Access and return integrated network communication method and device based on energy saving

Abstract

The invention discloses an energy-saving-based IAB network communication method and communication device, and aims at adaptively changing an IAB network topology structure based on the energy-saving condition of an IAB node in an IAB communication system. According to the energy-saving mode of the IAB energy-saving node, configuring new routing information for the IAB adjacent to the IAB energy-saving node; the energy-saving IAB node can inform the adjacent node of the energy-saving mode of the energy-saving IAB node; the IAB node can automatically judge whether an energy-saving state can be entered or not according to the energy-saving condition; and the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can be awakened according to the condition of the energy-saving IAB node and the link condition in the IAB communication system. According to the invention, the continuity of services can be ensured under the condition that the IAB node enters the energy-saving state, the normal transmission of data is ensured, the communication service is not influenced, the energy-saving effect of the IAB node is achieved, and the energy consumption of the IAB node is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of communications, and more specifically, to an energy-saving access and backhaul integrated network communication method and communication device. Background Art

[0002] 5G communication systems and future communication systems have put forward more stringent requirements for various network performance indicators. Therefore, the integrated access and backhaul (IAB) technology is introduced to ensure that the network can meet the requirements. The IAB communication system is a communication network composed of IAB host nodes, IAB nodes and terminal devices. Its purpose is to support wireless backhaul and relay links, thereby achieving flexible and very dense deployment of NR new cells without proportionally encrypting the wired transmission network.

[0003] The current protocol defines the topology adaptation of the IAB network so as to autonomously reconfigure the IAB network topology in the event of a backhaul link failure. The IAB network topology can be understood as an IAB communication system consisting of multiple IAB nodes, with a backhaul link between two adjacent IAB nodes. Reconfiguring the IAB network topology (i.e., topology adaptation of the IAB network) can be understood as: updating or changing the relative relationship between IAB nodes in the IAB communication system (e.g., parent node, child node), adding new IAB nodes, deleting existing IAB nodes, etc. In the topology adaptation process of the IAB network, the ultimate goal is to minimize service interruption and packet loss.

[0004] However, the current IAB network topology change is not based on the purpose of energy saving, but is a passive network topology adaptation process for factors such as link quality that affect communication effects. There is no IAB network topology adaptation process that takes active consideration of factors such as energy saving. Therefore, the traditional topology change process is not suitable for IAB node energy saving scenarios and cannot improve the energy saving performance of the IAB communication system or IAB network. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present application provides an IAB network communication method and communication device based on energy saving, which can ensure business continuity when the IAB node enters the energy saving state, ensure the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, and at the same time achieve the energy saving effect of the IAB node and reduce the energy consumption of the IAB node.

[0006] In a first aspect, an IAB network communication method based on energy saving is provided. The execution subject of the method may be an IAB host node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor that supports the IAB host node to implement the method, or a logical node, a logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the IAB host node. For example, the execution subject of the method may be an IAB donor CU. The method includes: the IAB host node determines whether a first IAB node can enter an energy-saving state; when the first IAB node can enter an energy-saving state, the IAB host node sends first information to the first IAB node, the first information includes indication information, and the indication information is used to indicate that the first IAB node can enter an energy-saving state; the first information also includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, or at least one of the triggering methods for the first IAB node to start entering an energy-saving state.

[0007] The energy-saving IAB network communication method provided in the first aspect can instruct the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state when it is determined that the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, and notify the IAB node of the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node or the triggering method for the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state. On the one hand, the IAB node is made clear of the various specific configurations and parameters in the energy-saving state, which ensures that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state and improves the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state. On the other hand, by configuring the triggering method for entering the energy-saving state to the IAB node, the IAB node can be made clear under what circumstances or when it officially enters the energy-saving state, which ensures that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state, improves the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state, and achieves the effect of energy saving of the IAB node.

[0008] Exemplarily, the IAB host node can determine whether the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state based on at least one of the current business situation of the first IAB node, the current load situation of the first IAB node, the link situation between the first IAB node and other IAB nodes, the link situation between IAB nodes managed by the IAB host node, and the data demand transmitted through the first IAB node.

[0009] In a possible implementation of the first aspect, the method further includes: the IAB host node sends second information to the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node respectively, and the second information includes: the updated link routing information corresponding to the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node. In this implementation, the IAB host node can determine the updated link routing information of the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the energy-saving IAB node according to the energy-saving mode of the energy-saving IAB node and notify the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the energy-saving IAB node. The upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the energy-saving IAB node can update the routing information according to the updated link routing information, for example, they can re-establish a new connection relationship (i.e., change the topology structure) according to the updated link routing information and determine the routing information during data transmission. The continuity of the business after the energy-saving IAB node enters the energy-saving state can be guaranteed, and the normal transmission of data and communication services can be guaranteed not to be affected, while achieving the energy-saving effect of the IAB node and reducing the energy consumption of the IAB node.

[0010] Exemplarily, the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node include: a parent node (upstream node) and a child node (downstream node) of the first IAB node. The IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node may include an IAB host node.

[0011] In a possible implementation of the first aspect, the second information also includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node. In this implementation, the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the energy-saving IAB node perform corresponding configurations according to the energy-saving configuration information of the energy-saving IAB node, such as corresponding adjustments to the coverage range or corresponding adjustments to the data transmission path. By exchanging energy-saving configuration information between IAB nodes, the implementation method is relatively flexible, and it can ensure that the business continuity is guaranteed when the energy-saving IAB node enters the energy-saving state, and that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, while achieving the effect of energy saving of the IAB node and reducing the energy consumption of the IAB node.

[0012] In a possible implementation of the first aspect, the updated link routing information includes: time information corresponding to the link and / or priority information corresponding to the link, and the time information corresponding to the link indicates: a time period when the link is available or an unavailable time period. In this implementation, by adding time control information and / or link priority information to the link routing table, on the one hand, the update of the link routing table can be flexibly implemented without making significant changes to the link routing tables of other IAB nodes, thereby reducing the complexity of implementation. On the other hand, it can be more compatible with the specific energy-saving method of the IAB node, so that the updated link routing information can more accurately and finely reflect the impact of the energy-saving method of the IAB node on the link routing information of other IAB nodes, thereby improving the efficiency of using the updated link routing information.

[0013] In a possible implementation of the first aspect, the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node includes: the energy-saving mode of the first IAB node and the energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, spatial domain energy saving, and power energy saving.

[0014] Exemplarily, time domain energy saving may include: at least one of: discontinuous reception and discontinuous transmission of signals, common signal period adjustment, etc. Frequency domain energy saving may include: at least one of: adjusting the number of transmitted carriers, adjusting the transmission bandwidth, etc.; spatial domain energy saving may include: at least one of: closing some antenna ports, etc.; power energy saving may include: adjusting the transmission power, etc.

[0015] For example, for the power-saving mode of shutdown, the IAB node may be shut down for a certain period of time and operate normally for a certain period of time.

[0016] In a possible implementation of the first aspect, the triggering method for the first IAB node to enter the energy-saving state includes at least one of: the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after receiving the trigger signaling, or the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after meeting the preset conditions. In this implementation, by triggering through the signaling method, the IAB host node can determine the timing of the IAB node 1 entering the energy-saving state according to the data transmission conditions of the IAB node and other IAB nodes, and the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can be flexibly determined, which can improve the accuracy of the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state. For the triggering method that meets the preset conditions, there is no need to trigger the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state through additional signaling, which can save the overhead of communication resources and the implementation method is more flexible.

[0017] For example, the preset condition includes: after a preset time period expires, a preset time, the first IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

[0018] In a second aspect, an IAB network communication method based on energy saving is provided, and the execution subject of the method may be an IAB node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor that supports the IAB node to implement the method, or a logical node, a logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the IAB node functions. The method includes: a first IAB node receives first information from an IAB host node, the first information includes indication information, and the indication information is used to indicate that: the first IAB node can enter an energy-saving state, and the first information also includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, or at least one of the triggering methods for the first IAB node to enter the energy-saving state; the first IAB node enters the energy-saving state according to the first information and the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

[0019] The second aspect provides an IAB network communication method based on energy saving, in which the IAB node can receive indication information that it can enter the energy saving state, so that the IAB node can clearly know whether it can enter the energy saving state, ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of the IAB node in determining whether it can enter the energy saving state. The IAB node can receive the energy saving configuration information of the IAB node or the triggering method of the IAB node starting to enter the energy saving state to notify the IAB node. On the one hand, so that the IAB node can clearly know the specific various configurations and parameters in the energy saving state, it is guaranteed that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy saving state and improve the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy saving state. On the other hand, it can make the IAB node clear under what circumstances or when to officially enter the energy saving state, ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy saving state, improving the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy saving state, and achieving the energy saving effect of the IAB node.

[0020] In a possible implementation of the second aspect, when the first information does not include energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, the method further includes: the first IAB node determines the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node according to at least one of: the current service status of the first IAB node, the current load status of the first IAB node, the link status between the first IAB node and other IAB nodes, and the data demand transmitted through the first IAB node. In this implementation, the accuracy and effectiveness of the energy-saving configuration information can be improved.

[0021] In a possible implementation of the second aspect, the method further includes: the first IAB node sends third information to the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node respectively, and the third information includes energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node. In this implementation, when the IAB node enters the energy-saving state, the adjacent IAB nodes can be configured accordingly according to the energy-saving configuration information, such as corresponding adjustment of the coverage range or corresponding adjustment of the data transmission path. By exchanging energy-saving configuration information between IAB nodes, the implementation method is relatively flexible, and it can ensure that the business continuity is guaranteed when the energy-saving IAB node enters the energy-saving state, and ensure that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected.

[0022] In a possible implementation of the second aspect, when the first information does not include the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, the first IAB node sends third information to the IAB host node, and the third information includes the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node. In this implementation, the IAB host node can determine the energy-saving state of the IAB node managed by itself, which can ensure that the IAB host node accurately manages and adjusts the IAB node, improve the accuracy and efficiency of the IAB host node managing and adjusting the IAB node, so as to ensure that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected.

[0023] In a possible implementation of the second aspect, the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node includes: the energy-saving mode of the first IAB node and the energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, spatial domain energy saving, and power energy saving.

[0024] In a possible implementation of the second aspect, the triggering method for the first IAB node to enter the energy-saving state includes: the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after receiving the trigger signaling, or the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after satisfying the preset conditions; the preset conditions include: after the preset time length expires, the preset time, the first IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the first IAB node is less than or equal to the threshold, or the power of the first IAB node is less than or equal to the threshold. At least one of the above. By triggering the signaling, the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can be determined according to the data transmission of the IAB node and other IAB nodes, and the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can be flexibly determined, which can improve the accuracy of the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state. By means of the preset conditions, there is no need to trigger the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state through additional signaling, which can save the overhead of communication resources and the implementation method is more flexible.

[0025] In a third aspect, an IAB network communication method based on energy saving is provided, wherein the execution subject of the method may be an IAB host node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor that supports the IAB host node to implement the method, or a logical node, a logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the IAB host node, for example, the execution subject of the method may be an IAB donor CU. The method comprises: the IAB host node sends fourth information to multiple IAB nodes respectively, the fourth information includes: conditions for entering an energy-saving state and an IAB node list, the IAB node list includes: identifiers of IAB nodes that can enter an energy-saving state; the IAB host node receives fifth information sent by at least some of the multiple IAB nodes respectively, the fifth information includes: indication information that can enter an energy-saving state and energy-saving configuration information.

[0026] The energy-saving IAB network communication method provided in the third aspect can realize the autonomous entry of the IAB node into the energy-saving state, reduce the consumption of communication resources between the IAB node and the IAB node, and improve the speed of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state. In addition, the energy-saving information of each IAB node can be obtained, so that the IAB host node can determine the energy-saving state of the IAB node it manages, and can ensure that the IAB host node can accurately manage and adjust the IAB node, improve the accuracy and efficiency of the IAB host node to manage and adjust the IAB node, so as to ensure that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, and at the same time achieve the effect of energy saving of the IAB node.

[0027] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the method further includes: the IAB host node determines whether it is necessary to wake up the IAB node that has entered the energy-saving state according to the fifth information sent by each IAB node respectively and the link status between the IAB nodes managed by the IAB host node; if it is determined that the IAB node that has entered the energy-saving state needs to be woken up, the IAB host node wakes up one or more IAB nodes that have entered the energy-saving state. In this implementation, if the IAB host node finds that a certain link is interrupted or unreachable due to energy saving of one or more IAB nodes, the IAB host node can determine that some energy-saving IAB nodes need to be woken up, and then wake up these energy-saving IAB nodes, so as to ensure that normal data transmission and communication services are not affected.

[0028] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the energy-saving configuration information includes: an energy-saving mode of the IAB node and an energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, air domain energy saving, and power energy saving.

[0029] Exemplarily, time domain energy saving may include: at least one of: discontinuous reception and discontinuous transmission of signals, common signal period adjustment, etc. Frequency domain energy saving may include: at least one of: adjusting the number of transmitted carriers, adjusting the transmission bandwidth, etc.; spatial domain energy saving may include: at least one of: closing some antenna ports, etc.; power energy saving may include: adjusting the transmission power, etc.

[0030] For example, for the power-saving mode of shutdown, the IAB node may be shut down for a certain period of time and operate normally for a certain period of time.

[0031] In a possible implementation manner of the third aspect, the condition for entering the energy-saving state includes at least one of: the IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

[0032] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the method further includes: the IAB host node can also determine updated link routing information corresponding to other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node (i.e., the IAB node that can enter the energy-saving state) based on the fifth message sent by each IAB node, and send the updated link routing information to other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node. When other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node receive the updated link routing information, they can re-establish a new connection relationship (i.e., change the topology structure) based on the updated link routing information and determine routing information during data transmission; thereby ensuring that normal data transmission and communication services are not affected.

[0033] In a fourth aspect, an IAB network communication method based on energy saving is provided, and the execution subject of the method may be an IAB node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor that supports the IAB node to implement the method, or a logical node, a logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the IAB node functions. The method includes: a first IAB node receives fourth information from an IAB host node, the fourth information includes: a condition for entering an energy-saving state and an IAB node list, the IAB node list includes: an identifier of an IAB node that can enter an energy-saving state; the first IAB node determines whether it can enter an energy-saving state according to the fourth information; wherein the condition for entering an energy-saving state includes at least one of: the IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

[0034] The energy-saving-based IAB network communication method provided in the fourth aspect can enable the IAB node to autonomously enter the energy-saving state, reduce the consumption of communication resources between the IAB nodes, and increase the speed at which the IAB node enters the energy-saving state.

[0035] In a possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the first IAB node determines whether it can enter the energy-saving state based on the fourth information, including: when the IAB node list includes the first IAB node identifier and the first IAB node meets the condition for entering the energy-saving state, the first IAB node determines that it can enter the energy-saving state.

[0036] In a possible implementation of the fourth aspect, when the first IAB node determines that it can enter the energy-saving state, the method further includes: the first IAB node sends fifth information to the IAB host node, and the fifth information includes: indication information that the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state and energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node. In this implementation, the IAB host node can determine the energy-saving state of the IAB node it manages, which can ensure that the IAB host node accurately manages and adjusts the IAB node, improve the accuracy and efficiency of the IAB host node in managing and adjusting the IAB node, thereby ensuring that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, and at the same time achieving the effect of energy saving of the IAB node. For example, if the IAB host node finds that a link is interrupted or unreachable due to energy saving of one or more IAB nodes, the IAB host node can determine that some energy-saving IAB nodes need to be awakened, and then wake up these energy-saving IAB nodes, thereby ensuring that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected.

[0037] In a possible implementation of the fourth aspect, when the first IAB node determines that it can enter the energy-saving state, the method further includes: the first IAB node sends sixth information to the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node, and the sixth information includes: indication information that the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state and energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node. In this implementation, the IAB node adjacent to the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can determine whether to enter the energy-saving state according to the link state. It is avoided that multiple IAB nodes enter the energy-saving state at the same time, resulting in network connection interruption, so that the number of IAB nodes entering the energy-saving state is limited, and the requirements of normal network connection and data transmission are met. Alternatively, the IAB node adjacent to the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can also be configured accordingly according to the sixth message. For example, the corresponding adjustment of the coverage range or the corresponding adjustment of the data transmission path, etc. By exchanging energy-saving configuration information between IAB nodes, it can be ensured that the business continuity is guaranteed when the energy-saving IAB node enters the energy-saving state, and the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, while achieving the energy-saving effect of the IAB node, and reducing the energy consumption of the IAB node.

[0038] In a possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node includes: the energy-saving mode of the first IAB node and the energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, spatial domain energy saving, and power energy saving.

[0039] In a fifth aspect, a communication device is provided, which may be an IAB host node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor in an IAB host node, or a logical node, a logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of an IAB host node. For example, the communication device includes a processing module and an interface module (the interface module may also be referred to as a communication module, etc.), and the interface module is used to perform specific signal transmission and reception under the drive of the processing module.

[0040] The communication device provided in the fifth aspect can execute each step in the above-mentioned first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect; or, the communication device provided in the fifth aspect can execute each step in the above-mentioned third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect.

[0041] For example: the processing module is used to determine whether the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state; the interface module is used to send first information to the first IAB node when the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, and the first information includes indication information, and the indication information is used to indicate that the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state; the first information also includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, or at least one of the triggering methods for the first IAB node to start entering the energy-saving state.

[0042] For another example, the interface module is used to: send fourth information to multiple IAB nodes respectively, the fourth information including: conditions for entering the energy-saving state and an IAB node list, the IAB node list including: identifiers of IAB nodes that can enter the energy-saving state; receive fifth information sent by at least some of the multiple IAB nodes respectively, the fifth information including: indication information that can enter the energy-saving state and energy-saving configuration information.

[0043] The beneficial effects of the communication device provided in the fifth aspect executing each step in the above-mentioned first aspect or any possible implementation method of the first aspect can refer to the corresponding beneficial effects of the above-mentioned first aspect or any possible implementation method of the first aspect.

[0044] The beneficial effects of the communication device provided in the fifth aspect executing each step in the above-mentioned third aspect or any possible implementation method of the third aspect can refer to the corresponding beneficial effects of the above-mentioned third aspect or any possible implementation method of the third aspect.

[0045] In a sixth aspect, a communication device is provided, the device comprising at least one processor and a memory, the at least one processor being configured to execute: the method in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect above, or the method in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect above. The device may be an IAB host node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor in the IAB host node.

[0046] In a seventh aspect, a communication device is provided, the communication device comprising at least one processor and an interface circuit, the at least one processor being used to execute: the method in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or the method in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect. The communication device may be an IAB host node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor in the IAB host node.

[0047] In an eighth aspect, an IAB host node is provided, the IAB host node comprising the communication device provided in the fifth aspect, or the IAB host node comprising the communication device provided in the sixth aspect, or the IAB host node comprising the communication device provided in the seventh aspect.

[0048] In a ninth aspect, a communication device is provided, which may be an IAB node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor in an IAB node, or a logical node, a logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of an IAB node. For example, the communication device includes a processing module and an interface module (the interface module may also be referred to as a communication module, etc.), and the interface module is used to perform specific signal transmission and reception under the drive of the processing module.

[0049] The communication device provided in the ninth aspect can execute each step in the above-mentioned second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect; or, the communication device provided in the ninth aspect can execute each step in the above-mentioned fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect.

[0050] For example: the interface module is used to: receive first information from the IAB host node, the first information includes indication information, and the indication information is used to indicate that: the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, and the first information also includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, or at least one of the triggering methods for the first IAB node to start entering the energy-saving state; the processing module is used to: enter the energy-saving state according to the first information and the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

[0051] For another example, the interface module is used to: receive fourth information from the IAB host node, the fourth information includes: conditions for entering the energy-saving state and an IAB node list, the IAB node list includes: identifications of IAB nodes that can enter the energy-saving state; the processing module is used to: determine whether the energy-saving state can be entered according to the fourth information; wherein the conditions for entering the energy-saving state include: the IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the IAB node is less than or equal to at least one of the threshold.

[0052] The beneficial effects of the communication device provided in the ninth aspect executing each step in the above-mentioned second aspect or any possible implementation method of the second aspect can refer to the corresponding beneficial effects of the above-mentioned second aspect or any possible implementation method of the second aspect.

[0053] The beneficial effects of the communication device provided in the ninth aspect executing each step in the above-mentioned fourth aspect or any possible implementation method of the fourth aspect can refer to the corresponding beneficial effects of the above-mentioned fourth aspect or any possible implementation method of the fourth aspect.

[0054] In a tenth aspect, a communication device is provided, the communication device comprising at least one processor and a memory, the at least one processor being configured to execute: the method in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect, or the method in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect. The device may be an IAB node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor in an IAB node.

[0055] In an eleventh aspect, a communication device is provided, the communication device comprising at least one processor and an interface circuit, the at least one processor being configured to execute: the method in the second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect, or the method in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect. The device may be an IAB node, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor in an IAB node.

[0056] In a twelfth aspect, an IAB node is provided, which includes the communication device provided in the ninth aspect, or the IAB node includes the communication device provided in the tenth aspect, or the IAB node includes the communication device provided in the eleventh aspect.

[0057] In the thirteenth aspect, a computer program product is provided, which includes a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, is used to execute the method of any one of the first to fourth aspects, or the method of any possible implementation of any one of the first to fourth aspects.

[0058] In the fourteenth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, in which a computer program is stored. When the computer program is executed, it is used to execute the method of any one of the first to fourth aspects, or the method in any possible implementation of any one of the first to fourth aspects.

[0059] In a fifteenth aspect, a communication system is provided, which includes the above-mentioned IAB node and IAB host node.

[0060] In the sixteenth aspect, a chip is provided, which includes: a processor for calling and running a computer program from a memory, so that a communication device equipped with the chip executes: a method in any one of the first to fourth aspects, or a method in any possible implementation of any one of the first to fourth aspects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a gNB structure using CU-DU separation.

[0062] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of an IAB communication system applicable to an embodiment of the present application.

[0063] Figure 3 The diagram is a schematic diagram of an IAB communication system architecture in a case where an IAB node includes an IAB-node-MT and an IAB-node-DU, and an IAB donor includes an IAB donorCU and an IAB donor DU.

[0064] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of another IAB communication system applicable to an embodiment of the present application.

[0065] Figure 5 It is a schematic interaction diagram of an example of an energy-saving IAB network communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0066] Figure 6 It is a schematic diagram of another IAB communication system applicable to the embodiment of the present application.

[0067] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of another IAB communication system applicable to the embodiment of the present application.

[0068] Figure 8 It is a schematic interaction diagram of another example of an IAB network communication method based on energy saving provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0069] Fig. 9 This is a schematic interaction diagram of another example of an IAB network communication method based on energy saving provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0070] Fig.10 It is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0071] Fig.11 It is a schematic block diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] The technical solution in this application will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0073] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise specified, " / " means or, for example, A / B can mean A or B; "and / or" in this article is only a description of the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that there can be three relationships, for example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone. In addition, in the description of the embodiments of the present application, "multiple" means two or more than two.

[0074] In the following, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and are not to be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0075] In the embodiment of the present application, each communication node (including terminal equipment, IAB node, IAB host node, etc.) includes a hardware layer, an operating system layer running on the hardware layer, and an application layer running on the operating system layer. The hardware layer includes hardware such as a central processing unit (CPU), a memory management unit (MMU), and a memory (also called main memory). The operating system can be any one or more computer operating systems that implement business processing through a process, such as a Linux operating system, a Unix operating system, an Android operating system, an iOS operating system, or a windows operating system. The application layer includes applications such as browsers, address books, word processing software, and instant messaging software. In addition, the embodiment of the present application does not specifically limit the specific structure of the execution subject of the method provided in the embodiment of the present application, as long as it can communicate according to the method provided in the embodiment of the present application by running a program that records the code of the method provided in the embodiment of the present application, for example, the execution subject of the method provided in the embodiment of the present application can be a terminal device or a network device, or a functional module in a terminal device or a network device that can call and execute a program.

[0076] In addition, various aspects or features of the present application can be implemented as methods, devices or products using standard programming and / or engineering techniques. The term "product" used in this application covers computer programs that can be accessed from any computer-readable device, carrier or medium. For example, computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to: magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks or tapes, etc.), optical disks (e.g., compact discs (CDs), digital versatile discs (DVDs), etc.), smart cards and flash memory devices (e.g., erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), cards, sticks or key drives, etc.). In addition, the various storage media described herein may represent one or more devices and / or other machine-readable media for storing information. The term "machine-readable medium" may include, but is not limited to, wireless channels and various other media capable of storing, containing and / or carrying instructions and / or data.

[0077] First, some related technologies involved in this application are introduced:

[0078] In new radio (NR) technology, access network equipment (e.g., NR NodeB, gNB) can be composed of a gNB centralized unit (CU) and one or more gNB distributed units (DU). gNB-CU and gNB-DU are different logical nodes and can be deployed on different physical devices or on the same physical device.

[0079] gNB adopts CU-DU separation structure. Figure 1As shown, the gNB-CU and gNB-DU are connected through the F1 interface, the gNB-CU and the 5G core network are connected through the NG interface, and the gNBs are connected through the Xn interface. The Xn interface includes the Xn-C interface and the Xn-U interface. The Xn-C interface is used for the transmission of control plane signaling between two gNBs, and the Xn-U interface is used for the transmission of user plane data between two gNBs. The interface between the gNB and the terminal device is called the Uu interface (i.e., the interface between the terminal device and the gNB-DU). The terminal device accesses the gNB-CU through the gNB-DU. The physical (physics, PHY) layer / media access control (media access control, MAC) layer / radio link control (radio link control, RLC) layer equivalent to the terminal device is located on the gNB-DU, and the packet data convergence protocol (packet data convergence protocol, PDCP) layer / radio resource control (radio resource control, RRC) layer / service data adaptation protocol (ServiceData Adaptation Protocol, SDAP) layer equivalent to the terminal device is located on the gNB-CU.

[0080] It should be understood that the protocol layers existing on the above-mentioned gNB-DU and gNB-CU are only one possibility, and there may be other possibilities, for example: the PHY layer / MAC layer equivalent to the terminal device is located on the gNB-DU, the PDCP layer / RRC layer / SDAP layer equivalent to the terminal device is located on the gNB-CU, and at the same time, the RLC layer equivalent to the terminal device is also located on the gNB-CU, all of which are within the scope of protection of this application, and this application is not limited here.

[0081] 5G communication systems and future communication systems have put forward more stringent requirements for various network performance indicators. For example, capacity indicators have increased by 1,000 times, wider coverage requirements, ultra-high reliability and ultra-low latency, etc. Therefore, IAB technology was introduced.

[0082] The IAB communication system is a communication network composed of an IAB donor node (also called an IAB donor), an IAB node, and terminal devices. Its purpose is to support wireless backhaul and relay links, thereby achieving flexible and very dense deployment of NR new cells without proportionally encrypting the wired transmission network. For example, the IAB donor node can usually be a macro base station, which is responsible for the coverage of the cell and the management of the IAB node. The service data of the terminal device is transmitted to the IAB donor node by the IAB node through the wireless backhaul link. The IAB node can also be called a relay node (RN), and the IAB donor node (IABdonor) can also be called a donor IAB node (donor IAB) or an IAB donor base station, etc. For example, in the NR system, the IAB donor base station can be a donor next-generation base station (donor gNodeB, DgNB), and in the LTE system (or 4G system), the IAB donor base station can be a donor evolved base station (donor eNodeB, DeNB).

[0083] In the IAB communication system, there are backhaul links and access links. The links between the terminal device and the IAB node, and between the terminal device and the IAB host node are access links, and the links between the IAB nodes, and between the IAB node and the IAB host node are backhaul links or wireless backhaul links. Through the deployment of the IAB network, data encryption between different nodes can be achieved, network coverage can be increased, coverage blind spots can be eliminated, and the problem of high cost of fiber optic deployment can be solved.

[0084] For example, Figure 2 The figure shows a schematic diagram of an IAB communication system. Figure 2 As shown, the terminal device accesses the IAB host node or IAB node through an access link, or in other words, the terminal device communicates with the IAB host node or between IAB nodes through the access link. Information is transmitted between IAB nodes and between IAB nodes and IAB host nodes through a backhaul link.

[0085] exist Figure 2In the example shown, the transmission path from a certain IAB node to the IAB host node may need to be transferred through other IAB nodes. For example, when IAB node C transmits data to the IAB host node, it needs to be transferred through IAB node B. In this process: IAB node B can be called the previous hop node or parent node of IAB node C, and IAB node C can be called the next hop node or child node of IAB node B. The link between IAB node B and IAB node C can be called a hop. The IAB host node can be called the previous hop node or parent node of IAB node B, and IAB node B can be called the next hop node or child node of the IAB host node. The link between IAB node B and the IAB host node can also be called a hop.

[0086] In some possible implementations, the IAB node may be composed of an IAB mobile terminal (MT) unit and an IAB distributed unit (DU). The IAB host node may also adopt a CU-DU separation architecture, that is, the IAB donor is composed of an IAB donor CU (or donor CU) and an IAB donor DU (or donor DU). Among them, the interface between the IAB donor CU and the IAB donor DU is the F1 interface. The IAB donor CU has similar functions to the gNB-CU in NR, providing connections for the IAB-donor-DU and the IAB-node-DU. The IABdonor DU has similar functions to the gNB-DU in NR, providing access services for terminal devices or IAB-MT.

[0087] Optionally, IAB-MT can also be called IAB-UE or IAB-node-MT. IAB-DU can also be called IAB-node-DU. IAB-node-MT has the function of a terminal device and mainly performs operations similar to those of a terminal device. For example, IAB-node-MT can be connected to the IAB-node-DU or IAB-donor-DU of its parent node as a normal UE as a wireless transmission backhaul link. IAB-node-DU has some functions of a base station, including the functions of the PHY / MAC / RLC layer, which is similar to the functions of gNB-DU in NR. It mainly performs operations similar to those of a base station, provides access services to its subordinate child nodes, and communicates with the child nodes. When the child node is another IAB node, a backhaul adaptation protocol (BAP) layer is also included above the RLC layer, which can be used to implement the routing of data packets in the wireless backhaul link, as well as bearer mapping and other functions. For example, IAB-node-DU can be used as a pole station cell on the access side under the IAB-node, providing blind coverage functions and providing access for terminal devices or subordinate (i.e., child node) IAB-node-MT. The child node of IAB-node-DU can be a terminal device, or it can be another IAB node or IAB-node-MT of another IAB node.

[0088] For example, FIG3 is a schematic diagram of an IAB communication system architecture in which the IAB node includes an IAB-node-MT and an IAB-node-DU, and the IAB donor includes an IAB donor CU and an IAB donor DU. Figure 3 In the communication system shown, there is an Xn-C interface between the IAB donor CU and the ordinary gNB for transmission of control plane signaling, and the interface between the IAB donor CU and the IAB donor DU is the F1 interface. There is an NR-Uu interface between the IAB donor DU and the IAB-node-MT in the IAB node 1 of its child node, providing access services to the IAB-node-MT in the IAB node 1 of its child node. There is an NR-Uu interface between the IAB-node-DU in the IAB node 1 and the IAB-node-MT in the IAB node 2 of its child node. There is an F1 interface between the IAB-node-DU in the IAB node 1 and the IAB donor CU, which is used to provide connection for the IAB-node-DU. There is also an F1 interface between the IAB-node-DU in the IAB node 2 and the IAB donor CU. There are NG interfaces between the ordinary gNB and the IAB donor and the 5G core network (5G core, 5GC), and they are connected to the 5GC through the NG interfaces.

[0089] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the system consisting of the IAB donor, the IAB node, and the ordinary gNB can be called a radio access network (RAN) network system, or it can also be called a next generation radio access network (NG-RAN) network system.

[0090] The IAB communication system using the CU and DU separation architecture (e.g., the separation architecture of IAB donor CU, IAB-node-DU, and IABdonor DU) will have similar benefits as those described for ordinary gNodeB, and can also hide the IAB-node from the external devices of the wireless access network (e.g., terminal devices). In the IAB system, the IAB-node has the DU function, and the IAB donor is responsible for the CU function. In addition, the centralized mechanism of CU (i.e., one IAB donor CU manages multiple IAB-nodes) can manage the entire sub-network and path for switching decisions, topology changes, routing, bearer mapping, etc. Since there is no interface between IAB-node-DU, data packets do not need to be forwarded through the air interface between IAB-node-DU during the mobility process, which can reduce latency and air interface load.

[0091] From the perspective of network deployment, on the one hand, due to the limited characteristics and capabilities of the IAB-node-DU, the complexity of deploying and managing a complete gNodeB will be lower, which can promote the deployment of a denser and more reliable IAB network. On the other hand, the physical security requirements of the installation location of the IAB-node-DU can be reduced without increasing the risk of hacker attacks because it is through the IAB-donor-CU that security information (such as keys, encryption / integrity protection algorithms, etc.) is stored.

[0092] The IAB-donor-CU assigns (automatically assigns, without additional transmission planning and configuration) a unique BAP address to each IAB-node it controls, so that each IAB-node in the network can be uniquely identified. Each IAB-node has a routing table (or link routing information) for the uplink (UL) link and downlink (DL) link configured by the IAB-donor-CU, which contains the BAP path ID and the identifier of the next hop node. Separate routing tables are reserved for the DL link and UL link directions, where the IAB-node-DU uses the DL routing table and the IAB-node-MT uses the UL routing table. The routing table can indicate to which child node (if DL) or parent node (if UL) the data packet should be forwarded. The path configuration of the IAB node (i.e., the routing information of the IAB node) is configured by the IAB host node to the IAB node. The path configuration of the IAB node can be understood as the transmission path configuration information from one IAB node to the destination IAB node. The path configuration of the IAB node can realize the transmission of data from the sender to the receiver through the specified route. At the sending end, a BAP header (including the BAP address of the destination node and the BAP path ID) is added to the upper layer data, and at the receiving end, the BAP header is deleted and the data is forwarded to the upper layer. In the case of multiple paths, each BAP address (i.e., the BAP address of the destination node) can be associated with multiple path IDs. The BAP layer of the source node (DL direction is IAB-donor-DU, UL direction is access IAB-node) adds a BAP header to the data packet to be transmitted. The BAP header includes the BAP address (i.e., the BAP address of the destination node) and the BAP path ID. The link routing information (i.e., link routing table) of the IAB node mainly includes: BAP routing identifier (Identity, ID) and the BAP address of the next hop node. The BAP routing identifier can also be described as: BAP Routing ID.

[0093] Among them, the BAP routing identifier (i.e., BAP routing ID) may include (or indicate): the destination address of the BAP (i.e., the BAP address of the destination IAB node) and the BAP path ID. The destination address of the BAP indicates: the BAP address of the destination IAB node for data packet transmission, and the BAP path ID is used to indicate: the identifier of the transmission path between the destination IAB node. A BAP routing identifier can uniquely determine: a BAP destination address and a BAP path ID. Alternatively, a combination of a BAP destination address and a BAP path ID can uniquely determine a BAP routing identifier. For example, Table 1 shows a schematic table of a path configuration of an IAB node.

[0094] Table 1

[0095]

[0096] The BAP subheader of each data packet transmitted between IAB nodes contains a BAP routing identifier. The IAB node will select the next hop connection (i.e., the next hop IAB node) based on the BAP routing identifier contained in the data packet. This selection process can be implemented by means of a routing table, that is, the routing table includes a mapping relationship between a BAP routing identifier (or BAP path ID) and the BAP address of the next hop node, and then finds the corresponding BAP address of the next hop IAB node based on the BAP routing identifier (or BAP path ID). The BAP address of the next hop node (Next-Hop BAP Address) is used to indicate: the BAP address of the next hop IAB node or IAB donor DU (the BAP Address of the next hop IAB node or IABdonor DU).

[0097] For example, in Figure 4 In the IAB communication system shown, it is assumed that: the BAP address of IAB node 1 is 1, the BAP address of IAB node 2 is 2, the BAP address of IAB node 3 is 3, and the BAP address of IAB node 4 is 4. For downlink data transmission, IAB node 1 can be configured with two routing information. The BAP routing identifiers in the two routing information are routing 1 and routing 2, respectively. In routing 1, the BAP address of the destination node is 4 (i.e., the BAP destination address is 4), the path ID is 1, and the BAP address of the next hop node is 2; in routing 2, the BAP destination address is 4 (i.e., the BAP address of the destination node is 4), the path ID is 2, and the BAP address of the next hop node is 3.

[0098] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the IAB host node includes: IAB-donor-CU and IAB-donor-DU. IAB-donor-CU can configure the mapping relationship between the IP header field (i.e., the BAP subheader of the data packet) and the L2 parameters used by the downlink traffic (e.g., BAP path ID, backhaul radio link control (BH RLC) channel) for the IAB-donor-DU, and select the BAP address and BAP path ID for the data packet from the upper layer based on the IP address through the mapping relationship.

[0099] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, for downlink data transmission, assuming that the IAB-donor-DU receives a data packet with an IP header field mapped to a BAP destination address of 4 and a BAP path ID of 1, then:

[0100] The IAB-donor-DU adds a BAP subheader to the data packet, where the BAP subheader identifiers are: BAP destination address 4, BAP path ID 1, and transmits the data packet to IAB-node 1.

[0101] When IAB-node 1 receives the data packet, it checks the BAP header of the data packet and determines that the BAP destination address is 4 and the BAP path ID is 1. Based on the BAP path ID of 1, it can be determined that the BAP address of the next hop node is 2, and IAB-node 1 transmits the data packet to IAB-node 2.

[0102] When IAB-node 2 receives the data packet, it will check the BAP header of the data packet and determine that the BAP destination address is 4. For IAB-node 2, it is assumed that the routing information configured by IAB-donor-CU includes: information of route 1, in which the BAP address of the destination node is 4 (i.e., the BAP destination address is 4), the corresponding BAP path ID is 1, and the BAP address of the next hop node is 4. Based on the BAP destination address of 4, IAB-node 2 matches its own routing information and determines that the corresponding BAP path ID is 1 and the BAP address of the next hop node is 4. In this way, IAB-node 2 can determine that the BAP address of the next hop node is 4, and IAB-node 2 transmits the data packet to IAB-node 4.

[0103] After receiving the data packet, IAB-node 4 determines that the destination of the data packet is itself when checking the BAP header field of the data packet. IAB-node 4 will delete the BAP header of the data packet and then process the data packet further.

[0104] Since 5G networks will use higher spectrum resources, when using higher frequencies for backhaul links, data transmission between IAB nodes may be susceptible to obstruction, for example, due to movement of objects (vehicles), seasonal changes (leaves) or infrastructure changes (new buildings). Therefore, it is important to ensure that IAB nodes can quickly recover and continue to operate (for example, provide coverage and end-user service continuity) in the event of a backhaul link failure. To this end, the current protocol defines the topology adaptation of the IAB network to autonomously reconfigure the IAB network topology in the event of a backhaul link failure. The IAB network topology can be understood as an IAB communication system consisting of multiple IAB nodes, with a backhaul link between two adjacent IAB nodes. Reconfiguring the IAB network topology (i.e., topology adaptation of the IAB network) can be understood as: updating or changing the relative relationship between IAB nodes in the IAB communication system (e.g., parent node, child node), adding new IAB nodes, deleting existing IAB nodes, etc. In the topology adaptation process of the IAB network, the ultimate goal is to minimize service interruption and packet loss. For example, topology adaptation of the IAB network may be triggered by integrating a new IAB node into the topology, separating an IAB node from the topology, detecting backhaul link overload, backhaul link quality deterioration, link failure, or other events.

[0105] However, the current IAB network topology change is not based on the purpose of energy saving, but is a passive network topology adaptation process for factors such as link quality that affect communication effects. There is no IAB network topology adaptation process that takes active consideration of factors such as energy saving. Therefore, the traditional topology change process is not suitable for IAB node energy saving scenarios. For example, energy saving scenarios may include: in the IAB communication system, the backhaul link is interrupted during certain time periods, and the backhaul link is reachable during certain time periods; the topology structure of the IAB node does not completely change the connection relationship, but only changes the data transmission route, etc.

[0106] In summary, the current IAB topology adaptation process cannot be applied to topology adaptation in energy-saving scenarios, and cannot improve the energy-saving performance of the IAB communication system or the IAB network.

[0107] In view of this, the present application provides an energy-saving access backhaul integrated network communication method and communication device. In the IAB communication system, the IAB network topology structure is adaptively changed based on the energy-saving situation of the IAB node, and new routing information is configured for the IAB adjacent to the IAB energy-saving node according to the energy-saving mode of the IAB energy-saving node. When the IAB node enters the energy-saving state, the business continuity can be guaranteed, the normal transmission of data and the communication service can be guaranteed not to be affected, and the energy-saving effect of the IAB node can be achieved, and the energy consumption of the IAB node can be reduced.

[0108] The method provided in this application can be applied to Figure 2 , Figure 3 ,or Figure 4 The IAB communication system shown can, of course, also be applied to scenarios in other IAB communication systems, and the embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto.

[0109] For example, Figure 2 , Figure 3 or Figure 4 The communication system shown may be a cellular system related to the third generation partnership project (3GPP), for example, a 4G, 5G mobile communication system (including independent networking and non-independent networking), or a future-oriented evolution system (such as a 6G mobile communication system), or an open access network (open RAN, O-RAN or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (cloud radio access network, CRAN), or a communication system in which two or more of the above systems are integrated. The embodiments of the present application are not limited here.

[0110] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present application, an IAB host node or an IAB node (IAB node) may also be referred to as: an access network device, a network device, a radio access network (RAN) node, a RAN entity or an access node, etc., constituting a part of a communication system to help terminal devices achieve wireless access and backhaul of an IAB node.

[0111] In one possible scenario, the IAB host node or IAB node may be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), an access point (AP), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next generation NodeB (gNB), a next generation base station in a sixth generation (6G) mobile communication system, a base station in a future mobile communication system, etc. Optionally, the wireless access network device may also be a macro base station, a micro base station or an indoor station, a relay node or a donor node, or a wireless controller in a CRAN scenario. Optionally, the IAB host node or IAB node (IAB node) may also be an access network device in a vehicle to everything (V2X) technology, such as a road side unit (RSU). All or part of the functions of the IAB host node or IAB node in this application may also be implemented by software functions running on hardware, or by virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). The wireless access network device in the present application may also be a logical node, a logical module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the wireless access network device.

[0112] In the embodiments of the present application, the terminal device may also be referred to as a terminal, user equipment (UE), a mobile station, a mobile terminal, etc. The terminal can be widely used in various scenarios, for example, device-to-device (D2D), vehicle to everything (V2X) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IOT), virtual reality, augmented reality, industrial control, automatic driving, telemedicine, smart grid, smart furniture, smart office, smart wear, smart transportation, smart city, etc. The terminal may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a computer with wireless transceiver function, a wearable device, a vehicle, a drone, a smart home device, etc. The embodiments of the present application do not limit the device form of the terminal.

[0113] Combine the following Figure 5 Describe the method provided by this application in detail, Figure 5 is a schematic interactive diagram of an energy-saving access-backhaul integrated network communication method according to an embodiment of the present application. The method 500 can be applied in Figures 2 to 4The scenario shown can of course also be applied to other IAB communication scenarios, and the embodiment of the present application is not limited here.

[0114] It should be understood that in the embodiments of the present application, the method is described by taking the IAB host node or IAB node as an example of an execution subject of the execution method. As an example but not a limitation, the IAB host node or IAB node in the present application may also be a chip, a chip system, or a processor that supports the IAB host node or IAB node to implement the method, or a logical node, a logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the network device functions.

[0115] It should also be understood that in the present application, "sending information to...IAB node" can be understood as the destination end of the information being the IAB node. It can include sending information to the IAB node directly or indirectly. "Receiving information from...(IAB node) or receiving information from the IAB node" can be understood as the source end of the information being the IAB node, which can include receiving information from the IAB node directly or indirectly. The information may be processed as necessary between the source end and the destination end of the information transmission, such as format changes, etc., but the destination end can understand the valid information from the source end. Similar expressions in the present application can be understood similarly and will not be repeated here.

[0116] like Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 The method 500 shown in FIG. 5 may include S501 to S505. Figure 5 Each step in method 500 is described in detail.

[0117] S501: IAB node 1 sends an energy-saving request to an IAB host node. The energy-saving request is used to request the IAB node 1 to enter an energy-saving state.

[0118] Correspondingly, the IAB host node receives the energy saving request.

[0119] In some possible implementations, the IAB node 1 can independently determine whether it needs to enter the energy-saving state.

[0120] Exemplarily, the IAB node 1 may determine whether it needs to enter an energy-saving state based on at least one of its current load conditions, business conditions, the number of terminal devices served by the IAB node 1 and operating conditions (such as the capabilities of the terminal devices, etc.), the link conditions between the IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes or the IAB host node, and the data requirements transmitted through the IAB node 1.

[0121] For example, if the current load of IAB node 1 is low, the number of terminal devices served by IAB node 1 is relatively small, or the link between IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes or IAB host node is relatively poor, IAB node 1 may decide that it needs to enter the energy-saving state. When IAB node 1 decides that it needs to enter the energy-saving state, IAB node 1 sends an energy-saving request to the IAB host node.

[0122] Optionally, the energy saving request may include one or more of: the load condition (or service condition) of the IAB node 1, the number of terminal devices served by the IAB node 1, the operation condition, the link condition between the IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes or the IAB host node, etc. Of course, the energy saving request may not include the above content.

[0123] S502 : The IAB host node sends an energy-saving notification to the IAB node 1 according to the energy-saving request. The energy-saving notification includes: energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 .

[0124] Optionally, the energy-saving notification may also be referred to as the first information.

[0125] Optionally, the energy-saving notification may further include indication information, and the indication information is used to indicate that the IAB node 1 may enter the energy-saving state. Of course, if the energy-saving notification does not include indication information, the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 may also function as indication information.

[0126] Of course, as a possible implementation, the energy-saving notification may include indication information, but not the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1. In this case, for example, the IAB node 1 may determine the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 based on at least one of its current load condition, service condition, the number of terminal devices served by the IAB node 1 and the operation condition (for example, including the capabilities of the terminal devices, etc.), the link condition between the IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes or the IAB host node, and the data demand transmitted through the IAB node 1. In other words, the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 may also be determined by the IAB node 1 itself.

[0127] Optionally, the energy-saving notification may further include: a triggering method for starting to enter the energy-saving state.

[0128] Optionally, the triggering mode for starting to enter the energy-saving state and the energy-saving configuration information may be notified to the IAB node 1 via one signaling, or may be notified to the IAB node 1 via different signalings respectively.

[0129] In an embodiment of the present application, the IAB host node may determine whether to allow the IAB node 1 to enter the energy-saving state based on the content included in the energy-saving request. For example, the IAB host node may determine whether to allow the IAB node 1 to enter the energy-saving state based on one or more of the current business situation of the IAB node 1, the current load situation, the link situation between the IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes or the IAB host node, the data demand transmitted through the IAB node 1, and the link situation between each IAB node of the entire IAB communication system managed by the IAB host node. In the case where the IAB node 1 is allowed to enter the energy-saving state, an energy-saving notification is sent to the IAB node 1. Optionally, in the state where the IAB node 1 is not allowed to enter the energy-saving state, the IAB host node may also send a notification to the IAB node 1 to notify the IAB node 1 that it cannot enter the energy-saving state and needs to maintain the previous working state.

[0130] As a possible implementation manner, the IAB host node may determine the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 according to the energy-saving request sent by the IAB node 1 .

[0131] As a possible implementation manner, the IAB host node may determine a triggering manner for the IAB node 1 to start entering the energy-saving state according to the energy-saving request sent by the IAB node 1 .

[0132] As another possible implementation method, since the IAB host node is responsible for managing the IAB node, the IAB host node can obtain at least one of the current business situation of IAB node 1, the current load situation, the link situation between IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes or IAB host nodes, the data demand transmitted through the first IAB node, etc. The IAB host node can also determine the energy-saving configuration information of IAB node 1 and / or the triggering method for IAB node 1 to enter the energy-saving state based on these contents.

[0133] Optionally, the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 may include: the energy-saving mode (or energy-saving technology) of the IAB node 1 and the specific energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode.

[0134] Exemplarily, the energy-saving method may include: at least one of: shutting down (ie, the IAB node 1 stops working), time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, space domain energy saving, power energy saving, etc.

[0135] Exemplarily, time domain energy saving may include: at least one of: discontinuous reception and discontinuous transmission of signals, common signal period adjustment, etc. Frequency domain energy saving may include: at least one of: adjusting the number of transmitted carriers, adjusting the transmission bandwidth, etc.; spatial domain energy saving may include: at least one of: closing some antenna ports, etc.; power energy saving may include: adjusting the transmission power, etc.

[0136] It should be understood that in other implementations of the present application, the energy-saving method may also be other energy-saving methods. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific energy-saving method of the IAB node, as long as the power consumption of the IAB node can be reduced.

[0137] For example, for the power-saving mode of shutdown, the IAB node 1 may be shut down for a certain period of time and work normally for a certain period of time.

[0138] The energy-saving configuration under a certain energy-saving mode can be understood as: the specific configuration information corresponding to the IAB node under a certain specific energy-saving mode. For example, if the energy-saving mode is: the IAB node is shut down for a period of time and works normally for a period of time, the corresponding energy-saving configuration may include: the specific time period corresponding to the shutdown, the specific time period corresponding to the normal operation, etc. For another example, if the energy-saving mode is: reducing the sending of certain signals or modifying the scheduling principle of data transmission, the corresponding energy-saving configuration may include: the paging configuration in paging enhancement, the specific parameter configuration of cell discontinuous transmission (cell discontinuous transmission, cell DTX), the specific parameter configuration of cell discontinuous reception (cell discontinuous reception, cell DRX), etc. For another example, if the energy-saving mode is time domain energy-saving and / or air domain energy-saving, the corresponding energy-saving configuration may include: time domain parameter configuration and / or air domain parameter configuration, etc. In the embodiment of the present application, there is no limitation on the specific content of the energy-saving configuration under a certain energy-saving mode.

[0139] In other words, the energy-saving configuration information may also be understood as: various configuration information related to data transmission or communication of the IAB node when the IAB node is in an energy-saving state.

[0140] By sending energy-saving configuration information to the IAB node, the IAB node can clearly understand various specific configurations and parameters in the energy-saving state, ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state and improving the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state.

[0141] Of course, in S502, the IAB host node may not indicate the specific energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode to the IAB node 1, but only notify the energy-saving mode to the IAB node 1. The IAB node 1 may determine the specific energy-saving configuration under a certain energy-saving mode according to the energy-saving mode recommended by the IAB host node.

[0142] The triggering method for entering the energy-saving state can be understood as: the triggering method or timing for the IAB node to formally or actually enter the energy-saving state. In other words, at what opportunity or time does the IAB node formally enter the energy-saving state. The IAB node can determine which method is used to trigger the energy-saving state according to the triggering method for entering the energy-saving state sent by the IAB host node.

[0143] For example, in an embodiment of the present application, the triggering method for starting to enter the energy-saving state may include: time triggering, signaling triggering, or triggering according to configured rules.

[0144] Among them, the time trigger can be understood as the start time point, or the start time point and the end time point, at which the IAB node is configured to enter the energy-saving state. The IAB node automatically enters the energy-saving state at the start time point. For example, in S502, the IAB host node (for example, IAB-donor-CU) configures a timer to the IAB node and configures the start time of the timer. After the timer expires, the IAB node 1 enters the energy-saving state.

[0145] The signaling trigger can be understood as: the IAB host node (for example, IAB-donor-CU) can send a trigger signaling to the IAB node, and the IAB node enters the energy-saving state after receiving the trigger signaling.

[0146] Triggering according to the configured rules can be understood as: the IAB host node (for example, IAB-donor-CU) can configure the conditions or rules for entering the energy-saving state in advance, such as: the load of the IAB node is lower than a certain threshold, the current time is within a preset time interval (that is, the preset start time point and end time point for the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state), the power of the IAB node is less than a certain threshold, etc. The IAB node automatically enters the energy-saving state according to the configured rules when the rules are met.

[0147] Of course, in other implementations of the present application, the triggering method for starting to enter the energy-saving state may also include other possible implementations, and the embodiments of the present application are not limited here.

[0148] By configuring the triggering method for the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state, the IAB node can clearly know under what circumstances or when to officially enter the energy-saving state, ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state and improving the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state.

[0149] Optionally, the IAB host node may also determine the rule according to which the IAB node migrates the terminal devices it serves (i.e., changes the route or routing of the terminal device data transmission) based on the energy-saving configuration information. For example, if the energy-saving method is: IAB1 node is shut down, then IAB node 1 needs to migrate all the terminal devices it serves to other IAB nodes; if the energy-saving method is: the power of IAB node 1 is reduced, then IAB node 1 needs to migrate some of the terminal devices it serves (such as terminal devices with lower receiving or sending power) to other IAB nodes. In this case, the energy-saving notification sent by the IAB host node to IAB node 1 may also carry indication information, and the indication information is used to indicate: IAB node 1 migrates the terminal devices it serves to other IAB nodes according to a certain rule or principle.

[0150] After receiving the indication information, IAB node 1 can migrate the terminal device it serves to other IAB nodes according to the rules indicated by the indication information. Optionally, after IAB node 1 completes the migration (switching) of the terminal device it serves to other IAB nodes, IAB node 1 can also reply to the IAB host node that the migration is complete or has been completed.

[0151] Optionally, as a possible implementation, in S501, the energy saving request sent by the IAB node 1 to the IAB host node may also carry the energy saving configuration information determined by the IAB node 1 and / or the triggering method for entering the energy saving state. In S502, after receiving the energy saving request, the IAB host node may perform authorization if the IAB node 1 is allowed to enter the energy saving state, that is, determine whether to agree to use the energy saving configuration information determined by the IAB node 1 and / or the triggering method for entering the energy saving state.

[0152] In the case of agreeing (allowing) to use the energy-saving configuration information determined by the IAB node 1 and / or the triggering method for entering the energy-saving state, the above-mentioned S502 can be replaced by: the IAB host node sends an energy-saving notification to the IAB node 1, and the energy-saving notification includes: indication information for indicating agreement to use the energy-saving configuration information determined by the IAB node 1 and / or the triggering method for entering the energy-saving state.

[0153] When the IAB host node disagrees with (does not allow) the use of the energy-saving configuration information and / or the triggering method for entering the energy-saving state determined by the IAB node 1, the IAB host node can re-determine new energy-saving configuration information and / or a new triggering method for entering the energy-saving state, and send it to the IAB node 1 in S502.

[0154] It should also be understood that since the IAB host node can obtain the current business status of the IAB node it manages, the link status between the IAB node and other IAB nodes or the IAB host node, etc., the above S501 is an optional step. If the method 500 does not include S501, S502 can be replaced by: the IAB host node sends an energy-saving notification to the IAB node 1, and the energy-saving notification includes: energy-saving configuration information and a triggering method for entering the energy-saving state. Of course, this is when the IAB host node determines that the IAB node 1 can enter the energy-saving state. In the case where the IAB host node determines that the IAB node 1 cannot enter the energy-saving state, S502 can be replaced by: the IAB host node sends a notification to the IAB node 1 to notify the IAB node 1 that it cannot enter the energy-saving state. Alternatively, it is not necessary to send a notification to the IAB node.

[0155] In other words, the event of a certain IAB node entering the energy-saving state may be triggered by the IAB node itself, or may be triggered by an IAB host node that manages the IAB node.

[0156] Optionally, the IAB node 1 may also be referred to as an energy-saving IAB node.

[0157] S503 , the IAB host node sends configuration information to other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 , where the configuration information includes: updated link routing information corresponding to other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 .

[0158] Optionally, the configuration information may also be referred to as second information.

[0159] Optionally, the configuration information (or the second information) may further include: energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1. The energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 includes: an energy-saving mode of the IAB node 1 and a specific energy-saving configuration in the energy-saving mode.

[0160] Since the IAB node 1 needs to enter the energy-saving state, the data transmission link passing through or including the IAB node 1 needs to be adaptively updated or modified. The IAB host node can modify or update the routing table of the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the IAB node 1, obtain the updated link routing information of the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the IAB node 1, and send the updated link routing information to the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the IAB node 1, thereby ensuring that data can be transmitted normally. Optionally, the updated link routing information can also be called an updated link routing table.

[0161] Optionally, the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the IAB node 1 may also be referred to as: other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 .

[0162] Exemplarily, the IAB host node may determine an updated link routing table according to the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 .

[0163] For example, Figure 6 The topology of an IAB communication network including an IAB node 1 is shown. Assume that the IAB node 1 needs to enter the energy-saving state, and the link routes of the upstream node (i.e., the parent node) and the downstream node (i.e., the child node) of the IAB node 1 need to be modified or updated.

[0164] exist Figure 6 In the example shown, the upstream node of IAB node 1 is IAB node 3. For the transmission of downlink data, when IAB node 1 does not need to enter the energy-saving state, IAB node 3 can be configured as 3 different BAP routing IDs, assuming that they are: BAP routing ID 1, BAP routing ID 2, and BAP routing ID 3.

[0165] Among them, the BAP routing ID of 1 represents (or corresponds to): the BAP address of the destination node (assuming it is the BAP address of IAB node 5) and the BAP path ID (assuming it is 1), and the path represented by the BAP path ID of 1 is: IAB node 3→IAB node 2→IAB node 5. The next hop BAP address corresponding to the BAP routing ID of 1 is: the BAP address of IAB node 2.

[0166] The BAP routing ID of 2 indicates: the BAP address of the destination node (assuming it is the BAP address of IAB node 5) and the BAP path ID (assuming it is 2). The path indicated by the BAP path ID of 2 is: IAB node 3 → IAB node 1 → IAB node 5. The next hop BAP address corresponding to the BAP routing ID of 2 is: the BAP address of IAB node 1.

[0167] The BAP routing ID of 3 indicates: the BAP address of the destination node (assuming it is the BAP address of IAB node 5) and the BAP path ID (assuming it is 3). The path indicated by the BAP path ID of 3 is: IAB node 3 → IAB node 4 → IAB node 5. The next hop BAP address corresponding to the BAP routing ID of 3 is: the BAP address of IAB node 4.

[0168] In summary, Figure 6In the example shown, IAB node 3 corresponds to 3 different path IDs or routing IDs. When IAB node 1 needs to enter the energy-saving state, and assuming that the energy-saving mode of IAB node 1 is off, the next-hop reachable nodes of IAB node 3 include: IAB node 2 and IAB node 4, which correspond to different path IDs (or routing IDs), that is, IAB node 3 corresponds to 2 different path IDs or routing IDs. It can be seen that when IAB node 1 needs to enter the energy-saving state, the routing information of the upstream node of IAB node 1 needs to be updated or changed.

[0169] For example, when IAB node 1 needs to enter the energy-saving state, and assuming that the energy-saving mode of IAB node 1 is off, IAB node 3 can be configured with 2 different BAP routing IDs, and it is necessary to delete the routing information with BAP routing ID 2 from the original routing information to obtain the updated link routing information. Then for IAB node 3, the updated link routing table includes: routing information with BAP routing ID 1 and routing information with BAP routing ID 3.

[0170] exist Figure 6 In the example shown, the downstream node of IAB node 1 is IAB node 5. For the transmission of uplink data, when IAB node 1 does not need to enter the energy-saving state, the previous hop nodes of IAB node 5 include: IAB node 2, IAB node 1 and IAB node 4, which correspond to different path IDs (or routing IDs). When IAB node 1 needs to enter the energy-saving state, and assuming that the energy-saving mode of IAB node 1 is off, the previous hop reachable nodes of IAB node 5 include: IAB node 2 and IAB node 4, which correspond to different path IDs (or routing IDs). It can be seen that when IAB node 1 needs to enter the energy-saving state, the routing information of the downstream nodes of IAB node 1 also needs to be updated or changed.

[0171] Exemplarily, the updated link routing table (or may also be referred to as updated link routing information) may include: the updated BAP address and path ID of the next-hop IAB node of the upstream and downstream nodes of the IAB node 1 .

[0172] For example, if the energy saving mode of a certain IAB node is off, the child nodes of the IAB node need to switch to other IAB nodes, and the child nodes of the IAB node become the child nodes of other IAB nodes, and the BAP address and path ID of the previous hop IAB node corresponding to the child nodes of the IAB node will change.

[0173] Of course, it is understandable that the IAB host node may determine the routing table of the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the IAB node 1 according to the specific energy saving mode of the IAB node 1 .

[0174] Optionally, in some possible implementations, for example, if the energy-saving mode of the IAB node 1 is: shut down; or shut down for a certain period of time and work normally for a certain period of time, then time control information can also be added to the link routing table of the original upstream and downstream nodes of the IAB node 1. The time control information can be used to indicate: in which time periods the IAB node 1 works normally, or the link of the IAB node 1 is unobstructed or reachable (i.e., the use time period corresponding to the link); or in which time periods the IAB node 1 is shut down (shutdown time period information), or the link of the IAB node 1 is unreachable. In this way, the upstream and downstream nodes of the IAB node 1 can be implemented or enabled to consider the additional time control information when transmitting data, so as to select a suitable path for data transmission.

[0175] For example, in Figure 6 In the example shown, for IAB node 3, in the scenario of downlink data transmission, there are three links (paths), namely: the path represented by the path ID (i.e., BAP path ID) of 1 is: IAB node 3→IAB node 2→IAB node 5; the path represented by the BAP path ID of 2 is: IAB node 3→IAB node 1→IAB node 5; the path represented by the BAP path ID of 3 is: IAB node 3→IAB node 4→IAB node 5. Then, the time control information of path 2 (i.e., BAP path ID is 2) can be configured or added. Exemplarily, in combination with the above example, the updated link routing table can be in the form of:

[0176] Path 2: time period 1 (for example, the normal working time period of IAB node 1).

[0177] Alternatively, the time control information of the three paths may be configured separately. Exemplarily, in combination with the above example, the updated link routing table may be in the form of:

[0178] Path 1: time period 1 (for example, all time);

[0179] Path 2: time period 2 (for example, the normal working time period of the IAB node 1);

[0180] Path 3: Time period 3 (eg, all time).

[0181] Among them, path 1 represents a BAP path ID of 1, path 2 represents a BAP path ID of 2, and path 3 represents a BAP path ID of 3. The time period information corresponding to each path represents the time information when the path is available or reachable. When transmitting data, the upstream node of the IAB node 1 can consider the time control information and select a suitable path for data transmission.

[0182] exist Figure 6 In the example shown, the three path information configured by the IAB host node to the upstream node (IAB node 3) of the IAB node 1 may include the above-mentioned time control information.

[0183] Of course, during the time period when the IAB node 1 is turned off, the IAB host node can also configure the upstream and downstream nodes of the IAB node 1 to reconnect to other IAB nodes, that is, the upstream and downstream nodes of the IAB node 1 need to establish connections with the new IAB node. In this case, the updated link routing table may include: information about the parent node or child node of the upstream and downstream nodes of the IAB node 1.

[0184] Of course, in addition to the energy-saving mode of IAB node 1 being shut down; or being shut down for a certain period of time and working normally for a certain period of time, for other energy-saving modes of IAB node 1, for example, inactive state or idle state, time domain energy saving or space domain energy saving, etc., time control information can also be added to the link routing table of the original upstream and downstream nodes of IAB node 1 according to these specific energy-saving modes and the specific time configuration information under the energy-saving mode, and the time control information can be used to indicate: the usage time corresponding to different links, etc. The embodiments of the present application are not limited here.

[0185] Optionally, in some other possible implementations, for example, if the energy saving mode of the IAB node 1 is power reduction, link priority information can be added to the link routing table of each upstream and downstream node of the original IAB node 1. The link priority information can be used to indicate to the upstream and downstream nodes of the IAB node 1: the use priority of each link (including the link of the IAB node 1). For example, Figure 6 In the example shown, for IAB node 3, in the scenario of downlink data transmission, there are three links (paths), the path ID (i.e., BAP path ID) 1 represents the path: IAB node 3 → IAB node 2 → IAB node 5; the path ID 2 represents the path: IAB node 3 → IAB node 1 → IAB node 5; the path ID 3 represents the path: IAB node 3 → IAB node 4 → IAB node 5. You can configure the priority of the three paths, the higher the priority, the more likely it is that this path will be used to transmit data during downlink data transmission.

[0186] Exemplarily, in combination with the above example, the updated link routing table may be in the form of:

[0187] Path 1: priority is 1;

[0188] Path 2: priority 2;

[0189] Path 3: The priority is 3.

[0190] Among them, path 1 represents a BAP path ID of 1, path 2 represents a BAP path ID of 2, and path 3 represents a BAP path ID of 3. In the above example, the larger the number corresponding to the priority, the more preferentially the path is used to transmit data. When transmitting data, the upstream node of IAB node 1 can consider the priority of the path and select an appropriate path for data transmission.

[0191] exist Figure 6 In the example shown, the three path information configured by the IAB host node to the upstream node (IAB node 3) of the IAB node 1 may include the above-mentioned link priority information.

[0192] Of course, in addition to the energy-saving mode of IAB node 1 being power reduction, for other energy-saving modes of IAB node 1, for example, shutting down for a certain period of time, working normally for a certain period of time, inactive state or idle state, time domain energy saving or spatial domain energy saving, etc., the IAB host node can also add link priority information to the link routing table of the original upstream and downstream nodes of the IAB node 1 according to these specific energy-saving modes and the configuration information under the energy-saving mode, the transmission volume of data on different links, the quality requirements of data transmission on different links, etc., and the embodiments of the present application are not limited here.

[0193] Of course, in the embodiment of the present application, the time control information and the link priority information may also be combined, that is, the link priority information and the time control information are added to the link routing table of each upstream and downstream node of the IAB node 1. For example, if the energy-saving mode of the IAB node 1 is to close some antenna ports, the IAB host node may add the link priority information and the time control information to the link routing table of the upstream and downstream nodes of the IAB node 1 according to the energy-saving mode of the IAB node 1 and the data transmission conditions in the IAB communication system including the IAB node 1 (such as the data transmission volume in different time periods, the data transmission volume on different paths, the transmission quality requirements, etc.), indicating the priorities of different paths in different time periods, and the larger the number corresponding to the priority, the higher the priority, indicating that the path is used to transmit data.

[0194] Exemplary, combined Figure 6 In the example shown, for IAB node 3, in the scenario of downlink data transmission, the updated link routing table may be in the form of:

[0195] Path 1: time period 1, priority 1;

[0196] Path 2: time period 2, priority 2;

[0197] Path 3: Time period 1, priority 3.

[0198] In the same time period, the path with higher priority is used for transmission. When transmitting data, the upstream node IAB node 3 of the IAB node 1 can consider the time control information and the priority information of the link and select a suitable path for data transmission.

[0199] Of course, in other implementations of the present application, in addition to adding time control information and / or link priority information to the link routing table, changes or updates to the link routing table due to energy saving of a certain IAB node may also be reflected in the link routing table in other ways, and the embodiments of the present application are not limited here.

[0200] By adding time control information and / or link priority information to the link routing table, on the one hand, the link routing table can be updated flexibly without making significant changes to the link routing tables of other IAB nodes, thereby reducing the complexity of implementation. On the other hand, it can be more compatible with the specific energy-saving method of the IAB node, so that the updated link routing information can more accurately and finely reflect the impact of the energy-saving method of the IAB node on the link routing information of other IAB nodes, thereby improving the efficiency of the use of the updated link routing information.

[0201] Optionally, in S503, the IAB host node may also send indication information to other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1, to indicate that the reason for updating the link routing table is that the IAB node 1 needs to enter the energy-saving state.

[0202] Through the above-mentioned S503, when a certain IAB node needs to enter the energy-saving state, the IAB host node can modify or update the link routing table of the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the IAB node according to the specific energy-saving method of the IAB node. When the IAB node enters the energy-saving state, the business continuity can be guaranteed, and the normal transmission of data and communication services can be guaranteed not to be affected.

[0203] Optionally, if the configuration information (second information) further includes: energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 , other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 may perform corresponding configuration according to the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 .

[0204] For example, other IAB nodes adjacent to IAB node 1 may adjust their coverage accordingly based on the energy-saving configuration information of IAB node 1, or when other IAB nodes transmit data, they may select a suitable path to send data based on the energy-saving mode of IAB node 1 (e.g., the status and capability of IAB node 1).

[0205] S504: After receiving the configuration information, other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 update routing information according to the configuration information.

[0206] Other IAB nodes adjacent to IAB node 1 receive the updated link routing information, and can re-establish a new connection relationship (i.e., change the topology structure) according to the updated link routing information and determine the routing information for data transmission; or determine the routing information for data transmission according to the updated link routing information, and transmit data according to the routing information. For example, the link selection for data transmission is performed in combination with the time control information and / or the link priority information in the link routing information, thereby ensuring that the normal transmission of data and the communication service are not affected.

[0207] For example, assuming that the energy-saving mode required for IAB node 1 is shutdown, the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of IAB node 1 need to re-establish a new connection relationship (ie, change the topology structure) according to the updated link routing information.

[0208] For example, in Figure 7 In the example shown, it is assumed that the energy saving mode of the IAB node 1 is shutdown.

[0209] like Figure 7 As shown in Figure a, before the IAB node 1 enters the energy-saving state (ie, the IAB node 1 does not enter the energy-saving state), the link routing information of the downstream node (child node) IAB node 5 of the IAB node 1 can be expressed as:

[0210] The BAP Routing ID is 1, and the corresponding BAP address of the next hop node is: the BAP address of IAB Node 1; wherein, the BAP Routing ID is 1 indicating (or corresponding to): the path ID (assuming it is 1) and the BAP destination address (assuming it is the address of the IAB host node). The path indicated by the path ID being 1 is: IAB Node 5 → IAB Node 1 → IAB Node 3 → IAB host node.

[0211] Exemplarily, after the IAB node 1 enters the energy-saving state, as shown in FIG. Figure 7 As shown in FIG. b, the link routing information of the downstream node (child node) IAB node 5 of the IAB node 1 can be updated to at least one of the following two types:

[0212] The first type: BAP Routing ID is 2, and the corresponding BAP address of the next hop node is: BAP address of IAB node 2; wherein, BAP Routing ID indicates (or corresponds to): Path ID (assuming it is 2) and BAP destination address (assuming it is the address of IAB host node). The path represented by Path ID 2 is: IAB node 5 → IAB node 2 → IAB node 3 → IAB host node.

[0213] The second type: BAP Routing ID is 3, and the corresponding next-hop node BAP address is: BAP address of IAB node 4; wherein, BAP Routing ID includes: path ID (assuming 3) and BAP destination address (assuming the address of IAB host node). The path represented by path ID 3 is: IAB node 5 → IAB node 4 → IAB node 3 → IAB host node.

[0214] Then for IAB node 5, the updated link routing table includes: routing information with BAP routing ID 2 and / or routing information with BAP routing ID 3. After receiving the updated routing information, IAB node 5 can access the new IAB parent node (IAB node 2 and / or IAB node 4) according to the updated routing information, that is, re-establish a new connection relationship, and transmit data according to the updated link routing table.

[0215] Optionally, after the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of IAB node 1 complete updating of routing information according to the updated link routing table, the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of IAB node 1 may also send feedback information to the IAB host node to notify the IAB host node that the routing information update or modification is complete.

[0216] For example, if an upstream or downstream IAB node of IAB node 1 needs to be connected to other IAB nodes according to the updated link routing table, e.g. Figure 7 In the example shown, after the IAB node is connected to other IAB nodes, feedback information may be sent to the IAB host node to notify the IAB host node that the routing information is successfully modified.

[0217] S505, IAB node 1 enters energy-saving state.

[0218] Exemplarily, the IAB node 1 may start to enter the energy-saving state by the following possible ways:

[0219] Optionally, as a possible implementation method, the IAB host node can send an energy-saving trigger signaling to the IAB node 1. After the IAB node receives the energy-saving trigger signaling, it formally or actually enters the energy-saving state. In this way, the IAB host node can determine the timing of the IAB node 1 entering the energy-saving state according to the data transmission conditions of the IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes, and the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can be flexibly determined, which can improve the accuracy of the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state.

[0220] Optionally, as another possible implementation, the IAB host node may also configure the start time point, or the start time point and the end time point, of entering the energy-saving state to the IAB node 1. For example, in S502, the IAB node 1 is configured to configure the start time point, or the start time point and the end time point of entering the energy-saving state. Exemplarily, the IAB host node may configure a timer for the IAB node 1 in S502. For example, the triggering condition for the start time of the timer is: the IAB host node sends an energy-saving notification to the IAB node 1. That is, when the IAB host node sends an energy-saving notification to the IAB node 1 (or when the IAB node 1 receives the energy-saving notification), the timer is started, and after the timer expires (expiries), the IAB node 1 automatically enters the energy-saving state. Exemplarily, the duration of the timer can be determined according to the energy-saving mode of the IAB node 1, the specific energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, the load conditions of other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 (i.e., the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the IAB node 1), the business conditions, etc. In this way, there is no need to trigger the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state through additional signaling, which can save the overhead of communication resources and the implementation method is more flexible.

[0221] Optionally, as another possible implementation method, the IAB host node may also configure preset rules (conditions) to the IAB node 1. For example, the preset rules may include: the load of the IAB node 1 is lower than a certain threshold; within a preset time interval (i.e., the preset start time point and end time point for the IAB node 1 to enter the energy-saving state); or the power of the IAB node 1 is less than a certain threshold, etc. One or more of the above. If the IAB node 1 determines that the preset rules are met, it will automatically enter the energy-saving state. The specific content of the preset rules is not limited in the embodiments of the present application. In this way, there is no need to trigger the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state through additional signaling, which can save the overhead of communication resources and the implementation method is more flexible.

[0222] Exemplarily, the preset rule is configured to the IAB node 1 in S502 .

[0223] Optionally, the preset rule may also be determined according to the energy saving mode of IAB node 1, the specific energy saving configuration under the energy saving mode, the load conditions and business conditions of other IAB nodes adjacent to IAB node 1 (ie, upstream and downstream IAB nodes of IAB node 1).

[0224] The IAB node 1 can start to enter the energy-saving state according to different triggering modes. It is understandable that the IAB node 1 formally enters the energy-saving state after S504 or S503.

[0225] Optionally, during the period when the IAB node 1 is in the energy-saving state, for the MT unit and the DU unit in the IAB node, the energy saving of the MT unit and the energy saving of the DU unit can be considered separately. The energy saving of the MT unit can be that the MT enters the energy-saving state, including the inactive state and the idle state; the energy saving of the DU can include that the DU discontinuously receives and sends signals, or that the DU does not send signals but retains the ability to receive signals; or, the energy saving of the DU can be that all cells are completely shut down or a certain cell is shut down, etc. The embodiments of the present application are not limited here.

[0226] In the access-backhaul integrated network communication method based on energy saving provided in the embodiment of the present application, the IAB host node determines whether the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state. When it is determined that the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, the IAB host node determines the updated link routing information of the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the energy-saving IAB node according to the energy-saving mode of the energy-saving IAB node and notifies the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the energy-saving IAB node. The upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the energy-saving IAB node update the routing information according to the updated link routing information (for example, switching all users served by themselves to other IAB nodes or switching some users who are not suitable for service to other IAB nodes). After the update of the routing information is completed, the IAB node enters the energy-saving state, which can ensure the continuity of the business when the energy-saving IAB node enters the energy-saving state, ensure that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, and at the same time achieve the effect of energy saving of the IAB node, reducing the energy consumption of the IAB node.

[0227] It should also be understood that Figure 5 The IAB host node shown in can also be replaced by IAB-donor-CU. In other words, Figure 5 In the method shown, the steps performed by the IAB host node may also be performed by the IAB-donor-CU.

[0228] Figure 8 is a schematic interactive diagram of another embodiment of the present application based on an energy-saving access and backhaul integrated network communication method, such as Figure 8 As shown, the method 800 includes:

[0229] S801: The IAB host node sends indication information to the IAB node 1, where the indication information is used to indicate that the IAB node 1 can enter a power-saving state.

[0230] Correspondingly, IAB node 1 receives the indication information.

[0231] Optionally, the IAB node 1 may also be referred to as an energy-saving IAB node.

[0232] Exemplarily, the IAB host node may determine whether to allow the IAB node 1 to enter the energy-saving state based on one or more of the current business situation of the IAB node 1, the current load situation, the link situation between the IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes or the IAB host node, the data demand transmitted through the IAB node 1, the link situation between each IAB node of the entire IAB communication system managed by the IAB host node, etc. In the case of allowing the IAB node 1 to enter the energy-saving state, indication information is sent to the IAB node 1. The indication information is used to indicate that the IAB node 1 can enter the energy-saving state.

[0233] Optionally, the indication information may further include: a triggering method for starting to enter the energy-saving state. For a detailed description of the triggering method for starting to enter the energy-saving state, reference may be made to the related description in the above method 500, which will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0234] S802: IAB node 1 determines energy-saving configuration information according to the indication information.

[0235] Optionally, IAB node 1 can determine the energy-saving configuration information of IAB node 1 based on its current load condition (or business condition), the number and operating conditions of terminal devices served by IAB node 1 (for example, including the capabilities of the terminal devices, etc.), the link conditions between IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes or IAB host nodes, etc.

[0236] Exemplarily, the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 may include: the energy-saving mode (or energy-saving technology) of the IAB node 1 and the specific energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode.

[0237] Exemplarily, the energy-saving method may include: at least one of: shutting down (ie, the IAB node 1 stops working), time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, space domain energy saving, power energy saving, etc.

[0238] Exemplarily, time domain energy saving may include: discontinuous reception and discontinuous transmission of signals, common signal period adjustment, etc.; frequency domain energy saving may include: adjusting the number of transmitted carriers, adjusting the transmission bandwidth, etc.; spatial domain energy saving may include: closing some antenna ports, etc.; power energy saving may include: adjusting the transmission power, etc. In the embodiments of the present application, there is no restriction on the energy saving method of the IAB node, as long as the power consumption of the IAB node can be reduced.

[0239] For the description of the energy-saving configuration information, please refer to the corresponding description in method 500, which will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0240] S803 : The IAB node 1 sends the energy-saving configuration information to other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 .

[0241] Optionally, other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 may also include an IAB host node (eg, an IAB-donor-DU).

[0242] Optionally, other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 may also be referred to as upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the IAB node 1 , or a parent node and a child node of the IAB node 1 .

[0243] Correspondingly, other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 receive the energy-saving configuration information (ie, the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 ).

[0244] Optionally, S803 may also be expressed as: the IAB node 1 sends third information to other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 , where the third information includes: energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 .

[0245] For example, the IAB node 1 may send third information to the IAB host node, where the third information includes: energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node 1 .

[0246] S804: Other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node 1 perform corresponding configurations according to the energy-saving configuration information.

[0247] For example, other IAB nodes adjacent to IAB node 1 may adjust their coverage accordingly according to the energy-saving configuration information of IAB node 1. Or when other IAB nodes transmit data, they may select a suitable path to transmit data in combination with the energy-saving mode of IAB node 1 (e.g., the state and capability of IAB node 1).

[0248] It should be understood that the specific manners of configuring other IAB nodes may be different depending on the specific contents of the corresponding energy-saving configuration information. The embodiments of the present application do not limit the specific manners of configuring other IAB nodes.

[0249] It should also be understood that for the same energy-saving configuration information, in other IAB nodes, different IAB nodes may perform configuration in different specific ways. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific way of configuring other IAB nodes.

[0250] S805, IAB node 1 enters energy-saving state.

[0251] For the specific description of S805, reference may be made to the description of S505 in the above method 500, which will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0252] The energy-saving access and backhaul integrated network communication method provided in the embodiment of the present application, when it is determined that the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, the energy-saving IAB node can determine the energy-saving mode (energy-saving configuration information) by itself, and notify the upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the energy-saving IAB node. The upstream and downstream IAB nodes of the energy-saving IAB node perform corresponding configurations according to the energy-saving configuration information of the energy-saving IAB node, such as corresponding adjustments to the coverage range or corresponding adjustments to the data transmission path, etc. By exchanging energy-saving configuration information between IAB nodes, the implementation method is relatively flexible, and it can ensure the continuity of business when the energy-saving IAB node enters the energy-saving state, ensure that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, and at the same time achieve the effect of energy saving of the IAB node, reducing the energy consumption of the IAB node.

[0253] It should also be understood that Figure 8 The IAB host node shown in can also be replaced by IAB-donor-CU. In other words, Figure 8 In the method shown, the steps performed by the IAB host node may also be performed by the IAB-donor-CU.

[0254] Fig. 9 is a schematic interactive diagram of another embodiment of the present application based on an energy-saving access and backhaul integrated network communication method, such as Fig. 9 As shown, the method 900 includes:

[0255] S901: The IAB host node sends configuration information to multiple IAB nodes respectively. The configuration information includes: an IAB node list and a condition for entering an energy-saving state.

[0256] Correspondingly, multiple IAB nodes receive the configuration information respectively.

[0257] Optionally, the configuration information in S901 may also be referred to as fourth information. That is, S901 may also be described as: the IAB host node sends fourth information to multiple IAB nodes respectively, and the fourth information includes: an IAB node list and conditions for entering the energy-saving state.

[0258] In this embodiment, the IAB nodes in the IAB node list may be: IAB nodes that can autonomously enter the energy-saving state or IAB nodes that can autonomously enter the energy-saving state. Exemplarily, the IAB node list may include one or more IAB node identifiers or addresses (such as BAP addresses), etc. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific content included in the IAB node list, as long as one or more IAB nodes can be indicated or identified.

[0259] Exemplarily, the IAB node list may be represented as: {IAB node1, IAB node2, IAB node3, ..., IABnode n}.

[0260] The conditions for entering the energy-saving state (or also referred to as energy-saving conditions) can be understood as: as long as these conditions are met, the IAB node can automatically enter the energy-saving state. In other words, the conditions for entering the energy-saving state can be understood as: using pre-configured rules to trigger entering the energy-saving state, or the triggering method for entering the energy-saving state is triggered according to the configured rules.

[0261] Exemplarily, the conditions for entering the energy-saving state may include: the load of the IAB node is lower than a certain threshold, the current time is within a preset time interval (i.e., a preset time period), or the power of the IAB node is less than a certain threshold, etc. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific conditions for entering the energy-saving state.

[0262] Exemplarily, a preset time interval can be represented by a start time point and an end time point of the time period.

[0263] In S901, configuration information is received that multiple IAB nodes are nodes managed by the IAB host node, and the multiple IAB nodes may be the same as the IAB nodes included in the IAB node list, or may be different from the IAB nodes included in the IAB node list. This embodiment of the application is not limited here.

[0264] For example, the IAB node list includes IAB node 1 and IAB node 2, and the multiple IAB nodes may include: IAB node 1, IAB node 2, and IAB node 3.

[0265] S902: Multiple IAB nodes determine whether to enter a power-saving state according to configuration information.

[0266] Assume that the multiple IAB nodes include an IAB node 1, and the IAB node 1 is any IAB node among the multiple IAB nodes. The following description will be made by taking the IAB node 1 as an example.

[0267] After the IAB node 1 receives the configuration information (fourth information), if the IAB node list includes the IAB node 1, the IAB node 1 needs to determine whether it can enter the energy-saving state according to the conditions for entering the energy-saving state.

[0268] For example, if the condition for entering the energy-saving state includes: the load of the IAB node is lower than a certain threshold, the IAB node 1 determines whether its load meets the condition, and if so, determines that it can enter the energy-saving state.

[0269] For another example, if the condition for entering the energy-saving state includes: within a preset time interval, the IAB node 1 determines the current time, and if the current time is within the preset time interval, it determines that it can enter the energy-saving state. If the current time is not within the preset time interval, it determines that it cannot enter the energy-saving state.

[0270] If the IAB node list does not include the IAB node 1, the IAB node 1 determines that it cannot enter the energy-saving state.

[0271] Of course, for each of the multiple IAB nodes, the judgment process of determining whether it can enter the energy-saving state is similar to that of IAB node 1. For specific descriptions, please refer to the description of IAB node 1. For the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here.

[0272] Optionally, for each of the multiple IAB nodes, in addition to the conditions for entering the energy-saving state, it may also be determined whether to enter the energy-saving state in combination with its own load conditions, business conditions, etc. In other words, the conditions for each IAB node to enter the energy-saving state may include not only the conditions in S901, but also more conditions.

[0273] After a certain IAB node determines that it can enter the energy-saving state, the IAB node can also determine its corresponding energy-saving configuration information.

[0274] For example, assuming that the IAB node 1 determines that it can enter the energy-saving state, the IAB node 1 can determine the energy-saving configuration information according to its current load condition (business condition), the number of terminal devices served by the IAB node 1 and the operating conditions (such as the capabilities of the terminal devices, etc.), the link conditions between the IAB node 1 and other IAB nodes or the IAB host node, etc. For the description of the energy-saving configuration information, please refer to the corresponding description in method 500, which will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0275] S903, the IAB nodes that meet the energy-saving condition among the multiple IAB nodes respectively send a fifth message to the IAB host node, where the fifth message includes: indication information that the energy-saving state can be entered and energy-saving configuration information.

[0276] S904: The IAB nodes that meet the energy-saving condition among the multiple IAB nodes respectively send a sixth message to the adjacent IAB nodes, where the sixth message includes: indication information that the energy-saving state can be entered and energy-saving configuration information.

[0277] In S903, each of the multiple IAB nodes may determine whether it can enter the energy-saving state. If it is determined that it can enter the energy-saving state, the IAB node may also determine its corresponding energy-saving configuration information.

[0278] For the IAB node that can enter the energy-saving state, in S903, a fifth message may be sent to the IAB host node, where the fifth message includes: indication information indicating that the node can enter the energy-saving state and its own energy-saving configuration information.

[0279] For the IAB node that can enter the energy-saving state, in S904, it can send a sixth message to the IAB node adjacent to itself, the sixth message including: indication information for indicating that it can enter the energy-saving state and its own energy-saving configuration information.

[0280] It can be understood that the adjacent IAB nodes of each IAB node include: the upstream node and downstream node of each IAB node, that is, the parent node and the child node. The upstream node and downstream node of each IAB node can be nodes that meet the requirements and can enter the energy-saving state, or nodes that do not meet the requirements and cannot enter the energy-saving state.

[0281] Optionally, the fifth message may also be referred to as fifth information, and the sixth message may also be referred to as sixth information.

[0282] Optionally, the energy-saving configuration information in the fifth message and the sixth message may be determined by the IAB node based on one or more of: the current service status of the IAB node, the current load status, the link status between the IAB node and other IAB nodes, the data requirements transmitted through the IAB node, etc.

[0283] For example, the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node may include: the energy-saving mode (or energy-saving technology) of the IAB node and the specific energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode. For the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node, reference may be made to the specific description of the energy-saving configuration information in method 500, which will not be repeated here for brevity.

[0284] S905 , the IAB nodes that meet the energy-saving condition among the multiple IAB nodes enter an energy-saving state.

[0285] For example, the IAB nodes that meet the energy-saving condition among the multiple IAB nodes may enter the energy-saving state according to the energy-saving configuration information determined by each node.

[0286] Optionally, the method 900 may also include S906 to S908.

[0287] S906: The IAB node adjacent to the IAB node entering the energy-saving state determines whether to enter the energy-saving state according to the link state.

[0288] For example, suppose that IAB node 1 meets the energy-saving condition and can enter the energy-saving state. The IAB nodes adjacent to IAB node 1 include IAB node 2 and IAB node 4. Among them, IAB node 2 also meets the energy-saving condition and can enter the energy-saving state, while IAB node 4 does not meet the energy-saving condition and cannot enter the energy-saving state. The following are several cases for explanation:

[0289] The first case: Assume that the IAB node adjacent to the IAB node entering the energy-saving state is an IAB node that cannot enter the energy-saving state, for example, does not meet the conditions for entering the energy-saving state, such as IAB node 4 in the above example, then the IAB node (IAB node 4) does not enter the energy-saving state.

[0290] The second case: Assume that the IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node entering the energy-saving state also meet the conditions for entering the energy-saving state. For example, IAB node 1 meets the energy-saving conditions and can enter the energy-saving state. The IAB nodes adjacent to IAB node 1 include IAB node 2. IAB node 2 also meets the energy-saving conditions and can enter the energy-saving state. In this case, IAB node 2 will receive the sixth message sent by IAB node 1. The sixth message includes: indication information that IAB node 1 can enter the energy-saving state and energy-saving configuration information of IAB node 1. If IAB node 2 finds that a node (i.e., IAB node 1) on the reachable link (also called the preferred link) has entered the energy-saving state, then it cannot enter the energy-saving state. This ensures that normal data transmission and communication services are not affected.

[0291] The reachable link (alternative link) can be understood as follows: Assume that there are two links between the IAB node A and the IAB node B, one of which includes the IAB node 2 and the other includes the IAB node 1.

[0292] For IAB node 1, the link including IAB node 1 can be called a redundant link or an alternative link, that is, the link including itself can be called a redundant link or an alternative link; the link including IAB node 2 can be called a reachable link or a preferred link, that is, the link including other IAB nodes can be called a reachable link or a preferred link.

[0293] For IAB node 2, the link including IAB node 2 can be called a redundant link or an alternative link, that is, the link including itself can be called a redundant link or an alternative link; the link including IAB node 1 can be called a reachable link or a preferred link, that is, the link including other IAB nodes can be called a reachable link or a preferred link.

[0294] It can be seen that redundant links or alternative links, and reachable links or preferred links are relative to IAB nodes. For the same link, it may be a reachable link or preferred link of one IAB node, or it may be a redundant link or alternative link of another IAB node.

[0295] Of course, it is assumed that: the links between IAB node A and IAB node B include N links: for a certain IAB node, the link including its own node can be called a redundant link or an alternative link, that is, the link including itself can be called a redundant link or an alternative link; all other links excluding its own node can be called reachable links or preferred links, that is, all links including other IAB nodes can be called reachable links or preferred links.

[0296] In combination with the above example, for IAB node 2, since IAB node 2 finds that a node (i.e., IAB node 1) on the reachable link (also called the preferred link) has entered the energy-saving state, the redundant link including IAB node 2 cannot be interrupted, that is, IAB node 2 cannot enter the energy-saving state, or needs to wake up or wake up from the energy-saving state.

[0297] Of course, for IAB node 1, if IAB node 1 finds that a node (i.e., IAB node 2) on a reachable link (also called a preferred link) has entered the energy-saving state, the redundant links including IAB node 1 cannot be interrupted, i.e., IAB node 1 cannot enter the energy-saving state, or needs to wake up or wake up from the energy-saving state.

[0298] For example, in Figure 4 In the example shown, IAB node 1→IAB node 2→IAB node 4 constitutes one link, and IAB node 1→IAB node 3→IAB node 4 constitutes another link. When IAB node 2 meets the energy-saving condition and enters the energy-saving state, it notifies IAB node 3 of its energy-saving information. For IAB node 3, after IAB node 3 obtains the energy-saving information of IAB node 2, if IAB node 3 finds that IAB node 2 has entered the energy-saving state, it means that there is a node in the reachable link that has entered the energy-saving state. Even if IAB node 3 also meets the energy-saving condition, it cannot enter the energy-saving state, or needs to wake up or wake up from the energy-saving state.

[0299] Of course, it is assumed that when IAB node 3 meets the energy-saving condition and enters the energy-saving state, it notifies IAB node 2 of its energy-saving information. For IAB node 2, after node 2 obtains the energy-saving information of IAB node 3, if it is found that IAB node 3 has entered the energy-saving state, that is, there are nodes in the reachable link that have entered the energy-saving state, even if IAB node 2 also meets the energy-saving condition, it cannot enter the energy-saving state, or needs to wake up or wake up from the energy-saving state.

[0300] Of course, if the IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node entering the energy-saving state determine that they can enter the energy-saving state according to the link state, they enter the energy-saving state.

[0301] In other words, in S906, to prevent multiple IAB nodes from entering the energy-saving state at the same time, resulting in network connection interruption, the IAB can use an energy-saving state entry method based on the preemption mode to limit the number of IAB nodes entering the energy-saving state and meet the requirements of normal network connection and data transmission.

[0302] Optionally, as a possible implementation method, the IAB node adjacent to the IAB node entering the energy-saving state may also perform corresponding configuration according to the sixth message. For example, corresponding adjustment of the coverage area or corresponding adjustment of the data transmission path, etc. By exchanging energy-saving configuration information between IAB nodes, it is possible to ensure that the business continuity is guaranteed when the energy-saving IAB node enters the energy-saving state, ensure that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, and at the same time achieve the effect of energy saving of the IAB node, reducing the energy consumption of the IAB node.

[0303] S907: The IAB host node determines whether it is necessary to wake up certain IAB nodes that have entered the energy-saving state according to the fifth message sent by each IAB node.

[0304] For example, since one or more IAB nodes may enter an energy-saving state, if the IAB host node finds that a link is interrupted or unreachable due to energy saving of one or more IAB nodes, the IAB host node can determine that some energy-saving IAB nodes need to be awakened, and then wake up these energy-saving IAB nodes, thereby ensuring that normal data transmission and communication services are not affected.

[0305] Optionally, as a possible implementation method, in an IAB communication system managed by an IAB host node, IAB nodes that meet energy-saving conditions can enter an energy-saving state, but there may also be IAB nodes that work normally or do not enter an energy-saving state in the IAB communication system. For these IAB nodes that have not entered an energy-saving state, since their adjacent nodes (such as upstream nodes or downstream nodes) may have entered an energy-saving state, these IAB nodes that have not entered an energy-saving state may not be able to connect to the IAB host node, so the IAB host node can modify the link routing information of these IAB nodes that have not entered an energy-saving state so that they can connect to the IAB host node. In other words, these IAB nodes that have not entered an energy-saving state can re-initiate a connection and connect to a new IAB node (an IAB node that has not entered an energy-saving state), and the IAB host node can modify the link routing information of these IAB nodes that have not entered an energy-saving state, thereby ensuring that normal data transmission and communication services are not affected.

[0306] Optionally, as a possible implementation method, the IAB host node can also determine the updated link routing information corresponding to other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node (i.e., the IAB node that can enter the energy-saving state) based on the fifth message sent by each IAB node, and send the updated link routing information to other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node. Other IAB nodes adjacent to the IAB node receive the updated link routing information, and can re-establish a new connection relationship (i.e., change the topology structure) and determine the routing information during data transmission based on the updated link routing information; or, determine the routing information during data transmission based on the updated link routing information, and transmit data based on the routing information. For example, the link selection during data transmission is performed in combination with the time control information and / or the priority information of the link in the link routing information, so as to ensure that the normal transmission of data and the communication service are not affected. For the specific description of this scheme, please refer to the description of S503 and S504 in method 500, and for the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here.

[0307] S908: The IAB host node wakes up some IAB nodes that have entered the energy-saving state.

[0308] In S908, the IAB host node may wake up certain IAB nodes that need to be woken up for energy saving, thereby ensuring that normal data transmission and communication services are not affected.

[0309] The energy-saving access-backhaul integrated network communication method provided in the embodiment of the present application can realize the IAB node to autonomously enter the energy-saving state, reduce the consumption of communication resources between the IAB node and the IAB host node, and increase the speed of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state. At the same time, the energy-saving IAB node or IAB host node can also determine whether to actually enter the energy-saving state or need to wake up certain IAB nodes that have entered the energy-saving state according to the link situation. When the energy-saving IAB node enters the energy-saving state, the continuity of the business is guaranteed, the normal transmission of data and the communication service are guaranteed not to be affected, and the energy-saving effect of the IAB node is achieved, and the energy consumption of the IAB node is reduced.

[0310] It should also be understood that Fig. 9 The IAB host node shown in can also be replaced by IAB-donor-CU. In other words, Fig. 9 In the method shown, the steps performed by the IAB host node may also be performed by the IAB-donor-CU.

[0311] It should be understood that the above is only to help those skilled in the art better understand the embodiments of the present application, rather than to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present application. According to the above examples given, those skilled in the art can obviously make various equivalent modifications or changes. For example, some steps in the above method embodiments may not be necessary, or some new steps may be added. Or a combination of any two or any multiple embodiments. Such modifications, changes or combined solutions also fall within the scope of the embodiments of the present application.

[0312] It should also be understood that the division of the methods, situations, categories and embodiments in the embodiments of the present application is only for the convenience of description and should not constitute a special limitation. The features of various methods, categories, situations and embodiments can be combined without contradiction.

[0313] It should also be understood that the various numerical numbers involved in the embodiments of the present application are only for the convenience of description and are not used to limit the scope of the embodiments of the present application. The size of the sequence number of the above-mentioned processes does not mean the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of the present application.

[0314] It should also be understood that the above description of the embodiments of the present application focuses on emphasizing the differences between the various embodiments. The same or similar points that are not mentioned can be referenced to each other. For the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated here.

[0315] Combination of the above Figures 1 to 9 The embodiment method of this application is described in detail. Figure 10 to Figure 11 The communication device according to the embodiment of the present application is described in detail.

[0316] In this embodiment, the IAB node and the IAB host node can be divided into functional modules according to the above method. For example, each function can be divided into functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The above integrated modules can be implemented in the form of hardware. It should be noted that the division of modules in this embodiment is schematic and is only a logical function division. There may be other division methods in actual implementation.

[0317] It should be noted that the relevant contents of each step involved in the above method embodiment can all be referred to the functional description of the corresponding functional module, which will not be repeated here.

[0318] The IAB node and the IAB host node provided in the embodiment of the present application are used to perform any of the access backhaul integrated network communication methods based on energy saving provided in the above method embodiments, so that the same effect as the above implementation method can be achieved. In the case of an integrated unit, the IAB node and the IAB host node may include a processing module, a storage module and a communication module. Among them, the processing module can be used to control and manage the actions of the IAB node and the IAB host node. For example, it can be used to support the IAB node and the IAB host node to execute the steps executed by the processing unit. The storage module can be used to support the storage of program codes and data, etc. The communication module can be used to support the communication between the IAB node and the IAB host node and other devices.

[0319] Among them, the processing module can be a processor or a controller. It can implement or execute various exemplary logic boxes, modules and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. The processor can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as a combination of one or more microprocessors, a combination of digital signal processing (DSP) and a microprocessor, etc. The storage module can be a memory. The communication module can specifically be a device that interacts with other electronic devices, such as a radio frequency circuit, a Bluetooth chip, a Wi-Fi chip, etc.

[0320] For example, Fig.10 A schematic block diagram of a communication device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0321] As a possible scenario, the communication device 1000 may correspond to the IAB host node described in the above methods 500, 800 and 900, or may be a chip or component applied to the IAB host node, and each module or unit in the communication device 1000 is used to execute each action or processing process performed by the IAB host node in the above methods 500, 800 and 900.

[0322] like Fig.10 As shown, the communication device 1000 includes a processing module 1010 and an interface module 1020. The interface module 1020 is used to perform specific signal transmission and reception under the drive of the processing module 1010.

[0323] In some embodiments:

[0324] The processing module 1010 is used to: determine whether the first IAB node can enter an energy-saving state;

[0325] When the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, the interface module 1020 is used to: send first information to the first IAB node, the first information includes indication information, and the indication information is used to indicate that: the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state; the first information also includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, or at least one of the triggering methods for the first IAB node to start entering the energy-saving state.

[0326] The communication device provided in the embodiment of the present application can determine whether the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state according to the data transmission situation, load situation, link situation, etc. of the first IAB node. In the case of determining that the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, the IAB node can be instructed to enter the energy-saving state, and the energy-saving configuration information of the IAB node or the triggering method for the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state can be notified to the IAB node, so that the IAB node can clearly understand the various specific configurations and parameters in the energy-saving state, thereby ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state and improving the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state. By configuring the triggering method for entering the energy-saving state to the IAB node, the IAB node can clearly understand under what circumstances or when to officially enter the energy-saving state, thereby ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state, improving the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state, and achieving the effect of energy saving of the IAB node.

[0327] For example, the processing module 1010 is used to determine whether the first IAB node can enter an energy-saving state based on at least one of the current business conditions of the first IAB node, the current load conditions of the first IAB node, the link conditions between the first IAB node and other IAB nodes, the link conditions between IAB nodes managed by the IAB host node, and the data requirements transmitted through the first IAB node.

[0328] In some possible implementations, the interface module 1020 is further used to: send second information to the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node respectively, the second information including: updated link routing information corresponding to the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node. In this implementation, when the IAB node enters the energy-saving state, the continuity of the business can be guaranteed, and the normal transmission of data and communication services can be guaranteed not to be affected.

[0329] Optionally, the configuration information also includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

[0330] In some possible implementations, the updated link routing information includes: time information corresponding to the link and / or priority information corresponding to the link, and the time information corresponding to the link indicates: a time period when the link is available or unavailable. In this implementation, on the one hand, the update of the link routing table can be flexibly implemented without making significant changes to the link routing tables of other IAB nodes, thereby reducing the complexity of implementation. On the other hand, it can be more compatible with the specific energy-saving method of the IAB node, so that the updated link routing information can more accurately and finely reflect the impact of the energy-saving method of the IAB node on the link routing information of other IAB nodes, thereby improving the efficiency of using the updated link routing information.

[0331] In some possible implementations, the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node includes: an energy-saving mode of the first IAB node and an energy-saving configuration in the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time-domain energy-saving, frequency-domain energy-saving, spatial-domain energy-saving, and power energy-saving. In this implementation, the IAB node can clearly understand the specific energy-saving mode and configuration parameters in the energy-saving state, ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state and improving the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state.

[0332] Exemplarily, time domain energy saving may include: at least one of: discontinuous reception and discontinuous transmission of signals, common signal period adjustment, etc. Frequency domain energy saving may include: at least one of: adjusting the number of transmitted carriers, adjusting the transmission bandwidth, etc.; spatial domain energy saving may include: at least one of: closing some antenna ports, etc.; power energy saving may include: adjusting the transmission power, etc.

[0333] In some possible implementations, the triggering method for the first IAB node to enter the energy-saving state includes at least one of: the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after receiving the trigger signaling, or the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after satisfying a preset condition. By means of triggering signaling, the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can be determined according to the data transmission conditions of the IAB node and other IAB nodes, and the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can be flexibly determined, which can improve the accuracy of the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state. By means of preset conditions, there is no need to trigger the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state through additional signaling, which can save the overhead of communication resources and the implementation method is more flexible.

[0334] Exemplarily, the preset condition includes: after a preset time period expires, a preset moment, the first IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

[0335] In some possible implementations, the interface module 1020 is further used to: receive request information from the first IAB node, the request information is used to request the first IAB node 1 to enter the energy-saving state. In this implementation, the first IAB node can determine whether it can enter the energy-saving state. In the case that the energy-saving state can be entered, a request is sent to the IAB host node, which improves the accuracy and efficiency of determining whether the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state.

[0336] In other embodiments:

[0337] The interface module 1020 is used to: send fourth information to multiple IAB nodes respectively, the fourth information includes: conditions for entering the energy-saving state and an IAB node list, the IAB node list includes: identifiers of IAB nodes that can enter the energy-saving state;

[0338] The interface module 1020 is further configured to receive fifth information respectively sent by at least some of the IAB nodes in the IAB node list, where the fifth information includes indication information of being able to enter the energy-saving state and energy-saving configuration information.

[0339] The communication device provided in the embodiment of the present application can realize that the IAB node autonomously enters the energy-saving state, reduces the consumption of communication resources between the IAB node, and can increase the speed at which the IAB node enters the energy-saving state. In addition, the communication device can also obtain the energy-saving information of each IAB node, so that the communication device can determine the energy-saving state of the IAB node managed by itself, which can ensure that the communication device accurately manages and adjusts the IAB node, improves the accuracy and efficiency of the communication device managing and adjusting the IAB node, thereby ensuring that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, and at the same time achieving the effect of energy saving of the IAB node.

[0340] In some possible implementations, the processing module 1010 is used to: determine whether it is necessary to wake up the IAB node that has entered the energy-saving state according to the fifth information sent by each IAB node and the link status (or data transmission status) between the IAB nodes managed by the IAB host node; if it is determined that the IAB node that has entered the energy-saving state needs to be woken up, the IAB host node wakes up one or more IAB nodes that have entered the energy-saving state. In this implementation, if the IAB host node finds that a link is interrupted or unreachable due to energy saving of one or more IAB nodes, the IAB host node can determine that some energy-saving IAB nodes need to be woken up, and then wake up these energy-saving IAB nodes, so as to ensure that normal data transmission and communication services are not affected.

[0341] In some possible implementations, the energy-saving configuration information includes: an energy-saving mode of the IAB node and an energy-saving configuration in the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, spatial domain energy saving, and power energy saving. In this implementation, the IAB node can clearly understand various specific configurations and parameters in the energy-saving state, ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state and improving the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state.

[0342] Exemplarily, time domain energy saving may include: at least one of: discontinuous reception and discontinuous transmission of signals, common signal period adjustment, etc. Frequency domain energy saving may include: at least one of: adjusting the number of transmitted carriers, adjusting the transmission bandwidth, etc.; spatial domain energy saving may include: at least one of: closing some antenna ports, etc.; power energy saving may include: adjusting the transmission power, etc.

[0343] In some possible implementations, the condition for entering the energy-saving state includes at least one of: the IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

[0344] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit in the communication device 1000 executing the above corresponding steps can be referred to the description related to the IAB host node in the above method 500, method 800 and method 900, which will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0345] Optionally, the interface module 1020 may include a receiving unit (module) and a sending unit (module), configured to execute the steps of the IAB host node receiving information and sending information in each of the embodiments of the aforementioned method 500 , method 800 , and method 900 .

[0346] As another possible situation, the communication device 1000 may correspond to the IAB node described in the above-mentioned methods 500, 800 and 900 (for example: IAB node 1, an IAB node adjacent to IAB node 1, etc.), or may be a chip or component applied to the IAB node, and each module or unit in the communication device 1000 is respectively used to execute each action or processing process performed by the IAB node in the above-mentioned methods 500, 800 and 900.

[0347] In some embodiments, the interface module 1020 is used to: receive first information from the IAB host node, the first information includes indication information, the indication information is used to indicate that the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, and the first information also includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, or at least one of the triggering methods for the first IAB node to enter the energy-saving state. The processing module 1010 is used to: enter the energy-saving state according to the first information and the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

[0348] The communication device provided in the embodiment of the present application can determine whether the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state based on the information sent by the IAB host node. The accuracy and efficiency of determining whether the IAB node can enter the energy-saving state are improved, and the energy-saving effect of the IAB node is achieved. By sending energy-saving configuration information to the IAB node, the IAB node can clearly understand the specific energy-saving method and configuration parameters in the energy-saving state, ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state and improve the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state. By configuring the trigger method for entering the energy-saving state to the IAB node, the IAB node can clearly understand under what circumstances or when to officially enter the energy-saving state, ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state, improving the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state, and achieving the energy-saving effect of the IAB node.

[0349] In some possible implementations, when the first information does not include the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, the processing module 1010 is further used to: determine the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node according to at least one of the current service situation of the first IAB node, the current load situation of the first IAB node, the link situation between the first IAB node and other IAB nodes, and the data demand transmitted through the first IAB node. In this implementation, the accuracy and effectiveness of the energy-saving configuration information can be improved.

[0350] In some possible implementations, the interface module 1020 is used to: send third information to the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node respectively, the third information including the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, in which case, when the IAB node enters the energy-saving state, the adjacent IAB nodes can perform corresponding configurations according to the energy-saving configuration information, such as corresponding adjustments to the coverage range or corresponding adjustments to the data transmission path, etc. By exchanging energy-saving configuration information between IAB nodes, the implementation is relatively flexible, and the continuity of the business can be guaranteed when the energy-saving IAB node enters the energy-saving state, and the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected.

[0351] In some possible implementations, when the first information does not include the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, the interface module 1020 is further used to: send third information to the IAB host node, the third information including the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node. In this implementation, the IAB host node can determine the energy-saving state of the IAB node managed by itself, which can ensure that the IAB host node accurately manages and adjusts the IAB node, improve the accuracy and efficiency of the IAB host node managing and adjusting the IAB node, so as to ensure that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected.

[0352] In some possible implementations, the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node includes: the energy-saving mode of the first IAB node and the energy-saving configuration in the energy-saving mode, at least one of shutdown, time-domain energy-saving, frequency-domain energy-saving, spatial-domain energy-saving, and power-saving. In this implementation, the IAB node can clearly understand various specific configurations and parameters in the energy-saving state, ensuring that the IAB node can smoothly enter the energy-saving state and improving the efficiency of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state.

[0353] Exemplarily, time domain energy saving may include: at least one of: discontinuous reception and discontinuous transmission of signals, common signal period adjustment, etc. Frequency domain energy saving may include: at least one of: adjusting the number of transmitted carriers, adjusting the transmission bandwidth, etc.; spatial domain energy saving may include: at least one of: closing some antenna ports, etc.; power energy saving may include: adjusting the transmission power, etc.

[0354] In some possible implementations, the triggering method for the first IAB node to enter the energy-saving state includes at least one of: the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after receiving the trigger signaling, or the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after satisfying a preset condition. By means of triggering signaling, the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can be determined according to the data transmission conditions of the IAB node and other IAB nodes, and the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state can be flexibly determined, which can improve the accuracy of the timing of the IAB node entering the energy-saving state. By means of preset conditions, there is no need to trigger the IAB node to enter the energy-saving state through additional signaling, which can save the overhead of communication resources and the implementation method is more flexible.

[0355] In some possible implementations, the preset condition includes: after a preset time length expires, a preset moment, the first IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

[0356] In other embodiments:

[0357] The interface module 1020 is used to: receive fourth information from the IAB host node, the fourth information including: a condition for entering the energy-saving state and an IAB node list, the IAB node list including: an identifier of an IAB node that can enter the energy-saving state;

[0358] The processing module 1010 is used to determine whether to enter the energy-saving state according to the fourth information.

[0359] The communication device provided in the embodiment of the present application can autonomously enter the energy-saving state according to the configuration information of the IAB host node, thereby reducing the consumption of communication resources between the IAB host node and increasing the speed at which the IAB node enters the energy-saving state.

[0360] In some possible implementations, the processing module 1010 is further configured to: when the IAB node list includes the first IAB node identifier and the first IAB node meets the condition for entering the energy-saving state, the first IAB node determines that it can enter the energy-saving state.

[0361] In some possible implementations, the interface module 1020 is further used to: send fifth information to the IAB host node, the fifth information including: indication information that the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state and energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node. In this implementation, the IAB host node can determine the energy-saving state of the IAB node it manages, which can ensure that the IAB host node accurately manages and adjusts the IAB node, improve the accuracy and efficiency of the IAB host node in managing and adjusting the IAB node, thereby ensuring that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected, and at the same time achieving the effect of energy saving of the IAB node. For example, if the IAB host node finds that a link is interrupted or unreachable due to energy saving of one or more IAB nodes, the IAB host node can determine that some energy-saving IAB nodes need to be awakened, and then wake up these energy-saving IAB nodes, thereby ensuring that the normal transmission of data and communication services are not affected.

[0362] In some possible implementations, the interface module 1020 is further configured to: send sixth information to IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node respectively, where the sixth information includes: indication information that the first IAB node can enter a power-saving state and power-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

[0363] In some possible implementations, the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node includes: the energy-saving mode of the first IAB node and the energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, spatial domain energy saving, and power energy saving.

[0364] In some possible implementations, the condition for entering the energy-saving state includes at least one of: the IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

[0365] Further, the communication device 1000 may also include a storage unit. The interface module 1020 may be a transceiver, an input / output interface, or an interface circuit. The storage unit is used to store instructions executed by the interface module 1020 and the processing module 1010. The interface module 1020, the processing module 1010, and the storage unit are coupled to each other, the storage unit stores instructions, the processing module 1010 is used to execute the instructions stored in the storage unit, and the interface module 1020 is used to perform specific signal transmission and reception under the drive of the processing module 1010.

[0366] It should be understood that the interface module 1020 may be a transceiver, an input / output interface, or an interface circuit. The storage unit may be a memory. The processing module 1010 may be implemented by a processor. Fig.11As shown, the communication device 1100 may include a processor 1110 , a memory 1120 , and a transceiver 1130 .

[0367] Fig.10 The communication device 1000 or Fig.11 The communication device 1100 shown can implement the steps performed by the IAB host node or the IAB node in the embodiments of the aforementioned methods 500, 800 and 900. Similar descriptions can refer to the descriptions in the aforementioned corresponding methods. To avoid repetition, they will not be described here.

[0368] It should also be understood that Fig.10 The communication device 1000 or Fig.11 The communication device 1100 shown may be an IAB host node or an IAB node, or the IAB host node or the IAB node may include: Fig.10 The communication device 1000 or Fig.11 The communication device 1100 is shown.

[0369] It should also be understood that the IAB host node or IAB node in the present application may also be a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the IAB host node or IAB node to implement the method, or may be a logical node, logic module or software that can implement all or part of the network device functions.

[0370] It should also be understood that the division of units in the above device is only a division of logical functions. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into one physical entity, or they can be physically separated. And the units in the device can all be implemented in the form of software calling through processing elements; they can also be all implemented in the form of hardware; some units can also be implemented in the form of software calling through processing elements, and some units can be implemented in the form of hardware. For example, each unit can be a separately established processing element, or it can be integrated in a certain chip of the device. In addition, it can also be stored in the memory in the form of a program, and called and executed by a certain processing element of the device. The processing element here can also be called a processor, which can be an integrated circuit with signal processing capabilities. In the implementation process, each step of the above method or each unit above can be implemented by an integrated logic circuit of hardware in the processor element or in the form of software calling through a processing element.

[0371] In one example, the unit in any of the above devices may be one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the above method, such as one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), or one or more digital signal processors (DSP), or one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or a combination of at least two of these integrated circuit forms. For another example, when the unit in the device can be implemented in the form of a processing element scheduler, the processing element can be a general-purpose processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or other processor that can call a program. For another example, these units can be integrated together and implemented in the form of a system-on-a-chip (SOC).

[0372] It should be understood that in the embodiments of the present application, the processor may be a central processing unit (CPU), and the processor may also be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSP), application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), field programmable gate arrays (FPGA) or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or the processor may also be any conventional processor, etc.

[0373] It should also be understood that the memory in the embodiments of the present application may be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memories. Among them, the non-volatile memory may be a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or a flash memory. The volatile memory may be a random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, many forms of random access memory (RAM) are available, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous link DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0374] The above embodiments can be implemented in whole or in part by software, hardware, firmware or any other combination. When implemented using software, the above embodiments can be implemented in whole or in part in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions or computer programs. When the computer instructions or computer programs are loaded or executed on a computer, the process or function according to the embodiment of the present application is generated in whole or in part. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable devices. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another computer-readable storage medium. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from a website site, a computer, a server or a data center to another website site, a computer, a server or a data center by wired (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) mode. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or a data center that contains one or more available media sets. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., a floppy disk, a hard disk, a tape), an optical medium (e.g., a DVD), or a semiconductor medium. The semiconductor medium can be a solid-state hard disk.

[0375] The embodiment of the present application further provides a communication system, which includes: the above-mentioned IAB host node and the above-mentioned IAB node.

[0376] The embodiment of the present application also provides a computer-readable medium for storing computer program code, wherein the computer program includes instructions for executing any example of an energy-saving IAB network communication method provided in the present application. The readable medium may be a read-only memory (ROM) or a random access memory (RAM), which is not limited in the embodiment of the present application.

[0377] The present application also provides a computer program product, which includes instructions. When the instructions are executed, the IAB host node performs the IAB host node operation corresponding to the above method, or the IAB node performs the IAB node operation corresponding to the above method.

[0378] The present application also provides an IAB host node, which is used to execute the steps performed by the IAB host node in the above method.

[0379] For example, the IAB host node may include an IAB donor CU and an IAB donor DU, wherein the IAB donor CU may be used to execute the steps executed by the IAB host node in the above method.

[0380] The present application also provides an IAB node, and the IAB host node is used to execute the steps performed by the IAB node in the above method.

[0381] For example, an IAB node may include an IAB-MT unit and an IAB-DU.

[0382] An embodiment of the present application further provides a chip, which includes: a processor, which is used to execute a computer program or instruction in a memory, so that a communication device equipped with the chip executes any of the energy-saving IAB network communication methods provided in the above embodiments of the present application.

[0383] Optionally, any one of the communication devices provided in the above-mentioned embodiments of the present application may include the system chip.

[0384] Optionally, the computer instructions are stored in a storage unit.

[0385] Optionally, the storage unit is a storage unit within the chip, such as a register, a cache, etc. The storage unit may also be a storage unit within the terminal that is located outside the chip, such as a ROM or other types of static storage devices that can store static information and instructions, RAM, etc. Among them, the processor mentioned in any of the above may be a CPU, a microprocessor, an ASIC, or one or more integrated circuits for controlling the execution of the program of the above-mentioned energy-saving access and backhaul integrated network communication method. The processing unit and the storage unit may be decoupled and respectively arranged on different physical devices, and connected by wired or wireless means to implement the respective functions of the processing unit and the storage unit, so as to support the system chip to implement the various functions in the above-mentioned embodiments. Alternatively, the processing unit and the memory may also be coupled on the same device.

[0386] It can be understood that the memory in the embodiments of the present application can be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory, or can include both volatile and non-volatile memories. Among them, the non-volatile memory can be a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or a flash memory. The volatile memory can be a random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, many forms of random access memory (RAM) are available, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous link DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0387] The terms "uplink" and "downlink" appearing in this application are used to describe the direction of data / information transmission in specific scenarios. For example, the "uplink" direction generally refers to the direction of data / information transmission from the terminal to the network side, or the direction of data / information transmission from a distributed unit to a centralized unit, and the "downlink" direction generally refers to the direction of data / information transmission from the network side to the terminal, or the direction of data / information transmission from a centralized unit to a distributed unit. It can be understood that "uplink" and "downlink" are only used to describe the transmission direction of data / information, and the specific starting and ending devices of the data / information transmission are not limited.

[0388] Various objects such as various messages / information / equipment / network elements / systems / devices / actions / operations / processes / concepts that may appear in this application are named. It can be understood that these specific names do not constitute a limitation on the relevant objects. The names assigned may change with factors such as scenarios, contexts or usage habits. The understanding of the technical meaning of the technical terms in this application should be mainly determined from the functions and technical effects embodied / executed in the technical scheme.

[0389] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the methods in the embodiments of the present application may be implemented in whole or in part by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it may be implemented in whole or in part in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instruction is loaded and executed on a computer, the process or function described in the embodiments of the present application is executed in whole or in part. The computer may be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer program or instruction may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted via the computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server that integrates one or more available media.

[0390] Those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the systems, devices and units described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the aforementioned method embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0391] In the several embodiments provided in the present application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, devices and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are only schematic. For example, the division of the unit is only a logical function division. There may be other division methods in actual implementation, such as multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Another point is that the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed can be through some interfaces, indirect coupling or communication connection of devices or units, which can be electrical, mechanical or other forms.

[0392] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separated, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed on multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected according to actual needs to achieve the purpose of the solution of this embodiment.

[0393] In addition, each functional unit in each embodiment of the present application may be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0394] If the functions are implemented in the form of 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 the present application can be essentially or partly embodied in the form of a software product that contributes to the prior art. The computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions for a computer device (which can be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to perform all or part of the steps of the methods described in each embodiment of the present application. The aforementioned storage media include: USB flash drives, mobile hard disks, read-only memory (ROM), and random access.

[0395] The above is only a specific implementation of the present application, but the protection scope of the present application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art who is familiar with the present technical field can easily think of changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present application, which should be included in the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application should be based on the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An IAB network communication method based on energy saving, characterized in that: The method comprises: The IAB host node determines whether the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state; In a case where the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state, the IAB host node sends first information to the first IAB node, where the first information includes indication information, and the indication information is used to indicate that the first IAB node can enter the energy-saving state; The first information further includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, or at least one of a triggering method for the first IAB node to enter an energy-saving state.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The method further comprises: The IAB host node sends second information to each of the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node, where the second information includes updated link routing information corresponding to the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that The second information further includes: energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The updated link routing information includes: time information corresponding to the link and / or priority information corresponding to the link, and the time information corresponding to the link indicates: a time period during which the link is available or a time period during which the link is unavailable.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node includes: the energy-saving mode of the first IAB node and the energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, spatial domain energy saving, and power energy saving.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The triggering manner for the first IAB node to enter the energy-saving state includes at least one of: the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after receiving a trigger signaling, or the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after a preset condition is met.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that The preset conditions include: after a preset time period expires, a preset moment, the first IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

8. An IAB network communication method based on energy saving, characterized in that: The method comprises: The first IAB node receives first information from the IAB host node, where the first information includes indication information, where the indication information is used to indicate that the first IAB node can enter an energy-saving state, and the first information further includes at least one of energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node or a triggering method for the first IAB node to enter the energy-saving state. The first IAB node enters an energy-saving state according to the first information and energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that In a case where the first information does not include energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, the method further includes: The first IAB node determines energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node based on at least one of: a current service condition of the first IAB node, a current load condition of the first IAB node, a link condition between the first IAB node and other IAB nodes, and a data requirement transmitted through the first IAB node.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that The method further comprises: The first IAB node sends third information to each of the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node, where the third information includes energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node; and / or, In a case where the first information does not include the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node, the first IAB node sends third information to the IAB host node, where the third information includes the energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

11. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that The energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node includes: the energy-saving mode of the first IAB node and the energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, spatial domain energy saving, and power energy saving.

12. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that The triggering manner in which the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state includes at least one of: the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after receiving a trigger signaling, or the first IAB node starts to enter the energy-saving state after a preset condition is met; The preset conditions include: after a preset time period expires, a preset moment, the first IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the first IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

13. An IAB network communication method based on energy saving, characterized in that: The method comprises: The IAB host node sends fourth information to each of the multiple IAB nodes, where the fourth information includes a condition for entering the energy-saving state and an IAB node list, where the IAB node list includes identifiers of the IAB nodes that can enter the energy-saving state. The IAB host node receives fifth information respectively sent by at least some of the multiple IAB nodes, where the fifth information includes: indication information indicating that the energy-saving state can be entered and energy-saving configuration information.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that The method further comprises: The IAB host node determines whether it is necessary to wake up the IAB node that has entered the energy-saving state according to the fifth information respectively sent by each IAB node and the link status between the IAB nodes managed by the IAB host node; In the case of determining that the IAB node entering the energy-saving state needs to be awakened, the IAB host node awakens one or more IAB nodes entering the energy-saving state.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that The energy-saving configuration information includes: an energy-saving mode of the IAB node and an energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, wherein the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time-domain energy-saving, frequency-domain energy-saving, spatial-domain energy-saving, and power energy-saving.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that The conditions for entering the energy-saving state include at least one of: the IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

17. An IAB network communication method based on energy saving, characterized in that: The method comprises: The first IAB node receives fourth information from the IAB host node, the fourth information including: a condition for entering the energy-saving state and an IAB node list, the IAB node list including: identifiers of IAB nodes that can enter the energy-saving state; The first IAB node determines whether to enter an energy-saving state according to the fourth information; The conditions for entering the energy-saving state include at least one of: the IAB node is in a preset time period, the load of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold, or the power of the IAB node is less than or equal to a threshold.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that The first IAB node determines whether to enter the energy-saving state according to the fourth information, including: In a case where the IAB node list includes the first IAB node identifier and the first IAB node meets the condition for entering the energy-saving state, the first IAB node determines that it can enter the energy-saving state.

19. The method according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that In a case where the first IAB node determines that it can enter the energy-saving state, the method further includes: The first IAB node sends fifth information to the IAB host node, where the fifth information includes: indication information indicating that the first IAB node can enter an energy-saving state and energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that In a case where the first IAB node determines that it can enter the energy-saving state, the method further includes: The first IAB node sends sixth information to each of the IAB nodes adjacent to the first IAB node. The sixth information includes: indication information that the first IAB node can enter an energy-saving state and energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node.

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that The energy-saving configuration information of the first IAB node includes: the energy-saving mode of the first IAB node and the energy-saving configuration under the energy-saving mode, and the energy-saving mode includes: at least one of shutdown, time domain energy saving, frequency domain energy saving, spatial domain energy saving, and power energy saving.

22. A communication device, characterized in that: include: Unit for performing the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7 or any one of 13 to 16; Alternatively, a unit for performing each step of the method according to any one of claims 8 to 12 or any one of claims 17 to 21.

23. A communication device, characterized in that: The method comprises at least one processor and an interface circuit, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute: the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7 or any one of claims 13 to 16; or the method according to any one of claims 8 to 12 or any one of claims 17 to 21.

24. A communication device, characterized in that: include: A processor, the processor being coupled to a memory, the memory being used to store programs or instructions, which, when executed by the processor, causes the apparatus to perform: the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7 or any one of 13 to 16; or the method according to any one of claims 8 to 12 or any one of 17 to 21.

25. An IAB node or an IAB node host node, characterized in that: include: The communication device according to any one of claims 22 to 24.

26. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program, wherein the computer program includes program instructions, and when the program instructions are executed by a processor, the processor is caused to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

27. A chip, characterized in that: include: A processor, configured to call and run a computer program from a memory, so that a communication device equipped with the chip executes the method according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

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