Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The application discloses a communication method and device, relates to the field of communication, and can improve GNSS measurement success rate; the communication method is applied to a terminal, the terminal is configured with a first time interval for global navigation satellite system measurement and a second time interval for radio resource management measurement, the first time interval and the second time interval at least partially overlap, the method comprises the following steps: global navigation satellite system measurement is carried out by using the first time interval, and radio resource management measurement is carried out by using a third time interval; the third time interval is a time interval delayed from the second time interval, and the third time interval is determined according to the second time interval and a completion time of global navigation satellite system measurement.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application. The original application has the application number 202311288746.2 and the original application date is September 26, 2023. The entire contents of the original application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to communication methods and apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] Satellite communication offers unique advantages over terrestrial communication, such as wider coverage and the reduced vulnerability of satellite base stations to natural disasters or external damage. The integration of satellite communication into 5G (Fifth Generation Mobile Communication Technology) can provide communication services to areas inaccessible to terrestrial networks, such as oceans and forests, enhancing 5G's coverage. It also improves the reliability of 5G, ensuring better communication for users traveling on high-speed transportation such as airplanes and trains. Satellite communication can provide more data transmission resources for 5G and increase network speeds. Therefore, supporting both terrestrial and satellite communication is an inevitable trend for future 5G communication, offering significant advantages in terms of wide coverage, reliability, multiple connections, and high throughput.

[0004] The most prominent characteristics of satellite communication are high mobility and significant communication latency. Compared to terrestrial communication, satellite communication requires terminals to synchronize with Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) information and ephemeris data, in addition to existing uplink synchronization. Therefore, terminals need to perform GNSS measurements to obtain GNSS information. However, due to imperfect resource allocation in the current GNSS measurement process, the success rate of GNSS measurements is relatively low. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method and apparatus for improving the success rate of GNSS measurements.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution: Firstly, a communication method is provided, applied to a terminal. The terminal can refer to the terminal itself, or to a processor, module, chip, or chip system within the terminal that implements the method. The terminal is configured with a first time interval for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and a second time interval for Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements. The first and second time intervals at least partially overlap. The method includes: performing GNSS measurements using the first time interval and performing RRM measurements using a third time interval. The third time interval is a time interval delayed from the second time interval and is determined based on the second time interval and the GNSS measurements. Alternatively, the second time interval is used for RRM measurements, and a fourth time interval is used for GNSS measurements. The fourth time interval is a time interval delayed from the first time interval and is determined based on the first time interval and the RRM measurements.

[0007] In the first aspect, when the first time interval configured for GNSS measurement and the second time interval configured for RRM measurement at least partially overlap, GNSS measurement is performed using the first time interval, and RRM measurement is performed using a third time interval that does not overlap with the first time interval (or, RRM measurement is performed using the second time interval, and GNSS measurement is performed using a fourth time interval that does not overlap with the second time interval), thus avoiding conflicts between GNSS measurement and RRM measurement and improving the success rate of GNSS measurement and RRM measurement.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the method may further include: determining the measurement priority of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and the measurement priority of Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements. Performing GNSS measurements using a first time interval and RRM measurements using a third time interval includes performing GNSS measurements using the first time interval and RRM measurements using the third time interval if the measurement priority of GNSS measurements is higher than that of RRM measurements. Performing RRM measurements using a second time interval and a fourth time interval includes performing RRM measurements using the second time interval and RRM measurements using the fourth time interval if the measurement priority of GNSS measurements is not higher than that of RRM measurements.

[0009] In this implementation, the delay time interval is determined based on the measurement priority of GNSS measurements and RRM measurements, ensuring that measurements with higher priority are executed first.

[0010] In one possible implementation, determining the measurement priority of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements includes: determining a first delay value between the end time of a first time interval and the start time of a second time interval, and determining a second delay value between the end time of the second time interval and the start time of the first time interval. If the first delay value is less than the second delay value, the priority of GNSS measurements is determined to be higher than that of RRM measurements. Otherwise, the priority of GNSS measurements is determined to be no higher than that of RRM measurements.

[0011] In this implementation, the priority of GNSS measurements and the priority of RRM measurements are determined based on the magnitude of the first delay value of the third time interval compared to the second time interval and the second delay value of the fourth time interval compared to the first time interval, which can reduce the delay time.

[0012] In one possible implementation, determining the measurement priority of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and the measurement priority of Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements includes: receiving measurement priority indication information, which indicates the measurement priority of GNSS measurements and the measurement priority of RRM measurements; and determining the measurement priority of GNSS measurements and the measurement priority of RRM measurements based on the measurement priority indication information.

[0013] In this implementation, the network device indicates the measurement priority of GNSS measurements and the measurement priority of RRM measurements, which ensures that measurements with higher priority are performed first.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the fifth time interval between the start time of the third time interval and the completion time of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement is greater than a first time threshold. The method further includes: receiving radio resource management configuration information using the fifth time interval. Performing radio resource management measurements using the third time interval includes: performing radio resource management measurements based on the radio resource management configuration information using the third time interval.

[0015] In this implementation, the RRM configuration information is received at the fifth time interval, improving time utilization. Furthermore, RRM measurements are performed based on the received RRM configuration information, which has better timeliness, thus improving the accuracy of RRM measurements.

[0016] In one possible implementation, a fifth time interval between the start time of the third time interval and the completion time of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement is greater than a first time threshold. The method also includes transmitting the GNSS measurement results information using the fifth time interval.

[0017] In this implementation, the measurement results of GNSS measurements are sent to the network device via a fifth time interval, which improves the utilization of time and enables the network device to obtain the measurement results of GNSS measurements in a timely manner.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the terminal obtains multiple first measurement results for multiple time intervals via radio resource management measurements before a first time interval. The method further includes discarding at least one of the multiple first measurement results.

[0019] In this implementation, invalid measurement results among multiple first measurement results obtained before the first time interval are discarded to ensure the accuracy of RRM measurement.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the second time interval comprises multiple sub-intervals. The third time interval is a time interval in which all the multiple sub-intervals are delayed. Alternatively, the third time interval comprises a target sub-interval. The target sub-interval comprises the sub-intervals after removing those that overlap with the first time interval.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: if the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement is completed using a first time interval, initiating a radio resource management (RRM) measurement at a first time point. The first time point is determined based on the completion time of the GNSS measurement. If the RRM measurement is completed using a second time interval, initiating the GNSS measurement at a second time point. The second time point is determined based on the completion time of the RRM measurement.

[0022] In this implementation, when GNSS measurements are completed using the first time interval, RRM measurements are started at the first moment, ensuring the timely execution of RRM measurements.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the first time point is either the completion time of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement, or the first time point is the completion time of the GNSS measurement delayed by a second time threshold. The second time point is either the completion time of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement, or the second time point is the completion time of the RRM measurement delayed by a third time threshold.

[0024] In one possible implementation, when performing global navigation satellite system measurements using a first time interval, and the start time of the first time interval is later than the start time of the second time interval, the method further includes: performing radio resource management measurements using a sixth time interval; wherein the sixth time interval is the time interval between the start time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval; and performing radio resource management measurements using a third time interval, including: performing radio resource management measurements using the third time interval if the sixth time interval fails.

[0025] In one possible implementation, when performing radio resource management measurements using a second time interval and the start time of the first time interval is earlier than the start time of the second time interval, the method further includes: performing global navigation satellite system measurements using a sixth time interval; wherein the sixth time interval is the time interval between the start time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval; and performing global navigation satellite system measurements using a fourth time interval, including: performing global navigation satellite system measurements using a fourth time interval if global navigation satellite system measurements using the sixth time interval fail.

[0026] Secondly, a communication method is provided, which is applied to a network device. This network device can refer to the network device itself, or to a processor, module, chip, or chip system within the network device that implements the method. The method includes: sending measurement priority indication information to a terminal. This measurement priority indication information indicates the measurement priority of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and the measurement priority of Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements. The terminal is configured with a first time interval for GNSS measurements and a second time interval for RRM measurements, and the first and second time intervals at least partially overlap.

[0027] In the second aspect, the network equipment indicates the measurement priority of GNSS measurements and RRM measurements, which can ensure that measurements with higher priority are performed first.

[0028] Thirdly, a communication method is provided, applied to a terminal. The terminal can refer to the terminal itself, or to a processor, module, chip, or chip system within the terminal that implements the method. The terminal is configured with a first time interval for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and a second time interval for Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements. A seventh time interval separates the first and second time intervals. The method includes: performing GNSS measurements using the first time interval; continuing GNSS measurements within the seventh time interval if the first time interval has not been completed; performing RRM measurements within the seventh time interval if the seventh time interval has been completed; and entering an idle state if the seventh time interval has not been completed.

[0029] In the third aspect, for scenarios where the time intervals of GNSS measurement and RRM measurement do not overlap, GNSS measurement is continued using the seventh time interval between the first and second time intervals, further ensuring the success rate of GNSS measurement.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the seventh time interval is less than the fourth time threshold, and the method also includes: Upon completion of wireless resource management measurements, the measurement results information from the Global Navigation Satellite System measurements are transmitted.

[0031] In this implementation, the GNSS measurement result information is not sent during the seventh time interval, but is sent to the network device when the RRM measurement is completed, which improves the success rate of sending the GNSS measurement result information.

[0032] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, applied to a terminal. The terminal can refer to the terminal itself, or a processor, module, chip, or chip system within the terminal that implements the method. The terminal is configured with a first time interval for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and a second time interval for Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements. The first and second time intervals at least partially overlap. The device includes a processing module configured to perform GNSS measurements using the first time interval and to perform RRM measurements using a third time interval. The third time interval is a time interval delayed from the second time interval and is determined based on the second time interval and the GNSS measurements. Alternatively, the processing module is further configured to perform RRM measurements using the second time interval and to perform GNSS measurements using a fourth time interval. The fourth time interval is a time interval delayed from the first time interval and is determined based on the first time interval and the RRM measurements.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the processing module is further configured to determine the measurement priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and the measurement priority of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements. Specifically, if the GNSS measurement priority is higher than the RRM measurement priority, the processing module performs GNSS measurements using a first time interval and RRM measurements using a third time interval. Further, if the GNSS measurement priority is not higher than the RRM measurement priority, the processing module performs RRM measurements using a second time interval and RRM measurements using a fourth time interval.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the processing module is specifically configured to: determine a first delay value between the end time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval, and determine a second delay value between the end time of the second time interval and the start time of the first time interval. If the first delay value is less than the second delay value, the priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement is determined to be higher than the priority of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. Otherwise, the priority of the GNSS measurement is determined to be no higher than the priority of the RRM measurement.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the apparatus further includes a transceiver module. The processing module is specifically configured to invoke the transceiver module to receive measurement priority indication information, which indicates the measurement priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and the measurement priority of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements. The processing module is further specifically configured to determine the measurement priority of the GNSS measurements and the RRM measurements based on the measurement priority indication information.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the fifth time interval between the start time of the third time interval and the completion time of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement is greater than a first time threshold. The apparatus also includes a transceiver module. The processing module is further configured to invoke the transceiver module to receive radio resource management configuration information using the fifth time interval. Specifically, the processing module is configured to perform radio resource management measurements using the third time interval based on the radio resource management configuration information.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the fifth time interval between the start time of the third time interval and the completion time of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement is greater than a first time threshold. The apparatus also includes a transceiver module. The processing module is further configured to invoke the transceiver module to transmit the GNSS measurement result information using the fifth time interval.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the terminal obtains multiple first measurement results for multiple time intervals via radio resource management measurements before a first time interval. The processing module is further configured to discard at least one of the multiple first measurement results.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the second time interval comprises multiple sub-intervals. The third time interval is a time interval in which all the multiple sub-intervals are delayed. Alternatively, the third time interval comprises a target sub-interval. The target sub-interval comprises the sub-intervals after removing those that overlap with the first time interval.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the processing module is further configured to: if the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement is completed using a first time interval, initiate radio resource management (RMS) measurement at a first time point. The first time point is determined based on the completion time of the GNSS measurement. If the RMS measurement is completed using a second time interval, initiate GNSS measurement at a second time point. The second time point is determined based on the completion time of the RMS measurement.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the first time point is either the completion time of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement, or the first time point is the completion time of the GNSS measurement delayed by a second time threshold. The second time point is either the completion time of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement, or the second time point is the completion time of the RRM measurement delayed by a third time threshold.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the processing module can also be used to: perform radio resource management measurements using a sixth time interval when a first time interval is used for global navigation satellite system measurements and the start time of the first time interval is later than the start time of the second time interval; wherein the sixth time interval is the time interval between the start time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval; specifically, the processing module is used to perform radio resource management measurements using a third time interval if the radio resource management measurements using the sixth time interval fail.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the processing module can also be used to: perform global navigation satellite system measurements using a sixth time interval when a second time interval is used for radio resource management measurements and the start time of the first time interval is earlier than the start time of the second time interval; wherein the sixth time interval is the time interval between the start time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval; the processing module is specifically used to perform global navigation satellite system measurements using a fourth time interval if global navigation satellite system measurements using the sixth time interval fail.

[0044] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, which is applied to a network device. The network device can refer to the network device itself, or to a processor, module, chip, or chip system within the network device that implements the method. The device includes: a transceiver module, used to send measurement priority indication information to a terminal. The measurement priority indication information indicates the measurement priority of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and the measurement priority of Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements. The terminal is configured with a first time interval for GNSS measurements and a second time interval for RRM measurements, and the first and second time intervals at least partially overlap.

[0045] Sixthly, a communication device is provided, applied to a terminal, wherein the terminal can refer to the terminal itself, or to a processor, module, chip, or chip system within the terminal that implements the method. The terminal is configured with a first time interval for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements and a second time interval for Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements, with a seventh time interval separating the first and second time intervals. The device includes: a processing module for performing GNSS measurements using the first time interval; the processing module is further configured to continue performing GNSS measurements during the seventh time interval if the GNSS measurements are not completed using the first time interval; the processing module is further configured to perform RRM measurements using the second time interval if the GNSS measurements are completed during the seventh time interval; and the processing module is further configured to enter an idle state if the GNSS measurements are not completed during the seventh time interval.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the seventh time interval is less than the fourth time threshold, and the transceiver module is also used to: send measurement result information of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement when the radio resource management measurement is completed.

[0047] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a communication device including a processor and a transceiver, the processor and transceiver being configured to support the communication device in executing the methods of the first to third aspects. Further, the communication device may also include a memory storing computer instructions, which the processor can execute to perform the methods of the first to third aspects.

[0048] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium that stores computer instructions, wherein when the computer instructions are executed, the methods of the first to third aspects are performed.

[0049] Ninthly, this application provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, enable the computer to perform the methods described in the first to third aspects.

[0050] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a chip including a processor and a transceiver, the processor and transceiver being used to support a communication device in performing the methods of the first to third aspects.

[0051] The beneficial effects described in aspects four through ten of this application can be referred to the beneficial effect analysis of aspects one through three, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0052] Figure 1a This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of another communication system provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 1c This is a schematic diagram of another communication system provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 A time interval diagram provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 Another time interval diagram provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 Another time interval diagram provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 Another time interval diagram provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 Another time interval diagram provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 9 Another time interval diagram provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 12 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 13 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 15 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 16 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 17 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 18 Another time interval diagram provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 19 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 20Another time interval diagram provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 21 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 22 Another time interval diagram provided for an embodiment of this application; Figure 23 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 24 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0053] The network architecture and business scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do 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 network 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.

[0054] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or apparatuses.

[0055] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "at least one (item)" refers to one or more, "more than one" refers to two or more, "at least two (items)" refers to two or three or more, and "and / or" is used to describe the association relationship of related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single (items) or plural (items). For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple. It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "B corresponding to A" means that B is associated with A. For example, B can be determined based on A. It should also be understood that determining B based on A does not mean determining B solely based on A; B can also be determined based on A and / or other information. Furthermore, the term "connection" in the embodiments of this application refers to various connection methods, such as direct or indirect connections, to achieve communication between devices; the embodiments of this application do not impose any limitations on this.

[0056] Unless otherwise specified, the term "transmission" in the embodiments of this application refers to bidirectional transmission, encompassing the actions of sending and / or receiving. Specifically, "transmission" in the embodiments of this application includes sending data, receiving data, or both sending and receiving data. In other words, data transmission here includes uplink and / or downlink data transmission. Data may include channels and / or signals; uplink data transmission refers to uplink channel and / or uplink signal transmission, and downlink data transmission refers to downlink channel and / or downlink signal transmission. The terms "network" and "system" in the embodiments of this application refer to the same concept; a communication system is a communication network.

[0057] Satellite communication has unique advantages over terrestrial communication, such as providing wider coverage; satellite base stations are less susceptible to damage from natural disasters or external forces. Supporting both terrestrial and satellite communication is an inevitable trend for future 5G communication, offering significant advantages in terms of wide coverage, reliability, multiple connections, and high throughput.

[0058] The most prominent characteristics of satellite communication are high mobility and significant communication latency. Compared to terrestrial communication, satellite communication requires terminals to synchronize based on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) information and ephemeris data, in addition to existing uplink synchronization. For Internet of Things (IoT) terminals, given that most IoT services involve short-packet periodic transmissions, existing standards have enhanced short-term connection communication methods. A short-term connection refers to the connection process where the terminal initiates access with the network device, sends uplink data, and then exits the connected state. During this process, the terminal remains in the connected state for a short period. It is assumed that the GNSS information acquired before random access (information related to the terminal's geographical location, such as coordinates, longitude, latitude, and altitude) remains valid throughout the connection process, thus meeting synchronization requirements. However, when the terminal remains in the connected state for a longer period, the GNSS information may become outdated due to potential terminal movement. Therefore, existing standards cannot support satellite communication scenarios where terminals remain in the connected state for extended periods.

[0059] To overcome the limitations of existing standards in supporting satellite communication scenarios where terminals remain in a connected state for extended periods, current methods involve configuring GNSS measurement intervals for terminals on the network device side. This allows terminals to perform GNSS measurements within these intervals, enabling them to maintain a connected state for longer periods without needing to exit to an idle state, thus meeting the communication requirements of prolonged connected operation in satellite communication scenarios. However, configuring GNSS measurement intervals for terminals may conflict with some intervals already configured on the terminal, causing GNSS measurement failures. For example, radio resource management (RRM) measurement intervals. The terminal may be unable to perform RRM measurements while performing GNSS measurements, or vice versa.

[0060] It is evident that the current GNSS measurement process suffers from imperfect resource allocation, resulting in a low success rate for GNSS measurements.

[0061] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a communication method. The method provided in this application is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] The communication method provided in this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, 5th Generation (5G) mobile communication systems, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) systems, future communication systems, or systems integrating multiple communication systems, etc. This application does not limit the application to these systems. 5G can also be referred to as New Radio (NR).

[0063] The communication method provided in this application can be applied to various communication scenarios, such as one or more of the following communication scenarios: enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low latency communication (URLLC), machine-type communication (MTC), massive machine-type communications (mMTC), device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), and Internet of Things (IoT).

[0064] The communication system provided in the embodiments of this application is described below. This communication system may include: Terminal equipment includes mobile devices that support air interfaces (which can be of various types, such as 5G air interfaces) and can access satellite networks and initiate services such as calls and internet access through the air interface. Terminals can be user equipment (UE), mobile stations (MS), or mobile terminals (MT), etc. Specifically, terminals can be mobile phones, tablets, or computers with wireless transceiver capabilities. They can also be virtual reality (VR) terminals, augmented reality (AR) terminals, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in autonomous driving, wireless terminals in telemedicine, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in smart cities, smart homes, or vehicle-mounted terminals, etc. In this application embodiment, the device used to implement the functions of the terminal equipment can be the terminal itself, or a device capable of supporting the terminal in implementing these functions, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the terminal or used in conjunction with the terminal. In this application embodiment, the communication system is described using a UE as an example of a terminal.

[0065] Network devices are primarily used to implement at least one of the following functions: terminal resource scheduling, wireless resource management, and wireless resource control. Specifically, network devices can include any node among base stations, wireless access points, transmission receive points (TRPs), transmission points (TPs), and other access nodes. Network devices communicate with core network devices via wired or wireless means, such as through next-generation (NG) interfaces. Different network devices can exchange signaling, such as handover, through the Xn interface. In this embodiment, the device used to implement the functions of the network device can be the network device itself; it can also be a device capable of supporting the network device in implementing these functions, such as a chip system, which can be installed in or used in conjunction with the network device. In this embodiment, a base station is used as an example to describe the communication system.

[0066] Core network equipment: Responsible for maintaining the subscription data of the mobile network and providing terminals with functions such as session management, mobility management, policy management, and security authentication. Core network equipment may include the following network elements ( Figure 5(Not shown in the diagram): User plane function (UPF), authentication server function (AUSF), access and mobility management function (AMF), session management function (SMF), network exposure function (NEF), network function repository function (NRF), policy control function (PCF), and unified data management (UDM). Optionally, it may also include application function (AF) and unified data repository (UDR). Descriptions of the above network elements can be found in existing technologies and will not be repeated here.

[0067] Ground station: Responsible for forwarding signaling and service data between network devices and core network devices.

[0068] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1a As shown, in a communication system, a base station can be deployed on the ground and communicate with a ground station to send and receive signaling and service data.

[0069] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1b As shown, in a communication system, base stations can be deployed on satellites and communicate with ground stations via wireless links to send and receive signaling and service data.

[0070] In one embodiment, such as Figure 1c As shown, in a communication system, base stations can be deployed on satellites, and base stations on different satellites can communicate with each other via the Xn interface and transmit user data.

[0071] It should be noted that, Figure 1a , Figure 1b ,as well as Figure 1c This is merely an exemplary framework diagram; the number of nodes included and the states of the terminals are unlimited. Except... Figure 1a , Figure 1b ,as well as Figure 1c In addition to the functional nodes shown, other nodes may also be included, such as gateway devices, application servers, etc., without restriction.

[0072] Based on the communication system provided in the embodiments of this application, the embodiments of this application also provide a communication method, which is applied to a terminal. Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 2 As shown, the method may include the following steps: S210 uses the first time interval for GNSS measurements.

[0073] The terminal is configured with a first time interval for GNSS measurements and a second time interval for RRM measurements. RRM measurements can measure the terminal's serving cell, neighboring cells, or both simultaneously. In the communication scenario of this embodiment, as... Figure 3 As shown, the first time interval and the second time interval at least partially overlap.

[0074] S220 uses a third time interval for RRM measurement.

[0075] Among them, such as Figure 4 As shown, the third time interval is the time interval delayed by the second time interval. The second time interval includes multiple sub-intervals. Figure 5 As shown, the third time interval can be a time interval that is a delay of multiple sub-intervals. Or, as... Figure 6 As shown, the third time interval can also include the remaining sub-intervals after removing those that overlap with the first time interval; these are called target sub-intervals. In scenarios where the third time interval includes target sub-intervals, if the target sub-intervals are insufficient to support the completion of RRM measurements, new sub-intervals can be added after the target sub-intervals to ensure the completion of RRM measurements. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the second time interval includes five sub-intervals: A, B, C, D, and E. Sub-interval A is removed, and sub-interval F is added. The third time interval is determined based on the second time interval and the GNSS measurements. The duration of the third time interval is the same as or similar to that of the second time interval. For example, the third time interval can be determined based on the second time interval and the completion time of the GNSS measurements. Specifically, the start time of the third time interval is later than the completion time of the GNSS measurements. In this example, the start time of the third time interval can be set to the next moment after the completion time of the GNSS measurements, or it can be set to a period of time after the completion time of the GNSS measurements. This "period of time" can be used to transmit GNSS measurement result information and to receive RRM measurement configuration information.

[0076] In another example, the third time interval can be determined based on the second time interval and the configuration time measured by the Global Navigation Satellite System (i.e., the first time interval). Specifically, the third time interval is configured as a time interval that does not overlap with the first time interval. Since the terminal configuration measurement time interval is usually roughly equivalent to the measurement time required for the corresponding measurement, configuring the third time interval as a time interval that does not overlap with the first time interval can generally avoid conflicts between GNSS measurements and RRM measurements.

[0077] In this embodiment, when the first time interval configured for GNSS measurement and the second time interval configured for RRM measurement at least partially overlap, the first time interval is used for GNSS measurement, and the third time interval, which does not overlap with the first time interval, is used for RRM measurement. This avoids conflicts between GNSS measurement and RRM measurement and improves the success rate of GNSS measurement and RRM measurement.

[0078] In another implementation, the third time interval is an advance time interval of the second time interval. The third time interval is determined based on the second time interval and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements, or it can be determined based on the configuration time measured by the second time interval and GNSS measurements, as described above. RRM measurements can be performed in advance.

[0079] In one embodiment, such as Figure 8 As shown, the method may further include the following steps: S810 uses a second time interval for RRM measurement.

[0080] Referring to the descriptions in S210-S220, the terminal is configured with a first time interval for GNSS measurements and a second time interval for RRM measurements, which will not be elaborated further.

[0081] The S820 uses the fourth time interval for GNSS measurements.

[0082] Among them, such as Figure 9 As shown, the fourth time interval is a time interval delayed from the first time interval, and the fourth time interval is determined based on the first time interval and the completion time of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. In other words, in this embodiment, the GNSS measurement time interval is delayed. Specifically, the start time of the fourth time interval is later than the end time of the RRM measurement. For example, the start time of the fourth time interval can be set to the moment after the end time of the RRM measurement, or it can be set to a time interval between the end time of the RRM measurement and the end time of the RRM measurement. The duration of the fourth time interval is the same as or similar to that of the first time interval.

[0083] In this embodiment, when the first time interval configured for GNSS measurement and the second time interval configured for RRM measurement at least partially overlap, the second time interval is used for RRM measurement, and a fourth time interval that does not overlap with the second time interval is used for GNSS measurement. This avoids conflict between GNSS measurement and RRM measurement and improves the success rate of GNSS measurement and RRM measurement.

[0084] In one embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, the method may further include: S101, Determine measurement priority.

[0085] Steps S210-S220 and S810-S820 respectively describe the implementation methods for delaying RRM measurements and delaying GNSS measurements. Whether the delay is a second time interval for RRM measurements or a first time interval for GNSS measurements can be determined based on the measurement priority. The measurement priority represents the measurement priority of GNSS measurements relative to RRM measurements.

[0086] For example, if the measurement priority of GNSS measurement is higher than that of RRM measurement, then GNSS measurement is performed using a first time interval, and RRM measurement is performed using a third time interval. That is, S210-S220 are executed.

[0087] In another example, if the measurement priority of GNSS measurements is not higher than that of RRM measurements, then RRM measurements are performed using a second time interval, and GNSS measurements are performed using a fourth time interval. That is, S810-S820 are executed.

[0088] In this embodiment, the delayed time interval is determined based on the measurement priority of GNSS measurements and RRM measurements, ensuring that measurements with higher priority are executed first.

[0089] In one embodiment, such as Figure 11 As shown, S101 (determining measurement priority) may include: S110, determine a first delay value between the end time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval, and determine a second delay value between the end time of the second time interval and the start time of the first time interval.

[0090] Referring to the description of the third time interval in S220, since the start time of the third time interval depends on the end time of the GNSS measurement, the first delay value is similar to the delay value of the third time interval relative to the second time interval. Similarly, referring to the description of the fourth time interval in S820, since the start time of the fourth time interval depends on the end time of the RRM measurement, the second delay value is similar to the delay value of the fourth time interval relative to the first time interval. By comparing the first delay value and the second delay value, a decision can be made on whether to delay the RRM measurement or the GNSS measurement.

[0091] In another implementation, the first delay value is determined based on the first time interval and the fourth time interval, and the second delay value is determined based on the second time interval and the third time interval.

[0092] S111, if the first delay value is less than the second delay value, determine that the priority of GNSS measurement is higher than that of RRM measurement.

[0093] If the first delay value is less than the second delay value, then the estimated delay time required for GNSS measurements is greater than that required for RRM measurements. From the perspective of reducing delay time, a delay strategy with shorter delay time is implemented. That is, if the first delay value is less than the second delay value, the priority of GNSS measurements is determined to be higher than that of RRM measurements, so that the type of measurement requiring less delay time is delayed.

[0094] In another scenario, if the first delay value is not less than the second delay value, then the estimated delay time required for delaying GNSS measurements is not greater than the delay time required for RRM measurements. From the perspective of reducing delay time, a delay strategy with a smaller delay time is implemented. That is, if the first delay value is not less than the second delay value, the priority of GNSS measurements is determined to be no higher than the priority of RRM measurements, so that the type of measurement requiring a smaller delay time is delayed. This embodiment includes: S112, determining that the priority of GNSS measurements is no higher than the priority of RRM measurements, which will not be elaborated further.

[0095] In this embodiment of the application, the priority of GNSS measurement and the priority of RRM measurement are determined based on the magnitude of the first delay value of the third time interval compared to the second time interval and the second delay value of the fourth time interval compared to the first time interval, which can reduce the delay time.

[0096] In one embodiment, such as Figure 12 As shown, S101 (determining measurement priority) may include: S120 receives measurement priority indication information from the network device.

[0097] The network equipment is configured with measurement priority indication information based on communication scenario requirements or user settings. For example, this measurement priority indication information may indicate that GNSS measurements have a higher measurement priority, or it may indicate that RRM measurements have a higher measurement priority. The composition of the measurement priority indication information can be flexibly set and is not limited. For instance, when the measurement priority indication information is 1, it indicates that GNSS measurements have a higher measurement priority; when the measurement priority indication information is 0, it indicates that RRM measurements have a higher measurement priority. In another example, when the measurement priority indication information is 10, it indicates that GNSS measurements have a higher measurement priority; and when the measurement priority indication information is 01, it indicates that RRM measurements have a higher measurement priority.

[0098] In another example, the measurement priority indication information can also indicate the measurement priority of GNSS measurements and the measurement priority of RRM measurements. For example, it can indicate that the measurement priority of GNSS measurements is 1 and the measurement priority of RRM measurements is 2, with priority 1 having a higher priority than priority 2.

[0099] S121, determine the measurement priority of GNSS measurement relative to RRM measurement based on the measurement priority indication information.

[0100] In this embodiment of the application, the network device indicates the measurement priority of GNSS measurement and the measurement priority of RRM measurement, which can ensure that the measurement with higher priority is performed first.

[0101] In one embodiment, such as Figure 13 As shown, the method may further include: S130 receives RRM configuration information from the network device using the fifth time interval.

[0102] The fifth time interval is the time interval between the start time of the third time interval and the end time of the GNSS measurement. It can be used to receive RRM configuration information from network devices.

[0103] Optionally, considering that if the fifth time interval is too short, it may not be possible to complete the reception of RRM configuration information, a first time threshold is set to determine whether to use the fifth time interval to receive RRM configuration information. Specifically, if the fifth time interval is longer than the first time threshold, it means that the reception of RRM configuration information can be completed within the fifth time interval, and in this case, the RRM configuration information is received to ensure that the RRM configuration information is up-to-date. The first time threshold can be flexibly set according to the time required to receive the RRM configuration information.

[0104] In this embodiment, S220 (performing RRM measurement using a third time interval) may include: S131, RRM measurement is performed using a third time interval based on the RRM configuration information.

[0105] In S130, the latest RRM configuration information is received. Based on the RRM configuration information, RRM measurement is performed at a third time interval, which improves the accuracy of RRM measurement.

[0106] In this embodiment, a fifth time interval is used to receive RRM configuration information, improving time utilization. Furthermore, RRM measurements are performed based on the received RRM configuration information, which has better timeliness, thus improving the accuracy of RRM measurements.

[0107] In one embodiment, the fifth time interval is not greater than the first time threshold. In this case, the terminal can use the RRM configuration information that was previously sent by the network device and has slightly lower timeliness to perform RRM measurement.

[0108] In one embodiment, such as Figure 14 As shown, the method may further include: S140, the measurement results of GNSS measurements are sent to the network equipment during the fifth time interval.

[0109] The terminal can transmit GNSS measurement results information using the fifth time interval.

[0110] Optionally, a first time threshold can be set to determine whether to execute S140. Specifically, if the fifth time interval is greater than the first time threshold, it means that the GNSS measurement result information can be transmitted within the fifth time interval, and in this case, the fifth time interval is used to transmit the GNSS measurement result information. The first time threshold can be flexibly set according to the time required to transmit the GNSS measurement result information.

[0111] In this embodiment, the measurement result information of GNSS measurement is sent to the network device through a fifth time interval, which improves the utilization of time and enables the network device to obtain the measurement result information of GNSS measurement in a timely manner.

[0112] In one embodiment, the fifth time interval is not greater than the first time threshold. In this case, the terminal can send the GNSS measurement result information to the network device after the RRM measurement is completed, so as to ensure that the RRM measurement can be successful.

[0113] In one embodiment, the method may further include: Discard at least one of the multiple first measurement results.

[0114] The terminal obtains multiple first measurement results for multiple time intervals through RRM measurement before the first time interval. Since RRM measurement is periodic, multiple first measurement results for multiple time intervals may have been obtained before the first time interval. If the RRM measurement is delayed, i.e., a third time interval is used for RRM measurement, due to the time-sensitive nature of RRM measurement, some of the first measurement results obtained before the first time interval may be invalid. In this case, invalid first measurement results can be discarded, and a new measurement can be performed using the third time interval.

[0115] For example, regarding how to determine whether a first measurement result is invalid, in RRM measurements, multiple measurement objects are typically measured. If all measurements for a measurement object have been completed before the first time interval, the first measurement result corresponding to that measurement object is considered valid. If, before the first time interval, only part of the measurement object has been completed, disrupting the continuity of measurement, the first measurement result corresponding to that measurement object is considered invalid.

[0116] The above-mentioned mechanism for determining whether the first measurement result is invalid is merely an illustrative example. In specific implementations, other determination mechanisms can be flexibly set and are not limited thereto.

[0117] In this embodiment of the application, invalid measurement results among multiple first measurement results measured before the first time interval are discarded to ensure the accuracy of RRM measurement.

[0118] In one embodiment, such as Figure 15 As shown, when GNSS measurements are completed using the first time interval, S220 (RRM measurements are performed using the third time interval) may include: S150, RRM measurement begins immediately.

[0119] The first time point is the start time of the third time interval. Referring to the introduction of the third time interval in S220, the first time point is determined based on the completion time of the GNSS measurement. The first time point can be set as the completion time of the GNSS measurement, or it can be set as the time when the completion time of the GNSS measurement is delayed by the second time threshold.

[0120] The completion time of GNSS measurement may be earlier than the end time of the first time interval. Starting RRM measurement at the completion time of GNSS measurement (that is, setting the first time to the completion time of GNSS measurement) can complete RRM measurement ahead of schedule.

[0121] RRM measurements are initiated at a time two time thresholds after the completion of GNSS measurements. Within this second time threshold, reference... Figure 13The illustrated embodiments and Figure 14 As described in the illustrated embodiment, during the time interval between the first moment and the completion moment of the GNSS measurement (i.e., the fifth time interval), the terminal can send GNSS measurement result information to the network device (and / or receive RRM configuration information from the network device). Optionally, if the network device does not receive the GNSS measurement result information within the fifth time interval, the network device determines that the terminal's GNSS measurement has failed, and the terminal enters the IDLE idle state.

[0122] In this embodiment of the application, when GNSS measurement is completed using a first time interval, RRM measurement is started at the first moment, ensuring the timely execution of RRM measurement.

[0123] In one embodiment, such as Figure 16 As shown, when RRM measurements are performed using the second time interval, the S820 (performing GNSS measurements using the fourth time interval) can include: S160, GNSS measurements begin at the second time point.

[0124] The second time point is the start time of the fourth time interval, and is determined based on the completion time of the RRM measurement. Alternatively, the second time point can be the completion time of the RRM measurement, or it can be the completion time of the RRM measurement delayed by a third time threshold.

[0125] The completion time of the RRM measurement may be earlier than the end time of the second time interval. Starting GNSS measurement at the completion time of the RRM measurement (i.e., setting the second time as the completion time of the RRM measurement) can complete the RRM measurement ahead of schedule.

[0126] By delaying the completion of RRM measurements by a third time threshold before starting GNSS measurements, the measurement results of RRM measurements can be sent to network devices within the delay time interval.

[0127] In this embodiment of the application, when the RRM measurement is completed using a second time interval, the GNSS measurement is started at the second time, ensuring the timely execution of the GNSS measurement.

[0128] In this embodiment, when the first time interval configured for GNSS measurement and the second time interval configured for RRM measurement at least partially overlap, GNSS measurement is performed using the first time interval, and RRM measurement is performed using a third time interval that does not overlap with the first time interval (or, RRM measurement is performed using the second time interval, and GNSS measurement is performed using a fourth time interval that does not overlap with the second time interval). This avoids conflicts between GNSS measurement and RRM measurement and improves the success rate of GNSS measurement and RRM measurement.

[0129] In one embodiment, such as Figure 17 As shown, the method may also include: S170, RRM measurement is performed using the sixth time interval.

[0130] Wherein, the sixth time interval is the time interval between the start time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval. In this embodiment, as... Figure 18 The diagram illustrates a communication scenario where GNSS measurements are performed using a first time interval, and the start time of the first time interval is later than the start time of the second time interval. In other words, the sixth time interval is a portion of the second time interval that does not overlap with the first time interval. Utilizing this sixth time interval for RRM measurements, if the terminal has strong measurement capabilities, it is possible to complete the RRM measurement within the sixth time interval, thus improving the efficiency of the RRM measurement. For cases where RRM measurements cannot be completed within the sixth time interval, please refer to the explanation in S171 below.

[0131] In this embodiment, S220 (performing RRM measurement using a third time interval) may include: S171, if RRM measurement fails when using the sixth time interval, RRM measurement is performed using the third time interval.

[0132] If the RRM measurement cannot be completed within the sixth time interval, the third time interval can be used to continue the RRM measurement to ensure that the RRM measurement can be completed.

[0133] In this embodiment, a sixth time interval is used to perform RRM measurement, and if the RRM measurement cannot be completed within the sixth time interval, a third time interval is used to continue the RRM measurement, which can ensure that the RRM measurement can be completed.

[0134] In one embodiment, such as Figure 19 As shown, the method may further include: S190 uses the sixth time interval for GNSS measurements.

[0135] The sixth time interval is the time interval between the start time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval. For example... Figure 20 As shown, the communication scenario in this embodiment is: RRM measurement is performed using a second time interval, and the start time of the first time interval is earlier than the start time of the second time interval. In other words, the sixth time interval is a portion of the first time interval that does not overlap with the second time interval. GNSS measurement is performed using this sixth time interval. If the terminal has strong measurement capabilities, it is possible to complete the measurement within the sixth time interval, thus improving the efficiency of GNSS measurement. For cases where GNSS measurement cannot be completed within the sixth time interval, see the explanation in S191 below.

[0136] In this embodiment, S820 (performing GNSS measurements using a fourth time interval) may include: S191, if GNSS measurements fail to be performed using the sixth time interval, GNSS measurements will be performed using the fourth time interval.

[0137] If GNSS measurements cannot be completed within the sixth time interval, the third time interval can be used to continue GNSS measurements to ensure that GNSS measurements can be completed.

[0138] In this embodiment, a sixth time interval is used for GNSS measurement, and if GNSS measurement cannot be completed within the sixth time interval, a third time interval is used to continue GNSS measurement, which can ensure that GNSS measurement can be completed.

[0139] The above embodiments describe measurement implementation methods when the time intervals of GNSS measurements and RRM measurements conflict. For communication scenarios where the time intervals of GNSS measurements and RRM measurements do not conflict, this application also provides a communication method. For example... Figure 21 As shown, the method may include: S210, the terminal uses the first time interval to perform GNSS measurements.

[0140] The terminal is configured with a first time interval for GNSS measurements and a second time interval for RRM measurements, such as... Figure 22 As shown, there is a seventh time interval between the first and second time intervals, meaning that GNSS measurements and RRM measurements will not conflict.

[0141] S211, if the terminal fails to complete GNSS measurements during the first time interval, it continues to perform GNSS measurements during the seventh time interval.

[0142] Due to limitations in the measurement capabilities of the terminal, the terminal may be unable to complete GNSS measurements within the configured first time interval. In this case, GNSS measurements can continue to be performed within the seventh time interval between the first and second time intervals, further ensuring the success rate of GNSS measurements.

[0143] S212, if the terminal completes GNSS measurements within the seventh time interval, RRM measurements are performed using the second time interval.

[0144] If GNSS measurements are completed within the seventh time interval, RRM measurements are performed using the second time interval, ensuring that both GNSS and RRM measurements are completed. If the terminal fails to complete GNSS measurements within the seventh time interval, it can enter the IDLE state. In this case, if the network device does not receive GNSS measurement results within the seventh time interval, the network device determines that the terminal's GNSS measurement has failed, and the terminal enters the IDLE idle state.

[0145] In one embodiment, the second time interval can be delayed (equivalent to the third time interval in step S220) until the GNSS measurement is completed. After the GNSS measurement is completed, the RRM measurement is performed using the delayed second time interval. For details, please refer to the description of S220, which will not be repeated here.

[0146] In this embodiment of the application, for scenarios where the time intervals of GNSS measurement and RRM measurement do not overlap, GNSS measurement is continued using the seventh time interval between the first and second time intervals, which further ensures the success rate of GNSS measurement.

[0147] In one embodiment, such as Figure 23 As shown, the method may further include: S231, if the terminal completes GNSS measurements using the first time interval, it will start RRM measurements at the first moment.

[0148] Referring to the description of S150, this embodiment is similar to the communication scenario in S150. In this embodiment, the first time point is the start time of the advanced second time interval. The first time point is determined based on the completion time of the GNSS measurement; the first time point can be set as the completion time of the GNSS measurement, or it can be set as the time when the completion time of the GNSS measurement is delayed by a second time threshold.

[0149] The completion time of GNSS measurement may be earlier than the end time of the first time interval. Starting RRM measurement at the completion time of GNSS measurement (that is, setting the first time to the completion time of GNSS measurement) can complete RRM measurement ahead of schedule.

[0150] RRM measurement begins at a time two time thresholds after the completion time of the GNSS measurement. Within this second time threshold, during the time interval between the first time and the completion time of the GNSS measurement (referred to as the fifth time interval), the terminal can send GNSS measurement result information to the network device (and / or receive RRM configuration information from the network device). If the network device does not receive the GNSS measurement result information within the fifth time interval, the network device determines that the terminal's GNSS measurement has failed, and the terminal enters the IDLE state.

[0151] In one embodiment, such as Figure 24 As shown, the method may further include: S2410: When the terminal completes the RRM measurement, it sends the GNSS measurement result information to the network device.

[0152] The terminal can send the measurement results information of the GNSS measurement when the RRM measurement is completed.

[0153] Optionally, considering the relatively long delay in sending GNSS measurement result information if the terminal sends it upon completion of RRM measurement, a fourth time threshold can be set to decide whether to execute S2410. Specifically, the fourth time threshold is a time threshold determined based on the time required to send the GNSS measurement result information. If the seventh time interval is less than the fourth time threshold, it indicates that the GNSS measurement result information cannot be sent within the seventh time interval. In this case, the GNSS measurement result information is not sent within the seventh time interval, but instead is sent to the network device upon completion of RRM measurement, ensuring successful transmission of the GNSS measurement result information. If the seventh time interval is not less than the fourth time threshold, the GNSS measurement result information can be sent within the seventh time interval, resulting in a lower transmission delay.

[0154] In this embodiment of the application, for scenarios where the time intervals of GNSS measurement and RRM measurement do not overlap, a seventh time interval between the first and second time intervals is flexibly utilized to further ensure the success rate of GNSS measurement.

[0155] The above mainly describes the solution provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of the execution logic of each step. It is understood that each node, such as a terminal, includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules to execute each function in order to achieve the above functions. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the algorithm steps of the examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, the method of the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in a hardware or computer software-driven hardware manner 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.

[0156] This application embodiment can divide the terminal into functional modules according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0157] In practical implementation, the network elements shown in this application, such as terminals, can adopt... Figure 25 The shown composition or includes Figure 25 The components shown. Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. When the communication device has the functions of a terminal as described in the embodiments of this application, the communication device can be a terminal or a chip or system-on-a-chip in a terminal. When the communication device has the functions of a network device as described in the embodiments of this application, the communication device can be a network device or a chip or system-on-a-chip in a network device.

[0158] like Figure 25 As shown, the communication device may include a processor 901, a communication line 902, a transceiver 903, and a memory 904. The processor 901, memory 904, and transceiver 903 are connected via the communication line 902. In one example, the processor 901 may include one or more CPUs, for example... Figure 25 CPU0 and CPU1 in the CPU.

[0159] As an optional implementation, the communication device includes multiple processors, for example, besides Figure 25 In addition to processor 901, it may also include processor 907.

[0160] The processor 901 can be a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), or any combination thereof. The processor 901 can also be other devices with processing capabilities, such as circuits, devices, or software modules.

[0161] Communication line 902 is used to transmit information between the components included in the communication device.

[0162] Transceiver 903 is used to communicate with other devices or other communication networks. These other communication networks can be Ethernet, radio access network (RAN), wireless local area networks (WLAN), etc. Transceiver 903 can be an interface circuit, pins, RF module, transceiver, or any device capable of enabling communication.

[0163] Furthermore, the communication device may also include a memory 904. The memory 904 is used to store instructions. These instructions may be computer programs.

[0164] The memory 904 can be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device that can store static information and / or instructions; it can also be a random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device that can store information and / or instructions; it can also be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or other optical disc storage, optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage media, or other magnetic storage devices. Optical disk storage includes compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, or Blu-ray discs, etc.

[0165] It should be noted that the memory 904 can exist independently of the processor 901 or can be integrated with the processor 901. The memory 904 can be used to store instructions, program code, or some data, etc. The memory 904 can be located inside or outside the communication device, without limitation. When the processor 901 executes the instructions stored in the memory 904, it can implement the method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0166] As an optional implementation, the communication device also includes an output device 905 and an input device 906. For example, the input device 906 is a device such as a keyboard, mouse, microphone, or joystick, and the output device 905 is a device such as a display screen or speaker.

[0167] It should be noted that the communication device can be a desktop computer, laptop computer, network server, mobile phone, tablet computer, wireless terminal, embedded device, chip system, or something else. Figure 25 Equipment with a similar structure. Furthermore... Figure 25 The structural composition shown does not constitute a limitation on the communication device, except... Figure 25 In addition to the components shown, the communication device may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0168] In this embodiment of the application, the chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0169] Figure 26 A structural diagram of a communication device 2600 is shown. The communication device 2600 is applied to a terminal, which is configured with a first time interval for global navigation satellite system measurements and a second time interval for radio resource management measurements. Figure 26 Each module in the device shown has the ability to implement Figures 3-24 The corresponding steps in the module implement their functions and achieve their respective technical effects. The beneficial effects of each module's execution steps can be found in [reference]. Figures 3-24 The corresponding steps will not be elaborated further. The functions described can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions. The communication device 2600 can be a terminal or a chip or system-on-a-chip within a terminal. For example, the communication device 2600 includes: Processing module 2610 is configured to perform Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements using a first time interval and to perform Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements using a third time interval. The third time interval is a time interval delayed from the second time interval, and is determined based on the second time interval and the completion time of the GNSS measurements. Alternatively, processing module 2610 is further configured to perform RRM measurements using the second time interval and to perform GNSS measurements using a fourth time interval. The fourth time interval is a time interval delayed from the first time interval, and is determined based on the first time interval and the completion time of the RRM measurements.

[0170] In one embodiment, the processing module 2610 is further configured to determine the measurement priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement and the measurement priority of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. Specifically, when the GNSS measurement priority is higher than the RRM measurement priority, the processing module 2610 performs GNSS measurement using a first time interval and RRM measurement using a third time interval. Furthermore, when the GNSS measurement priority is not higher than the RRM measurement priority, the processing module 2610 performs RRM measurement using a second time interval and RRM measurement using a fourth time interval.

[0171] In one embodiment, the processing module 2610 is specifically configured to: determine a first delay value between the end time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval, and determine a second delay value between the end time of the second time interval and the start time of the first time interval. If the first delay value is less than the second delay value, it is determined that the priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement is higher than the priority of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. Otherwise, it is determined that the priority of the GNSS measurement is not higher than the priority of the RRM measurement.

[0172] In one embodiment, the apparatus further includes a transceiver module 2620. The processing module 2610 is specifically configured to invoke the transceiver module 2620 to receive measurement priority indication information, the measurement priority indication information indicating the measurement priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement and the measurement priority of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. The processing module 2610 is also specifically configured to determine the measurement priority of the GNSS measurement and the measurement priority of the RRM measurement based on the measurement priority indication information.

[0173] In one embodiment, the fifth time interval between the start time of the third time interval and the completion time of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement is greater than a first time threshold. The apparatus also includes a transceiver module 2620. The processing module 2610 is further configured to invoke the transceiver module 2620 to receive radio resource management configuration information using the fifth time interval. Specifically, the processing module 2610 is configured to perform radio resource management measurements using the third time interval based on the radio resource management configuration information.

[0174] In one embodiment, a fifth time interval between the start time of the third time interval and the completion time of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement is greater than a first time threshold. The apparatus also includes a transceiver module 2620. The processing module 2610 is further configured to invoke the transceiver module 2620 to transmit the GNSS measurement result information using the fifth time interval.

[0175] In one embodiment, the terminal obtains multiple first measurement results for multiple time intervals through radio resource management measurements before a first time interval. The processing module 2610 is further configured to discard at least one of the multiple first measurement results.

[0176] In one embodiment, the second time interval includes multiple sub-intervals. The third time interval is a time interval in which all the multiple sub-intervals are delayed. Alternatively, the third time interval includes a target sub-interval. The target sub-interval includes the sub-intervals after removing those that overlap with the first time interval.

[0177] In one embodiment, the processing module 2610 is further configured to: if the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement is completed using a first time interval, initiate radio resource management (RRM) measurement at a first time point. The first time point is determined based on the completion time of the GNSS measurement. If the RRM measurement is completed using a second time interval, initiate GNSS measurement at a second time point. The second time point is determined based on the completion time of the RRM measurement. In one embodiment, the first time point is either the completion time of the GNSS measurement or a time point delayed by a second time threshold. The second time point is either the completion time of the RRM measurement or a time point delayed by a third time threshold.

[0178] In another example, processing module 2610 and transceiver module 2620 can also be used to perform the following steps: Processing module 2610 is configured to perform Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements using a first time interval. Processing module 2610 is further configured to continue performing GNSS measurements during a seventh time interval if the GNSS measurements are not completed using the first time interval. Processing module 2610 is further configured to perform Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements using a second time interval if the GNSS measurements are completed during the seventh time interval. Processing module 2610 is further configured to enter an idle state if the GNSS measurements are not completed during the seventh time interval.

[0179] In one embodiment, when the seventh time interval is less than the fourth time threshold, the transceiver module 2620 is further configured to: send measurement result information of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement when the wireless resource management measurement is completed.

[0180] Figure 27 A structural diagram of a communication device 2700 is shown, which is applied to a network device. Figure 27 Each module in the device shown has the ability to implement Figures 3-24 The corresponding steps in the module implement their functions and achieve their respective technical effects. The beneficial effects of each module's execution steps can be found in [reference]. Figures 3-24 The corresponding steps will not be elaborated further. The functions described can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions. The communication device 2700 can be a network device or a chip or system-on-a-chip within a network device. For example, the communication device 2700 includes: The transceiver module 2710 is used to send measurement priority indication information to the terminal.

[0181] The measurement priority indication information indicates the measurement priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement and the measurement priority of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. The terminal is configured with a first time interval for GNSS measurement and a second time interval for RRM measurement. The first time interval and the second time interval at least partially overlap.

[0182] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in the computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the above method embodiments. The computer-readable storage medium can be a terminal device of any of the foregoing embodiments, such as an internal storage unit including a data sending end and / or a data receiving end, like a hard disk or memory of the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be an external storage device of the terminal device, such as a plug-in hard disk, smart media card (SMC), secure digital (SD) card, flash card, etc., equipped on the terminal device. Further, the computer-readable storage medium can include both internal storage units and external storage devices of the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium is used to store the computer program and other programs and data required by the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.

[0183] This application also provides computer instructions. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be executed by computer instructions to instruct related hardware (such as computers, processors, network devices, and terminals). The program can be stored in the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium.

[0184] This application also provides a chip system. The chip system may consist of chips or include chips and other discrete devices, without limitation. The chip system includes a processor and a transceiver. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be completed by this chip system, such as the chip system being used to implement the functions performed by the terminal or network device in the above method embodiments.

[0185] In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing program instructions and / or data. When the chip system is running, the processor executes the program instructions stored in the memory to enable the chip system to perform the functions performed by the terminal or network device in the above method embodiments.

[0186] In the embodiments of this application, the processor may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components, capable of implementing or executing the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0187] In the embodiments of this application, the memory can be non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD), or it can be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM). Memory is any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory in the embodiments of this application can also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions, used to store instructions and / or data.

[0188] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the division of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0189] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of modules or units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0190] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. A component shown as a unit can be one or more physical units; that is, it can be located in one place or distributed in multiple different locations. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0191] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit. If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the embodiments of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a device, such as a microcontroller, chip, or processor, to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0192] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method is applied to the terminal side, and the method includes: In cases where the first time interval and the second time interval at least partially overlap, the first time interval is used for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements, and the completion time of the GNSS measurements is determined to be earlier than the end time of the first time interval, wherein the terminal is configured with the first time interval for the GNSS measurements, and the terminal is configured with the second time interval for radio resource management measurements; During the fifth time interval between the completion time of the GNSS measurement and the start time of the third time interval, the measurement result information of the GNSS measurement is sent to the network device; A third time interval is used for radio resource management measurements; wherein the third time interval is determined based on the second time interval and the completion time of the GNSS measurement.

2. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Determine the measurement priorities for Global Navigation Satellite System measurements and Radio Resource Management measurements; The measurement of the Global Navigation Satellite System using the first time interval and the measurement of the Radio Resource Management using the third time interval include: When the measurement priority of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements is higher than that of Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements, GNSS measurements are performed using the first time interval, and RRM measurements are performed using the third time interval.

3. The communication method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The determination of measurement priorities for Global Navigation Satellite System measurements and Radio Resource Management measurements includes: Determine a first delay value between the end time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval, and determine a second delay value between the end time of the second time interval and the start time of the first time interval; If the first delay value is less than the second delay value, the priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurement is determined to be higher than that of the Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement; otherwise, the priority of the GNSS measurement is determined to be no higher than that of the RRM measurement.

4. The communication method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The determination of measurement priorities for Global Navigation Satellite System measurements and Radio Resource Management measurements includes: Receive measurement priority indication information, which indicates the measurement priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement and the measurement priority of the Radio Resource Management measurement; The measurement priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement and the measurement priority of the Radio Resource Management measurement are determined based on the measurement priority indication information.

5. The communication method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The fifth time interval between the start time of the third time interval and the completion time of the global navigation satellite system measurement is greater than the first time threshold; the method further includes: The fifth time interval is used to receive radio resource management configuration information; The method of performing radio resource management measurements using a third time interval includes: Based on the wireless resource management configuration information, a third time interval is used to perform wireless resource management measurements.

6. A communication device, characterized in that, The device is used in a terminal, and the device includes: A processing module is configured to perform Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) measurements using the first time interval when the first time interval and the second time interval at least partially overlap, and to determine that the completion time of the GNSS measurements is earlier than the end time of the first time interval, wherein the terminal is configured with the first time interval for the GNSS measurements and the second time interval for radio resource management measurements; The processing module is also used to call the transceiver module of the device to send the measurement result information of the GNSS measurement to the network device within the fifth time interval between the completion time of the GNSS measurement and the start time of the third time interval; The processing module is further configured to perform radio resource management measurements using a third time interval; wherein the third time interval is determined based on the second time interval and the completion time of the GNSS measurement.

7. The communication device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The processing module is also used to determine the measurement priority of Global Navigation Satellite System measurements and the measurement priority of Radio Resource Management measurements; The processing module is specifically used to perform global navigation satellite system measurements using the first time interval and to perform radio resource management measurements using the third time interval when the measurement priority of global navigation satellite system measurements is higher than that of radio resource management measurements.

8. The communication device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The processing module is specifically used for: Determine a first delay value between the end time of the first time interval and the start time of the second time interval, and determine a second delay value between the end time of the second time interval and the start time of the first time interval; If the first delay value is less than the second delay value, the priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement is determined to be higher than the priority of the Radio Resource Management measurement; Otherwise, the priority of global navigation satellite system measurements should not be higher than that of radio resource management measurements.

9. The communication device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The device also includes a transceiver module; The processing module is specifically used to call the transceiver module to receive measurement priority indication information, wherein the measurement priority indication information indicates the measurement priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement and the measurement priority of the Radio Resource Management measurement; The processing module is further configured to determine the measurement priority of the Global Navigation Satellite System measurement and the measurement priority of the Radio Resource Management measurement based on the measurement priority indication information.

10. The communication device according to any one of claims 6-9, characterized in that, The fifth time interval between the start time of the third time interval and the completion time of the global navigation satellite system measurement is greater than the first time threshold; the device also includes a transceiver module; The processing module is also used to call the transceiver module to receive wireless resource management configuration information using the fifth time interval; The processing module is specifically used to perform wireless resource management measurements using a third time interval based on the wireless resource management configuration information.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a processor and a transceiver, the processor and the transceiver being configured to support the communication device in performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-5.

12. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions that, when executed, perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-5.

13. A computer program product containing instructions, characterized in that, When the instruction is executed, the method described in any one of claims 1-5 is performed.

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