Intelligent metasurface-based precoding method and device

Abstract

This application discloses a precoding method and apparatus based on a smart metasurface. By acquiring the cell layout information and block information of a second network device, the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device. Channel feedback information sent by a terminal device is received. Based on the channel feedback information, the cell layout information, and the block information, first indication information is determined. The first indication information is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device. The first indication information is sent to the second network device. This method can divide the cells of the second network device into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on a smart metasurface, improves the communication efficiency of the smart metasurface-assisted communication system, and reduces interference.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a precoding method and apparatus based on a smart metasurface. Background Technology

[0002] Since the uncontrollability of the wireless environment in traditional communication often reduces the quality of service, research on deploying reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) on the surfaces of various objects in the wireless transmission environment is expected to overcome the uncontrollability of traditional wireless channels, build intelligent programmable wireless, and introduce a new paradigm for future wireless communication.

[0003] However, RIS arrays are often very large, comparable to the propagation distance, and the precoding scheme based on the traditional far-field assumption may no longer be applicable. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The first aspect of this application proposes a precoding method based on a smart metasurface, the method being executed by a first network device, the method comprising:

[0005] Obtain the unit layout information and block information of the second network device, wherein the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device;

[0006] The terminal device receives channel feedback information, which is determined by the terminal device based on reference signals sent by the second network device for each block.

[0007] Based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information, first indication information is determined, and the first indication information is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device;

[0008] Send the first instruction information to the second network device.

[0009] A second aspect of this application proposes a precoding method based on a smart metasurface, the method being executed by a second network device, the method comprising:

[0010] Sending the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device, wherein the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device;

[0011] A reference signal is sent to the terminal device, the reference signal being used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information;

[0012] The first network device receives a first indication message sent by the first network device, wherein the first indication message is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information.

[0013] Based on the first indication information, the phase shift matrix of the second network device is determined.

[0014] A third aspect of this application proposes a precoding method based on a smart metasurface, the method being executed by a terminal device, the method comprising:

[0015] Receive reference signals sent by each segment of the second network device;

[0016] Based on the reference signal, determine the channel feedback information of the channel between the second network device and the terminal device;

[0017] The channel feedback information is sent to the first network device, the channel feedback information being used to determine the first indication information, and the first indication information being used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0018] A fourth aspect of this application provides a precoding device based on a smart metasurface, the device being applied to a first network device, the device comprising:

[0019] A transceiver unit is used to acquire unit layout information and block information of a second network device, wherein the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device;

[0020] The transceiver unit is also configured to receive channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, the channel feedback information being determined by the terminal device based on reference signals sent by the second network device for each block;

[0021] The processing unit is configured to determine first indication information based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information, wherein the first indication information is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device;

[0022] The transceiver unit is also used to send the first indication information to the second network device.

[0023] A fifth aspect of this application provides a precoding device based on a smart metasurface, the device being applied to a second network device, the device comprising:

[0024] A transceiver unit is used to send the unit layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device, wherein the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device;

[0025] The transceiver unit is also used to send a reference signal to the terminal device, the reference signal being used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information;

[0026] The transceiver unit is further configured to receive first indication information sent by the first network device, wherein the first indication information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information;

[0027] The processing unit is configured to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first indication information.

[0028] A sixth aspect of this application proposes a precoding device based on a smart metasurface, the device being applied to a terminal device, the device comprising:

[0029] The transceiver unit is used to receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device;

[0030] The processing unit is configured to determine channel feedback information of the channel between the second network device and the terminal device based on the reference signal;

[0031] The transceiver unit is further configured to send the channel feedback information to the first network device, the channel feedback information being used to determine the first indication information, and the first indication information being used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0032] A seventh aspect of this application provides a communication device comprising a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the precoding method based on a smart metasurface as described in the first aspect embodiment above, or to perform the precoding method based on a smart metasurface as described in the second aspect embodiment above.

[0033] An eighth aspect of this application provides a communication device, the device including a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program, the processor executing the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the precoding method based on smart metasurfaces as described in the third aspect of the application, or to perform the precoding method based on smart metasurfaces as described in the fourth aspect of the application.

[0034] A ninth aspect of this application provides a communication device including a processor and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor. The processor is used to execute the code instructions to cause the device to perform the precoding method based on smart metasurfaces as described in the first aspect embodiment, or to perform the precoding method based on smart metasurfaces as described in the second aspect embodiment.

[0035] A tenth aspect of this application provides a communication device including a processor and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor, which is used to execute the code instructions to enable the device to perform the smart metasurface-based precoding method described in the third aspect of the application.

[0036] The eleventh aspect of this application provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions that, when executed, enable the precoding method based on a smart metasurface described in the first aspect embodiment or the precoding method based on a smart metasurface described in the second aspect embodiment to be implemented.

[0037] The twelfth aspect of this application provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions that, when executed, enable the precoding method based on a smart metasurface described in the third aspect of this application to be implemented.

[0038] The thirteenth aspect of this application provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to execute the precoding method based on smart metasurfaces described in the first aspect embodiment, or to execute the precoding method based on smart metasurfaces described in the second aspect embodiment.

[0039] The fourteenth aspect of this application provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the precoding method based on smart metasurfaces described in the third aspect of the present application.

[0040] This application provides a precoding method and apparatus based on a smart metasurface. By acquiring cell layout information and block information of a second network device, the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device. Channel feedback information sent by a terminal device is received. Based on the channel feedback information, the cell layout information, and the block information, first indication information is determined. The first indication information is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device. The first indication information is sent to the second network device. This method can divide the cells of the second network device into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on a smart metasurface, improves the communication efficiency of the smart metasurface-assisted communication system, and reduces interference.

[0041] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0042] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the background art, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application or the background art will be described below.

[0043] Figure 1 This application provides a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system.

[0044] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 6a This is a schematic diagram of the spatial location of a terminal device and a second network device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 6b This is a spatial xz-axis plane schematic diagram of a terminal device and a second network device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 6c This is a spatial yz-axis plane schematic diagram of a terminal device and a second network device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a precoding device based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a precoding device based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a precoding device based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of another precoding device based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0063] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with those of this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of the embodiments of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0064] The terminology used in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the embodiments of this application. The singular forms “a” and “the” as used in the embodiments of this application and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes any or all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0065] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various information in the embodiments of this application, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from each other. For example, without departing from the scope of the embodiments of this application, first information may also be referred to as second information, and similarly, second information may also be referred to as first information. Depending on the context, the words "if" and "suppose" as used herein can be interpreted as "when," "when," or "in response to a determination."

[0066] Embodiments of this application are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0067] To better understand the precoding method based on smart metasurfaces disclosed in this application, the communication system applicable to this application embodiment is described below.

[0068] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This application provides a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system. The communication system may include, but is not limited to, a first network device, a second network device, and a terminal device. Figure 1 The number and form of devices shown are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application. In actual applications, it may include two or more network devices and two or more terminal devices. Figure 1 The communication system shown is exemplified by a first network device 101, a second network device 102, and a terminal device 103.

[0069] It should be noted that the technical solutions of this application embodiment can be applied to various communication systems. For example, Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, fifth-generation mobile communication systems, 5G New Radio systems, or other future new mobile communication systems.

[0070] The first network device 101 in this embodiment is a network-side entity used for transmitting or receiving signals. For example, the first network device 101 can be an evolved NodeB (eNB), a Transmission Reception Point (TRP), a Next Generation NodeB (gNB) in an NR system, a base station in other future mobile communication systems, or an access node in a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) system. This application does not limit the specific technology or device form used in the access network device. The access network device provided in this embodiment can be composed of a Central Unit (CU) and a Distributed Unit (DU). The CU can also be called a Control Unit. Using a CU-DU structure, the protocol layer of the access network device, such as a base station, can be separated. Some protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining part or all protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU, which is centrally controlled by the CU.

[0071] The second network device 102 in this embodiment is a device capable of regulating a communication channel. The second network device 102 is equipped with a large number of (electromagnetic) units, and its radiation characteristics can be changed by adjusting the physical properties (such as capacitive reactance, impedance, or inductive reactance) of these units. This allows for dynamic regulation of electromagnetic waves in space to form beams in a specific direction. For example, the second network device 102 can be a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS). In this embodiment, the (electromagnetic) units in the second network device 102 can be active or passive; some of the (electromagnetic) units in the second network device 102 can be active, and some can be passive.

[0072] In this application embodiment, the terminal device 103 is a user-side entity used for receiving or transmitting signals, such as a mobile phone. The terminal device can also be referred to as a terminal, user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), etc. The terminal device can be a car with communication capabilities, a smart car, a mobile phone, a wearable device, a tablet computer, a computer with wireless transceiver capabilities, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal device in industrial control, a wireless terminal device in self-driving, a wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, a wireless terminal device in a smart grid, a wireless terminal device in transportation safety, a wireless terminal device in a smart city, a wireless terminal device in a smart home, and so on. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the terminal device.

[0073] In traditional communication, the wireless environment is an uncontrollable factor, and this uncontrollability usually has a negative impact on communication efficiency and reduces service quality. For example, signal attenuation limits the propagation distance of wireless signals, multipath effects lead to fading, and reflection and refraction from large objects are major uncontrollable factors. Deploying intelligent metasurfaces (RIS) on the surfaces of various objects in the wireless transmission environment holds the promise of overcoming the uncontrollability of traditional wireless channels, constructing intelligent programmable wireless, and introducing a new paradigm for future wireless communication. Specifically, RIS can use precoding techniques to reflect or transmit signals incident on its surface in a specific direction, thereby enhancing the strength of the received signal or reducing interference, thus achieving channel control.

[0074] like Figure 1 As shown, in a communication system assisted by a second network device 102 (RIS), the first network device 101 reflects or transmits signals to the terminal device 103 via the second network device 102 (RIS), or the terminal device 103 reflects or transmits signals to the first network device 101 via the second network device 102 (RIS). To enhance the power of the useful signal and reduce interference, the second network device 102 needs to be pre-coded.

[0075] In related technologies, the methods for determining the precoding of the second network device 102 (RIS) are highly complex. Academic research primarily employs alternating optimization techniques to jointly design the precoding at the RIS and base station. While this method achieves optimal performance, its high complexity makes it unsuitable for practical applications. Furthermore, the size of RIS arrays is often large, comparable to the propagation distance, potentially rendering traditional far-field assumption-based precoding schemes inapplicable.

[0076] It is understood that the communication system described in the embodiments of this application is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0077] The precoding method and apparatus based on smart metasurfaces provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0078] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a first network device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 2 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0079] Step 201: Obtain the cell layout information and block information of the second network device. The block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device.

[0080] It should be noted that, in various embodiments of this application, the second network device can be a smart metasurface RIS.

[0081] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device can obtain the cell layout information and block information of the second network device, wherein the block information of the second network device is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device, and the cell layout information of the second network device can indicate how the cells in the second network device are arranged.

[0082] It should be noted that each segment of the second network device is a continuous part of the second network device, such as a continuous RIS surface in a smart metasurface RIS.

[0083] It is understandable that the first network device can determine how the units in the second network device are arranged by obtaining the unit arrangement information of the second network device; the first network device can determine each block of the second network device by obtaining the block information of the second network device.

[0084] In some implementations, the cell arrangement information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in the second network device; the number of columns of cells in the second network device; the row spacing of cells in the second network device; the column spacing of cells in the second network device; and cells in the second network device capable of transmitting reference signals (which may also be active cells in the second network device).

[0085] In some implementations, the block information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in each block; the number of columns of cells in each block; and the center cell of each block.

[0086] Understandably, the cell layout and block information of the second network device can be flexibly configured according to the specific shape of the second network device. For example, if the second network device is circular, the cell layout information may also include the radius or diameter of the second network device, and the block information may also include other information to indicate each block of the second network device.

[0087] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device may receive the unit layout information and / or block information reported by the second network device, or the first network device may obtain the unit layout information and / or block information of the second network device during the offline phase.

[0088] In some implementations, the first network device may also configure multiple blocks of the second network device according to the unit layout information of the second network device, and obtain the block information of the second network device.

[0089] In this embodiment of the application, each segment of the second network device is capable of transmitting a reference signal.

[0090] Step 202: Receive channel feedback information sent by the terminal device.

[0091] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device is able to receive channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, wherein the channel feedback information is determined by the terminal device based on the reference signal sent by the second network device for each block.

[0092] The channel feedback information reflects the channel status between each block of the second network device and the terminal device. Based on this channel feedback information, the first network device can determine first indication information for determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0093] In some implementations, the channel feedback information includes: multiple third precoding matrix indicators (PMIs) and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI. The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0094] It is understood that each block of the second network device can transmit a reference signal. The terminal device receives the reference signal transmitted by each block and estimates it to obtain the precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device. The precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device is indicated by a third PMI, and the reference signal transmitted by that block is indicated by the index of the reference signal corresponding to the third PMI.

[0095] In some implementations, the first network device can send first reference signal configuration information to the second network device based on the unit arrangement information and block information. The first reference signal configuration information is used to determine the reference signal sent by the second network device for each block.

[0096] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0097] The reference signal sent by each block occupies the cells in that block;

[0098] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0099] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0100] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0101] In some implementations, the first network device can send second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device based on the unit arrangement information and block information. The second reference signal configuration information is used by the terminal device to receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device.

[0102] Optionally, the second reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0103] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0104] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0105] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0106] It is understood that the basic information of the reference signal sent in each block of the first reference signal configuration information and the second reference signal configuration information (the generation information of the reference signal sequence, the antenna port number occupied by the reference signal, and the time and frequency resources occupied by the reference signal) are the same. The terminal device can receive the reference signal sent by the second network device based on the first reference signal configuration information according to the second reference signal configuration information.

[0107] Step 203: Based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information, determine the first indication information, which is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0108] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device can determine the first indication information based on the received channel feedback information, the obtained unit arrangement information and the block information, and the first indication information can be used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0109] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device can determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information and the block information, and then determine the first indication information based on the position information.

[0110] Optionally, this location information can be represented by coordinates. The first network device and the second network device can establish a coordinate system using the coordinate axis establishment method specified in the protocol, and obtain the coordinates of the terminal device in that coordinate system. The first network device and the second network device can also negotiate and determine the coordinate axis establishment method of the coordinate system through signaling.

[0111] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix. The first precoding matrix is ​​determined by the first network device based on the cell layout information, the block information, the position information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device. The second network device can determine a phase shift matrix based on the first precoding matrix.

[0112] Optionally, the first information may be an index of the first precoding matrix, or a first PMI used to indicate the first precoding matrix, etc.

[0113] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix. The second precoding matrix is ​​determined by the first network device based on the cell layout information, the block information, and the position information. The second network device can determine a phase shift matrix based on the second precoding matrix and the angle information between the first and second network devices.

[0114] Optionally, the second information may be an index of the second precoding matrix, or a second PMI used to indicate the second precoding matrix, etc.

[0115] In some implementations, the first indication information includes the location information, and the second network device can determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the location information.

[0116] In this embodiment, the angle information between the first network device and the second network device can be either departure angle information or incident angle information. Departure angle information refers to the departure angle of the signal emitted by the first network device; incident angle information refers to the incident angle of the signal emitted by the first network device incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0117] In some implementations, the first network device can send angle information between the first network device and the second network device to the second network device.

[0118] Step 204: Send the first instruction information to the second network device.

[0119] In this embodiment of the application, after the first network device determines the first indication information, it can send the first indication information to the second network device, and the second network device can determine the phase shift matrix according to the first indication information.

[0120] The phase shift matrix is ​​used to configure the phase of each unit in the second network device, that is, to pre-encode the second network device. The second network device can adjust the phase of its own units according to the phase shift matrix configuration to achieve pre-coding of the second network device, and can reflect or transmit signals incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0121] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix.

[0122] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix.

[0123] In some implementations, the first indication information includes the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

[0124] In summary, by acquiring the unit layout information and block information of the second network device, which is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device, receiving channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, and determining first indication information based on the channel feedback information, the unit layout information, and the block information, which is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device, and sending the first indication information to the second network device, the units of the second network device can be divided into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on smart metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of smart metasurface-assisted communication systems, and reduces interference.

[0125] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a first network device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 3 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0126] Step 301: Obtain the unit layout information and block information of the second network device.

[0127] It should be noted that, in various embodiments of this application, the second network device can be a smart metasurface RIS.

[0128] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device can obtain the cell layout information and block information of the second network device, wherein the block information of the second network device is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device, and the cell layout information of the second network device can indicate how the cells in the second network device are arranged.

[0129] It should be noted that each segment of the second network device is a continuous part of the second network device, such as a continuous RIS surface in a smart metasurface RIS.

[0130] It is understandable that the first network device can determine how the units in the second network device are arranged by obtaining the unit arrangement information of the second network device; the first network device can determine each block of the second network device by obtaining the block information of the second network device.

[0131] In some implementations, the cell arrangement information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in the second network device; the number of columns of cells in the second network device; the row spacing of cells in the second network device; the column spacing of cells in the second network device; and cells in the second network device capable of transmitting reference signals (which may also be active cells in the second network device).

[0132] In some implementations, the block information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in each block; the number of columns of cells in each block; and the center cell of each block.

[0133] Understandably, the cell layout and block information of the second network device can be flexibly configured according to the specific shape of the second network device. For example, if the second network device is circular, the cell layout information may also include the radius or diameter of the second network device, and the block information may also include other information to indicate each block of the second network device.

[0134] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device may receive the unit layout information and / or block information reported by the second network device, or the first network device may obtain the unit layout information and / or block information of the second network device during the offline phase.

[0135] In some implementations, the first network device may also configure multiple blocks of the second network device according to the unit layout information of the second network device, and obtain the block information of the second network device.

[0136] In this embodiment of the application, each segment of the second network device is capable of transmitting a reference signal.

[0137] Step 302: Send the first reference signal configuration information to the second network device according to the unit layout information and block information.

[0138] In this embodiment, the first network device can send first reference signal configuration information to the second network device based on the unit arrangement information and the block information. The first reference signal configuration information is used to determine the reference signal transmitted by the second network device for each block, and the second network device can determine the reference signal transmitted for each block based on the first reference signal configuration information.

[0139] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0140] The reference signal sent by each block occupies the cells in that block;

[0141] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0142] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0143] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0144] Step 303: Send the second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device based on the unit layout information and block information.

[0145] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device can send second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device. The second reference signal configuration information is used by the terminal device to receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device.

[0146] In the embodiments of this application, the second reference signal configuration information may be the same as or different from the first reference configuration information (for example, the second reference signal configuration information may not include the units in the block occupied by the reference signal sent by each block).

[0147] Optionally, the second reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0148] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0149] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0150] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0151] It is understood that in the first reference signal configuration information in step 302 and the second reference signal configuration information in step 303, the basic information of the reference signal sent in each block (the generation information of the reference signal sequence, the antenna port number occupied by the reference signal, and the time and frequency resources occupied by the reference signal) is the same. The terminal device can receive the reference signal sent by the second network device based on the first reference signal configuration information according to the second reference signal configuration information.

[0152] It should be noted that the channel used by the first network device to send the reference signal configuration information to the terminal device can be a channel that passes through the second network device or a direct line-of-sight channel that does not pass through the second network device. This application does not limit this.

[0153] Step 304: Receive channel feedback information sent by the terminal device.

[0154] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device is able to receive channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, wherein the channel feedback information is determined by the terminal device based on the reference signal sent by the second network device for each block.

[0155] The channel feedback information reflects the channel status between each block of the second network device and the terminal device. Based on this channel feedback information, the first network device can determine first indication information for determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0156] In some implementations, the channel feedback information includes: a plurality of third precoding matrix indicator PMIs and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI. The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0157] It is understood that each block of the second network device can transmit a reference signal. The terminal device receives the reference signal transmitted by each block and estimates it to obtain the precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device. The precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device is indicated by a third PMI, and the reference signal transmitted by that block is indicated by the index of the reference signal corresponding to the third PMI.

[0158] In some implementations, the first network device can send first reference signal configuration information to the second network device based on the unit arrangement information and block information. The first reference signal configuration information is used to determine the reference signal sent by the second network device for each block.

[0159] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0160] The reference signal sent by each block occupies the cells in that block;

[0161] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0162] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0163] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0164] It should be noted that, similarly, the channel used by the first network device to receive the channel feedback information sent by the terminal device can be either a channel that passes through the second network device or a direct line-of-sight channel that does not pass through the second network device. This application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0165] Step 305: Based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information, determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

[0166] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device can determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information and the block information, and then determine the first indication information based on the position information.

[0167] Optionally, this location information can be represented by coordinates. The first network device and the second network device can establish a coordinate system using the coordinate axis establishment method specified in the protocol, and obtain the coordinates of the terminal device in that coordinate system. The first network device and the second network device can also negotiate and determine the coordinate axis establishment method of the coordinate system through signaling.

[0168] Optionally, in various embodiments of this application, the first network device may employ multiple methods to determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on channel feedback information, the cell layout information and block information of the second network device. As an example, such as... Figures 6a-6c As shown, this will be explained in detail later, and will not be repeated here.

[0169] Step 306: Determine the first precoding matrix based on the unit layout information, the block information, the position information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

[0170] In this embodiment, the first network device can determine a first precoding matrix based on the cell layout information, block information, position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, and angle information between the first and second network devices. The second network device can then determine a phase shift matrix based on the first precoding matrix, thereby adjusting the phase of its own cells to achieve precoding of the second network device.

[0171] Optionally, the first precoding matrix can be the near-field precoding matrix of the second network device.

[0172] In this embodiment, the angle information between the first network device and the second network device can be either departure angle information or incident angle information. Departure angle information refers to the departure angle of the signal emitted by the first network device; incident angle information refers to the incident angle of the signal emitted by the first network device incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0173] Step 307: Send first indication information to the second network device, the first indication information including the first precoding matrix or first information.

[0174] In this embodiment, after the first network device calculates the first precoding matrix in step 306, it can send first indication information to the second network device based on the first precoding matrix. The first indication information includes the first precoding matrix or first information. The first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix.

[0175] In this embodiment, the first indication information can be used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device, meaning the second network device can determine the phase shift matrix based on the first indication information. This phase shift matrix is ​​used to configure the phase of each unit in the second network device, i.e., to pre-encode the second network device. The second network device can adjust the phase of its units according to the phase shift matrix configuration to achieve pre-coding of the second network device and to reflect or transmit signals incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0176] Optionally, the first information may be an index of the first precoding matrix, or a first PMI used to indicate the first precoding matrix, etc.

[0177] In summary, by acquiring the cell layout information and block information of the second network device, sending first reference signal configuration information to the second network device, sending second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device, and receiving channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device is determined based on the channel feedback information, the cell layout information, and the block information. Based on the cell layout information, the block information, the position information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device, a first precoding matrix is ​​determined, and first indication information, including the first precoding matrix or first information, is sent to the second network device. This allows the cells of the second network device to be divided into multiple groups, ensuring that the far-field assumption holds for each group. Simultaneously, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on intelligent metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of intelligent metasurface-assisted communication systems, and reduces interference.

[0178] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a first network device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 4 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0179] Step 401: Obtain the unit layout information and block information of the second network device.

[0180] It should be noted that, in various embodiments of this application, the second network device can be a smart metasurface RIS.

[0181] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device can obtain the cell layout information and block information of the second network device, wherein the block information of the second network device is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device, and the cell layout information of the second network device can indicate how the cells in the second network device are arranged.

[0182] It should be noted that each segment of the second network device is a continuous part of the second network device, such as a continuous RIS surface in a smart metasurface RIS.

[0183] It is understandable that the first network device can determine how the units in the second network device are arranged by obtaining the unit arrangement information of the second network device; the first network device can determine each block of the second network device by obtaining the block information of the second network device.

[0184] In some implementations, the cell arrangement information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in the second network device; the number of columns of cells in the second network device; the row spacing of cells in the second network device; the column spacing of cells in the second network device; and cells in the second network device capable of transmitting reference signals (which may also be active cells in the second network device).

[0185] In some implementations, the block information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in each block; the number of columns of cells in each block; and the center cell of each block.

[0186] Understandably, the cell layout and block information of the second network device can be flexibly configured according to the specific shape of the second network device. For example, if the second network device is circular, the cell layout information may also include the radius or diameter of the second network device, and the block information may also include other information to indicate each block of the second network device.

[0187] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device may receive the unit layout information and / or block information reported by the second network device, or the first network device may obtain the unit layout information and / or block information of the second network device during the offline phase.

[0188] In some implementations, the first network device may also configure multiple blocks of the second network device according to the unit layout information of the second network device, and obtain the block information of the second network device.

[0189] In this embodiment of the application, each segment of the second network device is capable of transmitting a reference signal.

[0190] Step 402: Send the first reference signal configuration information to the second network device according to the unit layout information and block information.

[0191] In this embodiment, the first network device can send first reference signal configuration information to the second network device based on the unit arrangement information and the block information. The first reference signal configuration information is used to determine the reference signal transmitted by the second network device for each block, and the second network device can determine the reference signal transmitted for each block based on the first reference signal configuration information.

[0192] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0193] The reference signal sent by each block occupies the cells in that block;

[0194] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0195] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0196] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0197] Step 403: Based on the unit layout information and block information, send the second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device.

[0198] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device can send second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device. The second reference signal configuration information is used by the terminal device to receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device.

[0199] In the embodiments of this application, the second reference signal configuration information may be the same as or different from the first reference configuration information (for example, the second reference signal configuration information may not include the units in the block occupied by the reference signal sent by each block).

[0200] Optionally, the second reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0201] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0202] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0203] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0204] It is understood that in the first reference signal configuration information in step 302 and the second reference signal configuration information in step 303, the basic information of the reference signal sent in each block (the generation information of the reference signal sequence, the antenna port number occupied by the reference signal, and the time and frequency resources occupied by the reference signal) is the same. The terminal device can receive the reference signal sent by the second network device based on the first reference signal configuration information according to the second reference signal configuration information.

[0205] It should be noted that the channel used by the first network device to send the reference signal configuration information to the terminal device can be a channel that passes through the second network device or a direct line-of-sight channel that does not pass through the second network device. This application does not limit this.

[0206] Step 404: Receive channel feedback information sent by the terminal device.

[0207] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device is able to receive channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, wherein the channel feedback information is determined by the terminal device based on the reference signal sent by the second network device for each block.

[0208] The channel feedback information reflects the channel status between each block of the second network device and the terminal device. Based on this channel feedback information, the first network device can determine first indication information for determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0209] In some implementations, the channel feedback information includes: a plurality of third precoding matrix indicator PMIs and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI. The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0210] It is understood that each block of the second network device can transmit a reference signal. The terminal device receives the reference signal transmitted by each block and estimates it to obtain the precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device. The precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device is indicated by a third PMI, and the reference signal transmitted by that block is indicated by the index of the reference signal corresponding to the third PMI.

[0211] In some implementations, the first network device can send first reference signal configuration information to the second network device based on the unit arrangement information and block information. The first reference signal configuration information is used to determine the reference signal sent by the second network device for each block.

[0212] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0213] The reference signal sent by each block occupies the cells in that block;

[0214] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0215] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0216] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0217] It should be noted that, similarly, the channel used by the first network device to receive the channel feedback information sent by the terminal device can be either a channel that passes through the second network device or a direct line-of-sight channel that does not pass through the second network device. This application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0218] Step 405: Based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information, determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

[0219] In this embodiment of the application, the first network device can determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information and the block information, and then determine the first indication information based on the position information.

[0220] Optionally, this location information can be represented by coordinates. The first network device and the second network device can establish a coordinate system using the coordinate axis establishment method specified in the protocol, and obtain the coordinates of the terminal device in that coordinate system. The first network device and the second network device can also negotiate and determine the coordinate axis establishment method of the coordinate system through signaling.

[0221] Optionally, in various embodiments of this application, the first network device may employ multiple methods to determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on channel feedback information, the cell layout information and block information of the second network device. As an example, such as... Figures 6a-6c As shown, this will be explained in detail later, and will not be repeated here.

[0222] Step 406: Determine the second precoding matrix based on the unit arrangement information, the block information, and the position information.

[0223] In this embodiment, the first network device can determine a second precoding matrix based on the cell layout information and block information of the second network device, as well as the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device. The second network device can determine a phase shift matrix based on the second precoding matrix and the angle information between the first and second network devices, thereby adjusting the phase of its own cells to achieve precoding of the second network device.

[0224] Optionally, the second precoding matrix can be the near-field precoding matrix of the second network device.

[0225] Step 407: Send first indication information to the second network device, the first indication information including the second precoding matrix or second information.

[0226] In this embodiment, after the first network device calculates the second precoding matrix in step 406, it can send first indication information to the second network device based on the second precoding matrix. The first indication information includes the second precoding matrix or second information. The second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix.

[0227] In this embodiment, the first indication information can be used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device. That is, the second network device can determine the phase shift matrix based on the second precoding matrix and the angle information between the first and second network devices. The phase shift matrix is ​​used to configure the phase of each unit in the second network device, i.e., to precode the second network device. The second network device can adjust the phase of its units according to the phase shift matrix configuration to achieve precoding of the second network device and can reflect or transmit signals incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0228] Optionally, the second information may be an index of the second precoding matrix, or a second PMI used to indicate the second precoding matrix, etc.

[0229] In some implementations, the first network device may also send angle information between the first network device and the second network device to the second network device.

[0230] In summary, by acquiring the cell layout information and block information of the second network device, sending first reference signal configuration information to the second network device, sending second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device, receiving channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, determining the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on the channel feedback information, the cell layout information, and the block information, determining the second precoding matrix based on the cell layout information, the block information, and the position information, and sending first indication information to the second network device, the first indication information including the second precoding matrix or second information, can divide the cells of the second network device into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group, while effectively reducing the complexity of precoding based on smart metasurfaces, improving the communication efficiency of smart metasurface-assisted communication systems, and reducing interference.

[0231] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 5This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a first network device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 5 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0232] Step 501: Obtain the unit layout information and block information of the second network device.

[0233] Step 502: Send the first reference signal configuration information to the second network device according to the unit layout information and block information.

[0234] Step 503: Send the second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device based on the unit layout information and block information.

[0235] Step 504: Receive channel feedback information sent by the terminal device.

[0236] Step 505: Based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information, determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

[0237] In the embodiments of this application, steps 501 to 505 can be implemented in any of the embodiments of this application. The embodiments of this application do not limit this and will not elaborate further.

[0238] Step 506: Send first indication information to the second network device, the first indication information including the location information.

[0239] In this embodiment of the application, after the first network device determines the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device in step 505, it can send first indication information to the second network device based on the location information, and the first indication information includes the location information.

[0240] In this embodiment, the first indication information can be used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device. That is, the second network device can determine the phase shift matrix based on the position information, its own cell layout and block information, and the angle information between the first and second network devices. This phase shift matrix is ​​used to configure the phase of each cell in the second network device, i.e., to pre-encode the second network device. The second network device can adjust the phase of its cells according to the phase shift matrix configuration to achieve pre-coding of the second network device and to reflect or transmit signals incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0241] In some implementations, the first network device may also send angle information between the first network device and the second network device to the second network device.

[0242] In summary, by acquiring the unit layout information and block information of the second network device, sending first reference signal configuration information to the second network device, sending second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device, receiving channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, and determining the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit layout information, and the block information, and sending first indication information to the second network device, the first indication information including the position information can divide the units of the second network device into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on smart metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of smart metasurface-assisted communication systems, and reduces interference.

[0243] As mentioned above, in various embodiments of this application, the first network device may employ a variety of methods to determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information and block information of the second network device.

[0244] As an example, please see Figures 6a-6c , Figure 6a This is a spatial location diagram of a terminal device and a second network device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6b This is a schematic diagram of the xz-axis plane. Figure 6c This is a schematic diagram of the yz-axis plane.

[0245] Figure 6a This example illustrates one method for establishing coordinate axes; other methods can also be used to establish a coordinate system. For example... Figure 6a As shown, an xy plane is established with the plane where the second network device is located, and the normal direction of the second network device is the z-axis. The second network device has four blocks.

[0246] from Figure 6a Looking at the y-axis direction, the second network device is divided into two parts along the x-axis and one part on each side of the z-axis (e.g., ...). Figure 6b (As shown). Through the third PMI corresponding to each block of the second network device, the horizontal dimension (the dimension corresponding to the x-axis) orientation angles α1 and α2 corresponding to each block of the second network device can be obtained.

[0247] The horizontal position of the terminal device can be determined by using α1, α2, and the horizontal distances between the blocks of the second network device. Let the distance between the two blocks of the second network device be d, and the coordinates of the terminal device in the xz plane be (d...). x d z ),in,

[0248] Similarly, from Figure 6a Looking at the x-axis direction, the second network device is divided into two parts along the y-axis and one part on each side of the z-axis (e.g., ...). Figure 6c (As shown). Through the third PMI corresponding to each block of the second network device, the vertical dimension (the dimension corresponding to the y-axis) orientation angles β1 and β2 corresponding to each block of the second network device can be obtained.

[0249] The vertical position of the terminal device can be determined by the vertical distances between β1, β2, and the blocks of the second network device. Let the distance between the two blocks of the second network device be d', and the coordinates of the terminal device in the yz plane be (d''). y d z ),in,

[0250] Furthermore, based on the coordinates of the terminal device in the xz plane and yz plane, the coordinates of the terminal device in the coordinate system are obtained, thereby obtaining the position of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

[0251] It is understood that the above method for determining the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device is only an example. The first network device may also use other methods to determine the position of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on the channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, the unit arrangement information and block information of the second network device.

[0252] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a second network device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 7 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0253] Step 701: Send the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device. The block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device.

[0254] It should be noted that, in various embodiments of this application, the second network device can be a smart metasurface RIS.

[0255] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device can send the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device. The block information of the second network device is used to indicate the multiple blocks of the second network device, and the cell layout information of the second network device can indicate how the cells in the second network device are arranged.

[0256] It should be noted that each segment of the second network device is a continuous part of the second network device, such as a continuous RIS surface in a smart metasurface RIS.

[0257] It is understandable that the first network device can determine how the units in the second network device are arranged by obtaining the unit arrangement information of the second network device; the first network device can determine each block of the second network device by obtaining the block information of the second network device.

[0258] In some implementations, the cell arrangement information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in the second network device; the number of columns of cells in the second network device; the row spacing of cells in the second network device; the column spacing of cells in the second network device; and cells in the second network device capable of transmitting reference signals (which may also be active cells in the second network device).

[0259] In some implementations, the block information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in each block; the number of columns of cells in each block; and the center cell of each block.

[0260] Understandably, the cell layout and block information of the second network device can be flexibly configured according to the specific shape of the second network device. For example, if the second network device is circular, the cell layout information may also include the radius or diameter of the second network device, and the block information may also include other information to indicate each block of the second network device.

[0261] Step 702: Send a reference signal to the terminal device. The reference signal is used by the terminal device to determine the channel feedback information.

[0262] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device is capable of transmitting a reference signal, which is used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information.

[0263] In this embodiment, each segment of the second network device is capable of transmitting a reference signal. That is, the terminal device is capable of receiving the reference signal transmitted by each segment of the second network device and determining channel feedback information based on the received reference signal.

[0264] The channel feedback information reflects the channel status between each block of the second network device and the terminal device. Based on this channel feedback information, the first network device can determine first indication information for determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0265] In some implementations, the channel feedback information includes: a plurality of third precoding matrix indicator PMIs and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI. The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0266] It is understood that each block of the second network device can transmit a reference signal. The terminal device receives the reference signal transmitted by each block and estimates it to obtain the precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device. The precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device is indicated by a third PMI, and the reference signal transmitted by that block is indicated by the index of the reference signal corresponding to the third PMI.

[0267] In some implementations, the second network device can receive first reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device, and the second network device can determine the reference signal sent by each block of the second network device based on the first reference signal configuration information.

[0268] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0269] The reference signal sent by each block occupies the cells in that block;

[0270] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0271] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0272] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0273] Step 703: Receive first indication information sent by the first network device. The first indication information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, unit arrangement information and block information.

[0274] In this embodiment, the second network device can receive first indication information sent by the first network device and determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first indication information. The first indication information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, cell arrangement information, and block information.

[0275] The phase shift matrix of the second network device is used to configure the phase of each unit in the second network device, which is to pre-encode the second network device. The second network device can adjust the phase of its own units according to the configuration of the phase shift matrix to achieve pre-coding of the second network device.

[0276] In this embodiment of the application, the first indication information is determined based on the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, wherein the location information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information.

[0277] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix. The first precoding matrix is ​​determined by the first network device based on the cell layout information, the block information, the position information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

[0278] Optionally, the first information may be an index of the first precoding matrix, or a first PMI used to indicate the first precoding matrix, etc.

[0279] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix. The second precoding matrix is ​​determined by the first network device based on the cell layout information, the block information, and the location information.

[0280] Optionally, the second information may be an index of the second precoding matrix, or a second PMI used to indicate the second precoding matrix, etc.

[0281] In some implementations, the first indication information includes the location information.

[0282] In this embodiment, the angle information between the first network device and the second network device can be either departure angle information or incident angle information. Departure angle information refers to the departure angle of the signal emitted by the first network device; incident angle information refers to the incident angle of the signal emitted by the first network device incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0283] In some implementations, the second network device may optionally receive angle information between the first network device and the second network device sent by the first network device; the second network device may also sense the angle information itself without the first network device sending it.

[0284] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device may determine whether the determination of the first indication information takes into account the angle information between the first network device and the second network device, according to the prior provisions of the protocol or the configuration instructions of the first network device.

[0285] Step 704: Determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first instruction information.

[0286] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device can determine the phase shift matrix according to the received first indication information, and then configure and adjust the phase of each unit of its own according to the phase shift matrix to realize precoding based on smart metasurface.

[0287] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix. The second network device can determine the first precoding matrix based on the first indication information, and then determine the phase shift matrix based on the first precoding matrix.

[0288] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix. The second network device can determine the second precoding matrix based on the first indication information, and then determine the phase shift matrix based on the second precoding matrix and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

[0289] In some implementations, the first indication information includes the location information. The second network device can determine the location information based on the first indication information, and then determine the phase shift matrix based on the location information, its own unit arrangement information and block information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

[0290] In this embodiment of the application, after determining the phase shift matrix, the second network device can configure and adjust the phase of each unit in the second network device according to the phase shift matrix, and reflect or transmit the signal incident on the surface of the second network device based on the adjusted phase.

[0291] It should be noted that if the first precoding matrix or the second precoding matrix is ​​generated by the first network device based on the assumption that the phase of each unit in the second network device is continuously adjustable, that is, the phase of each unit in the second network device corresponding to the reference phase shift matrix may not be supported by the second network device. Therefore, the second network device can quantize according to the phase offset values ​​it supports to obtain the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0292] In summary, by sending the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device (the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device), sending a reference signal to the terminal device (the reference signal is used by the terminal device to determine the channel feedback information), and receiving the first indication information sent by the first network device (the first indication information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, cell layout information, and block information), the phase shift matrix of the second network device can be determined according to the first indication information. This allows the cells of the second network device to be divided into multiple groups, ensuring that the far-field assumption holds for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on smart metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of smart metasurface-assisted communication systems, and reduces interference.

[0293] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a second network device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 8 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0294] Step 801: Send the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device. The block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device.

[0295] It should be noted that, in various embodiments of this application, the second network device can be a smart metasurface RIS.

[0296] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device can send the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device. The block information of the second network device is used to indicate the multiple blocks of the second network device, and the cell layout information of the second network device can indicate how the cells in the second network device are arranged.

[0297] It should be noted that each segment of the second network device is a continuous part of the second network device, such as a continuous RIS surface in a smart metasurface RIS.

[0298] It is understandable that the first network device can determine how the units in the second network device are arranged by obtaining the unit arrangement information of the second network device; the first network device can determine each block of the second network device by obtaining the block information of the second network device.

[0299] In some implementations, the cell arrangement information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in the second network device; the number of columns of cells in the second network device; the row spacing of cells in the second network device; the column spacing of cells in the second network device; and cells in the second network device capable of transmitting reference signals (which may also be active cells in the second network device).

[0300] In some implementations, the block information may include at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in each block; the number of columns of cells in each block; and the center cell of each block.

[0301] Understandably, the cell layout and block information of the second network device can be flexibly configured according to the specific shape of the second network device. For example, if the second network device is circular, the cell layout information may also include the radius or diameter of the second network device, and the block information may also include other information to indicate each block of the second network device.

[0302] Step 802: Send a reference signal to the terminal device. The reference signal is used by the terminal device to determine the channel feedback information.

[0303] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device is capable of transmitting a reference signal, which is used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information.

[0304] In this embodiment, each segment of the second network device is capable of transmitting a reference signal. That is, the terminal device is capable of receiving the reference signal transmitted by each segment of the second network device and determining channel feedback information based on the received reference signal.

[0305] The channel feedback information reflects the channel status between each block of the second network device and the terminal device. Based on this channel feedback information, the first network device can determine first indication information for determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0306] In some implementations, the channel feedback information includes: a plurality of third precoding matrix indicator PMIs and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI. The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0307] It is understood that each block of the second network device can transmit a reference signal. The terminal device receives the reference signal transmitted by each block and estimates it to obtain the precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device. The precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device is indicated by a third PMI, and the reference signal transmitted by that block is indicated by the index of the reference signal corresponding to the third PMI.

[0308] In some implementations, the second network device can receive first reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device, and the second network device can determine the reference signal sent by each block of the second network device based on the first reference signal configuration information.

[0309] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0310] The reference signal sent by each block occupies the cells in that block;

[0311] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0312] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0313] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0314] Step 803: Receive first indication information sent by the first network device. The first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, which is used to indicate the first precoding matrix.

[0315] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device is able to receive first indication information sent by the first network device, and determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device according to the first indication information.

[0316] In this embodiment of the application, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix.

[0317] Optionally, the first information may be an index of the first precoding matrix, or a first PMI used to indicate the first precoding matrix, etc.

[0318] Optionally, the first precoding matrix can be the near-field precoding matrix of the second network device.

[0319] In this embodiment of the application, the first precoding matrix is ​​determined by the first network device based on the cell arrangement information, the block information, the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

[0320] The location information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, unit arrangement information, and block information.

[0321] Optionally, this location information can be represented by coordinates. The first network device and the second network device can establish a coordinate system using the coordinate axis establishment method specified in the protocol, and obtain the coordinates of the terminal device in that coordinate system. The first network device and the second network device can also negotiate and determine the coordinate axis establishment method of the coordinate system through signaling.

[0322] In this embodiment, the angle information between the first network device and the second network device can be either departure angle information or incident angle information. Departure angle information refers to the departure angle of the signal emitted by the first network device; incident angle information refers to the incident angle of the signal emitted by the first network device incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0323] Step 804: Determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first precoding matrix.

[0324] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device can determine the first precoding matrix according to the received first indication information, then determine the phase shift matrix according to the first precoding matrix, and then configure and adjust the phase of its own units according to the phase shift matrix to realize precoding based on smart metasurface.

[0325] It should be noted that if the first precoding matrix or the second precoding matrix is ​​generated by the first network device based on the assumption that the phase of each unit in the second network device is continuously adjustable, that is, the phase of each unit in the second network device corresponding to the reference phase shift matrix may not be supported by the second network device. Therefore, the second network device can quantize according to the phase offset values ​​it supports to obtain the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0326] Step 805: Based on the phase shift matrix, the signal incident on the surface of the first network device is reflected or transmitted.

[0327] In this embodiment of the application, after determining the phase shift matrix, the second network device can configure and adjust the phase of each unit in the second network device according to the phase shift matrix, and reflect or transmit the signal incident on the surface of the second network device based on the adjusted phase.

[0328] In summary, by sending the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device (the block information being used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device), sending a reference signal to the terminal device (the reference signal being used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information), and receiving the first indication information sent by the first network device (the first indication information including a first precoding matrix or first information), and determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first precoding matrix, the cells of the second network device can be divided into multiple groups, ensuring that the far-field assumption holds for each group. This effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on intelligent metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of intelligent metasurface-assisted communication systems, and reduces interference.

[0329] Please see Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a second network device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 9 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0330] Step 901: Send the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device. The block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device.

[0331] Step 902: Send a reference signal to the terminal device. The reference signal is used by the terminal device to determine the channel feedback information.

[0332] In the embodiments of this application, steps 901 to 902 can be implemented in any of the ways described in the embodiments of this application. The embodiments of this application do not limit this, nor will they be described in detail.

[0333] Step 903: Receive first indication information sent by the first network device. The first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, which is used to indicate the second precoding matrix.

[0334] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device is able to receive first indication information sent by the first network device, and determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device according to the first indication information.

[0335] In this embodiment of the application, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix.

[0336] Optionally, the second information may be an index of the second precoding matrix, or a second PMI used to indicate the second precoding matrix, etc.

[0337] Optionally, the second precoding matrix can be the near-field precoding matrix of the second network device.

[0338] In this embodiment of the application, the second precoding matrix is ​​determined by the first network device based on the cell arrangement information, the block information, and the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

[0339] The location information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, unit arrangement information, and block information.

[0340] Optionally, this location information can be represented by coordinates. The first network device and the second network device can establish a coordinate system using the coordinate axis establishment method specified in the protocol, and obtain the coordinates of the terminal device in that coordinate system. The first network device and the second network device can also negotiate and determine the coordinate axis establishment method of the coordinate system through signaling.

[0341] Step 904: Determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the second precoding matrix and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

[0342] In this embodiment, the second network device can determine the second precoding matrix based on the received first instruction information, and then determine the phase shift matrix based on the second precoding matrix and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device. In turn, it can configure and adjust the phase of each unit based on the phase shift matrix to realize precoding based on the smart metasurface.

[0343] In this embodiment of the application, after determining the phase shift matrix, the first network device can configure and adjust the phase of each unit in the first network device according to the phase shift matrix, and reflect or transmit the signal incident on the surface of the first network device based on the adjusted phase.

[0344] In this embodiment, the angle information between the first network device and the second network device can be either departure angle information or incident angle information. Departure angle information refers to the departure angle of the signal emitted by the first network device; incident angle information refers to the incident angle of the signal emitted by the first network device incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0345] Optionally, the second network device can receive angle information between the first network device and the second network device sent by the first network device; the second network device can also sense the angle information itself without the first network device sending it.

[0346] Step 905: Based on the phase shift matrix, the signal incident on the surface of the first network device is reflected or transmitted.

[0347] In this embodiment of the application, after determining the phase shift matrix, the second network device can configure and adjust the phase of each unit in the second network device according to the phase shift matrix, and reflect or transmit the signal incident on the surface of the second network device based on the adjusted phase.

[0348] In summary, by sending the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device (the block information being used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device), sending a reference signal to the terminal device (the reference signal being used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information), and receiving the first indication information sent by the first network device (the first indication information including a second precoding matrix or second information), and determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the second precoding matrix, the cells of the second network device can be divided into multiple groups, ensuring that the far-field assumption holds for each group. This effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on intelligent metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of intelligent metasurface-assisted communication systems, and reduces interference.

[0349] Please see Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a second network device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 10 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0350] Step 1001: Send the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device. The block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device.

[0351] Step 1002: Send a reference signal to the terminal device. The reference signal is used by the terminal device to determine the channel feedback information.

[0352] In the embodiments of this application, steps 1001 to 1002 can be implemented in any of the embodiments of this application. The embodiments of this application do not limit this and will not elaborate further.

[0353] Step 1003: Receive first indication information sent by the first network device, the first indication information including the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

[0354] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device is able to receive first indication information sent by the first network device, and determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device according to the first indication information.

[0355] In this embodiment of the application, the first indication information includes the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, wherein the location information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information and the block information.

[0356] In this embodiment of the application, the second precoding matrix is ​​determined by the first network device based on the cell arrangement information, the block information, and the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

[0357] Optionally, this location information can be represented by coordinates. The first network device and the second network device can establish a coordinate system using the coordinate axis establishment method specified in the protocol, and obtain the coordinates of the terminal device in that coordinate system. The first network device and the second network device can also negotiate and determine the coordinate axis establishment method of the coordinate system through signaling. The second network device can determine and use the location of the terminal device based on the coordinate system and the coordinates of the terminal device.

[0358] Step 1004: Based on the location information, the cell layout information and block information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device, determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0359] In this embodiment of the application, the second network device can determine the position information of the terminal device relative to itself based on the received first instruction information, and then determine the phase shift matrix based on the position information, its own unit arrangement information and block information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device. Then, based on the phase shift matrix, it configures and adjusts the phase of each of its own units to realize precoding based on the smart metasurface.

[0360] In this embodiment of the application, after determining the phase shift matrix, the first network device can configure and adjust the phase of each unit in the first network device according to the phase shift matrix, and reflect or transmit the signal incident on the surface of the first network device based on the adjusted phase.

[0361] In this embodiment, the angle information between the first network device and the second network device can be either departure angle information or incident angle information. Departure angle information refers to the departure angle of the signal emitted by the first network device; incident angle information refers to the incident angle of the signal emitted by the first network device incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0362] Optionally, the second network device can receive angle information between the first network device and the second network device sent by the first network device; the second network device can also sense the angle information itself without the first network device sending it.

[0363] Step 1005: Based on the phase shift matrix, the signal incident on the surface of the first network device is reflected or transmitted.

[0364] In this embodiment of the application, after determining the phase shift matrix, the second network device can configure and adjust the phase of each unit in the second network device according to the phase shift matrix, and reflect or transmit the signal incident on the surface of the second network device based on the adjusted phase.

[0365] In summary, by sending the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device (the block information being used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device), sending a reference signal to the terminal device (the reference signal being used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information), and receiving the first indication information sent by the first network device (the first indication information including a second precoding matrix or second information), and determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the position information, the cells of the second network device can be divided into multiple groups, ensuring that the far-field assumption holds for each group. This effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on intelligent metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of intelligent metasurface-assisted communication systems, and reduces interference.

[0366] Please see Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a terminal device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 11 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0367] Step 1101: Receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device.

[0368] In this embodiment, the terminal device can receive reference signals transmitted by each block of the second network device and perform channel estimation based on the reference signals. These reference signals are transmitted by the second network device based on the first reference signal configuration information transmitted by the first network device.

[0369] In various embodiments of this application, the second network device may be a smart metasurface RIS.

[0370] In some implementations, the terminal device can receive second reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device, and receive reference signals sent by the second network device according to the second reference signal configuration information.

[0371] Optionally, the second reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0372] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0373] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0374] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0375] It should be noted that the channel used by the terminal device to receive the reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device can be a channel that passes through the second network device or a direct line-of-sight channel that does not pass through the second network device. This application does not limit this.

[0376] Step 1102: Determine the channel feedback information of the channel between the second network device and the terminal device based on the reference signal.

[0377] In this embodiment of the application, the terminal device can estimate the channel between the second network device and the terminal device based on the reference signal, and obtain the channel feedback information of the channel.

[0378] The channel feedback information reflects the channel status between each block of the second network device and the terminal device. Based on this channel feedback information, the first network device can determine first indication information for determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0379] In some implementations, the channel feedback information includes: a plurality of third precoding matrix indicator PMIs and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI. The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0380] It is understood that each block of the second network device can transmit a reference signal. The terminal device receives the reference signal transmitted by each block and estimates it to obtain the precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device. The precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device is indicated by a third PMI, and the reference signal transmitted by that block is indicated by the index of the reference signal corresponding to the third PMI.

[0381] It should be noted that the terminal device may use the least squares (LS) method, the minimum mean square error (MMSE) method, or other estimation algorithms to estimate the channel based on the received reference signal. This application does not limit the specific methods used.

[0382] Step 1103: Send the channel feedback information to the first network device. The channel feedback information is used to determine the first indication information, and the first indication information is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0383] In this embodiment of the application, after estimating the channel between the first network device and the terminal device and obtaining the channel feedback information of the channel, the terminal device can send the channel feedback information to the second network device.

[0384] The channel feedback information is used to determine the first indication information, which in turn is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0385] In some implementations, the channel feedback information can be used to determine the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, and the first network device can determine the first indication information based on the location information.

[0386] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix.

[0387] Optionally, the first information may be an index of the first precoding matrix, or a first PMI used to indicate the first precoding matrix, etc.

[0388] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix.

[0389] Optionally, the second information may be an index of the second precoding matrix, or a second PMI used to indicate the second precoding matrix, etc.

[0390] In some implementations, the first indication information includes the location information.

[0391] It should be noted that the channel used by the terminal device to send channel feedback information to the first network device can be a channel that passes through the second network device or a direct line-of-sight channel that does not pass through the second network device. This application does not limit this.

[0392] In summary, by receiving the reference signal transmitted by each block of the second network device, and determining the channel feedback information of the channel between the second network device and the terminal device based on the reference signal, the channel feedback information is sent to the first network device. This channel feedback information is used to determine the first indication information, which is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device. This allows the units of the second network device to be divided into multiple groups, ensuring that the far-field assumption holds for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on smart metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of the smart metasurface-assisted communication system, and reduces interference.

[0393] Please see Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be noted that the precoding method based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment is executed by a terminal device. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 12 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0394] Step 1201: Receive the second reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device.

[0395] In this embodiment of the application, the terminal device is able to receive second reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device, and receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device according to the second reference signal configuration information.

[0396] Optionally, the second reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0397] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0398] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0399] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0400] It should be noted that the channel used by the terminal device to receive the reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device can be a channel that passes through the second network device or a direct line-of-sight channel that does not pass through the second network device. This application does not limit this.

[0401] Step 1202: Receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device according to the second reference signal configuration information.

[0402] In this embodiment of the application, the terminal device is able to receive the reference signal sent by each block of the second network device according to the received second reference signal configuration information.

[0403] The reference signal sent by the second network device is determined based on the configuration information of the first reference signal.

[0404] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information may include at least one of the following:

[0405] The reference signal sent by each block occupies the cells in that block;

[0406] Information on the generation of the reference signal sequence sent in each block;

[0407] The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block;

[0408] The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal sent in each block.

[0409] It is understood that the basic information of the reference signal sent in each block of the first reference signal configuration information and the second reference signal configuration information (the generation information of the reference signal sequence, the antenna port number occupied by the reference signal, and the time and frequency resources occupied by the reference signal) are the same. The terminal device can receive the reference signal sent by the second network device based on the first reference signal configuration information according to the second reference signal configuration information.

[0410] Step 1203: Based on the reference signal, determine the channel feedback information of the channel between the second network device and the terminal device.

[0411] In this embodiment of the application, the terminal device can estimate the channel between the second network device and the terminal device based on the reference signal, and obtain the channel feedback information of the channel.

[0412] The channel feedback information reflects the channel status between each block of the second network device and the terminal device. Based on this channel feedback information, the first network device can determine first indication information for determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0413] In some implementations, the channel feedback information includes: a plurality of third precoding matrix indicator PMIs and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI. The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0414] It is understood that each block of the second network device can transmit a reference signal. The terminal device receives the reference signal transmitted by each block and estimates it to obtain the precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device. The precoding matrix of the channel between each block and the terminal device is indicated by a third PMI, and the reference signal transmitted by that block is indicated by the index of the reference signal corresponding to the third PMI.

[0415] It should be noted that the terminal device may use the least squares method (LS) or the minimum mean square error method (MMSE) to estimate the channel based on the received reference signal, or other estimation algorithms, etc. This application does not limit the specific methods used.

[0416] Step 1204: Send the channel feedback information to the first network device.

[0417] In this embodiment of the application, after estimating the channel between the first network device and the terminal device and obtaining the channel feedback information of the channel, the terminal device can send the channel feedback information to the second network device.

[0418] The channel feedback information is used to determine the first indication information, which in turn is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0419] In some implementations, the channel feedback information can be used to determine the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, and the first network device can determine the first indication information based on the location information.

[0420] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix.

[0421] Optionally, the first information may be an index of the first precoding matrix, or a first PMI used to indicate the first precoding matrix, etc.

[0422] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix.

[0423] Optionally, the second information may be an index of the second precoding matrix, or a second PMI used to indicate the second precoding matrix, etc.

[0424] In some implementations, the first indication information includes the location information.

[0425] It should be noted that the channel used by the terminal device to send channel feedback information to the first network device can be a channel that passes through the second network device or a direct line-of-sight channel that does not pass through the second network device. This application does not limit this.

[0426] In summary, by receiving the second reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device, and based on this second reference signal configuration information, receiving the reference signal sent by each block of the second network device, and determining the channel feedback information of the channel between the second network device and the terminal device based on this reference signal, and sending this channel feedback information to the first network device, the units of the second network device can be divided into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on smart metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of smart metasurface-assisted communication systems, and reduces interference.

[0427] Please see Figure 13 , Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a precoding method based on a smart metasurface provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be executed independently or in conjunction with any other embodiment of this application. Figure 13 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0428] 1. The first network device obtains the cell layout information and block information of the second network device. The block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device.

[0429] 2. The first network device sends the first reference signal configuration information and the second reference signal configuration information to the second network device and the terminal device, respectively.

[0430] In the embodiments of this application, the second reference signal configuration information may be the same as or different from the first reference configuration information (for example, the second reference signal configuration information may not include the units in the block occupied by the reference signal sent by each block).

[0431] 3. The second network device sends a reference signal to the terminal device according to the reference signal configuration information. The terminal device receives the reference signal sent by the second network device according to the reference signal configuration information.

[0432] 4. Based on the reference signal, the terminal device estimates the channel between the second network device and the terminal device to obtain channel feedback information.

[0433] 5. Send the channel feedback information to the first network device.

[0434] 6. The first network device determines the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on the channel feedback information, unit layout information and block information.

[0435] 7. Based on the location information, determine the first indication information, and send the first indication information to the second network device.

[0436] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix. The first precoding matrix is ​​determined by the first network device based on the cell layout information, the block information, the position information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

[0437] In some implementations, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix. The second precoding matrix is ​​determined by the first network device based on the cell layout information, the block information, and the location information.

[0438] In some implementations, the first indication information includes the location information.

[0439] 8. The second network device determines the phase shift matrix based on the first instruction information.

[0440] 9. The second network device reflects or transmits signals incident on its surface according to the phase shift matrix.

[0441] In summary, the precoding method based on smart metasurfaces provided in this application can divide the units of the second network device into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on smart metasurfaces, improves the communication efficiency of the smart metasurface-assisted communication system, and reduces interference.

[0442] Corresponding to the precoding methods based on smart metasurfaces provided in the above embodiments, this application also provides a precoding device based on smart metasurfaces. Since the precoding device based on smart metasurfaces provided in this application corresponds to the methods provided in the above embodiments, the implementation methods of the precoding methods based on smart metasurfaces are also applicable to the precoding device based on smart metasurfaces provided in the following embodiments, which will not be described in detail in the following embodiments.

[0443] Please see Figure 14 , Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a precoding device based on a smart metasurface, provided as an embodiment of this application.

[0444] like Figure 14As shown, the precoding device 1400 based on a smart metasurface includes a transceiver unit 1410 and a processing unit 1420, wherein: the transceiver unit 1410 is used to acquire cell layout information and block information of a second network device, the block information being used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device; the transceiver unit 1410 is also used to receive channel feedback information sent by a terminal device, the channel feedback information being determined by the terminal device based on reference signals sent by each block of the second network device; the processing unit 1420 is used to determine first indication information based on the channel feedback information, the cell layout information, and the block information, the first indication information being used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device; the transceiver unit 1410 is also used to send the first indication information to the second network device.

[0445] Optionally, the processing unit 1420 is further configured to: determine the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information and the block information; and determine the first indication information based on the location information.

[0446] Optionally, the first indication information includes the location information, which is used by the second network device to determine the phase shift matrix.

[0447] Optionally, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, the first information being used to indicate the first precoding matrix; the processing unit 1420 is specifically used to: determine the first precoding matrix based on the unit layout information, the block information, the position information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

[0448] Optionally, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, the second information being used to indicate the second precoding matrix; the processing unit 1420 is specifically used to: determine the second precoding matrix based on the unit arrangement information, the block information, and the position information.

[0449] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1410 is further configured to: send angle information between the first network device and the second network device to the second network device.

[0450] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1410 is further configured to: send first reference signal configuration information to the second network device according to the unit arrangement information and the block information, wherein the first reference signal configuration information is used to determine the reference signal sent by each block of the second network device.

[0451] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following: the unit in the block occupied by the reference signal transmitted by each block; the generation information of the reference signal sequence transmitted by each block; the antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted by each block; and the time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal transmitted by each block.

[0452] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1410 is further configured to: send second reference signal configuration information to the terminal device according to the unit arrangement information and the block information, wherein the second reference signal configuration information is used by the terminal device to receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device.

[0453] Optionally, the second reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following: generation information of the reference signal sequence transmitted in each block; antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block; and time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block.

[0454] Optionally, the channel feedback information includes: multiple third precoding matrix indicator PMIs and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI; the third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0455] Optionally, the cell layout information of the second network device includes at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in the second network device; the number of columns of cells in the second network device; the row spacing of cells in the second network device; the column spacing of cells in the second network device; and the cells in the second network device capable of transmitting reference signals.

[0456] Optionally, the block information of the second network device includes at least one of the following: the number of rows of units in each block; the number of columns of units in each block; and the central unit of each block.

[0457] Optionally, the second network device is a smart metasurface RIS.

[0458] Optionally, the phase shift matrix is ​​used by the second network device to reflect or transmit signals incident on the surface of the second network device.

[0459] The precoding device based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment can obtain the cell layout information and block information of a second network device. The block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device. It receives channel feedback information sent by a terminal device. Based on the channel feedback information, the cell layout information, and the block information, it determines first indication information. The first indication information is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device. The first indication information is sent to the second network device. This can divide the cells of the second network device into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on a smart metasurface, improves the communication efficiency of the smart metasurface-assisted communication system, and reduces interference.

[0460] Please see Figure 15 , Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a precoding device based on a smart metasurface, provided as an embodiment of this application.

[0461] like Figure 15 As shown, the precoding device 1500 based on a smart metasurface includes a transceiver unit 1510 and a processing unit 1520, wherein: the transceiver unit 1510 is used to send cell arrangement information and block information of the second network device to a first network device, the block information being used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device; the transceiver unit 1510 is also used to send a reference signal to a terminal device, the reference signal being used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information; the transceiver unit 1510 is also used to receive first indication information sent by the first network device, the first indication information being determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the cell arrangement information, and the block information; the processing unit 1520 is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device according to the first indication information.

[0462] Optionally, the first indication information is determined based on the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device; the location information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information.

[0463] Optionally, the first indication information includes the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, and determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first indication information includes: determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the location information, the cell layout information and the block information.

[0464] Optionally, the first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, the first information being used to indicate the first precoding matrix, and the processing unit 1520 is specifically used to: determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first precoding matrix; wherein the first precoding matrix is ​​determined based on the unit layout information, the block information, the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

[0465] Optionally, the first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, the second information being used to indicate the second precoding matrix. The processing unit 1520 is specifically used to: determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the second precoding matrix and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device; wherein the second precoding matrix is ​​determined based on the unit layout information, the block information, and the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

[0466] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1510 is further configured to: receive angle information between the first network device and the second network device sent by the first network device; or, sense the angle information between the first network device and the second network device sent by the first network device.

[0467] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1510 is further configured to: receive first reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device; and determine the reference signal sent by each block of the second network device based on the first reference signal configuration information.

[0468] Optionally, the first reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following: the unit in the block occupied by the reference signal transmitted by each block; the generation information of the reference signal sequence transmitted by each block; the antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted by each block; and the time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal transmitted by each block.

[0469] Optionally, the channel feedback information includes: multiple third precoding matrix indicator PMIs and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI; the third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0470] Optionally, the cell layout information of the second network device includes at least one of the following: the number of rows of cells in the second network device; the number of columns of cells in the second network device; the row spacing of cells in the second network device; the column spacing of cells in the second network device; and the cells in the second network device capable of transmitting reference signals.

[0471] Optionally, the block information of the second network device includes at least one of the following: the number of rows of units in each block; the number of columns of units in each block; and the central unit of each block.

[0472] Optionally, the second network device is a smart metasurface RIS.

[0473] Optionally, the processing unit 1520 is further configured to: reflect or transmit signals incident on the surface of the second network device according to the phase shift matrix.

[0474] The precoding device based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment can send cell layout information and block information of a second network device to a first network device. The block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device. It can also send a reference signal to a terminal device. The reference signal is used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information. The device can receive first indication information sent by the first network device. The first indication information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, cell layout information, and block information. Based on the first indication information, the phase shift matrix of the second network device is determined. This allows the cells of the second network device to be divided into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group. At the same time, it effectively reduces the complexity of precoding based on a smart metasurface, improves the communication efficiency of the smart metasurface-assisted communication system, and reduces interference.

[0475] Please see Figure 16 , Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a precoding device based on a smart metasurface, provided as an embodiment of this application.

[0476] like Figure 16 As shown, the smart metasurface-based precoding device 1600 includes a transceiver unit 1610 and a processing unit 1620, wherein: the transceiver unit 1610 is used to receive reference signals transmitted by each block of the second network device; the processing unit 1620 is used to determine channel feedback information of the channel between the second network device and the terminal device based on the reference signals; the transceiver unit 1610 is also used to send the channel feedback information to the first network device, the channel feedback information being used to determine first indication information, the first indication information being used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device.

[0477] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1610 is further configured to: receive second reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device; and receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device according to the second reference signal configuration information.

[0478] Optionally, the second reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following: generation information of the reference signal sequence transmitted in each block; antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block; and time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block.

[0479] Optionally, the channel feedback information includes: multiple third precoding matrix indicator PMIs and an index of a reference signal corresponding to each third PMI; the third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

[0480] Optionally, the second network device is a smart metasurface RIS.

[0481] The precoding device based on a smart metasurface in this embodiment can send cell layout information and block information of a second network device to a first network device. The block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device. It can also send a reference signal to a terminal device. The reference signal is used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information. The device can receive first indication information sent by the first network device. The first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information. Based on the position information, the device can determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device. This can divide the cells of the second network device into multiple groups, making the far-field assumption hold for each group. At the same time, it can effectively reduce the complexity of precoding based on a smart metasurface, improve the communication efficiency of the smart metasurface-assisted communication system, and reduce interference.

[0482] To implement the above embodiments, this application also proposes a communication device, including: a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform... Figures 2 to 5 The method shown in the embodiment, or the execution Figures 7 to 10 The method shown in the embodiment.

[0483] To implement the above embodiments, this application also proposes a communication device, including: a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform... Figures 11 to 12 The method shown in the embodiment.

[0484] To implement the above embodiments, this application also proposes a communication device, including: a processor and an interface circuit, wherein the interface circuit is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor, and the processor is used to execute the code instructions to perform... Figures 2 to 5 The method shown in the embodiment, or the execution Figures 7 to 10 The method shown in the embodiment.

[0485] To implement the above embodiments, this application also proposes a communication device, including: a processor and an interface circuit, wherein the interface circuit is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor, and the processor is used to execute the code instructions to perform... Figures 11 to 12 The method shown in the embodiment.

[0486] Please see Figure 17 , Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of another precoding device based on a smart metasurface provided in this application embodiment. The precoding device 1700 based on a smart metasurface can be a network device, a terminal device, a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the implementation of the above methods in a network device, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the implementation of the above methods in a terminal device. This device can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0487] The precoding device 1700 based on a smart metasurface may include one or more processors 1701. The processor 1701 may be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU can be used to control the precoding device based on the smart metasurface (e.g., a base station, baseband chip, terminal device, terminal device chip, DU or CU, etc.), execute computer programs, and process the data of the computer programs.

[0488] Optionally, the smart metasurface-based precoding device 1700 may further include one or more memories 1702, on which a computer program 1703 may be stored. The processor 1701 executes the computer program 1703 to cause the smart metasurface-based precoding device 1700 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments. The computer program 1703 may be embedded in the processor 1701, in which case the processor 1701 may be implemented in hardware.

[0489] Optionally, the memory 1702 may also store data. The precoding device 1700 and the memory 1702 based on the smart metasurface can be configured separately or integrated together.

[0490] Optionally, the precoding device 1700 based on the smart metasurface may also include a transceiver 1705 and an antenna 1706. The transceiver 1705, which may be referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, or transceiver circuit, is used to implement transceiver functions. The transceiver 1705 may include a receiver and a transmitter; the receiver, which may be referred to as a receiver or receiving circuit, is used to implement a receiving function; the transmitter, which may be referred to as a transmitter or transmitting circuit, is used to implement a transmitting function.

[0491] Optionally, the smart metasurface-based precoding device 1700 may further include one or more interface circuits 1707. The interface circuits 1707 are used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor 1701. The processor 1701 executes the code instructions to cause the smart metasurface-based precoding device 1700 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments.

[0492] In one implementation, the processor 1701 may include a transceiver for implementing receive and transmit functions. For example, the transceiver may be a transceiver circuit, an interface, or an interface circuit. The transceiver circuit, interface, or interface circuit for implementing receive and transmit functions may be separate or integrated. The aforementioned transceiver circuit, interface, or interface circuit may be used for reading and writing code / data, or for transmitting or relaying signals.

[0493] In one implementation, the precoding device 1700 based on a smart metasurface may include circuitry capable of transmitting, receiving, or communicating as described in the aforementioned method embodiments. The processor and transceiver described in this application can be implemented on integrated circuits (ICs), analog ICs, radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs), mixed-signal ICs, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), printed circuit boards (PCBs), electronic devices, etc. The processor and transceiver can also be manufactured using various IC process technologies, such as complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS), n-metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS), p-type metal oxide semiconductors (PMOS), bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), bipolar CMOS (BiCMOS), silicon-germanium (SiGe), gallium arsenide (GaAs), etc.

[0494] The precoding device based on smart metasurfaces described in the above embodiments can be a network device or a terminal device, but the scope of the precoding device based on smart metasurfaces described in this application is not limited to this, and the structure of the precoding device based on smart metasurfaces can be unrestricted. Figures 14-16 The limitations of smart metasurface-based precoding devices are limited. These devices can be standalone or part of a larger system. For example, a smart metasurface-based precoding device could be:

[0495] (1) Independent integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem;

[0496] (2) A collection of one or more ICs, optionally including storage components for storing data and computer programs;

[0497] (3) ASIC, such as modem;

[0498] (4) Modules that can be embedded in other devices;

[0499] (5) Receivers, terminal equipment, smart terminal equipment, cellular phones, wireless equipment, handheld devices, mobile units, vehicle-mounted equipment, network equipment, cloud equipment, artificial intelligence equipment, etc.

[0500] (6) Others, etc.

[0501] For cases where the precoding device based on a smart metasurface can be a chip or a chip system, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 18 The diagram shows the structure of the chip. Figure 18 The chip shown includes a processor 1801 and an interface 1802. There can be one or more processors 1801, and multiple interfaces 1802.

[0502] For cases where the chip is used to implement the functions of the network device in the embodiments of this application:

[0503] Interface 1802 is used for code instructions and their transmission to the processor;

[0504] Processor 1801 is used to run code instructions to perform tasks such as Figures 2 to 5 The method, or the execution of such Figures 7 to 10 The method.

[0505] Regarding the case where the chip is used to implement the functions of the terminal device in the embodiments of this application:

[0506] Interface 1802 is used for code instructions and their transmission to the processor;

[0507] Processor 1801 is used to run code instructions to perform tasks such as Figures 11 to 12 The method.

[0508] Optionally, the chip also includes a memory 1803, which is used to store necessary computer programs and data.

[0509] Those skilled in the art will also understand that the various illustrative logical blocks and steps listed in the embodiments of this application can be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. Whether such functionality is implemented through hardware or software depends on the specific application and the overall system design requirements. Those skilled in the art can implement the functionality using various methods for each specific application, but such implementation should not be construed as exceeding the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application.

[0510] This application also provides a communication system, which includes the aforementioned... Figures 14-16 The embodiments include a smart metasurface-based precoding device as a network device and a smart metasurface-based precoding device as a terminal device; or, the system includes the aforementioned... Figure 17 The embodiments include a smart metasurface-based precoding device as a terminal device and a smart metasurface-based precoding device as a network device.

[0511] This application also provides a readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a computer, implement the functions of any of the above method embodiments.

[0512] This application also provides a computer program product that, when executed by a computer, implements the functions of any of the above method embodiments.

[0513] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. A computer program product includes one or more computer programs. When a computer program is loaded and executed on a computer, it generates, in whole or in part, the processes or functions according to the embodiments of this application. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, a computer program can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., high-density digital video discs (DVDs)), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks (SSDs)).

[0514] Those skilled in the art will understand that the various numerical designations such as "first," "second," etc., involved in this application are merely for the convenience of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application, nor do they indicate the order of sequence.

[0515] At least one in this application can also be described as one or more, and multiple can be two, three, four or more, and this application does not impose any limitation. In the embodiments of this application, for a technical feature, the technical features in that technical feature are distinguished by "first", "second", "third", "A", "B", "C" and "D", and there is no order or size among the technical features described by "first", "second", "third", "A", "B", "C" and "D".

[0516] The correspondences shown in the tables of this application can be configured or predefined. The values ​​of the information in each table are merely examples and can be configured to other values; this application is not limited to these values. When configuring the correspondences between information and parameters, it is not necessarily required to configure all the correspondences shown in each table. For example, the correspondences shown in some rows of the tables in this application may not be configured. Furthermore, appropriate modifications and adjustments can be made based on the above tables, such as splitting, merging, etc. The names of the parameters shown in the headings of the above tables can also use other names that the communication device can understand, and the values ​​or representations of the parameters can also be other values ​​or representations that the communication device can understand. In the implementation of the above tables, other data structures can also be used, such as arrays, queues, containers, stacks, linear lists, pointers, linked lists, trees, graphs, structures, classes, heaps, hash tables, or hash tables, etc.

[0517] The term "predefined" in this application can be understood as definition, pre-defined, stored, pre-stored, pre-negotiated, pre-configured, solidified, or pre-burned.

[0518] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0519] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0520] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used to reorder, add, or delete steps. For example, the steps described in the embodiments of this application can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution disclosed in this invention can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0521] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A precoding method based on smart metasurfaces, characterized in that, The method is performed by a first network device, and the method includes: Obtain the unit layout information and block information of the second network device, wherein the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device; The terminal device receives channel feedback information, which is determined by the terminal device based on reference signals sent by the second network device for each block. Based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information, the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device is determined; Based on the location information, first indication information is determined, and the first indication information is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device; Send the first instruction information to the second network device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the location information, which is used by the second network device to determine the phase shift matrix.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix; determining the first indication information based on the position information includes: The first precoding matrix is ​​determined based on the unit arrangement information, the block information, the position information, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix; determining the first indication information based on the position information includes: The second precoding matrix is ​​determined based on the unit arrangement information, the block information, and the position information.

5. The method according to claim 2 or 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the angle information between the first network device and the second network device to the second network device.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the unit arrangement information and the block information, first reference signal configuration information is sent to the second network device. The first reference signal configuration information is used to determine the reference signal sent by each block of the second network device.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following: The reference signal transmitted by each block occupies the unit in the block; The generation information of the reference signal sequence sent in each block; The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block; The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the unit arrangement information and the block information, a second reference signal configuration information is sent to the terminal device. The second reference signal configuration information is used by the terminal device to receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following: The generation information of the reference signal sequence sent in each block; The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block; The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The channel feedback information includes: multiple third precoding matrix indicators (PMIs) and the index of the reference signal corresponding to each third PMI; The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The cell layout information of the second network device includes at least one of the following: The number of rows of the cells in the second network device; The number of columns of the units in the second network device; The row spacing of the cells in the second network device; The column spacing of the cells in the second network device; The unit in the second network device capable of transmitting reference signals.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The block information of the second network device includes at least one of the following: The number of rows of units included in each block; The number of columns of units included in each block; The central unit of each block.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The second network device is a smart metasurface RIS.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The phase shift matrix is ​​used by the second network device to reflect or transmit signals incident on the surface of the second network device.

15. A precoding method based on a smart metasurface, characterized in that, The method is performed by a second network device, and the method includes: Sending the cell layout information and block information of the second network device to the first network device, wherein the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device; A reference signal is sent to the terminal device, the reference signal being used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information; The terminal device receives a first indication message sent by the first network device, the first indication message being determined based on the location information of the terminal device relative to the second network device; the location information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information. Based on the first indication information, the phase shift matrix of the second network device is determined.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, and the step of determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first indication information includes: Based on the location information, the unit layout information, and the block information, the phase shift matrix of the second network device is determined.

17. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first indication information includes a first precoding matrix or first information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the first precoding matrix, and determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first indication information includes: Based on the first precoding matrix, determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device; The first precoding matrix is ​​determined based on the cell arrangement information, the block information, the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device, and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device.

18. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first indication information includes a second precoding matrix or second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the second precoding matrix, and determining the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first indication information includes: Based on the second precoding matrix and the angle information between the first network device and the second network device, the phase shift matrix of the second network device is determined; The second precoding matrix is ​​determined based on the cell arrangement information, the block information, and the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device.

19. The method according to claim 16 or 18, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive angle information between the first network device and the second network device sent by the first network device; or, The angle information between the first network device and the second network device is sensed by the first network device.

20. The method according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the first reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device; Based on the first reference signal configuration information, the reference signal transmitted by each block of the second network device is determined.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The first reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following: The reference signal transmitted by each block occupies the unit in the block; The generation information of the reference signal sequence sent in each block; The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block; The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block.

22. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The channel feedback information includes: multiple third precoding matrix indicators (PMIs) and the index of the reference signal corresponding to each third PMI; The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

23. The method according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The cell layout information of the second network device includes at least one of the following: The number of rows of the cells in the second network device; The number of columns of the units in the second network device; The row spacing of the cells in the second network device; The column spacing of the cells in the second network device; The unit in the second network device capable of transmitting reference signals.

24. The method according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The block information of the second network device includes at least one of the following: The number of rows of units included in each block; The number of columns of units included in each block; The central unit of each block.

25. The method according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The second network device is a smart metasurface RIS.

26. The method according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The method further includes: According to the phase shift matrix, the signal incident on the surface of the second network device is reflected or transmitted.

27. A precoding method based on smart metasurfaces, characterized in that, The method is executed by a terminal device, and the method includes: Receive reference signals sent by each segment of the second network device; Based on the reference signal, determine the channel feedback information of the channel between the second network device and the terminal device; The channel feedback information is sent to the first network device, the channel feedback information being used to determine first indication information, the first indication information being used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device; the first indication information is determined by the first network device based on the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device; the position information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the cell arrangement information of the second network device, and the block information of the second network device, the block information being used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device.

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the second reference signal configuration information sent by the first network device; Based on the second reference signal configuration information, the reference signal sent by each block of the second network device is received.

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, The second reference signal configuration information includes at least one of the following: The generation information of the reference signal sequence sent in each block; The antenna port number occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block; The time-frequency resources occupied by the reference signal transmitted in each block.

30. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The channel feedback information includes: multiple third precoding matrix indicators (PMIs) and the index of the reference signal corresponding to each third PMI; The third PMI is used to indicate the precoding matrix of the channel between each block of the second network device and the terminal device.

31. The method according to any one of claims 27-30, characterized in that, The second network device is a smart metasurface RIS.

32. A precoding device based on a smart metasurface, characterized in that, The device includes: A transceiver unit is used to acquire unit layout information and block information of a second network device, wherein the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device; The transceiver unit is also configured to receive channel feedback information sent by the terminal device, the channel feedback information being determined by the terminal device based on reference signals sent by the second network device for each block; The processing unit is configured to determine the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information; The processing unit is further configured to determine first indication information based on the location information, wherein the first indication information is used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device; The transceiver unit is also used to send the first indication information to the second network device.

33. A precoding device based on a smart metasurface, characterized in that, The device includes: A transceiver unit is used to send unit layout information and block information of a second network device to a first network device, wherein the block information is used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device; The transceiver unit is also used to send a reference signal to the terminal device, the reference signal being used by the terminal device to determine channel feedback information; The transceiver unit is further configured to receive first indication information sent by the first network device, the first indication information being determined based on the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device; the position information being determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information, and the block information; The processing unit is configured to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device based on the first indication information.

34. A precoding device based on a smart metasurface, characterized in that, The device includes: The transceiver unit is used to receive reference signals sent by each block of the second network device; The processing unit is configured to determine the channel feedback information of the channel between the second network device and the terminal device based on the reference signal. The transceiver unit is further configured to send the channel feedback information to the first network device, the channel feedback information being used to determine first indication information, the first indication information being used to determine the phase shift matrix of the second network device; the first indication information is determined by the first network device based on the position information of the terminal device relative to the second network device; the position information is determined by the first network device based on the channel feedback information, the unit arrangement information of the second network device, and the block information of the second network device, the block information being used to indicate multiple blocks of the second network device.

35. A communication system, characterized in that, The communication system includes: A first network device is configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14; A second network device is configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 15 to 26; A terminal device for performing the method as described in any one of claims 27 to 31.

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