PMOs (denoted as PMO#0 to PMO#7 respectively), occupying 8 consecutive time slots starting from the first time slot in SFN#1, that is, the 8 PMOs are continuously distributed in the time domain.

[0224] Based on the parameter configuration of the paging search space described above, and the corresponding PMO index determined by the SSB index mentioned earlier, it can be determined that the PMOs corresponding to SSB#0~SSB#7 in SFN#0 are PMO#0~PMO#7 distributed in the first 8 time slots of SFN#1.

[0225] Based on a monitoring cycle of 40 time slots, the PMOs in the next paging search space can be mapped starting from the first time slot in SFN#3. The PMOs corresponding to SSB#8~SSB#15 in SFN#2 are PMOs#8~PMO#15 distributed in the first 8 time slots of SFN#3.

[0226] By configuring the above parameters, PMO#8 to PMO#15 can be avoided from being mapped to the time slots in SFN#1 following PMO#7 and the time slots in SFN#2, thus preventing PMO from overlapping with other signaling. The time slots in SFN#1 following PMO#7 and in SFN#3 following PMO#15 can then be used to transmit other signaling, such as RAR messages, other system messages, etc. For example, Figure 7 As shown in (a), the eight consecutive time slots following PMO#7 and the eight consecutive time slots following PMO#15 can be used to transmit RAR messages.

[0227] This results in a pattern where PMO and other signaling occupy the first and second halves of a system frame, respectively. Of course, this application does not limit the number of time slots occupied by PMO or RAR messages. For example, the number of time slots occupied by PMO can be limited by the duration of the PDCCH.

[0228] Figure 7(a) shows only one possible pattern. In another possible design, the relative positions of the PMO and other signaling in the system frame can also be interchanged. For example, the other signaling may be located in the first half of the system frame, and the PMO may be located in the second half of the system frame, etc.

[0229] However, since RAR messages have a reception window, if the reception window of the RAR message ends in one of the first 8 time slots of SFN#1, and the RAR message is sent in the first or second half of the system frame, it may cause some terminals to fail to receive the RAR message, thereby affecting the access performance of the terminal, increasing the access latency, and degrading the system performance.

[0230] An example of another design for the paging search space (hereinafter referred to as Design 2) is as follows: Figure 7 As shown in (b) of the figure, the paging search space can be configured with the following parameters: the PDCCH monitoring period is 2 time slots, the offset is 20 time slots, and the PDCCH duration is 1 time slot. Assuming the reference position is the first time slot of SFN#0, the offset can be taken as the starting position of SFN#0. Based on the offset of 20 time slots, the starting position of the PF to which this paging search space belongs can be determined to be the first time slot of SFN#1. Since the PDCCH monitoring period is 2 time slots, this paging search space includes 2 time slots. Combined with the offset, it can be determined that this paging search space is located in the first two time slots of SFN#1. Since the PDCCH duration is 1 time slot, the PMO in this paging search space occupies one time slot. In summary, it can be determined that the PMO in this paging search space occupies the first time slot in SFN#1. That is, the PMO corresponding to SSB#0 is PMO#0 distributed in the first time slot of SFN#1.

[0231] Based on the monitoring cycle of two time slots, the next paging search space can be determined to be located in the 3rd and 4th time slots of SFN#1. Combining the offset and the duration of the PDCCH, it can be determined that the PMO in the next paging search space occupies the 3rd time slot of SFN#1. That is, the PMO corresponding to SSB#1 is PMO#1 located in the 3rd time slot of SFN#1.

[0232] Similarly, the PMOs corresponding to SSB#0~SSB#7 are PMO#0~PMO#9 distributed in SFN#1, and PMO#10~PMO#15 distributed in SFN#2; the PMOs corresponding to SSB#8~SSB#15 are PMO#20~PMO#29 distributed in SFN#3, and PMO#30~PMO#35 distributed in SFN#4 (not shown in the figure).

[0233] As can be seen, by configuring the monitoring period and duration of the PDCCH, the PMO can be made discontinuous in the time domain, such as... Figure 7 As shown in (b), there is a time slot between every two adjacent PMOs. The time slot between two adjacent PMOs can be used to transmit RAR messages, other system messages, etc. In this way, a pattern is formed in which PMOs and other signaling are interleaved in the time domain. This allows the resources used for transmitting RAR messages to be discretely distributed throughout the system frame, which is more conducive to the successful reception of RAR messages by the terminal, thereby facilitating faster network access for the terminal and improving system performance.

[0234] However, it can also be seen that the positions of some PMOs overlap with those of other signaling systems. For example, the time slot occupied by PMO#10 is the same as the time slot occupied by SSB#8~9, the time slot occupied by PMO#11 is the same as the time slot occupied by SSB#12~13, and the time slots occupied by PMO#12, PMO#13, PMO#14, and PMO#15 are the same as the time slots occupied by SIB#8, SIB#8, SIB#8, and SIB#8, respectively.

[0235] It should be understood that the PMO locations listed above are the locations determined by the terminal for blind detection of the PDCCH. If the access network equipment transmits other signaling in time slots that overlap with the locations listed above, the PDCCH cannot be blindly detected in these time slots. The terminal's blind detection in these time slots will be invalid and will result in unnecessary power consumption.

[0236] Based on the above... Figure 7 As can be seen from (a) and (b) above regarding the two designs for the paging search space, the current design cannot simultaneously balance the terminal's access performance and the power consumption caused by invalid blind detection. Therefore, the communication method provided in this application improves upon both Design 1 and Design 2, aiming to ensure the terminal's access performance while avoiding invalid blind detection and saving power consumption.

[0237] For Design 1, this application introduces the monitoring duration of the PDCCH and parameters indicating the distribution of PMOs within each search space group. Unlike the duration of the PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH can be discontinuous in the time domain. On the one hand, by limiting the monitoring period of the PDCCH to be greater than the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the system frame containing the search space group can be prevented from falling into the system frame containing the SSB, avoiding overlap between the positions of PMOs and signaling such as SSBs, preventing invalid blind detection by the terminal, and saving power consumption. On the other hand, by indicating the distribution of PMOs within each search space group, the time slots occupied by PMOs within the same search space group can be discontinuously distributed in the time domain, while other time slots not occupied by PMOs can be used to transmit other signaling, thereby facilitating the successful reception of RAR messages by the terminal and ensuring the access performance of the terminal.

[0238] For Design 2, this application introduces multiple parameters to determine the location of the PMO within each search space group. The PMO determined by these multiple parameters can avoid the location of signaling such as SSB, thereby avoiding invalid blind detection by the terminal and saving power consumption. On the other hand, by limiting the monitoring period of PDCCH to be greater than the duration of PDCCH, the time slots occupied by the PMO within the search space group can be discontinuously distributed in the time domain, while other time slots not occupied by PMO can be used to transmit other signaling, which is beneficial to the successful reception of RAR messages by the terminal and helps to ensure the access performance of the terminal.

[0239] The method provided in this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0240] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 8 The flowchart shown illustrates the method using the interaction between the terminal and a satellite base station (i.e., an example of a wireless access network device), but this should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application.

[0241] Figure 8 The communication method 800 shown may include the following steps:

[0242] Step 810: The satellite base station determines the location of each PMO within at least one search space group;

[0243] Step 820: The satellite base station transmits the PDCCH on the PMO within the at least one search space group;

[0244] Step 830: The terminal receives the first SSB;

[0245] Step 840: The terminal determines the first PMO based on the first SSB;

[0246] Step 850: The terminal performs a blind PDCCH check on the first PMO.

[0247] At least one search space group in steps 810 and 820 is included in a plurality of search space groups, which are search space groups that correspond one-to-one with a plurality of SSB groups. The plurality of SSB groups can be multiple SSB groups in a predefined pattern. The predefined pattern is, for example, a pattern defined for satellite communications. Since the plurality of search space groups can correspond one-to-one with the plurality of SSB groups, the number of SSB groups is the same as the number of search space groups. Each SSB group within the plurality of SSB groups includes one or more SSBs, and each search space group within the plurality of search space groups includes one or more PMOs. Specifically, the correspondence between search space groups and SSB groups can mean that the index of a PMO in each search space group can be mapped from the index of an SSB in its corresponding SSB group; in other words, a PMO in each search space group can be determined by an SSB in its corresponding SSB group, and an SSB can determine one or more PMOs.

[0248] In step 810, the at least one search space group may correspond to at least one SSB group. The at least one SSB group may be the SSB group to which the SSB sent by the satellite base station belongs. Optionally, the method further includes: step 860, the satellite base station sends the SSB in at least one SSB group.

[0249] In step 820, the satellite base station can transmit the PDCCH on one or more PMOs within the at least one search space group. Therefore, the PMOs determined by the satellite base station in step 810 are the locations of PMOs that can be used to transmit the PDCCH. Since the specific PMOs on which the satellite base station transmits the PDCCH are determined by the internal implementation of the device, this application does not limit this.

[0250] In step 830, the terminal can receive an SSB from a satellite base station, and can receive one or more SSBs from the satellite base station. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the SSB received by the terminal from the satellite base station is denoted as the first SSB. This first SSB belongs to an SSB group, for example, denoted as the first SSB group. This first SSB group is one of multiple SSB groups.

[0251] In step 840, the terminal can determine the corresponding PMO based on the first SSB. Since each SSB can correspond to one or more PMOs, the PMO corresponding to the first SSB can also be one or more. In this embodiment, the PMO corresponding to the first SSB is denoted as the first PMO. The first PMO belongs to a search space group, for example, denoted as the first search space group. The first PMO corresponds to the first SSB, and the first search space group to which the first PMO belongs corresponds to the first SSB group to which the first SSB belongs.

[0252] In one possible implementation, the terminal can determine the location of each PMO within at least one search space group, and then, based on the received first SSB, determine the correspondence between the first SSB and the first PMO, thereby determining the location of the first PMO corresponding to the received first SSB. The at least one search space group may include a search space group corresponding to at least one of the plurality of SSB groups, where the at least one SSB group is the SSB group to which the SSB received by the terminal belongs; or, the at least one search space group may include multiple search space groups corresponding to the plurality of SSB groups. The correspondence between the first SSB and the first PMO includes: the number and index of the first PMO corresponding to the first SSB.

[0253] In step 850, if the terminal searches for (or receives) an SSB (e.g., the first SSB), it can perform a blind PDCCH check on the corresponding PMO (e.g., the first PMO). In other words, the terminal can perform a blind PDCCH check on one or more PMOs within at least one determined search space group, so the PMO determined by the terminal is the location of the PMO that can be used for blind checking.

[0254] It should be understood that the terminal can perform blind testing on the PMO corresponding to the searched SSB, or it can perform blind testing on all identified PMOs; this application does not limit this. Since the specific PMOs on which the terminal performs PDCCH blind testing are determined by the device's internal implementation, this application does not limit this as well.

[0255] It should be understood that the steps shown in the figures are merely examples and should not constitute any limitation on the execution order of the steps. For example, this application does not limit the order in which the satellite base station performs step 810 and the terminal performs steps 830 and 840. Steps 810 and steps 830 and 840 can be executed simultaneously or not simultaneously. For example, step 810 can be performed before steps 830 and 840, or steps 830 and 840 can be performed before step 810, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0256] To save power consumption, the terminal does not need to perform blind detection on all PMOs corresponding to SSBs. Different terminals can perform blind detection of PDCCH on PMOs in different time domain ranges. The time domain range of the PMOs to which the terminal performs blind detection can be simply referred to as the time domain range of the terminal's blind detection.

[0257] The time domain range for blind detection by the terminal can be predefined, for example, the protocol predefines the time domain range, such as the protocol predefines the system frame where the starting position of the time domain range is SFN#1 and the duration of the time domain range.

[0258] In one possible design, the PMO for which the terminal performs blind detection can be the PMO that falls within the paging frame set. In other words, the paging frame set is an example of the time domain range for which the terminal performs blind detection.

[0259] The paging frame set is terminal-specific, or terminal-level, and can be determined, for example, based on the terminal's identifier. Different terminals can determine their own paging frame sets, and then perform blind PDCCH detection on the PMOs within those paging frame sets. Satellite base stations can determine their own corresponding paging frame sets for different terminals, and then transmit PDCCH on the PMOs within their respective paging frame sets.

[0260] For example, the system frame containing the starting position of the paging frame set (denoted as the paging start frame for ease of distinction and explanation) can satisfy: (SFN + O) mod T = (T div )×(UE_ID mod Wherein, SFN is the system frame number of the paging start frame; O is the number of system frames included in the offset between the paging start frame and the reference position; The number of paging frame sets included in one paging cycle. is a positive integer; UE_ID is the terminal identifier, which can be obtained by using 5G-S-TMSI mod 1024; T is the duration of the paging cycle.

[0261] As can be seen, the method for determining the SFN of this paging start frame is similar to the method for determining the SFN corresponding to the PF as specified in the current 5G protocol. The difference is that the offset of the PF relative to the reference position, PF_offset, is replaced with the offset of the paging start frame relative to the reference position, O; and the number of PFs N included in a paging cycle is replaced with the number of paging frame sets included in a paging cycle. Other parameters can be found in the previous explanations, and will not be repeated here.

[0262] Of course, the paging start frame can also be determined based on other methods. The formula shown above is only one possible design, and this application includes but is not limited to it.

[0263] The end position of a paging frame set can be determined by the aforementioned start position and the following parameters: the duration of a paging frame set in the time domain, the number of system frames included in a paging frame set, or the number of search space groups included in a paging frame set. In some embodiments, a paging frame set can also be defined as a time domain range including SSB groups; in this case, the above parameters may also include the number of SSBs included in a paging frame set. The end position of the paging frame set can be determined based on the start position of the paging frame set and any one of these parameters. These parameters can be predefined, such as protocol predefined parameters; or they can be configured by network devices, such as by satellite base stations via signaling.

[0264] It is understandable that the duration of a paging frame set in the time domain, the number of system frames included in a paging frame set, the number of search space groups included in a paging frame set, and the number of SSB groups included in a paging frame set can all be regarded as several different forms for representing the duration of a paging frame set, and are several possible examples of the sixth parameter.

[0265] A search space group can occupy one or more system frames in the time domain, and the number of system frames occupied by a search space group in the time domain can be predefined or preconfigured by the network device. Therefore, given the number of search space groups included in a paging frame set, the end position of the paging frame set can also be determined by combining the start position.

[0266] Furthermore, the paging frame set may include one or more POs. The terminal can determine the corresponding PO based on its own identifier. This PO may be another example of the time domain range for which the terminal performs blind detection. In other words, the aforementioned at least one search space group may be a search space group within the same PO, and the PMO for which the terminal performs blind detection may be a PMO within the same PO.

[0267] For example, the index i_s corresponding to PO can satisfy: i_s = .in, The number of POs included in a paging frame set. It is a positive integer. The number of paging frame sets included in one paging cycle. It is a positive integer. As can be seen, the method for determining this PO is similar to the method for determining POs specified in current 5G protocols. Of course, the correspondence between the terminal identifier and the PO index is not limited to this, and this application does not impose any restrictions on it.

[0268] For example, the terminal can perform blind detection within the range of POs with index i_s in the paging frame set. That is, the PMO for which the terminal performs blind detection is the PMO that falls within the range of POs with index i_s in the paging frame set.

[0269] It should be understood that the method for determining the set of paging frames for blind detection by the terminal, the correspondence between PO and index, and the method for determining the index are not limited to the examples listed above, and this application does not limit them.

[0270] In addition, the duration of each PO in the paging frame set can also be determined based on the following parameters: the duration of a PO in the time domain, or the number of system frames included in a PO, or the number of search space groups included in a PO, or the number of SSB groups included in a PO.

[0271] The relationship between PO and the paging frame set is similar to the relationship between PO and PF as defined in the current protocol, and will not be elaborated here. The difference is that PO and the paging frame set are no longer limited to a single system frame, but can be extended to multiple system frames.

[0272] The foregoing, in conjunction with the paging frame set and PO, exemplarily illustrates a method for determining the time domain range for blind detection by a terminal. However, these examples are provided for ease of understanding only and should not constitute any limitation on this application. It is understood that if the time domain range for blind detection by the terminal is predefined, the satellite base station can directly determine the location of each PMO within at least one search space group within this predefined time domain range, and the terminal can also determine the PMO it performs blind detection on within this predefined time domain range.

[0273] To better understand the methods provided in this application, Figure 9 This shows the set of paging frames within a paging cycle and the PMO within a set of paging frames, obtained using the aforementioned method. Unlike... Figure 6 The terminal is not limited to performing blind PDCCH detection on a single PO within a PF, but rather on PMOs within a paging frame set. This paging frame set includes multiple search space groups, where the PMOs within each search space group are discontinuous in the time domain. Furthermore, the paging frame set may also include one or more POs, and the aforementioned multiple search space groups can be search space groups within a single PO.

[0274] Satellite base stations can transmit PDCCH on PMOs within a PO, and terminals can perform blind PDCCH detection on PMOs within a PO. Since the system frames containing PMOs in each search space are located between the system frames containing two adjacent SSB groups, the PMO positions will not overlap with the positions of other signaling such as SSBs. This avoids the terminal performing blind detection on some invalid PMOs, saving power. Because the PMOs within a search space group are discontinuous in the time domain, the time slots not occupied by PMOs can be used to transmit RAR messages and other signaling, thus facilitating the successful reception of RAR messages by the terminal and ensuring access performance.

[0275] It should be understood that Figure 9 For illustrative purposes only, as previously mentioned, the time domain range for blind detection by the terminal is not limited to the paging frame set or PO, but may be other ranges, such as a predefined time domain range or a time domain range defined in other ways, which are included but not limited to this application.

[0276] One possible implementation is, such as Figure 9 As shown, a paging cycle can include one or more paging frame sets, each paging frame set corresponding to a group of terminals. For example, the system frame (denoted as the paging start frame for ease of distinction and explanation) containing the starting position of each paging frame set can satisfy: (SFN + O) mod T = (T div )×(UE_IDmod Wherein, SFN is the system frame number of the paging start frame; O is the number of system frames included in the offset between the paging start frame and the reference position; The number of paging frame sets included in one paging cycle. =A positive integer; UE_ID is the terminal identifier, which can be obtained through 5G-S-TMSI mod 1024; T is the paging cycle duration. The reference position can be predefined or configured by the protocol, such as the system frame with frame number 0.

[0277] Based on (T div) )×(UE_ID mod It can be seen that the system frames included in the paging cycle are divided into: A set of paging frames, for example, a paging period T of 160ms, where each system frame occupies 10ms, then the paging period occupies 16 system frames. If the value is 2, the paging period is divided into two paging frame sets, each occupying 80ms, or 8 system frames. If 0 is set to 0, the frame numbers of the two paging frame sets are 0-7 and 8-15, respectively. That is, the frame number of the paging start frame of each paging frame set satisfies (16 div 2) × (UE_ID mod 2), i.e., the frame numbers of the paging start frames of the two paging frame sets are 0 and 8, respectively.

[0278] The multiple paging terminals are divided into groups according to UE_ID. The group, correspondingly, contains the control information (PDCCH) for the paging messages of each of the multiple terminals, transmitted within the paging frame containing the paging frame set corresponding to its UE_ID. For example, If we take 2, and the paging start frame numbers of the two paging frame sets are 0 and 8 respectively, then the control information of the paging message of the terminal with UE_ID mod 2 equal to 0 is transmitted in the paging frame set with paging start frame number 0, and the control information of the paging message of the terminal with UE_ID mod 2 equal to 1 is transmitted in the paging frame set with paging start frame number 8.

[0279] Each paging frame set can be further divided into one or more POs based on the terminal's UE_ID. For example, the index i_s corresponding to a PO can satisfy: i_s = .in, The number of POs included in a paging frame set. It is a positive integer. The number of paging frame sets included in one paging cycle. It is a positive integer.

[0280] for example, Take 2, If we take 4, then the UE_ID is first divided into 2 groups according to the number of paging frame sets, and then the remainder is taken with respect to 4, meaning that the UE_ID corresponding to each paging frame set is further divided into 4 groups. That is, the control information for paging messages of terminals with UE_ID mod 4 equal to 0 is transmitted in the PO where i_s = 0; the control information for paging messages of terminals with UE_ID mod 4 equal to 1 is transmitted in the PO where i_s = 1; the control information for paging messages of terminals with UE_ID mod 4 equal to 2 is transmitted in the PO where i_s = 2; and the control information for paging messages of terminals with UE_ID mod 4 equal to 3 is transmitted in the PO where i_s = 3.

[0281] Understandable If we set it to 1, meaning that a paging frame set includes only one PO, the control information of the corresponding terminal's paging message is transmitted within the system frames included in that paging frame set. In other words, the system frames included in the paging frame set and the system frames included in the PO overlap.

[0282] Optionally, given the uncertain spatial location of each terminal, a PO should include the PMOs corresponding to all SSBs transmitted by the satellite base station. That is, the SSB corresponding to the initial PMO of a PO is the SSB with index 0, and the SSB corresponding to the last PMO is the SSB with index (maximum number of transmittable SSBs - 1). In other words, the PO includes the PMOs corresponding to all SSBs in the maximum transmittable SSB pool. Similarly, the PO includes the search space groups corresponding to all SSB groups in the maximum transmittable SSB pool.

[0283] In this way, after the terminal determines the set of paging frames to be searched and the PO to be searched in the paging frame set based on its UE_ID, it can determine the PMO to be searched based on the SSB received by the terminal and the correspondence between the SSB and the PMO.

[0284] It is understood that the specific values ​​of the parameters in the examples above are only for the convenience of understanding the formulas. The specific values ​​of the parameters in the formulas above can be other values, and are not limited to the specific values ​​in the examples above.

[0285] The location of each PMO within at least one search space group will be described in detail below, that is, the location of each PMO within at least one search space group within a PO. It should be understood that the at least one search space group is a search space group that falls within the aforementioned time domain range, for example, at least one search space group that falls within a paging frame set (in the case where the paging frame set includes 1 PO), or at least one search space group that falls within a PO.

[0286] In this embodiment of the application, the position of the PMO within each search space group can be determined in the following two ways, that is, satisfying the definitions in the following two ways:

[0287] Method 1: The method determines the parameters based on the monitoring period of each SSB and PDCCH within the SSB group corresponding to the search space group, the duration of the PDCCH, and multiple parameters. Specifically, the monitoring period of each SSB and PDCCH within the SSB group corresponding to the search space group, the duration of the PDCCH, and multiple parameters satisfy a first relationship. The PDCCH monitoring period is greater than the PDCCH duration. The values ​​of the multiple parameters are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups. See the detailed explanation of the first relationship below.

[0288] For ease of distinction and explanation, in this embodiment, the number of PMOs included in each search space group is denoted as M, where M is a positive integer; the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups is denoted as L, where L is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Therefore, the values ​​of these multiple parameters are related to M and L.

[0289] Method 2: Determined based on the monitoring cycle and monitoring duration of each SSB and PDCCH within the SSB group corresponding to the search space group, as well as the first and fifth parameters. Specifically, the monitoring cycle and monitoring duration of each SSB and PDCCH within the SSB group corresponding to the search space group, along with the first and fifth parameters, satisfy the second relationship. Here, the PDCCH monitoring cycle is greater than the PDCCH monitoring duration; the value of the first parameter is related to the number of PMOs (i.e., M) included in each search space group; and the fifth parameter indicates the temporal distribution of one or more PMOs within each search space group. See the detailed explanation of the second relationship below.

[0290] The following will provide a detailed explanation of Method 1 and Method 2 in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0291] Method 1:

[0292] It should be understood that Method 1 can be seen as an improvement upon Design 2 described above. (Based on the preceding text...) Figure 7 As described in section (b) of Design 2, among the multiple PMOs directly determined by the SSBs within an SSB group, some PMO locations overlap with the locations of other signaling such as the SSB. Therefore, PMOs whose locations overlap with other signaling are excluded, and the satellite base station does not transmit PDCCH on these PMOs, thus eliminating the need for blind PDCCH detection on these PMOs. For ease of distinction and explanation, the PMOs determined based on the PDCCH monitoring period, PDCCH duration, and PMOs mapped from the SSB will be referred to as candidate PMOs in the following text. For example... Figure 7 In section (b), PMOs with indices 0-15 and 20-29 can all be considered candidate PMOs. Candidate PMOs include invalid PMOs and valid PMOs. PMOs whose locations overlap with other signaling locations are designated as invalid PMOs, and PMOs other than invalid PMOs among the candidate PMOs are designated as valid PMOs. Since valid PMOs are determined from candidate PMOs, the PMO for PDCCH transmission by the satellite base station is one of the valid PMOs for blind detection by the terminal, and therefore is also determined from candidate PMOs.

[0293] In Method 1, the terminal and / or satellite base station determine the location of the PMO, that is, the location of the valid PMO. One possible implementation is that the terminal and / or satellite base station can determine the location of each candidate PMO based on the PDCCH monitoring period, PDCCH duration, etc. Alternatively, the terminal and / or satellite base station can determine the index of the candidate PMO corresponding to each SSB within the at least one search space group, and exclude invalid PMOs from the candidate PMOs by combining multiple parameters, obtaining the index of the candidate PMOs that can be used as valid PMOs (hereinafter referred to as the index corresponding to the valid PMO). The terminal and / or satellite base station can determine the location of each valid PMO within the at least one search space group based on the determined index corresponding to the valid PMO and the location of each candidate PMO. As mentioned above, the location of each PMO can be determined based on the PDCCH monitoring period and PDCCH duration. In this embodiment, the terminal and / or satellite base station can determine the location of each candidate PMO based on the PDCCH monitoring period and PDCCH duration.

[0294] For example, the number of time slots occupied in the time domain for each monitoring cycle can be determined based on the monitoring cycle of the PDCCH, and the number of time slots occupied by the PMO within each monitoring cycle can be determined based on the duration of the PDCCH. If the offset of the candidate PMO within the monitoring cycle of the PDCCH is further known, the position of the candidate PMO within each monitoring cycle can be determined. Based on the positions of the candidate PMOs within each monitoring cycle, the positions of the candidate PMOs in at least one search space group corresponding to multiple SSB groups can be determined.

[0295] One possible design is to describe the offset of the candidate PMO within the PDCCH monitoring period using a first offset. This first offset is the offset of the first candidate PMO in the PDCCH monitoring period relative to the start position of the PDCCH monitoring period, and can be represented by the number of time slots included in this offset.

[0296] For ease of understanding, Figure 10A An example of the first offset is shown. Figure 10A The first candidate PMO shown is offset by one time slot relative to the start of its monitoring period on its corresponding PDCCH; that is, the first offset is one time slot. Regarding... Figure 10A The relationship between the monitoring cycle of each candidate PMO and PDCCH, and the duration of PDCCH, will be explained in detail later, and will not be elaborated here.

[0297] It is understandable that the meaning of the first offset is the same as the offset defined in the current 5G protocol for determining the location of the PMO. The location of each candidate PMO within the monitoring period of the PDCCH can be determined by referring to the method described above.

[0298] Optionally, the first offset is a fixed value. For example, the protocol can predefine the value of the first offset, that is, the offset between the first candidate PMO in the PDCCH monitoring period and the starting position of the PDCCH monitoring period remains unchanged. In this case, it can also be considered that the relative position of the first candidate PMO in the PDCCH monitoring period can remain fixed within the PDCCH monitoring period. Therefore, starting from the position of the first candidate PMO, the positions of each candidate PMO in the PDCCH monitoring period can be directly determined based on the PDCCH monitoring period and the PDCCH monitoring duration.

[0299] Optionally, the first offset can be flexibly configured. For example, the first offset can be configured by the network device. In this case, the position of each candidate PMO within the monitoring period of the PDCCH can be determined based on the start position of the PDCCH monitoring period, the first offset, and the duration of the PDCCH.

[0300] Another possible design is that the at least one search space group is a search space group within the paging frame set. The offset of the candidate PMO within the paging frame set can be described by a second offset. This second offset is the offset of the first candidate PMO in the paging frame set relative to the start position of the paging frame set, and can be represented by the number of time slots included in this offset.

[0301] For ease of understanding, Figure 10B An example of the second offset is shown. Figure 10B The paging frame set shown begins at the start of a system frame, and candidate PMOs are located in the next system frame. Assume each system frame contains 20 time slots. Figure 10B The first candidate PMO shown is offset by 21 time slots relative to the starting position of the paging frame set, which is the second offset of 21 time slots.

[0302] Optionally, the second offset is a fixed value. For example, the protocol can predefine the value of the second offset, that is, the offset between the first candidate PMO in the paging frame set and the starting position of the paging start frame remains unchanged. Therefore, in this case, the position of the first candidate PMO in the paging frame set can also be considered fixed. Thus, starting from the position of the first candidate PMO, the positions of each candidate PMO in the paging frame set can be directly determined based on the monitoring period and duration of the PDCCH.

[0303] Optionally, the second offset can be flexibly configured. For example, the second offset can be configured by the network device. In this case, the position of each candidate PMO within the paging frame set can be determined based on the PDCCH monitoring period, the second offset, and the duration of the PDCCH.

[0304] Another possible design is that the at least one search space group is a search space group within the paging frame set. The offset of the candidate PMO within the paging frame set can be described by a third offset. This third offset is the offset of the first candidate PMO in the paging frame set relative to the reference position, and can be represented by the number of time slots included in this offset.

[0305] This reference position can be predefined or preconfigured by the protocol. As an example, the reference position could be the starting position of SFN#0.

[0306] For ease of understanding, Figure 10C An example of the third offset is shown. Figure 10C The reference position shown is the starting position of SFN#0, and the candidate PMO is located in SFN#1. Assume each system frame consists of 20 time slots. Figure 10C The first candidate PMO shown is offset by 21 time slots relative to the reference position, and the third offset is 21 time slots.

[0307] It is understandable that when the aforementioned offset (e.g., any one of the first, second, or third offsets) is zero, the offset may not be indicated, for example, the protocol may predefine the offset as zero. In this case, the terminal and the satellite base station can directly determine the position of each candidate PMO within the monitoring period of each PDCCH based on the monitoring period and duration of the PDCCH.

[0308] As an example, one of the first offset, second offset, or third offset, along with the PDCCH monitoring period and PDCCH duration, is carried in the information cell "PDCCH Common Configuration (PDCCH-ConfigCommon)" in SIB1. The specific values ​​can be indexed by the "SearchSpaceId" configured in this information cell, and then indicated by the parameters "monitoringSlotPeriodicityAndOffset" and "duration" in the "SearchSpace Related Configuration" of the "Common Search Space List (commonSearchSpaceList)" parameter of "PDCCH-ConfigCommon". Specifically, the PDCCH monitoring period is indicated by "monitoringSlotPeriodicity", the first offset by "Offset", the PDCCH duration by "duration", and the second or third offset by "Offset" or other parameters; this application does not limit this indication.

[0309] In this embodiment, the monitoring period of PDCCH is longer than the duration of PDCCH, which can cause more than one time slot offset between candidate PMOs in different search space groups.

[0310] For example, if the monitoring period of PDCCH is 2 time slots and the duration of PDCCH is 1 time slot, then the candidate PMO in one monitoring period occupies 1 time slot. Figures 10A to 10C This is a schematic diagram of candidate PMOs across multiple monitoring periods. The following text uses... Figure 10A To illustrate, Figure 10B and Figure 10C For reference Figure 10A I understand, so I won't elaborate.

[0311] Figure 10A The diagram shows candidate PMOs within a single system frame. This system frame comprises 20 time slots and a total of 10 monitoring periods, as shown in monitoring periods #0 to #9 in the figure. Each monitoring period contains one candidate PMO, and each candidate PMO occupies one time slot. It can be seen that within these 10 monitoring periods, the offset between every two adjacent candidate PMOs comprises two time slots.

[0312] For example, if the monitoring cycle of PDCCH is 4 time slots and the duration of PDCCH is 2 time slots, then the PMO occupies 2 consecutive time slots in one monitoring cycle. Figure 11 This is another schematic diagram of PMO across multiple monitoring cycles. Figure 11The diagram illustrates candidate PMOs within a single system frame. This system frame comprises 20 time slots and a total of 5 monitoring periods, as shown in monitoring periods #0 to #4. Each monitoring period contains 2 candidate PMOs, occupying 2 consecutive time slots. It can be observed that within these 5 monitoring periods, the offset between any candidate PMO in one monitoring period and any candidate PMO in the next monitoring period includes more than one time slot. In other words, the offset between at least two candidate PMOs across these multiple monitoring periods includes more than one time slot.

[0313] It should be understood that Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C and Figure 11 The examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. The patterns determined based on the PDCCH monitoring cycle and duration described above are not limited to... Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C and Figure 11 As shown, other patterns can be obtained based on different offsets (such as the first offset, second offset, or third offset mentioned above), which will not be listed here.

[0314] It should also be understood that the values ​​of the monitoring period and duration of PDCCH listed above are just examples. This application does not limit the values ​​of the monitoring period, offset, and duration of PDCCH. As long as the monitoring period of PDCCH is greater than the duration of PDCCH, the offset between at least two candidate PMOs in the paging frame set can include more than one time slot.

[0315] Based on the monitoring cycle and duration of the PDCCH, the distribution of candidate PMOs in the time domain during each monitoring cycle can be determined, or in other words, the distribution rules of candidate PMOs in the time domain during each monitoring cycle can be determined. Further combining this with the time domain range of the terminal's blind detection, the location of the candidate PMOs for blind detection can be determined.

[0316] It should be noted that Figure 10A , Figure 10B , Figure 10C and Figure 11 Only one candidate PMO is shown within a single system frame. Depending on the PDCCH monitoring period and duration, the candidate PMO may also appear periodically in subsequent system frames. Therefore, situations may arise where the location of the candidate PMO overlaps with the locations of other signaling such as the SSB, similar to the scenario described in Design 2.

[0317] Therefore, Method 1 introduces several parameters whose values ​​are related to the number M of PMOs included in each search space group and the number L of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups. In Method 1, the number of PMOs included in each search space group can specifically refer to the number of valid PMOs included in each search space group.

[0318] Optionally, the plurality of parameters includes at least two of a first parameter, a second parameter, a third parameter, and a fourth parameter. The first parameter is equal to the number M of effective PMOs included in each search space group; the second parameter is equal to the number L of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups; the third parameter is equal to the product of the first and second parameters, i.e., M·L; and the fourth parameter is equal to the difference between the third and first parameters, i.e., M·(L-1).

[0319] In one example, the multiple parameters may include a first parameter and a second parameter, that is, the values ​​of the multiple parameters are M and L respectively. In another example, the multiple parameters may include a third parameter and a fourth parameter, that is, the values ​​of the multiple parameters are M·L and M·(L-1) respectively. Yet another example, the multiple parameters include a first parameter and a third parameter, that is, the values ​​of the multiple parameters are M and M·L respectively. And yet another example, the multiple parameters include a first parameter and a fourth parameter, that is, the values ​​of the multiple parameters are M and M·(L-1) respectively.

[0320] It is understandable that the values ​​of the other two parameters can be determined based on the values ​​of any two of the first to fourth parameters. Therefore, the multiple parameters can include any two or more of the first to fourth parameters.

[0321] Furthermore, the values ​​of these multiple parameters can also be the results of mathematical transformations of M and / or L. These mathematical transformations can include one or more of the following: adding an arbitrary value, subtracting an arbitrary value, multiplying by an arbitrary value, or dividing by an arbitrary value, etc. For example, based on mathematical transformations, the values ​​of these multiple parameters can be M and L⁻¹, or M⁻¹ and L⁻¹, or M and (M⁻¹)·(L⁻¹), etc. Further details are omitted.

[0322] After obtaining the index of the candidate PMO by mapping the index of each SSB in each SSB group, the range of the candidate PMO index can be constrained based on the range determined by these multiple parameters, and then the candidate PMO that falls within the range can be determined as a valid PMO.

[0323] In other words, the effective PMO is determined from the candidate PMOs. The position of each effective PMO corresponds to the index of a candidate PMO. When a candidate PMO is determined to be an effective PMO, its index is also the index of the effective PMO. The index of each SSB can be mapped to the indices of one or more candidate PMOs. Therefore, the index of the candidate PMO can be obtained first based on the index of each SSB, and then the index corresponding to the effective PMO can be determined according to at least two of the first, second, third, and fourth parameters mentioned above.

[0324] As previously mentioned, each SSB group corresponds to a search space group, and the PMO in each search space group can be determined by the SSB in its corresponding SSB group. One SSB can determine one or more PMOs. In Method 1, one or more candidate PMOs in a search space group can be determined based on one SSB in each SSB group.

[0325] The index of the SSB can be obtained by sequentially numbering SSBs from 0 to S-1, based on the maximum total number S of transmissible SSBs configured in SIB1 using the parameter "ssb-PositionsInBurst". For example, if the maximum total number of transmissible SSBs is 128, the indices of these 128 SSBs would be from 0 to 127. It is understandable that the terminal can determine the index of each SSB based on the maximum number of transmissible SSBs. The terminal can also determine the index of a searched SSB based on the index carried by the SSB. For example, the index of the SSB can be determined by one or more of the following: the sequence of DMRS included in the received SSB; the scrambling code of the PBCH included in the SSB; or the information in the payload included in the PBCH. The index of the candidate PMO can be obtained by sequentially numbering the candidate PMOs falling within the time domain range of the terminal's blind detection, starting from 0, in chronological order. For example, the index of the first PMO falling into the paging frame set or the PO is 0, and by recursively pushing forward, the indices of other candidate PMOs can be obtained.

[0326] It is understood that this application describes the SSB grouping and indexing used to determine the PMO location using the maximum number of SSBs as an example. This approach makes the communication timing between the satellite base station and the terminal more reliable and avoids problems such as paging failures caused by inconsistent understanding of the correspondence between SSBs and PMOs between the terminal and the satellite base station due to decoding errors in the parameter "ssb-PositionsInBurst". As another possible implementation in this application, the maximum number of SSBs can also be replaced with the actual number of SSBs transmitted. Optionally, the actual number of SSBs transmitted can also be obtained through the parameter "ssb-PositionsInBurst" in SIB1. In this case, the index carried by the SSB can still be indexed using the maximum number of SSBs. The terminal can determine the group and index of the SSB used to determine the PMO location based on the index carried by the SSB and the position of the actually transmitted SSB indicated in the parameter "ssb-PositionsInBurst". For example, the parameter "ssb-PositionsInBurst" indicates that the maximum number of SSBs is 128. The actual transmitted SSBs include SSBs with indices 0, 2, 4, ..., 126, i.e., SSBs with even-numbered indices from 0 to 127. These 64 SSBs are divided into 8 groups and indexed from 0 to 63. The SSB received by the terminal has an index of 80. Based on its position in the actual transmitted SSBs, index 40 can be determined, and the position of its corresponding PMO can be determined based on index 40. Then, the control information for paging messages can be received on that PMO. Determining the PMO based on the actual transmitted SSBs ensures that the resources used for the PMO are not wasted and reduces the UE's waiting time.

[0327] One possible design for determining the index corresponding to a valid PMO, based on at least two of the first, second, third, and fourth parameters mentioned above, and the index of the SSB, is to determine the index corresponding to the valid PMO based on the first and second parameters.

[0328] For example, the index k of the SSB and the index p of the candidate PMO can satisfy the following:

[0329] p = x·s + (i-1)·M·L + k mod s ……………… Formula 1; and

[0330] (i-1)·M·L≤p<(i-1)·M·L+M·(L-1) ……………… Formula 2.

[0331] Where M is the value of the first parameter and L is the value of the second parameter. x can be an integer value ranging from 0 to X-1, i.e., x = 0, 1, ..., X-1, where X is the maximum number of candidate PMOs corresponding to each SSB, and X is a positive integer. s is the number of SSBs included in each SSB group, and s is a positive integer. i is the group index of the SSB group to which the first SSB belongs, and i is a positive integer.

[0332] In this embodiment, the SSB group is the first SSB group. The group index of the first SSB group can be obtained by numbering the SSB groups located in the paging frame set from 1 according to the chronological order. The group index i of the first SSB group can satisfy:

[0333] i = ……………… Formula 3.

[0334] Formula 1 can be used to determine the index of the candidate PMO corresponding to the index of each SSB; Formula 2 can be used to limit the range of values ​​of the candidate PMO index in order to determine the index of the valid PMO from the index of the candidate PMO determined by Formula 1.

[0335] These parameters can be predefined, such as protocol predefined parameters, or they can be configured by network devices, such as satellite base station configuration. Since the terminal and satellite base station can determine the index corresponding to the valid PMO based on at least two of the first, second, third, and fourth parameters, it is not necessary to predefine or configure at least two of the first, second, third, and fourth parameters for each parameter.

[0336] Since the values ​​of the first to fourth parameters are all related to M and L, in another implementation, the values ​​of these multiple parameters can also be obtained based on the predefined or configured M and L.

[0337] X can be predefined or configured by the network device; this application does not limit this.

[0338] s can be predefined, configured by the network device, or determined by the terminal itself; this application does not limit this.

[0339] As an example, the pattern of SSBs required for satellite communication can be predefined. Network devices can configure the maximum number of SSBs that can be transmitted through SIB1. Terminals can determine the number of SSB groups based on the maximum number and the number of SSBs s included in each SSB group.

[0340] As an example, the aforementioned parameters X and s can be carried in SIB1 when configured by the network device. Specifically, X can be carried in the parameter "nrofPDCCH-MonitoringOccasionPerSSB-InPO-r16" within the information cell "paging control channel (PCCH) configuration (PCCH-Config)" in SIB1, and s can be carried in the parameter "ssb-PositionsInBurst" in SIB1.

[0341] To make it easier to understand, the following examples will illustrate the point:

[0342] Assuming the maximum number of candidate PMOs corresponding to each SSB is 2, i.e., X = 2, and the number of candidate PMOs corresponding to each SSB does not exceed 2, then x can take the values ​​0 and 1. Each search space group includes 10 valid PMOs, i.e., M = 10. The offset between any two adjacent search space groups includes 2 system frames, i.e., L = 2. Figure 7 Taking the two SSB groups located at SFN#0 and SFN#2 in (b) as an example, the SSB group located at SFN#0 is denoted as SSB group #1, and the SSB group located at SFN#2 is denoted as SSB group #2. The indices of the 8 SSBs in SSB group #1 are 0~7, from which the group index i of SSB group #1 can be calculated. = 1; The indices of the 8 SSBs in SSB group #2 are 8~15, from which the group index i of SSB group #2 can be calculated. =2.

[0343] Based on Formula 1, the index of each SSB and its corresponding candidate PMO can be obtained as follows:

[0344] For SSB group #1, i = 1:

[0345] When x = 0, if k = 0, then p = 0; if k = 1, then p = 1; if k = 2, then p = 2; ...; if k = 7, then p = 7.

[0346] When x = 1, if k = 0, then p = 8; if k = 1, then p = 9; if k = 2, then p = 10; ...; if k = 7, then p = 15.

[0347] Corresponding to SSB group #2, i = 2:

[0348] When x = 0, if k = 8, then p = 20; if k = 9, then p = 21; if k = 10, then p = 22; ...; if k = 15, then p = 27.

[0349] When x = 1, if k = 8, then p = 28; if k = 9, then p = 29; if k = 29, then p = 30; ...; if k = 15, then p = 35.

[0350] In summary, the candidate PMOs corresponding to SSBs with index 0 include indices 0 and 8; those with index 1 include indices 1 and 9; those with index 2 include indices 2 and 10; those with index 3 include indices 3 and 11; those with index 4 include indices 4 and 12; those with index 5 include indices 5 and 13; those with index 6 include indices 6 and 14; those with index 7 include indices 7 and 15; and those with index 8... The candidate PMO indices for the SSB with index 9 are 20 and 28; the candidate PMO indices for the SSB with index 9 are 21 and 29; the candidate PMO indices for the SSB with index 10 are 22 and 30; the candidate PMO indices for the SSB with index 11 are 23 and 31; the candidate PMO indices for the SSB with index 12 are 24 and 32; the candidate PMO indices for the SSB with index 13 are 25 and 33; the candidate PMO indices for the SSB with index 14 are 26 and 34; and the candidate PMO indices for the SSB with index 15 are 27 and 35.

[0351] Based on Formula 2, we can obtain the following: when i = 1, the range of values ​​for the index p corresponding to the effective PMO satisfies: 0 ≤ p < 10; when i = 2, we can obtain: 20 ≤ p < 30.

[0352] Combining the calculation results of Formula 1 and Formula 2, we can obtain:

[0353] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 0 includes the candidate PMOs with indices 0 and 8;

[0354] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 1 includes the candidate PMOs with indices 1 and 9;

[0355] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 2 includes the candidate PMO with index 2;

[0356] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 3 includes the candidate PMO with index 3;

[0357] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 4 includes the candidate PMO with index 4;

[0358] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 5 includes the candidate PMO with index 5;

[0359] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 6 includes the candidate PMO with index 6;

[0360] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 7 includes the candidate PMO with index 7;

[0361] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 8 includes the candidate PMOs with indices 20 and 28;

[0362] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 9 includes the candidate PMOs with indices 21 and 29;

[0363] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 10 includes the candidate PMO with index 22;

[0364] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 11 includes the candidate PMO with index 23;

[0365] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 12 includes the candidate PMO with index 24;

[0366] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 13 includes the candidate PMO with index 25;

[0367] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 14 includes the candidate PMO with index 26;

[0368] The valid PMO corresponding to the SSB with index 15 includes the candidate PMO with index 27.

[0369] In this way, the terminal and satellite base station can determine the index corresponding to the valid PMO within the at least one search space group.

[0370] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the effective PMOs within the search space group corresponding to the SSB group, determined based on Method 1. Figure 12 Is Figure 7Based on (b) in section 1, the candidate PMOs and valid PMOs corresponding to each SSB are determined using method 1. It can be seen that the valid PMO corresponding to SSB group #1 located in SFN#0 is located in SFN#1, and the valid PMO corresponding to SSB group #2 located in SFN#2 is located in SFN#3. That is, the system frame containing the PMO within the search space group corresponding to SSB group #1 is located between the system frames containing SSB group #1 and SSB group #2. Although not shown in the figure, this can be inferred that the system frame containing the PMO within the search space group corresponding to SSB group #2 is located between SSB group #2 and the subsequent SSB group #3. In other words, the location of the valid PMO does not overlap with the location of other signaling.

[0371] It should be understood that Formulas 1 to 3 above are merely examples, and those skilled in the art can make simple mathematical transformations based on Formulas 1 to 3 to obtain other possible variations.

[0372] For example, Equations 1 and 2 show the case where the first parameter is M and the second parameter is L. In another design, the value of M·L can be determined as the value of the third parameter, for example, denoted as P, and the value of M·(L-1) can be determined as the value of the fourth parameter, for example, denoted as Q. In this case, Equations 1 and 2 can be transformed into Equations 1-1 and 2-1 respectively, as follows:

[0373] p = x·s + (i-1)·P+ k mod s ……………… Formula 1-1; and

[0374] (i-1)·P≤p<(i-1)·P+ Q ……………… Formula 2-1.

[0375] For example, if the values ​​of the above parameters are M-1 and L-1 respectively, where M-1 is denoted as M' and L-1 as L', then Formula 1 and Formula 2 can be transformed into Formula 1-2 and Formula 2-2 respectively, as follows:

[0376] p = x·s + (i-1)·(M'+1)·(L'+1) + k mod s ……………… Formula 1-2; and

[0377] (i-1)·P≤p<(i-1)·(M'+1)·(L'+1) + (M'+1)·L'……………… Formula 2-2.

[0378] Due to the relationship between the values ​​of the first, second, third, and fourth parameters, given any two of the first to fourth parameters, Equation 1 and Equation 2 can be transformed to determine the index of the candidate PMO corresponding to the index of each SSB. For the sake of brevity, these will not be listed here.

[0379] For example, the group index of the SSB group can also start from 0. In this case, formulas 1, 2, and 3 can be transformed into formulas 1-3, 2-3, and 3-1, respectively, as follows:

[0380] p = x·s + i·M·L + k mod s ……………… Formula 1-3;

[0381] i·M·L≤p<i·M·L+ M·(L-1) ……………… Formula 2-3; and

[0382] i = ……………… Formula 3-1.

[0383] For example, the indices of SSB and candidate PMO can also start from 1. In this case, Equation 3 can also be transformed into Equation 3-2 as follows:

[0384] i = …………Formula 3-2.

[0385] The variations listed above can be combined to produce even more possible variations when conflicts occur, but for the sake of brevity, they will not be listed here.

[0386] It should also be understood that determining the index corresponding to the valid PMO based on the SSB index using a formula is only one possible implementation and should not constitute any limitation. Those skilled in the art can provide more possible implementations based on the same concept. For example, the index of the valid PMO can be mapped to the SSB index according to the following rule: For each SSB group, within the range of 0 to X-1, take integer values ​​for x sequentially. For each value of x, traverse the indices of each SSB within that SSB group, mapping to obtain the index of the candidate PMO, until the value of the mapped candidate PMO index reaches M·(L-1). The index of the candidate PMO whose value obtained by mapping the SSB index is less than M·(L-1) is determined as the index corresponding to the valid PMO.

[0387] It should also be understood that the above text, in combination with... Figure 12The diagrams shown are merely examples. As previously mentioned, this application does not limit the monitoring period or duration of the PDCCH, and different diagrams can be obtained based on different parameters. For example, the length of each search space group in the time domain is not limited to one system frame; each search space group can be located in one or more system frames.

[0388] For example, assume that the monitoring period of PDCCH is 4 time slots, the duration of PDCCH is 2 time slots, the starting position of the monitoring period of PDCCH is the first time slot of SFN#0, the first offset is 20 time slots, the maximum number of PMOs that each SSB can correspond to is 3, that is, X=3, and the number of PMOs included in each search space group is 20, that is, M=20.

[0389] Figure 13 The effective PMO within a search space group corresponding to an SSB group is shown based on this configuration. Figure 13 This diagram illustrates an SSB group (e.g., SSB group #1) located in SFN#0 and a search space group (e.g., SSB group #2) located in SFN#3. The valid PMOs within the search space group corresponding to SSB group #1 are located in SFN#1 and SFN#2, exactly between the system frames containing the two SSB groups. Within this search space group, every two PMOs occupy two consecutive time slots, and there are at least two PMOs in this search space group whose offset is more than one time slot.

[0390] Although not shown in the figure, it can be understood that the effective PMOs in the search space group corresponding to SSB group #2 are located in SFN#4 and SFN#5, and the distribution of each effective PMO in the time domain is similar to that in SFN#1 and SFN#2, which will not be elaborated further.

[0391] As you can see, different patterns can be obtained by configuring different values ​​for the parameters. Figure 12 and Figure 13 These are merely two possible examples, and this application includes, but is not limited to, them.

[0392] In summary, based on the monitoring period of SSB and PDCCH, the duration of PDCCH, and multiple parameters, the location of the effective PMO corresponding to the SSB can be determined. That is, the monitoring period of each SSB and PDCCH within the SSB group corresponding to the search space group, the duration of PDCCH, and multiple parameters satisfy a first relationship. This first relationship includes: the monitoring period of PDCCH is greater than the duration of PDCCH, so that PMOs with different monitoring periods are discontinuous in the time domain; and the indices of each SSB, multiple parameters, and the index corresponding to the effective PMO satisfy the aforementioned Formulas 1 and 2, or their possible variations.

[0393] In Method 1, by setting the PDCCH monitoring period to be longer than the PDCCH duration, more than one time slot offset exists between PMOs within different monitoring periods. This means that multiple PMOs within at least one search space group are discontinuous in the time domain. This facilitates the terminal receiving RAR messages and other signaling in these unoccupied time slots, improving the terminal's successful reception of RAR messages and enhancing access performance. Furthermore, by introducing at least two of the first, second, third, and fourth parameters, the terminal excludes some invalid PMO indices when mapping PMO indices based on the SSB index. This avoids blind detection on invalid PMOs and saves power.

[0394] Method 2:

[0395] Method two can be seen as an improvement upon Design one described above. In conjunction with the preceding text... Figure 7 As described in (a) of Design 1, the PMO and other signaling each occupy half a system frame, which is detrimental to the terminal's reception of RAR messages and affects the terminal's access performance. In Method 2, the fifth parameter indicates the temporal distribution of one or more PMOs within each search space group. This allows for the design of the temporal distribution of PMOs within a search space group according to requirements, resulting in one or more blank time slots between PMOs within a search space group for transmitting other signaling.

[0396] Unlike Method 1, the location of the PMO within at least one search space group can be determined based on at least the monitoring cycle of the PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the SSBs in each SSB group, and the fifth parameter. Specifically, the monitoring cycle of the PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, and the fifth parameter are used to determine the location of the PMO, while the SSBs in each SSB group are used to determine the corresponding PMO.

[0397] The monitoring period of the PDCCH is longer than its monitoring duration. The monitoring period of the PDCCH can be equal to the duration of a search space group. The monitoring duration of the PDCCH is not less than the offset between the time slots occupied by the first PMO and the last PMO within a PDCCH monitoring period (or, within a search space group). The time slots within the monitoring duration of the PDCCH are not necessarily completely occupied by PMOs; in other words, there is an offset of more than one time slot between at least two adjacent PMOs.

[0398] Similar to Method 1, the position of the first PMO in this paging frame set can be determined based on the offset of the PMO within the paging frame set. This offset can be a fixed value or flexibly configured. This offset can also be described using the first or third offset mentioned above, and will not be elaborated further.

[0399] As an example, one of the first to third offsets, along with the PDCCH monitoring period and PDCCH monitoring duration, is carried in the information cell "PDCCH-ConfigCommon" in SIB1. The specific value can be indexed by the "SearchSpaceId" configured in this information cell, and then indicated in the "SearchSpace Related Configuration" through the parameters "monitoringSlotPeriodicityAndOffset" and "duration". Among them, the PDCCH monitoring period corresponds to "monitoringSlotPeriodicityAndOffset", and the PDCCH monitoring duration corresponds to "duration".

[0400] As mentioned in the previous section on 5G protocol definitions and Method 1, "duration" can be used to indicate the duration of PDCCH. Method 2 can reuse this parameter "duration" to indicate the monitoring duration of PDCCH. The difference is that in Method 2, the terminal can interpret "duration" based on the monitoring duration of PDCCH, rather than interpreting it as the duration of PDCCH.

[0401] The distribution of PMOs in the time domain within a search space group can be indicated by a fifth parameter.

[0402] One possible design is that the fifth parameter includes the number of time slots included in the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group.

[0403] For ease of distinction and explanation, the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space is referred to as the fourth offset in this paper. The fourth offset can be identified by the number of time slots included in the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space.

[0404] One possible scenario is that the PMOs are evenly distributed within each search space group, and the offset between any two adjacent PMOs is the same. In this case, the fourth offset between any two adjacent PMOs can be indicated by the fifth parameter. For example, if the fifth parameter indicates two time slots, it means that the offset between any two adjacent PMOs is two time slots.

[0405] To make it easier to understand, we will use specific examples below.

[0406] Assuming the PDCCH monitoring period is 40 time slots, the PDCCH monitoring duration is 16 time slots, the starting position of the PDCCH monitoring period is the first time slot of SFN#0, the first offset is 21 time slots, and the fourth offset is 2 time slots, the PMO distribution within a search space group can be obtained as follows: Figure 14 As shown, within a PDCCH monitoring cycle, the eight PMOs are distributed across the PDCCH monitoring duration. The first and last PMOs are offset by 15 time slots, not exceeding the PDCCH monitoring duration of 16 time slots. These eight PMOs are evenly distributed in the time domain, with an offset of 2 time slots between every two adjacent PMOs.

[0407] It should be understood that it is used to form Figure 14 The parameters of the PDCCH pattern are not limited to those listed above. For example, the monitoring duration can be designed to be 15 time slots, or even more than 15 time slots. It should also be understood that... Figure 14 This is merely an example and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. This application makes no limitations on the values ​​of any parameters, the patterns, etc.

[0408] For cases where PMOs within a search space group are evenly distributed in the time domain, this distribution can also be determined by the first parameter. As mentioned earlier, the value of the first parameter is equal to the number of PMOs included in each search space group. In Method Two, the number of PMOs within a PDCCH monitoring duration can be determined based on the first parameter.

[0409] Assuming the monitoring duration of PDCCH is denoted as D, and the value of the first parameter is M, then the offset between every two adjacent PMOs in each search space group (i.e., the fourth offset) is: .

[0410] For example, if the first parameter is 8, it means that each search space group includes 8 PMOs. Assuming the PDCCH monitoring duration is 16 time slots, it can be determined that there is an offset of 2 time slots between every two adjacent PMOs, that is, the fourth offset is 2 time slots. In this case, the first parameter can be regarded as an example of implicitly indicating the fifth parameter.

[0411] Another possible design is that the fifth parameter includes a bitmap comprising multiple bits, each corresponding to a specific time slot. The value of each bit indicates whether the corresponding time slot is occupied by the PMO. The number of time slots included in this multi-slot configuration can be the number of time slots included in the PDCCH monitoring duration; in other words, the multiple bits correspond one-to-one with the multiple time slots included in the PDCCH monitoring duration. Alternatively, the multiple time slots can also be the number of time slots included in the PDCCH monitoring period; in other words, the multiple bits correspond one-to-one with the multiple time slots included in the PDCCH monitoring period. It is understood that since the PDCCH monitoring period is longer than the PDCCH monitoring duration, bit overhead can be saved when the multiple bits correspond one-to-one with the multiple time slots included in the PDCCH monitoring duration. It is also understood that in another design, the bitmap can include multiple bit groups, each bit group corresponding to a time slot, with the value of each bit group indicating whether the corresponding time slot is occupied by the PMO. Each bit group can include one or more bits.

[0412] For example, when these multiple bits are used to indicate whether the corresponding multiple time slots are occupied by the PMO, they can be indicated by different values, such as "1" indicating that the time slot is occupied by the PMO and "0" indicating that the time slot is not occupied by the PMO; or, "0" indicating that the time slot is occupied by the PMO and "1" indicating that it is not occupied by the PMO.

[0413] It should be noted that whether the time slot mentioned above is occupied by the PMO does not mean that the time slot has been or has not been occupied by the PMO, but rather whether the time slot can be identified as a PMO for satellite base station to transmit PDCCH or for terminal to perform blind detection of PDCCH.

[0414] To make it easier to understand, we will use specific examples below.

[0415] by Figure 14 Taking the pattern in the image as an example, in order to obtain Figure 14 The distribution of the PMO in a monitoring period, this fifth parameter can be indicated by a 16-bit bitmap, for example by “1010101010101010”.

[0416] It is understandable that, since each bit in this bitmap can correspond to a time slot, the bitmap can be configured more flexibly to distribute the PMOs within a monitoring period, without having to limit the PMOs to an equally spaced distribution in a search space group.

[0417] For example, with a PDCCH monitoring period of 40 time slots, a PDCCH monitoring duration of 16 time slots, a first offset of 20 time slots, and a bitmap indication of "1010110010101100", the PMO distribution within a search space group can be obtained as follows: Figure 15 As shown.

[0418] As can be seen, within a PDCCH monitoring cycle, the eight PMOs are distributed across the PDCCH monitoring duration. The first and last PMOs of these eight PMOs are offset by 14 time slots, not exceeding the 16 time slots of the PDCCH monitoring duration. These eight PMOs are not discontinuously distributed in the time domain, with each pair of adjacent PMOs offset by one or more time slots.

[0419] It should be understood that it is used to form Figure 14 and Figure 15 The parameters of the Chinese drawing are not limited to those listed above; for example, those used to form... Figure 14 The monitoring duration of the PDCCH pattern can be 15 time slots, starting from the first PMO and ending at the last PMO. The corresponding bitmap length can be 15 bits, such as "101010101010101"; used to form Figure 15 The monitoring duration of the PDCCH pattern can be 14 time slots, starting from the first PMO and ending at the last PMO. The length of the corresponding bitmap can also be 14 bits, such as "10101100101011".

[0420] This fifth parameter can be predefined or configured by the network device. This application does not impose any limitations on it.

[0421] As an example, this fifth parameter can be carried in SIB1 as one of the configuration parameters for the search space. For instance, this fifth parameter includes a fourth offset, which can be carried in the "SearchSpace related configuration" along with the aforementioned parameters "monitoringSlotPeriodicityAndOffset" and "duration", such as indicated by the parameter "interger".

[0422] It should be understood that SIB1 is merely an example, and this application does not limit the signaling used to carry the fifth parameter.

[0423] Since PMO and SSB have a corresponding relationship, in Method 2, the terminal and satellite base station can also determine the corresponding PMO based on each SSB in each SSB group.

[0424] For ease of explanation, assume that the index of the first SSB in the first SSB group is k, and the index of the PMO corresponding to the first SSB is p. For example, the index k of the SSB and the index p of the PMO can satisfy the following:

[0425] p = x·s + (i-1)·M + k mod s ……………… Formula 4;

[0426] Wherein, group index i can satisfy:

[0427] i = ……………… Formula 3.

[0428] The parameters involved in Formula 4 and Formula 3 have been explained in Method 1 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0429] It should be noted that the first parameter can be predefined, configured by the network device, or determined based on the fifth parameter.

[0430] For example, the fifth parameter includes a bitmap that indicates the time slots occupied by PMOs during the PDCCH monitoring period, thereby determining the number of PMOs in each search space group. For example, the bitmap "1010101010101010" indicates that the number of PMOs in each search space group is 8.

[0431] For example, the fifth parameter includes the fourth offset, which, combined with the duration of the PDCCH, can determine the number of PMOs within each search space group. For instance, if the fourth offset is 2 slots and the duration of the PDCCH is 16 slots, the number of PMOs within each search space group can be determined to be 8.

[0432] To make it easier to understand, the following examples illustrate the correspondence between SSB and PMO.

[0433] Assuming the maximum number of PMOs corresponding to each SSB is 2, i.e., X = 2, and the number of PMOs corresponding to each SSB does not exceed 2, then x can take the values ​​0 and 1. Each search space group includes 8 PMOs, i.e., M = 8. The PDCCH monitoring period is 40 time slots, the PDCCH monitoring duration is 16 time slots, and the fourth offset is 2, meaning that there is an offset of 2 time slots between every two adjacent PMOs within each search space group. Figure 7 Taking the two SSB groups located at SFN#0 and SFN#2 in (b) as an example, the SSB group located at SFN#0 is denoted as SSB group #1, and the SSB group located at SFN#2 is denoted as SSB group #2. The indices of the 8 SSBs in SSB group #1 are 0~7, from which the group index i of SSB group #1 can be calculated. = 1; The indices of the 8 SSBs in SSB group #2 are 8~15, from which the group index i of SSB group #2 can be calculated. = 2.

[0434] Since each search space group includes 8 PMOs, a single index traversal of the 8 SSBs in SSB group #1 will map to the 8 PMOs in the search space group corresponding to SSB #1, and a single index traversal of the 8 SSBs in SSB #2 will map to the 8 PMOs in the search space group corresponding to SSB #2.

[0435] Based on Formula 1, the index of each SSB and its corresponding PMO can be obtained as follows:

[0436] For SSB group #1, when i = 1 and x = 0: if k = 0, then p = 0; if k = 1, then p = 1; if k = 2, then p = 2; ...; if k = 7, then p = 7.

[0437] For SSB group #2, when i = 2 and x = 0: if k = 8, then p = 8; if k = 9, then p = 9; if k = 10, then p = 10; ...; if k = 15, then p = 15.

[0438] In this way, the terminal and / or satellite base station can identify the PMO corresponding to each SSB within multiple search space groups.

[0439] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the PMO within the search space group corresponding to the SSB group, determined based on method two. Figure 16 Is Figure 7 Based on (a) in the above, the PMO corresponding to each SSB is determined according to method two. It can be seen that the PMO corresponding to SSB group #1 located in SFN#0 is located in SFN#1, and the PMO corresponding to SSB group #2 located in SFN#2 is located in SFN#3. That is, the system frame containing the PMO within the search space group corresponding to SSB group #1 is located between the system frames containing SSB group #1 and SSB group #2. Although not shown in the figure, this can be inferred that the system frame containing the PMO within the search space group corresponding to SSB group #2 is located between SSB group #2 and the subsequent SSB group #3. In other words, the PMO's location does not overlap with the locations of other signaling. The PMOs within each search space group are not continuous in the time domain; at least two adjacent PMOs are offset by more than one time slot. Therefore, the satellite base station can transmit RAR messages in time slots not occupied by PMOs, and the terminal can receive RAR messages in these time slots.

[0440] It should be understood that Formulas 4 and 3 above are merely examples. Those skilled in the art can obtain other possible variations by making simple mathematical transformations based on Formulas 4 and 3. For example, Formula 4 shows the case where the first parameter is M. By performing any one or more mathematical transformations on M, Formula 4 can also be changed accordingly, thus yielding a variety of possible variations.

[0441] For example, if the value of the first parameter is determined based on M, which is M-1, for example denoted as M', then Formula 4 can be transformed as follows:

[0442] p = x·s + (i-1)·(M'+1) + k mod s ……………… Formula 4-1;

[0443] For example, if the value of the first parameter is determined to be M×a based on M, where a is not zero, for example, denoted as M'', then Formula 4 can be transformed as follows:

[0444] p = x·s + (i-1)·M'' / a + k mod s ……………… Formula 4-2.

[0445] Such variations can be obtained in many ways, which will not be listed here.

[0446] For variations of Formula 4, please refer to the examples in Method 1; they will not be repeated here.

[0447] It should also be understood that Figure 16 The diagrams shown are merely examples. This application does not limit the monitoring period of the PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, or the distribution of the PMO within the search space group. Different diagrams can be obtained based on different parameters. For example, the length of each search space group in the time domain is not limited to one system frame; each search space group can be located in one or more system frames.

[0448] For example, assuming the monitoring period of PDCCH is 60 time slots, the monitoring duration of PDCCH is 36 time slots, the starting position of the monitoring period of PDCCH is the first time slot of SFN#0, the first offset is 21 time slots, the maximum number of PMOs corresponding to each SSB is 3, that is, X=3, and the number of PMOs included in each search space group is 18, that is, M=18.

[0449] Figure 17 The effective PMO within a search space group corresponding to an SSB group is shown based on this configuration. Figure 17This diagram illustrates an SSB group (e.g., SSB group #1) located in SFN#0 and a search space group (e.g., SSB group #2) located in SFN#3. The valid PMOs within the search space group corresponding to SSB group #1 are located in SFN#1 and SFN#2, exactly between the system frames containing the two SSB groups. Within this search space group, every two PMOs occupy two consecutive time slots, and there are at least two PMOs in this search space group whose offsets include more than one time slot.

[0450] Although not shown in the figure, it can be understood that the effective PMOs in the search space group corresponding to SSB group #2 are located in SFN#4 and SFN#5, and the distribution of each effective PMO in the time domain is similar to that in SFN#1 and SFN#2, which will not be elaborated further.

[0451] As you can see, different patterns can be obtained by configuring different values ​​for the parameters. Figure 16 and Figure 17 These are merely two possible examples, and this application includes, but is not limited to, them.

[0452] In summary, based on the monitoring period of the SSB and PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the first parameter, and the fifth parameter, the location of the PMO corresponding to the SSB can be determined. That is, within the SSB group corresponding to the search space group, the monitoring period of each SSB and PDCCH, the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, the first parameter, and the fifth parameter satisfy a second relationship. This second relationship includes: the monitoring period of the PDCCH is greater than the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, so that the PMO is located within the monitoring duration of the PDCCH in the time domain, avoiding signaling overlap with other locations outside the monitoring duration range of the PDCCH; the monitoring duration of the PDCCH and the fifth parameter can be used to limit the distribution of PMOs within the monitoring period of the PDCCH, and the design of the fifth parameter can make the PMOs within the same PDCCH monitoring period discontinuously distributed in the time domain; the index of each SSB, the first parameter, and the index corresponding to the PMO satisfy the aforementioned Formula 4 or its possible variations.

[0453] In Method 2, the temporal distribution of PMOs within a search space group is indicated by the fifth parameter, ensuring that multiple PMOs within a PDCCH monitoring period are discontinuously distributed in the temporal domain. This results in more than one time slot offset between PMOs in different search space groups, facilitating the terminal's reception of RAR messages and other signaling on these unoccupied time slots. This improves the terminal's ability to successfully receive RAR messages and ensures access performance. Furthermore, by setting the PDCCH monitoring period to be longer than the PDCCH monitoring duration, the terminal performs blind PDCCH detection within the monitoring duration. This ensures that the system frames containing PMOs within each search space group are located between the system frames containing two adjacent SSB groups. Therefore, the PMO positions do not overlap with the positions of SSBs and other signaling, preventing the terminal from performing blind detection on invalid PMOs and saving power.

[0454] The foregoing has provided a detailed description of Method 1 and Method 2 in conjunction with several accompanying drawings. These drawings are provided for ease of understanding only and should not be construed as limiting this application. Based on the same concept, those skilled in the art can obtain more possible patterns by adjusting the parameters; for the sake of brevity, they are not listed here.

[0455] The above, combined with Figures 8 to 17 The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application is described in detail below. The following will be discussed in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 18 and Figure 19 The communication device provided in the embodiments of this application is described in detail.

[0456] Figure 18 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 18 As shown, the communication device 1800 may include a processing unit 1810 and a transceiver unit 1820.

[0457] In one possible design, the communication device 1800 may correspond to the terminal in the above method embodiments; for example, it may be a terminal, or it may be configured with components (such as chips, chip systems, etc.) for use in a terminal. The units in the device 1800 can be used to implement... Figure 8 The corresponding procedures executed by the terminal in method 800 are shown. For example, transceiver unit 1820 can be used to execute step 830 in method 800, and processing unit 1810 can be used to execute steps 840 and 850 in method 800. Specifically, transceiver unit 1820 can be used to receive a first SSB; processing unit 1810 can be used to determine a first PMO based on the first SSB, and perform blind detection of PDCCH on the first PMO.

[0458] In another possible design, the communication device 1800 may correspond to the satellite base station in the above method embodiments; for example, it may be a satellite base station, or it may be configured with components (such as chips, chip systems, etc.) for use in a satellite base station. The units of the device 1800 can be used to implement... Figure 7 The corresponding procedures executed by the satellite base station in method 800 are shown. For example, processing unit 1810 can be used to execute step 810 in method 800, and transceiver unit 1820 can be used to execute steps 820 and 860 in method 800. Specifically, processing unit 1810 can be used to determine the location of each PMO within at least one search space group; transceiver unit 1820 can be used to transmit PDCCH on the PMOs within the determined at least one search space group.

[0459] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit performing the above-mentioned corresponding steps has been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0460] It should also be understood that the module division in the embodiments of this application is illustrative and only represents a logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. Furthermore, the functional modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into a processor, exist as separate physical entities, or have two or more modules integrated into one module. The integrated modules described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules.

[0461] It should be understood that communication device 1800 can correspond to Figure 3 The communication system shown includes a base station 310 or a terminal 320. The processing unit 1810 in the communication device 1800 can correspond to the processor 312 in the base station 310 or the processor 322 in the terminal 320. It can invoke instructions stored in the memory through the processor in the base station 310 or the terminal 320 to achieve the aforementioned functions, such as determining the location of each PMO within the paging frame set. The transceiver unit 1820 can correspond to the interface 311 in the base station 310 or the interface 321 in the terminal 320. It can respond to the processor's instructions to achieve the aforementioned functions of receiving and / or sending data.

[0462] Specifically, when the processor 312 in the base station 310 can be used to execute step 810 in method 800, the interface 311 can be used to execute steps 820 and 860 in method 800; when the processor 322 in the terminal 320 can be used to execute steps 840 and 850 in method 800, the interface 321 can be used to execute step 830 in method 800.

[0463] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit performing the above-mentioned corresponding steps has been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0464] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of a possible structure of a terminal provided in an embodiment of this application. This terminal can be applied to, for example... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 The system shown. For example... Figure 19 As shown, the terminal 1900 includes a processor 1901 and a transceiver 1902. Optionally, the terminal 1900 also includes a memory 1903. The processor 1901, transceiver 1902, and memory 1903 can communicate with each other via internal connections to transmit control and / or data signals. The memory 1903 stores computer programs, and the processor 1901 retrieves and runs the computer programs from the memory 1903 to control the transceiver 1902 to transmit and receive signals. Optionally, the terminal 1900 may also include an antenna 1904 for transmitting uplink data or uplink control signaling output by the transceiver 1902 via wireless signals.

[0465] The processor 1901 and memory 1903 can be combined into a single processing device. The processor 1901 executes the program code stored in the memory 1903 to achieve the aforementioned functions. In specific implementations, the memory 1903 can be integrated into the processor 1901 or independent of it. The processor 1901 can be combined with... Figure 3 The processor 322 or Figure 18 This corresponds to processing unit 1810 in the text.

[0466] The transceiver 1902 described above can be used with Figure 3 Interface 321 or Figure 18 The transceiver unit 1820 corresponds to this. The transceiver 1902 may include a receiver (or receiver circuit) and a transmitter (or transmitter circuit). The receiver is used to receive signals, and the transmitter is used to transmit signals.

[0467] Optionally, the terminal 1900 may also include a power supply 1905 for providing power to various devices or circuits in the terminal 1900.

[0468] In addition, to further enhance the functionality of the terminal device, the terminal 1900 may also include one or more of the following: an input unit 1906, a display unit 1907, an audio circuit 1908, a camera 1909, and a sensor 1910. The audio circuit may also include a speaker 1908a, a microphone 1908b, etc.

[0469] It should be understood that Figure 19 The terminal 1900 shown can achieve Figure 8The method embodiments shown involve various processes of the terminal or the satellite base station. The operations and / or functions of each module in the terminal 1900 are respectively for implementing the corresponding processes in the above method embodiments. For details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments; to avoid repetition, detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted here.

[0470] In the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the above-described method embodiments can be applied to a processor or implemented by a processor. The processor may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. During implementation, each step of the above-described method embodiments can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software form. The processor described above can be a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor, etc. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly embodied as being executed by a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules can be located in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. This storage medium is located in memory, and the processor reads information from the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above-described method.

[0471] It is understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application may be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory may be ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or flash memory. Volatile memory may be RAM, which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, 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). It should be noted that the memory of the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0472] This application provides a chip system including at least one processor for supporting the implementation of the functions of the terminal or satellite base station involved in any of the above method embodiments, such as transmitting, receiving, or processing data and / or information involved in the above methods.

[0473] In one possible design, the chip system also includes a memory for storing program instructions and data, which may be located within or outside the processor.

[0474] The chip system can consist of chips or include chips and other discrete components.

[0475] This application also provides a computer program product, comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions), which, when executed, causes a computer to perform... Figure 8 The method executed by the terminal or the method executed by the satellite base station in the illustrated embodiment.

[0476] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions). When the computer program is run, it causes the computer to perform... Figure 8 The method executed by the terminal or the method executed by the satellite base station in the illustrated embodiment.

[0477] This application also provides a communication system, which includes the aforementioned terminal and wireless access network equipment. Optionally, the wireless access network equipment is a satellite base station.

[0478] The methods provided in the above embodiments can be implemented, in whole or in part, by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, they can be implemented, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product may include one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer may be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions may be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium may be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic disk), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., solid-state disk (SSD)).

[0479] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0480] 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.

[0481] In the several 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 coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0482] 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.

[0483] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0484] 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 portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to 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 includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory, random access memory, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0485] 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 communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive a first synchronization signal block (SSB), wherein the first SSB belongs to an SSB group, and the SSB group is one of multiple SSB groups; Based on the first SSB, a first physical downlink control channel monitoring opportunity (PMO) is determined, and blind detection of the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) is performed on the first PMO. The plurality of SSB groups correspond one-to-one with the plurality of search space groups. Each search space group includes one or more PMOs, and each SSB group includes one or more SSBs. One or more PMOs included in one of the plurality of search space groups include the first PMO. The location of one or more PMOs in each search space group is determined at least by each SSB in the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring period of the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), the duration of the PDCCH, and a plurality of parameters. The determined location of the PMO in each search space group satisfies the following: the system frame in which the PMO in each search space group is located is located between the system frames in which two adjacent SSB groups are located, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group includes more than one time slot; wherein, the monitoring period is greater than the duration, and the values ​​of the plurality of parameters are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups.

2. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The location of each Physical Downlink Control Channel Monitoring Opportunity (PMO) within at least one search space group is determined. The at least one search space group is comprised of multiple search space groups, each corresponding one-to-one with a Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) group. Each search space group includes one or more PMOs, and each SSB group includes one or more SSBs. The location of the one or more PMOs within each search space group is determined by at least the SSBs within the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring period of the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), the duration of the PDCCH, and multiple parameters. The determined location of the PMOs within each search space group satisfies the following: the system frame containing the PMO within each search space group is located between the system frames containing two adjacent SSB groups, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs within each search space group includes more than one time slot. The monitoring period is greater than the duration, and the values ​​of the multiple parameters are related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group and the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups. The PDCCH is transmitted on the PMO within the at least one search space group.

3. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The plurality of parameters includes at least two of a first parameter, a second parameter, a third parameter, and a fourth parameter. The value of the first parameter is equal to the number of PMOs included in each search space group. The value of the second parameter is equal to the number of system frames included in the offset between two adjacent search space groups. The value of the third parameter is equal to the product of the values ​​of the first parameter and the second parameter. The value of the fourth parameter is equal to the difference between the value of the third parameter and the value of the first parameter.

4. The method as described in claim 3, characterized in that, In each search space group, the position of each PMO corresponds to the index of a candidate PMO; wherein, the index p of the candidate PMO corresponding to the position of each PMO in the first search space group of the plurality of search space groups satisfies: Wherein, the first search space group is one of the plurality of search space groups; x = 0, 1, ..., X-1, where X is the maximum number of candidate PMOs corresponding to each SSB, and X is a positive integer; s is the number of SSBs included in each SSB group, and s is a positive integer; i is the group index of the first SSB group corresponding to the first search space group in the plurality of SSB groups, and i is a positive integer; k is the index of an SSB in the plurality of SSB groups, and k is a natural number less than or equal to S-1, where S is the total number of SSBs included in the plurality of SSB groups, and S is a positive integer; M is the value of the first parameter, and M is a positive integer; L is the value of the second parameter, and L is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2; mod represents the modulo operation.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-2 and 4, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of parameters satisfies either: it is predefined, or it is configured by the network device.

6. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive a first synchronization signal block (SSB), wherein the first SSB belongs to an SSB group, and the SSB group is one of multiple SSB groups; Based on the first SSB, a first physical downlink control channel monitoring opportunity (PMO) is determined, and blind detection of the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) is performed on the first PMO. The plurality of SSB groups correspond one-to-one with the plurality of search space groups. Each search space group includes one or more PMOs, and each SSB group includes one or more SSBs. One or more PMOs included in one of the plurality of search space groups include the first PMO. The location of one or more PMOs in each search space group is determined at least by each SSB in the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring period of the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, a first parameter, and a fifth parameter. The determined location of the PMO in each search space group satisfies the following: the system frame in which the PMO in each search space group is located is located between the system frames in which two adjacent SSB groups are located, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs in each search space group includes more than one time slot. The monitoring period is greater than the monitoring duration. The value of the first parameter is related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group. The fifth parameter indicates the temporal distribution of one or more PMOs in each search space group.

7. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The location of each Physical Downlink Control Channel Monitoring Opportunity (PMO) within at least one search space group is determined. The at least one search space group is comprised of multiple search space groups, each corresponding one-to-one with a Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) group. Each search space group includes one or more PMOs, and each SSB group includes one or more SSBs. The location of the one or more PMOs within each search space group is determined at least by each SSB within the corresponding SSB group, the monitoring period of the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), the monitoring duration of the PDCCH, a first parameter, and a fifth parameter. The determined location of the PMOs within each search space group satisfies the following conditions: the system frame containing the PMO within each search space group is located between the system frames containing two adjacent SSB groups, and the offset between at least two adjacent PMOs within each search space group includes more than one time slot. The monitoring period is greater than the monitoring duration. The value of the first parameter is related to the number of PMOs included in each search space group, and the fifth parameter indicates the temporal distribution of one or more PMOs within each search space group. The PDCCH is transmitted on the PMO within the plurality of search space groups.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, 4, 6-7, characterized in that, The number of SSBs in each SSB group and the maximum number of PMOs corresponding to each SSB satisfy either: predefined, or configured by the network device.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, 4, 6-7, characterized in that, Each search space group resides in one or more system frames.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, 4, 6-7, characterized in that, The multiple search space groups are search space groups in a paging frame set, which occupies multiple consecutive system frames in the time domain.

11. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The paging frame set includes one or more paging opportunities (POs), each PO occupying multiple consecutive system frames in the time domain; The multiple search space groups are search space groups within a paging frame set, including: The plurality of search space groups are search space groups in one of the one or more POs included in the paging frame set.

12. The method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The index i_s corresponding to PO satisfies: i_s = Wherein, UE_ID is the identifier of the terminal; The number of paging frame sets included in one paging cycle. It is a positive integer; The number of POs included in a paging frame set. It is a positive integer; mod represents the modulo operation.

13. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 12, characterized in that, The system frame containing the starting position of the paging frame set satisfies: (SFN + O) mod T = (T div )×(UE_ID mod ); where SFN is the system frame number of the system frame; O is the number of system frames included in the offset between the system frame where the starting position of the paging frame set is located and the reference position; The number of paging frame sets included in one paging cycle. is a positive integer; UE_ID is the identifier of the terminal; T is the duration of the paging cycle; div represents the operation of the return quotient; mod represents the modulo operation; the reference position is predefined by the protocol or configured.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 12, characterized in that, The end position of the paging frame set is determined by the start position of the paging frame set and a sixth parameter, which includes: the duration of the paging frame set in the time domain, or the number of system frames included in the paging frame set, or the number of search space groups included in the paging frame set.

15. The method as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The sixth parameter is either predefined or configured by the network device.

16. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes units for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a processor for executing program code to cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

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