Identifier determination for sub-networks

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention relates to equipment, a method and a device for determining an identifier of a subnet, and a computer readable storage medium. In an example embodiment, a first network device in a subnet of a radio access network obtains a first identifier and a second identifier of the subnet. And then, the first network device sends a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the sub-network, and the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier. Further, the first network device uses a second identifier within the sub-network for data communication with at least one of the one or more terminal devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Example embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of communications, and in particular, to methods, apparatus, and computer-readable storage media for identifier determination of a subnetwork. Background Art

[0002] From the fifth generation (5G) network to the sixth generation (6G) network, the number of devices increases significantly. In many scenarios, devices will evolve into networks of devices, also known as sub-networks. Sub-networks are a promising component of 6G networks to meet the extreme performance requirements of certain 6G short-range scenarios in terms of latency, reliability, and / or throughput. Sub-networks are typically installed in specific entities, such as in-vehicle, in-body, indoors, to provide life-critical data services with extreme performance over local capillary coverage. Summary of the invention

[0003] In general, example embodiments of the present disclosure provide devices, methods, apparatus, and computer-readable storage media for identifier determination of a subnetwork.

[0004] In a first aspect, a first network device in a subnetwork of a radio access network is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first network device to obtain a first identifier and a second identifier of the subnetwork. The first network device is also caused to transmit a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier. Then, the second identifier is also caused to be used in data communication with at least one terminal device of the one or more terminal devices within the subnetwork.

[0005] In a second aspect, a terminal device in a wireless access network subnetwork is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the terminal device to receive a synchronization signal from a first network device in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on a first identifier of the subnetwork. Then, in the subnetwork, a second identifier of the subnetwork is used in data communication with the first network device and / or with at least one terminal device among the one or more terminal devices.

[0006] In a third aspect, a second network device in a radio access network is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the second network device to transmit configuration information to a first network device in a subnetwork of the radio access network, the configuration information indicating at least one of the following: at least one first identifier of the subnetwork and at least one second identifier of the subnetwork.

[0007] In a fourth aspect, a method is provided. In the method, at a first network device in a subnetwork of a radio access network, a first identifier and a second identifier of the subnetwork are obtained. Then, the first network device transmits a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork, the synchronization signal being based on the first identifier. In addition, the first network device uses the second identifier in data communication with at least one terminal device of the one or more terminal devices within the subnetwork.

[0008] In a fifth aspect, a method is provided. In the method, a terminal device in a subnet of a wireless access network receives a synchronization signal from a first network device in the subnet, wherein the synchronization signal is based on a first identifier of the subnet. Then, in communication with the first network device of the subnet and / or communication with at least one terminal device in one or more terminal network devices, the terminal device uses a second identifier of the subnet.

[0009] In a sixth aspect, a method is provided, in which a second network device in a radio access network transmits configuration information to a first network device in a subnetwork of the radio access network, the configuration information indicating at least one of the following: at least one first identifier of the subnetwork and at least one second identifier of the subnetwork.

[0010] In a seventh aspect, a device is provided, comprising components for executing the method according to the fourth aspect, the fifth aspect or the sixth aspect.

[0011] In an eighth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising program instructions stored thereon, wherein when the instructions are executed by a processor of a device, the device executes the method according to the fourth aspect, the fifth aspect, or the sixth aspect.

[0012] It should be understood that the invention summary is not intended to identify the key features or essential features of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Other features of the present disclosure will become readily understood through the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figures 1A to 1DSeveral typical sub-network use cases according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure are shown;

[0015] Figure 2 shows a simplified block diagram of an environment in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented;

[0016] Figure 3 shows signaling flows between devices according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4 An example process with the proposed dual identifier framework for a subnetwork in overlay network coverage according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figure 5 Another example process with the proposed dual identifier framework for a sub-network in the coverage area of ​​an overlay network according to some other example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0019] Figure 6 A flowchart showing an example method for a first network device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0020] Figure 7 A flowchart showing an example method for a terminal device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0021] Figure 8 A flowchart showing an example method for a second network device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0022] Fig. 9 A simplified block diagram of a device suitable for implementing an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0023] Throughout the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The principles of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to some example embodiments. It should be understood that these example embodiments are described only for illustrative purposes and are helpful for those skilled in the art to understand and implement the present disclosure without implying any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The disclosure described herein can be implemented in various ways different from the ways described below.

[0025] In the following description and claims, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0026] As used herein, the term "network device" refers to a device via which a service can be provided to a sub-network in a communication network. As an example, a network device may include a base station. A base station may include any suitable device via which a sub-network can access a communication network. Examples of base stations include relays, access points (APs), transmission points (TRPs), node Bs (Node Bs or NBs), evolved NodeBs (e Node Bs or eNBs), new radio (NR) NodeBs (gNBs), remote radio modules (RRUs), radio heads (RHs), remote radio heads (RRHs), low power nodes such as femto, micro, etc. For the purpose of discussion, some example embodiments will be described with reference to base stations as examples of devices.

[0027] As used herein, the term "subnetwork" refers to a network of devices consisting of multiple devices that can communicate wirelessly with each other. Communications in a subnetwork may involve the transmission and / or reception of wireless signals using electromagnetic signals, radio waves, infrared signals, and / or other types of signals suitable for conveying information in the air. In some example embodiments, a subnetwork may be configured to transmit and / or receive information without direct human interaction. For example, a subnetwork may include a robot, an autonomous vehicle, a household appliance, a wearable device, or any other device capable of communicating. Multiple devices in a subnetwork may be physically separate entities, or may be integrated into one or more physical entities. As an example, a subnetwork may include a network device and several terminal devices that communicate with each other.

[0028] As used herein, the term "circuitry" may refer to one, more, or all of the following: (a) Hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation in analog and / or digital circuitry only). (b) a combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (where applicable): (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry and software / firmware, and (ii) any portion of a hardware processor (including a digital signal processor) with software, software and memory that work together to enable a device such as a mobile phone or server to perform various functions. (c) A hardware circuit and / or processor that requires software (e.g., firmware) for operation, such as a microprocessor or portion of a microprocessor, but the software may not be present when not required for operation.

[0029] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of only a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or a portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to a particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0030] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term "including" and variations thereof will be understood as open terms meaning "including, but not limited to." The term "based on" will be understood as "based at least in part on." The terms "one embodiment" and "an embodiment" will be understood as "at least one embodiment." The term "another embodiment" will be understood as "at least one other embodiment." Other explicit and implicit definitions may be included below.

[0031] As mentioned above, the number of devices increases significantly from 5G networks to 6G networks. In many scenarios, devices will evolve into networks of devices, also known as sub-networks. Sub-networks are a promising component of 6G systems to meet the extreme performance requirements of certain 6G short-distance scenarios in terms of latency, reliability, and / or throughput. Sub-networks are typically installed in specific entities, e.g., in-vehicle, in-body, indoors, to provide life-critical data services with extreme performance over local capillary coverage. Figures 1A to 1D Several typical sub-network use cases according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure are shown, wherein Figure 1A shows the module sub-network within the robot or within production, Figure 1B shows the onboard sub-network, Figure 1C The in vivo subnetwork is shown, and Figure 1D An indoor sub-network is shown.

[0032] The subnetwork has the following core properties and technical characteristics: ●Support extreme performance requirements in terms of latency, reliability and / or throughput; Low transmission power, which means limited coverage, e.g. a few meters; Star or tree topology, with at least one AP and one or more UEs controlled by the AP; ● Overall mobility of the AP and associated UEs, but lack / limited mobility between different sub-networks; ● Cover part of a wide area network (WAN) but must continue to work when outside the network coverage area.

[0033] Each sub-network should have its own physical layer identifier (ID) for distinguishing from other sub-networks based on synchronization signals, reference signals, scrambling sequences, etc., for example, for interference suppression or randomization.

[0034] Since subnetworks are mobile and high density is expected in certain scenarios, for example, congested roads for in-vehicle scenarios, or crowded events for in-vivo scenarios, one technical challenge of subnetwork ID allocation is that ID conflict issues may occur when two far-flung subnetworks using the same ID move adjacent to each other. This can lead to ID conflicts and threaten the provision of extreme performance. Therefore, the mobility of subnetworks motivates more dynamic management and allocation of subnetwork IDs, rather than configuring them in a static or quasi-static manner.

[0035] On the other hand, the computational complexity of the devices in the subnet must be kept as small as possible to accommodate the small size and low power capacity of these devices in the subnet deployment (although this may depend on the specific subnet scenario, with very strict power constraints for in-body devices and more relaxed power constraints for in-vehicle or robot devices). Therefore, a more dynamic physical subnet ID allocation can provide benefits in terms of interference suppression, but if not designed properly, it may increase the complexity and power consumption of devices in the subnet, which is undesirable when searching for synchronization signals from APs in the subnet, for example.

[0036] In order to solve at least some of the above problems and other potential problems, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a scheme for determining an identifier of a sub-network. Through the scheme, a first network device in a sub-network of a radio access network obtains a first identifier and a second identifier of the sub-network. Then, the first network device transmits a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the sub-network, and the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier. In addition, the first network device uses the second identifier in data communication with at least one terminal device of the one or more terminal devices within the sub-network.

[0037] This scheme also supports flexible and dynamic identifier configuration and low-complexity operation of devices in the subnet when they initially access the associated subnet. Therefore, the proposed scheme can achieve efficient communication in the subnet.

[0038] Figure 2An example environment 200 is shown in which an example embodiment of the present disclosure may be implemented. The environment 200 may be part of a communication network, including a radio access network 203. In the radio access network 203, a subnetwork 205 is included. The subnetwork 205 includes a network device (also referred to as a first network device) 210 and a plurality of terminal devices 220-1, 220-2, ..., 220-N, where N represents any suitable positive integer. For the purpose of discussion, the terminal devices 220-1, 220-2, ..., 220-N will be collectively or individually referred to as terminal devices 220. The radio access network 203 also includes other network devices (also referred to as second network devices) 230. In the environment 200, there is communication between the first network device 210 and the terminal device 220, as well as communication between the plurality of terminal devices 220-1, 220-2, ..., 220-N, and communication between the first device 210 and the second device 230.

[0039] As an example, the first network device 210 can be implemented as an AP, the terminal device 220 can be implemented as a UE, and the second network device 230 can be implemented by a base station (BS). In this case, the first network device 210 can serve and manage multiple terminal devices 220-1, 220-2, ..., 220-N in the capillary sub-network coverage. On the other hand, the first network device 210 can be connected to the second device 230, and the second device 230 can control and coordinate different sub-networks including the sub-network 205 to some extent.

[0040] It should also be understood that Figure 2 The number of devices in sub-network 205 or environment 200 shown in FIG. 2 is for illustration purposes only and does not imply any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. Any suitable number of devices may exist in sub-network 205 or in environment 200.

[0041] Communications in environment 200 may follow any suitable communication standard or protocol already in existence or developed in the future, such as Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), Advanced LTE (LTE-A), Fifth Generation (5G) New Radio (NR), Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi), and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (Wi MAX) standards, and employ any suitable communication technology, including, for example, Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO), Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), Frequency Division Multiplexing (FDM), Code Division Multiplexing (CDM), Bluetooth, ZigBee, and Machine Type Communication (MTC), Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC), Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communication (URLLC), Carrier Aggregation (CA), Dual Connectivity (DC), and NR-U technology.

[0042] The following will refer to Figures 3 to 5 Discusses the detailed process used for communication between devices.

[0043] First reference Figure 3 , which shows a signaling flow 300 between devices according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to Figure 2 The signaling flow 300 is described. In some exemplary embodiments, the first network device 210 may be implemented as an AP, the terminal device 220 may be implemented as a UE, and the second network device 230 may be implemented by a BS.

[0044] In some example embodiments, the first network device 210 may access the second network device 230 on behalf of the entire sub-network to perform some necessary operations, such as establishing an RRC connection with the second network device 230, registering and authenticating with the core network, and the like.

[0045] Then, the second network device 230 can configure resource / parameter settings to the first network device 210 to support sub-network operation. Figure 3 As shown, the second network device 230 may transmit ( 305 ) configuration information to the first network device 210 .

[0046] For example, the configuration information may include information associated with the determination of an identifier for the subnetwork 205. As an example, the subnetwork may have a first identifier and a second identifier. For example, the first identifier may have a small length, for example, 4 bits, corresponding to 16 candidate values ​​for the first identifier, and the first identifier may form a set of candidate first identifiers. For example, the second identifier may have a relatively large bit size, for example, 10 bits, corresponding to at most 1024 candidate values ​​for the second identifier, and the second identifier may form a set of candidate second identifiers.

[0047] As an example, the configuration information may indicate at least one first identifier of the sub-network 205. Alternatively or additionally, the configuration information may indicate at least one second identifier of the sub-network 205. The configuration information may then be used by the first network device 210 to determine the first identifier and / or the second identifier of the sub-network 205.

[0048] The first device 110 then obtains ( 310 ) the first identifier and the second identifier of the subnetwork 205 .

[0049] For example, the first device 110 may determine the first identifier in various ways.

[0050] In some example embodiments, the first device 210 may determine the first identifier based on the first identifier set. In this case, for example, the first device 210 may randomly select a first identifier from the first identifier set. As an example, if the first identifier has a bit size of 4 bits, the full set of the first identifier may consist of all candidate values ​​of the first identifier. For example, the full set may be represented as {0, 1, 2, 3, ..., 15}. Alternatively, the first identifier set may consist of a subset of the full set.

[0051] In some example embodiments, the first network device 210 may sense and monitor potential first identifiers used by other neighboring sub-networks, and select a first identifier that is not used by other neighboring sub-networks from the set of first identifiers.

[0052] In some example embodiments, the configuration information may indicate at least one first identifier assigned by the second network device 230. In this case, if only one first identifier is configured, the first network device 210 may determine the first identifier as the assigned first identifier. If a set of first identifiers is configured, the first network device 210 may determine the first identifier from the configured set of first identifiers. As an example, the assignment of the first identifier may be performed by the second network device 230 based on the AP location information (if available).

[0053] In some example embodiments, the first identifier may be obtained based on a preconfigured value. For example, the first identifier may be preconfigured by the operator / owner of the subnetwork and is therefore known to both the first network device 210 and the terminal device 220. In this case, it will be beneficial for the terminal device 220 to perform an initial search for a synchronization signal.

[0054] For example, the first device 110 may determine the second identifier in various ways.

[0055] In the example embodiment where the configuration information indicates a second identifier for subnetwork 205, first device 210 may determine the second identifier as the indicated second identifier.

[0056] In an example embodiment where the configuration information indicates a set of second identifiers for subnetwork 205, first device 210 may determine the second identifier based at least on the configuration information. For example, first device 210 may determine the second identifier from the indicated set of second identifiers. As an example, first device 210 may perform channel sensing and then determine the second identifier from the indicated set of second identifiers by excluding one or more second identifiers used by other neighboring subnetworks. As another example, first device 210 may randomly select a second identifier from the indicated set of second identifiers.

[0057] In some example embodiments, if the first network device 210 is outside the coverage of the overlay network, the second identifier may be autonomously selected by the first network device 210 from a set of second identifiers. For example, the set may be a full set of second identifiers or a subset of the full set. As an example, the first network device 210 may perform channel sensing before sub-network transmission and operation. Then, the first network device 210 may determine the second identifier by avoiding the second identifier being used by the neighboring sub-network.

[0058] It should be understood that the determination of the first identifier or the second identifier may be achieved in any other suitable manner without implying any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure.

[0059] In some example embodiments, after determining the first identifier, the first network device 210 may generate a synchronization signal. For example, the first network device 210 may generate a synchronization signal based at least on the first identifier. Then, as Figure 3 As shown, the first network device transmits (315) a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices among the plurality of terminal devices 220-1, 220-2, ..., 220-N in the sub-network 205.

[0060] In addition, in some example embodiments, based on the determination of the second identifier, the first network device 210 may also transmit a message indicating the second identifier to one or more of the plurality of terminal devices 220-1, 220-2, ..., 220-N. As an example, the message may be transmitted via a synchronization channel, which may also be referred to as a physical broadcast channel in the subnetwork 205, wherein the reference signal is associated with the synchronization channel. For example, the reference signal may be a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0061] As an example, the first network device 110 may encode basic control information including the second identifier and other control information (e.g., an indication of frequency and / or time resources to be used by the subnetwork 205 for data communication). Note that it may be assumed here that the synchronization channel is bound to the synchronization signal.

[0062] In some example embodiments, the first network device 110 may then generate a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel based at least on the first identifier. For example, the first identifier may be set as an initial seed for related sequence generation. As another example, the first identifier may be used to determine a base signal sequence. In addition, the first network device 110 may randomly select a value from a predefined set (e.g., {0, 1, 2, 3}) that may determine a cyclic shift for the base sequence. The reference signal may then be determined not only based on the first identifier but also based on the randomly selected value, which may be beneficial for interference suppression of the reference signal and the synchronization channel.

[0063] In some example embodiments, first network device 210 may transmit a synchronization signal and / or a synchronization channel to terminal device 220 on time / frequency resources configured by second network device 230 or predefined in a system specification.

[0064] Then, the corresponding terminal device 220 may detect the synchronization signal and / or the channel to obtain synchronization information and control information including the second identifier and other control information.

[0065] For example, the terminal device 220 may search for or detect a synchronization signal to obtain timing / frequency synchronization information of the sub-network 205 and obtain the first identifier.

[0066] In an example embodiment in which a first identifier is pre-configured between the first network device 210 and the terminal device 220, the terminal device 220 may continuously search for and monitor a specific synchronization signal corresponding to the first identifier until successful detection.

[0067] In some example embodiments where the first identifier is determined based on a set of first identifiers, the terminal device 220 may blindly search for a candidate synchronization signal sequence corresponding to each candidate first identifier in the set of identifiers. For example, the terminal device 220 may start from the most recently used first identifier.

[0068] Furthermore, in some example embodiments, the terminal device 220 may detect a synchronization channel to acquire control information and parameters including the second identifier.

[0069] In an example embodiment where a reference signal associated with a synchronization channel is determined based on the first identifier, terminal device 220 may determine the reference signal based on the first identifier. Terminal device 220 may then perform channel estimation and then decode the synchronization channel.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment in which a reference signal associated with a synchronization channel is determined based on a first identifier as a basic signal sequence and a value randomly selected from a predefined set as a cyclic shift, the terminal device 220 may first determine the base sequence based on the first identifier, and then perform a hypothesis test for each cyclic shift corresponding to each selected value of the predefined set to perform channel estimation and / or synchronization channel decoding. On this basis, the terminal device 220 may acquire control information and parameters including a second identifier. In this way, low complexity and conflict avoidance may be achieved and well balanced.

[0071] Furthermore, in some example embodiments, the terminal device 220 may access the first network device 210 to establish a connection. The first network device 210 may perform necessary configurations on the terminal device 220 to support data communication within the sub-network.

[0072] Then, if Figure 3 As shown, within the sub-network 205, the first network device 210 uses (320) the second identifier in data communication with the terminal device 220. For example, the first network device 210 may use the second identifier to perform data communication with at least one of the plurality of terminal devices 220-1, 220-2, ..., 220-N. Alternatively or additionally, a terminal device (e.g., the terminal device 220-1) among the plurality of terminal devices 220-1, 220-2, ..., 220-N may use the second identifier of the sub-network 205 for use in data communication with at least another terminal device (e.g., the terminal device 220-2 or the terminal devices 220-2 to 220-4) among the plurality of terminal devices 220-1, 220-2, ..., 220-N in the sub-network 205.

[0073] In some example embodiments, the first network device 210 may generate a sequence associated with a physical channel for data communication based at least on the second identifier. Accordingly, the terminal device may obtain the sequence. For example, the physical channel may include a physical shared channel for data communication, or a physical control channel for transmission of control information for a downlink or uplink or sidelink within the subnetwork 205. As an example, the sequence may include a DMRS sequence.

[0074] In some example embodiments, first network device 210 may generate a scrambling sequence associated with a scrambling operation for the encoded bits on the physical channel. For example, the scrambling sequence may be determined based on at least the second identifier.

[0075] Since the first identifier is obtained from the detection of the synchronization signal, the synchronization signal is also used to detect the synchronization channel carrying at least the second identifier, to resolve the potential conflict of the first identifier caused by the smaller length of the first identifier and the impact on the detection of the synchronization channel, the first network device 210 can determine the sequence associated with the physical channel (such as the scrambling sequence of the DMRS and / or synchronization channel) based on the first identifier with some random combinations (e.g., a randomly selected value from a predefined set as described above). Therefore, the terminal device 220 can perform hypothesis testing to detect the synchronization channel and resolve conflicts. In this way, low complexity and conflict avoidance can be achieved and well balanced.

[0076] According to the proposed solution, based on using a first identifier with a smaller length to generate a synchronization signal, a smaller search space is provided for the terminal device 220 to determine the first identifier, thereby reducing the complexity and power consumption of the terminal device 220. For example, for a first identifier with a length of 4 bits, the terminal device can search for the synchronization signal and obtain the first identifier by trying up to 16 synchronization signal sequences, while if the NR physical cell ID (PCI) and the associated synchronization signal are reused, the terminal device 220 may have to try, for example, 1008 synchronization signal sequences to obtain the PCI and synchronization (which may not be affordable for some sub-network scenarios).

[0077] In addition, based on using the second identifier with a larger length, the second identifier can be controlled and appropriately allocated or coordinated by the second network device 230 to avoid conflicts between adjacent sub-networks. In this way, potential inter-sub-network interference can be suppressed.

[0078] Figure 4 An example process 400 with the proposed dual identifier framework for a subnetwork in the coverage area of ​​an overlay network according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to Figure 2 Describe process 400. In this case, first network device 210 is implemented by AP 401, terminal device 220 is implemented by UE 403, and second network device 230 is implemented by BS 405. In this case, the sub-network is within the coverage of BS 405, and BS 405 can manage or coordinate the sub-network within its coverage.

[0079] like Figure 4 As shown, at 406, AP 401 accesses BS 405 on behalf of the entire sub-network to perform necessary operations, such as establishing an RRC connection with BS 405, registering and authenticating with the core network, and the like.

[0080] At 408, BS 405 configures resource / parameter settings to AP 401 to support sub-network operation. In particular, at least a second identifier or a set of second identifiers may be assigned by BS 405 and included in the configuration.

[0081] At 410, AP 401 determines a first identifier and generates a synchronization signal based on the first identifier. Figure 3 The first identifier may be determined in any suitable manner as described herein.

[0082] At 412, AP 401 determines the second identifier and other basic control information, and then generates a synchronization channel and its associated reference signal, such as a DMRS signal. Figure 3 For example, AP 401 may determine the second identifier by referring to Figure 3 The associated reference signal is generated in any suitable manner as described (eg, based on the first identifier combined with a randomness).

[0083] At 414, AP 401 sends a synchronization signal / channel to terminal devices in the sub-network (eg, including UE 403). For example, AP 401 may send the synchronization signal / channel on a time / frequency resource configured by the overlay network or predefined in the system specification.

[0084] At 416, UE 403 detects the synchronization signal / channel to obtain synchronization information and control information, the control information including the second identifier and other control information. For example, UE 403 may search / detect the synchronization signal to obtain timing / frequency synchronization information of the subnetwork and obtain the first identifier. For example, UE 403 may refer to Figure 3 The UE 403 may then detect the synchronization channel to obtain control information and parameters including the second identifier. For example, the UE 403 may obtain the first identifier value in any suitable manner as described above. Figure 3 For example, UE 403 may obtain the second identifier value by referring to Figure 3 A reference signal (such as a DMRS) associated with a synchronization channel is acquired in any suitable manner as described.

[0085] Then, at 418, UE 403 accesses AP 401 to establish a connection, and AP 401 performs necessary configurations on the devices within the sub-network to support data communication within the sub-network.

[0086] At 420, data communication is performed between AP 401 and UE 403. For example, a DMRS signal associated with the data communication may be generated based on at least the second identifier. As another example, a scrambling operation may be performed on channel coded bits having a scrambling sequence generated based on the second identifier.

[0087] As above reference Figure 3 All operations and features described are also applicable to process 400 and have similar effects. For the purpose of simplicity, details will be omitted.

[0088] Figure 5 Another example process with the proposed dual identifier framework for a subnetwork in the coverage area of ​​an overlay network according to some other example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to Figure 2 The process 500 is described. In this case, the first network device 210 is implemented by an AP 501, and the terminal device 220 is implemented by a UE 503. In this case, the sub-network is outside the coverage of a BS, which can manage or coordinate the sub-network in its coverage.

[0089] like Figure 5 As shown, at 506, AP 501 detects that it is out of coverage of the overlay network, for example, AP 501 may be unable to acquire a synchronization signal from a BS of the overlay network for a certain duration.

[0090] At 508, AP 501 determines the second identifier based on channel sensing. For example, AP 501 may attempt to detect synchronization signals / channels from other subnetworks to identify which second identifiers are being used. AP 501 may then randomly select a second identifier from available unused second identifiers.

[0091] At 510, the AP 501 determines a first identifier and generates a synchronization signal based on the first identifier. For example, the AP 501 may determine the first identifier based on channel sensing or preconfiguration.

[0092] At 512, AP 501 encodes the second identifier and other control information to generate a synchronization channel, and also generates an associated DMRS based on the first identifier, potentially combined with randomization, as described with reference to Figure 3 as described.

[0093] At 514, AP 501 transmits a synchronization signal / channel to terminal devices in the sub-network (eg, including UE 503). For example, AP 501 may transmit the synchronization signal / channel on time / frequency resources configured by the overlay network or predefined in the system specification.

[0094] At 516, UE 503 detects the synchronization signal / channel to obtain synchronization information and control information including the second identifier and other control information. Figure 4 The related operations described in are similar.

[0095] Then, at 518, UE 503 accesses AP 501 to establish a connection, and AP 501 performs necessary configurations on the devices within the sub-network to support data communication.

[0096] At 520, data communication is performed between AP 501 and UE 503. For example, a DMRS signal associated with the data communication may be generated based on at least the second identifier. As another example, a scrambling operation may be performed on the channel coded bits using a scrambling sequence generated based on the second identifier.

[0097] As above reference Figure 3 All operations and features described are also applicable to process 500 and have similar effects. For the purpose of simplicity, details will be omitted.

[0098] Figure 6 600 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to the first network device 210. Figure 2 Method 600 is described.

[0099] At block 610, first network device 210 obtains a first identifier and a second identifier of a subnetwork. At block 620, first network device 210 transmits a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices 220 in subnetwork 205, wherein the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier. At block 630, within subnetwork 205, first network device 210 uses the second identifier in data communications with at least one of the one or more terminal devices 220.

[0100] In some example embodiments, first network device 210 may transmit a message indicating the second identifier to one or more terminal devices 220 in sub-network 205 .

[0101] In some example embodiments, the message may be transmitted via a synchronization channel in subnetwork 205 using a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

[0102] In some example embodiments, first network device 210 may generate a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel based at least on the first identifier.

[0103] In some example embodiments, the reference signal may be a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0104] In some example embodiments, the first network device 210 may receive configuration information indicating at least one second identifier from the second network device 230 in the radio access network; and obtain the second identifier based at least on the at least one second identifier.

[0105] In some example embodiments, the configuration information may further include at least one first identifier.

[0106] In some example embodiments, the first network device 210 may obtain the first identifier from at least one first identifier or based on a preconfigured value.

[0107] In some example embodiments, first network device 210 may generate a sequence associated with a physical channel for data communication based on at least the second identifier.

[0108] In some example embodiments, the sequence may be a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0109] In some example embodiments, first network device 210 may include an access point and second network device 230 may include a base station.

[0110] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above reference Figures 3 to 5 All operations and features described are also applicable to method 600 and have similar effects.

[0111] Figure 7 1 shows a flow chart of an example method 700 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 700 may be performed as follows: Figure 2 For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to the terminal device 220. Figure 2 Method 700 is described.

[0112] At block 710, the terminal device 220 receives a synchronization signal from a first network device 210 in the sub-network 205, wherein the synchronization signal is based on a first identifier of the sub-network 205. At block 720, the terminal device 220 uses a second identifier of the sub-network 205 in data communications with the first network device 210 and / or with at least one of the one or more terminal devices in the sub-network 205.

[0113] In some example embodiments, terminal network 220 may receive a message from first network device 210 indicating the second identifier.

[0114] In some example embodiments, the message may be transmitted via a synchronization channel in subnetwork 205 using a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

[0115] In some example embodiments, the terminal device 220 may acquire a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel based at least on the first identifier.

[0116] In some example embodiments, the reference signal may be a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0117] In some example embodiments, terminal device 220 may obtain a sequence associated with a physical channel used for data communication in subnetwork 205 based on at least the second identifier.

[0118] In some example embodiments, the sequence may be a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0119] In some example embodiments, first network device 210 may include an access point.

[0120] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above reference Figures 3 to 5 All operations and features described are also applicable to method 700 and have similar effects.

[0121] Figure 8 800 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 2 The second network device 230 is shown as being implemented. For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to Figure 2 Method 800 is described.

[0122] At block 810 , the second network device 230 transmits configuration information indicating at least one of: at least one first identifier of the subnetwork 205 and at least one second identifier of the subnetwork 205 to the first network device 210 in the subnetwork 205 of the radio access network.

[0123] In some example embodiments, first network device 210 may include an access point and second network device 230 may include a base station.

[0124] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above reference Figures 3 to 5 All operations and features described are also applicable to method 800 and have similar effects.

[0125] Fig. 9 1 is a simplified block diagram of a device 900 suitable for implementing an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The device 900 may be implemented at or as part of the first network device 210 or the terminal device 220 or the second network device 230, as shown in FIG.

[0126] As shown, the device 900 includes a processor 910, a memory 920 coupled to the processor 910, a communication module 930 coupled to the processor 910, and a communication interface (not shown) coupled to the communication module 930. The memory 920 stores at least a program 940. The communication module 930 is used to perform bidirectional communication, for example, via multiple antennas. The communication interface can represent any interface necessary for communication.

[0127] Program 940 is assumed to include program instructions that, when executed by associated processor 910, enable device 900 to operate in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, as described herein with reference to Figures 2 to 8 The example embodiments herein may be implemented by computer software executable by the processor 910 of the device 900, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. The processor 910 may be configured to implement various example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0128] As a non-limiting example, the memory 920 can be any type suitable for the local technology network and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as non-transitory computer-readable storage media, semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory. Although only one memory 920 is shown in the device 900, there can be several physically different memory modules in the device 900. As a non-limiting example, the processor 910 can be any type suitable for the local technology network and can include one or more of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. The device 900 may have multiple processors, such as a dedicated integrated circuit chip, which is driven in time to a clock that synchronizes the main processor.

[0129] When the device 900 acts as the first network device 210 or a part of the first network device 210, the processor 910 and the communication module 930 may cooperate to implement the above reference Figure 6 When the device 900 acts as a terminal device 220 or a part of the terminal device 220, the processor 910 and the communication module 930 can cooperate to implement the method 600 described above. Figure 7 When the device 900 acts as the second network device 230 or a part of the second network device 230, the processor 910 and the communication module 930 may cooperate to implement the method 700 described above with reference to Figure 8 The method 800 described above is referred to as Figures 2 to 8 All operations and features described are equally applicable to the device 900 and have similar effects. For the sake of simplicity, the details will be omitted.

[0130] In general, various example embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuits, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects may be implemented in hardware, while other aspects may be implemented in firmware or software that may be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. Although various aspects of the example embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other graphical representations, it should be understood that the blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuits or logic, general hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof in non-limiting examples.

[0131] The present disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product includes computer executable instructions, such as those included in a program module, executed in a device on a target real or virtual processor to perform the above-mentioned reference Figures 6 to 8 Method 600 or 700 or 800 described. Typically, program modules include routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. The functionality of program modules can be combined or split between program modules as needed in various example embodiments. Machine executable instructions for program modules can be executed in local or distributed devices. In distributed devices, program modules can be located in local and remote storage media.

[0132] The program code for executing the method of the present disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. These program codes can be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer or other programmable data processing device so that the program code enables the functions / operations specified in the flow chart and / or block diagram to be implemented when executed by the processor or controller. The program code can be executed entirely on the machine, partially on the machine, as an independent software package, partially on the machine and partially on a remote machine or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0133] In the context of the present disclosure, computer program codes or related data may be carried by any suitable carrier to enable a device, apparatus or processor to perform various processes and operations as described above. Examples of carriers include signals and computer-readable media.

[0134] The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. The computer readable medium may include, but is not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared or semiconductor systems, devices or apparatuses, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples of computer readable storage media would include an electrical connection with one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0135] In addition, although operations are depicted in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring such operations to be performed in the particular order shown or in the order of the sequence, or performing all of the operations shown to achieve the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, although several specific implementation details are included in the above discussion, these details should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of the present disclosure, but should be interpreted as descriptions of features that may be specific to specific example embodiments. Certain features described in the context of separate example embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. On the contrary, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple example embodiments individually or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0136] Although the disclosure has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it should be understood that the disclosure defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0137] Various example embodiments of the technology have been described. In addition or alternatively to the above, the following examples are described. Features described in any of the following examples can be used with any of the other examples described herein.

[0138] In some aspects, a first network device in a subnetwork of a radio access network includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory, including computer program code; the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, enable the first network device to: obtain a first identifier and a second identifier of the subnetwork; transmit a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier; and use the second identifier in data communication with at least one of the one or more terminal devices within the subnetwork.

[0139] In some example embodiments, the first network device is further caused to: transmit a message indicating the second identifier to one or more terminal devices in the sub-network.

[0140] In some example embodiments, the message is transmitted via a synchronization channel in the subnetwork using a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

[0141] In some example embodiments, the first network device is further caused to: generate a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel based at least on the first identifier.

[0142] In some example embodiments, the reference signal is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0143] In some example embodiments, the first network device is further caused to: receive configuration information indicating at least one second identifier from a second network device in the radio access network; and obtain the second identifier based at least on the at least one second identifier.

[0144] In some example embodiments, the configuration information further includes at least one first identifier.

[0145] In some example embodiments, the first network device is further caused to: obtain the first identifier from at least one first identifier or based on a preconfigured value.

[0146] In some example embodiments, the first network device is further caused to: generate a sequence associated with a physical channel for data communication based on at least the second identifier.

[0147] In some example embodiments, the sequence is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0148] In some example embodiments, the first network device in the sub-network of the radio access network comprises an access point and the second network device comprises a base station.

[0149] In some aspects, a terminal device in a subnetwork of a wireless access network includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory, including computer program code; the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, enable the terminal device to: receive a synchronization signal from a first network device in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on a first identifier of the subnetwork; and, in the subnetwork, use a second identifier of the subnetwork in data communications with the first network device and / or with at least one terminal device of the one or more terminal devices.

[0150] In some exemplary embodiments, the terminal device is further caused to: receive a message indicating the second identifier from the first network device.

[0151] In some example embodiments, the message is transmitted via a synchronization channel in the subnetwork using a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

[0152] In some example embodiments, the terminal device is further caused to: acquire a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel based on at least the first identifier.

[0153] In some example embodiments, the reference signal is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0154] In some example embodiments, the terminal device is further caused to: obtain a sequence associated with a physical channel used for data communication in the sub-network based on at least the second identifier.

[0155] In some example embodiments, the sequence is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0156] In some example embodiments, the first network device comprises an access point.

[0157] In some aspects, a second network device in a radio access network includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory, including computer program code; the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the second network device to: transmit configuration information indicating at least one of the following to a first network device in a subnetwork of the radio access network: at least one first identifier of the subnetwork and at least one second identifier of the subnetwork.

[0158] In some example embodiments, the first network device comprises an access point and the second network device comprises a base station.

[0159] In some aspects, a method includes: obtaining, at a first network device in a subnetwork of a radio access network, a first identifier and a second identifier of the subnetwork; transmitting a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier; and using the second identifier in data communication with at least one of the one or more terminal devices within the subnetwork.

[0160] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises transmitting a message indicating the second identifier to one or more terminal devices in the sub-network.

[0161] In some example embodiments, the message is transmitted via a synchronization channel in the subnetwork using a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

[0162] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises generating a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel based at least on the first identifier.

[0163] In some example embodiments, the reference signal is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0164] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises: receiving configuration information from a second network device in the radio access network, the configuration information indicating at least one second identifier; and obtaining the second identifier based at least on the at least one second identifier.

[0165] In some example embodiments, the configuration information further comprises at least one first identifier.

[0166] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises: obtaining the first identifier from at least one first identifier or based on a preconfigured value.

[0167] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises generating a sequence associated with a physical channel for data communication based on at least the second identifier.

[0168] In some example embodiments, the sequence is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0169] In some example embodiments, the first network device comprises an access point and the second network device comprises a base station.

[0170] In some aspects, a method includes: receiving, at a terminal device in a subnetwork of a radio access network, a synchronization signal from a first network device in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on a first identifier of the subnetwork; and using a second identifier of the subnetwork in data communications with the first network device and / or at least one of one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork.

[0171] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises receiving a message from the first network device indicating the second identifier.

[0172] In some example embodiments, the message is transmitted via a synchronization channel in the subnetwork using a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

[0173] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises acquiring a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel based at least on the first identifier.

[0174] In some example embodiments, the reference signal is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0175] In some example embodiments, the method further comprises obtaining a sequence associated with a physical channel used for data communication in the sub-network based on at least the second identifier.

[0176] In some example embodiments, the sequence is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0177] In some example embodiments, the first network device comprises an access point.

[0178] In some aspects, a method includes transmitting, at a second network device in a radio access network, to a first network device in a subnetwork of the radio access network configuration information indicating at least one of: at least one first identifier of the subnetwork and at least one second identifier of the subnetwork.

[0179] In some example embodiments, the first network device comprises an access point and the second network device comprises a base station.

[0180] In some aspects, an apparatus implemented at a first network device in a subnetwork of a wireless access network includes: a component for obtaining a first identifier and a second identifier of the subnetwork; a component for transmitting a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier; and a component for using the second identifier in data communication with at least one of the one or more terminal devices within the subnetwork.

[0181] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for transmitting a message indicating the second identifier to one or more terminal devices in the sub-network.

[0182] In some example embodiments, the message is transmitted via a synchronization channel in the subnetwork using a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

[0183] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for generating a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel based at least on the first identifier.

[0184] In some example embodiments, the reference signal is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0185] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises: means for receiving configuration information indicating at least one second identifier from a second network device in the radio access network; and means for acquiring the second identifier based at least on the at least one second identifier.

[0186] In some example embodiments, the configuration information further comprises at least one first identifier.

[0187] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for obtaining the first identifier from at least one first identifier or based on a preconfigured value.

[0188] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for generating a sequence associated with a physical channel for data communication based at least on the second identifier.

[0189] In some example embodiments, the sequence is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0190] In some example embodiments, the first network device comprises an access point and the second network device comprises a base station.

[0191] In some aspects, an apparatus implemented at a terminal device in a subnetwork of a radio access network includes: a component for receiving a synchronization signal from a first network device in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on a first identifier of the subnetwork; and a component for using a second identifier of the subnetwork in data communications with the first network device and / or with at least one of one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork.

[0192] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for receiving a message from the first network device indicating the second identifier.

[0193] In some example embodiments, the message is transmitted via a synchronization channel in the subnetwork using a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

[0194] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for acquiring a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel based at least on the first identifier.

[0195] In some example embodiments, the reference signal is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

[0196] In some example embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for acquiring a sequence associated with a physical channel for data communication in the subnetwork based at least on the second identifier.

[0197] In some example embodiments, the sequence is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

[0198] In some example embodiments, the first network device comprises an access point.

[0199] In some aspects, an apparatus implemented at a second network device in a radio access network includes: means for transmitting, to a first network device in a subnetwork of the radio access network, configuration information indicating at least one of: at least one first identifier of the subnetwork and at least one second identifier of the subnetwork.

[0200] In some example embodiments, the first network device comprises an access point and the second network device comprises a base station.

[0201] In some aspects, a computer-readable storage medium includes program instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor of a device, cause the device to perform methods according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A first network device in a subnetwork of a radio access network, comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory including computer program code; The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the first network device to: Obtaining a first identifier and a second identifier of the subnetwork; transmitting a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier; as well as The second identifier is used in data communication with at least one of the one or more terminal devices within the sub-network.

2. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first network device is further configured to: A message indicating the second identifier is transmitted to the one or more terminal devices in the sub-network. 3 . The first device of claim 2 , wherein the message is transmitted via a synchronization channel in the subnetwork, the transmission utilizing a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

4. The first device according to claim 3, wherein the first network device is further configured to: The reference signal associated with the synchronization channel is generated based on at least the first identifier. 5 . The first device according to claim 3 , wherein the reference signal is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS).

6. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first network device is further configured to: receiving configuration information indicating at least one second identifier from a second network device in the radio access network; and The second identifier is obtained based at least on the at least one second identifier. The first device according to claim 6 , wherein the configuration information further comprises at least one first identifier.

8. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first network device is further configured to: The first identifier is obtained from at least one first identifier or based on a preconfigured value.

9. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first network device is further configured to: A sequence associated with a physical channel for the data communication is generated based on at least the second identifier. 10 . The first device according to claim 9 , wherein the sequence is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS) sequence.

11. The first device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first network device comprises an access point, and the second network device comprises a base station.

12. A terminal device in a sub-network of a radio access network, comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory including computer program code; The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the terminal device to: receiving a synchronization signal from a first network device in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on a first identifier of the subnetwork; as well as In the sub-network, a second identifier of the sub-network is used in data communication with the first network device and / or with at least one terminal device of the one or more terminal devices.

13. The terminal device according to claim 12, wherein the terminal device is further configured to: A message indicating the second identifier is received from the first network device.

14. The terminal device of claim 13, wherein the message is transmitted via a synchronization channel in the subnetwork, the transmission utilizing a reference signal associated with the synchronization channel.

15. The terminal device according to claim 14, wherein the terminal device is further configured to: The reference signal associated with the synchronization channel is acquired based on at least the first identifier.

16. The terminal device according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein the reference signal is a demodulation reference signal DMRS.

17. The terminal device according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the terminal device is further configured to: A sequence associated with a physical channel used for the data communication in the subnetwork is obtained based on at least the second identifier.

18. The terminal device according to claim 17, wherein the sequence is a demodulation reference signal DMRS sequence.

19. The terminal device according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein the first network device comprises an access point.

20. A second network device in a radio access network, comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory including computer program code; The at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, together with the at least one processor, cause the second network device to: Transmitting configuration information to a first network device in a subnetwork of the radio access network, the configuration information indicating at least one of the following: at least one first identifier of the subnetwork, and At least one second identifier of the subnetwork.

21. The second device of claim 20, wherein the first network device comprises an access point and the second network device comprises a base station.

22. A method comprising: At a first network device in a subnetwork of a radio access network, Obtaining a first identifier and a second identifier of the subnetwork; transmitting a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier; as well as The second identifier is used in data communication with at least one of the one or more terminal devices within the sub-network.

23. A method comprising: At a terminal device in a subnetwork of a radio access network, receiving a synchronization signal from a first network device in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on a first identifier of the subnetwork; as well as In the sub-network, a second identifier of the sub-network is used in data communication with the first network device and / or with at least one terminal device of the one or more terminal devices.

24. A method comprising: At a second network device in the radio access network, Transmitting configuration information to a first network device in a subnetwork of the radio access network, the configuration information indicating at least one of the following: at least one first identifier of the subnetwork, and At least one second identifier of the subnetwork.

25. An apparatus implemented at a first network device in a subnetwork of a radio access network, comprising: means for obtaining a first identifier and a second identifier of the subnetwork; means for transmitting a synchronization signal to one or more terminal devices in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on the first identifier; as well as Means for using the second identifier in data communications with at least one of the one or more terminal devices within the sub-network.

26. An apparatus implemented at a terminal device in a sub-network of a radio access network, comprising: means for receiving a synchronization signal from a first network device in the subnetwork, wherein the synchronization signal is based on a first identifier of the subnetwork; as well as Means for using, in the sub-network, a second identifier of the sub-network in data communications with the first network device and / or with at least one of the one or more terminal devices.

27. An apparatus implemented at a second network device in a radio access network, comprising: Means for transmitting, to a first network device in a subnetwork of the radio access network, configuration information indicating at least one of: at least one first identifier of the subnetwork, and At least one second identifier of the subnetwork.

28. A computer-readable storage medium comprising program instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor of a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of claims 22 to 24.

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