Communication method and related equipment

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a communication method and related equipment, which can be applied to a retransmission scene. Based on the scheme, during the operation period of the first timer and in the first activation time period when the network equipment sends the downlink data, the first downlink data is received. And during the operation period of the first timer, when a first preset condition is satisfied, the first downlink data is not received. The first preset condition comprises any one of the following items: expiration of the first activation time period, end of the first activation time period or operation of the first timer in a first inactivation time period, and the first inactivation time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device. Compared with the prior art that whether the retransmission data is received or not is determined only according to whether the first timer operates or not, invalid receiving of the terminal device in the first inactive time period can be reduced, and energy consumption of the terminal device is saved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of communications, and in particular to a communication method and related equipment. Background Art

[0002] In order to reduce the energy consumption of terminal devices, the discontinuous reception (DRX) mechanism of terminal devices is introduced. The terminal device periodically enters sleep mode at certain times and does not monitor the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH). When monitoring is required, it wakes up from sleep mode, which enables the terminal device to save power. In addition, the DRX mechanism can be used in idle state or connected state. When applied to the connected state, the DRX mechanism can also be called connected discontinuous reception (C-DRX).

[0003] Currently, C-DRX involves the downlink retransmission timer (drx-RetransmissionTimer) and the hybrid automatic repeat reQuest-Route-Trip Time-Timer (HARQ-RTT-Timer). If decoding of a transport block (TB) for a downlink HARQ process fails, the terminal device can assume that retransmission will not occur until at least "HARQ RTT". Therefore, when the drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer is running, the terminal does not need to monitor the PDCCH. When the drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer times out and the data received by the corresponding HARQ process is not successfully decoded, the terminal device will start a drx-RetransmissionTimer for the HARQ process. The drx-RetransmissionTimer indicates the maximum time the terminal device waits for retransmission. While the drx-RetransmissionTimer is running, the terminal device will monitor the PDCCH for HARQ retransmission.

[0004] However, in non-terrestrial network (NTN) scenarios, since satellites, as network devices, need to provide services to all terminal devices within the satellite coverage area as much as possible, they need to provide services through "beam hopping." This method can also be understood as providing services to multiple terminal devices in a time-division manner. For example, a satellite serves terminal device 1 at time one and terminal device 2 at time two. Terminal device 2 will not receive the data sent by the satellite at the first moment. In other words, even if terminal device 2 is listening for data at the first moment, the satellite will not send data to terminal device 2 at the first moment.

[0005] Therefore, in the NTN beam-hopping scenario, the satellite cannot always serve a certain terminal device. Even if the drx-RetransmissionTimer is turned on, the terminal device cannot receive the retransmitted data. Ineffective monitoring will waste the energy consumption of the terminal device. Summary of the Invention

[0006] An embodiment of the present application provides a communication method and related equipment, which determines whether to receive retransmitted data by considering the relationship between the first activation time period / first non-activation time period and the first timer. Compared with the prior art in which whether to receive retransmitted data is determined only based on whether the first timer is running, this method can reduce invalid reception of the terminal device in the first non-activation time period and save energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0007] In a first aspect, the present application provides a communication method, which is executed by a terminal device, or the method is executed by some components in the terminal device (such as a processor, a chip or a chip system, etc.), or the method can also be implemented by a logic module or software that can realize all or part of the terminal device functions. The method is applied to a retransmission scenario. In the first aspect and its possible implementation, the method is described as an example of being executed by a terminal device. In this method, the terminal device receives first downlink data during the operation of a first timer and within a first activation time period. The first activation time period is a time period in which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device, and the first downlink data is retransmitted data of the second downlink data; during the operation of the first timer, the terminal device satisfies a first preset condition and determines not to receive the first downlink data; the first preset condition includes any one of the following: the first activation time period expires, the first activation time period ends, or the first timer runs within a first inactive time period, and the first inactive time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device.

[0008] Based on the above solution, the first downlink data is received during the operation of the first timer and within the first activation time period when the network device sends downlink data. During the operation of the first timer, the first preset condition is met and the first downlink data is not received. The first preset condition includes any one of the following: the first activation time period expires, the first activation time period ends, or the first timer runs within a first inactive time period, and the first inactive time period is a time period during which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device. Compared with the prior art in which whether to receive retransmitted data is determined only based on whether the first timer is running, this method can reduce invalid reception by the terminal device during the first inactive time period, thereby saving energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0009] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the first aspect, the above steps also include: during the operation of the first timer, the first preset condition is met, the first duration of at least one first non-activation time period is added to the first timer, the first timer continues to run during the first non-activation time period, and the first downlink data is not received during the first non-activation time period.

[0010] In this possible implementation, the terminal device receives the first downlink data only when the first timer is running and within the first active time period. If the first timer is running during the first inactive time period, the terminal device does not receive the first downlink data. This approach, by increasing the first time period, reduces the possibility that the terminal device will determine that the retransmitted data has failed to be received due to not increasing the time period.

[0011] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the above steps further include: during the operation of the first timer, if a first preset condition is met, pausing the first timer, and continuing to run the paused first timer in the next activation time period.

[0012] In this possible implementation, pausing the first timer can avoid invalid monitoring by the terminal device during the inactive time period when the network device does not send data.

[0013] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the above steps further include: during the operation of the first timer, if a first preset condition is met, the first timer is stopped or expires, and the first timer is not started in the next first activation time period.

[0014] This possible implementation can also be interpreted as the terminal device directly considering that the retransmission has failed.

[0015] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the first aspect, the above steps: before receiving the first downlink data, the method also includes: sending feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data; starting a second timer; the second timer runs within a second inactive time period, and stopping the second timer, the second inactive time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device, and the second inactive time period is before the first inactive time period.

[0016] In this possible implementation, the network device sends the second downlink data to the terminal device during the second active time period. Compared with the prior art solution in which the terminal device monitors the downlink data throughout the entire process, this can reduce invalid reception by the terminal device during the second inactive time period and save energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0017] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the first aspect, no downlink data is received during the operation of the above-mentioned second timer; after stopping the second timer, the method also includes: starting the first timer at the start time of the activation time period after the second inactive time period or at a certain time after the start time, and the second activation time period is the time period for the network device to send downlink data to the terminal device.

[0018] In this possible implementation, there is no need to wait for the second timer to finish before starting the first timer in the next activation time period, which is equivalent to the inactive time period offsetting the second timer. Or it can be understood that the second timer continues to run in the second inactive time period, and the terminal device does not start the first timer when the second timer ends, and starts the first timer at the start time of the second activation time period or at a time after the start time. For example, the terminal device synchronizes or resynchronizes (such as downlink synchronization) with the network device at the start time of the next activation time period or at a time after the start time, and starts the first timer. Compared with the solution in the prior art that the first timer needs to be started after the second timer finishes. This method can improve the speed at which the terminal device receives retransmitted data.

[0019] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the first aspect, the above-mentioned second timer is the sum of the third timer and the round-trip time RTT, the third timer is the shortest duration before the hybrid automatic repeat request HARQ retransmission downlink allocation expected by the terminal device, and RTT is the round-trip time between the terminal device and the network device.

[0020] In this possible implementation, the RRT in the NTN scenario is fully considered, so that the setting of the second timer can be made more reasonable.

[0021] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the first aspect, the above-mentioned step of: sending feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data includes: if the first time period is greater than half of the RRT between the terminal device and the network device, and the second downlink data is not received correctly, then sending a negative response corresponding to the second downlink data, the first time period being the time period between the end time of the negative response and the end time of the third activation time period, and the third activation time period being the time period for the network device to receive the uplink data sent by the terminal device.

[0022] In this possible implementation, limiting the conditions for sending feedback information can prevent the network device from failing to receive feedback information due to power limitation or beam hopping.

[0023] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the first aspect, the above steps also include: if the second timer is running but the second activation time period expires, stop the second timer; start the first timer and add an inactivation period to the first timer, the first timer continues to run during the inactivation period, and no downlink data is received during the inactivation period.

[0024] In this possible implementation, there is no need to wait for the second timer to finish before starting the first timer in the next activation time period, which is equivalent to the inactive time period offsetting the second timer. Or it can be understood that the second timer continues to run in the second inactive time period, and the terminal device does not start the first timer when the second timer ends, and starts the first timer at the start time of the second activation time period or at a time after the start time. For example, the terminal device synchronizes or resynchronizes (such as downlink synchronization) with the network device at the start time of the next activation time period or at a time after the start time, and starts the first timer. Compared with the solution in the prior art that the first timer needs to be started after the second timer finishes. This method can improve the speed at which the terminal device receives retransmitted data.

[0025] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the above steps further include: receiving configuration information, where the configuration information is used to indicate the first inactive time period and the first active time period.

[0026] In this possible implementation, the terminal device can clearly define each active time period and each inactive time period through the configuration information sent by the network device, thereby reducing invalid monitoring of the terminal device in the inactive time period and saving energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0027] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the above method is applied to a retransmission scenario.

[0028] This possible implementation method can not only save energy consumption of the terminal device in the retransmission scenario, but also improve the stability of data transmission in the retransmission scenario.

[0029] The second aspect of the present application provides a communication method, which is executed by a network device, or the method is executed by some components in the network device (such as a processor, a chip or a chip system, etc.), or the method can also be implemented by a logic module or software that can realize all or part of the network device functions. The method is applied to a retransmission scenario. In the second aspect and its possible implementation, the method is described as being executed by a network device. In this method, the network device sends first downlink data within a first activation time period, and the first activation time period is a time period in which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device; the first downlink data is not sent within a first inactive time period, and the first inactive time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device, and the first downlink data is retransmitted data of the second downlink data.

[0030] Based on the above solution, by sending the first downlink data during the first active time period of the network device and not sending the first downlink data during the first inactive time period, compared to the prior art in which whether to receive the first downlink data is determined solely based on whether the first timer is running, ineffective monitoring by the terminal device during the first inactive time period can be reduced, thereby saving energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0031] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the second aspect, the above steps: before sending the first downlink data within the first activation time period, the method also includes: sending the second downlink data within the second activation time period, the second activation time period is the time period for the network device to send downlink data to the terminal device, and the second activation time period is before the first activation time period; receiving feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data.

[0032] In this possible implementation, the network device sends the second downlink data to the terminal device during the second active time period. Compared with the prior art solution in which the terminal device monitors the downlink data throughout the entire process, this can reduce invalid reception by the terminal device during the second inactive time period and save energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0033] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the second aspect, the feedback information is a negative response, and the first downlink data is retransmission data of the second downlink data.

[0034] This possible implementation method can not only save energy consumption of the terminal device in the retransmission scenario, but also improve the stability of data transmission in the retransmission scenario.

[0035] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the second aspect, the above steps further include: sending configuration information, where the configuration information is used to indicate the first inactive time period and the first active time period.

[0036] In this possible implementation, the network device can clearly indicate the active time periods and the inactive time periods to the terminal device through configuration information, thereby reducing invalid monitoring of the terminal device during the inactive time period and saving energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0037] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the second aspect, the above method is applied to a retransmission scenario.

[0038] This possible implementation method can not only save energy consumption of the terminal device in the retransmission scenario, but also improve the stability of data transmission in the retransmission scenario.

[0039] In a third aspect, the present application provides a communication device, which is a terminal device, or a component of a terminal device (such as a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the terminal device functions. The communication device includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit.

[0040] a transceiver unit, configured to receive first downlink data during the operation of a first timer and within a first activation time period, where the first activation time period is a time period during which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device, and the first downlink data is retransmission data of the second downlink data;

[0041] A processing unit, configured to, when a first preset condition is met during the operation of the first timer, determine not to receive the first downlink data;

[0042] The first preset condition includes any one of the following: the first activation time period expires, the first activation time period ends, or the first timer runs in the first non-activation time period, and the first non-activation time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device.

[0043] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the third aspect, the above-mentioned processing unit is also used to meet the first preset condition during the operation of the first timer, increase the first duration of at least one first non-activation time period for the first timer, continue to run the first timer during the first non-activation time period, and not receive the first downlink data during the first non-activation time period.

[0044] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the third aspect, the above-mentioned processing unit is further used to, when a first preset condition is met during the operation of the first timer, pause the first timer, and continue to run the paused first timer in the next activation time period.

[0045] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the third aspect, the above-mentioned processing unit is further used to, when the first preset condition is met during the operation of the first timer, stop or expire the first timer, and not start the first timer in the next first activation time period.

[0046] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the third aspect, the above-mentioned transceiver unit is also used to send feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data; the processing unit is also used to start the second timer; the processing unit is also used to stop the second timer when the second timer runs within the second inactive time period, and the second inactive time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device, and the second inactive time period is before the first inactive time period.

[0047] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the third aspect, no downlink data is received during the operation of the above-mentioned second timer; the processing unit is further used to start the first timer at the start time of the activation time period after the second inactive time period or at a time after the start time. Or it can be understood that the second timer continues to run in the second inactive time period, the terminal device does not start the first timer when the second timer ends, and starts the first timer at the start time of the second activation time period or at a time after the start time. For example, the terminal device synchronizes or resynchronizes (for example, downlink synchronization) with the network device at the start time of the next activation time period or at a time after the start time, and starts the first timer. The second activation time period is the time period in which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device.

[0048] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the third aspect, the above-mentioned second timer is the sum of the third timer and the round-trip time RTT, the third timer is the shortest duration before the hybrid automatic repeat request HARQ retransmission downlink allocation expected by the terminal device, and RTT is the round-trip time between the terminal device and the network device.

[0049] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the third aspect, the above-mentioned transceiver unit is specifically used to send a negative response corresponding to the second downlink data if the first time period is greater than half of the RRT between the terminal device and the network device and the second downlink data is not received correctly. The first time period is the time period between the end time of the negative response and the end time of the third activation time period. The third activation time period is the time period for the network device to receive the uplink data sent by the terminal device.

[0050] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the third aspect, the above-mentioned processing unit is also used to stop the second timer if the second timer is running but the second activation time period expires; the processing unit is also used to start the first timer and add an inactivation period to the first timer. The first timer continues to run during the inactivation period and does not receive downlink data during the inactivation period.

[0051] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the third aspect, the above-mentioned transceiver unit is further used to receive configuration information, where the configuration information is used to indicate the first inactive time period and the first active time period.

[0052] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the third aspect, the above-mentioned communication device is applied to a retransmission scenario.

[0053] A fourth aspect of the present application provides a communication device, which is a network device, or a component of a network device (such as a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the network device functions. The communication device includes a transceiver unit.

[0054] The transceiver unit is used to send the first downlink data within a first activation time period, which is a time period during which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device; not to send the first downlink data within a first non-activation time period, which is a time period during which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device, and the first downlink data is retransmission data of the second downlink data.

[0055] Optionally, in a possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the above-mentioned transceiver unit is also used to send second downlink data within a second activation time period, the second activation time period is a time period for the network device to send downlink data to the terminal device, and the second activation time period is before the first activation time period; the transceiver unit is also used to receive feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data.

[0056] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the fourth aspect, the above-mentioned feedback information is a negative response, and the first downlink data is retransmission data of the second downlink data.

[0057] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the fourth aspect, the above-mentioned transceiver unit is further used to send configuration information, where the configuration information is used to indicate the first non-active time period and the first active time period.

[0058] Optionally, in a possible implementation manner of the fourth aspect, the above-mentioned communication device is applied to a retransmission scenario.

[0059] In a fifth aspect, the present application provides a communication device comprising at least one processor coupled to at least one memory; the at least one memory is used to store programs or instructions; and the at least one processor is used to execute the program or instructions so that the device implements a method of any possible implementation of the first aspect described above.

[0060] In a sixth aspect of the present application, a communication device is provided, comprising at least one processor coupled to at least one memory; the at least one memory is used to store programs or instructions; and the at least one processor is used to execute the program or instructions so that the device implements a method of any possible implementation of the aforementioned second aspect.

[0061] In a seventh aspect, the present application provides a communication device comprising at least one logic circuit and at least one input / output interface; the logic circuit is used to execute the method described in any possible implementation of the first aspect.

[0062] In an eighth aspect, the present application provides a communication device comprising at least one logic circuit and at least one input / output interface; the logic circuit is used to execute a method as any possible implementation method in the aforementioned second aspect.

[0063] In a ninth aspect, the present application provides a communication system, which includes a communication device of any possible implementation method in the fifth aspect and a communication device of any possible implementation method in the sixth aspect, or includes a communication device of any possible implementation method in the seventh aspect and a communication device of any possible implementation method in the eighth aspect.

[0064] In a tenth aspect, the present application provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing one or more computer-executable instructions. When the computer-executable instructions are executed by a processor, the processor executes the method described in any possible implementation of any of the first or second aspects above.

[0065] In an eleventh aspect, the present application provides a computer program product (or computer program). When the computer program in the computer program product is executed by the processor, the processor executes the method described in any possible implementation of any of the first or second aspects above.

[0066] A twelfth aspect of the present application provides a chip or chip system, which includes at least one processor for supporting a communication device to implement the method described in any possible implementation method of any aspect of the first or second aspect.

[0067] In one possible design, the chip system may also include at least one memory for storing program instructions and data necessary for the communication device. The chip system may be composed of a chip or may include a chip and other discrete components. Optionally, the chip system also includes an interface circuit that provides program instructions and / or data to at least one processor.

[0068] Among them, the technical effects brought about by any design method in the fifth to twelfth aspects can refer to the technical effects brought about by the different design methods in the above-mentioned first to fourth aspects, and will not be repeated here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0069] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a communication system provided for this application;

[0070] Figure 2a A schematic diagram of the satellite communication process in the transparent transmission mode provided by this application;

[0071] Figure 2b Another schematic diagram of the satellite communication process in the transparent transmission mode provided by this application;

[0072] Figure 2c A schematic diagram of the satellite communication process in the regeneration mode provided by this application;

[0073] Figure 2d Another schematic diagram of the satellite communication process in the regeneration mode provided by this application;

[0074] Figure 2e Another schematic diagram of the satellite communication process in the regeneration mode provided by this application;

[0075] Figure 2f A schematic diagram of the satellite communication process in the 5G system provided by this application;

[0076] Figure 2g Another schematic diagram of the satellite communication process in the regeneration mode provided by this application;

[0077] Figure 3a This is a DRX example diagram provided in this application;

[0078] Figure 3b This is an example diagram of each timer in the NTN scenario provided by this application;

[0079] Figure 3c This is an example diagram of a communication scenario provided by this application;

[0080] Figure 3d for Figure 3c An example diagram of active and inactive time periods corresponding to the communication scenario shown;

[0081] Figure 4 A flow chart of the communication method provided in this application;

[0082] Figure 5 This is an example diagram of the first activation time period and the first inactivation time period provided in this application;

[0083] Figure 6 This is an example diagram of increasing the first duration of a first timer provided by this application;

[0084] Figure 7 This is an example diagram of the relationship between the first timer and the first activation time period / first inactivation time period provided in this application;

[0085] Figure 8 Another flowchart of the communication method provided by this application;

[0086] Figure 9 This is an example diagram of the relationship between each timer and the activation period / inactivation period in the retransmission scenario provided by this application;

[0087] Figures 10 to 13 Several schematic diagrams of the communication device involved in this application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described clearly and completely below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application.

[0089] First, some of the terms used in the embodiments of the present application are explained to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0090] 1. Terminal equipment

[0091] The terminal device can be a wireless terminal device capable of receiving network device scheduling and indication information. The wireless terminal device can be a device that provides voice and / or data connectivity to the user, or a handheld device with wireless connection function, or other processing device connected to a wireless modem.

[0092] The terminal device may be any communication kit with wireless communication capabilities (the kit may include, for example, an antenna, a power supply module, cables, and a Wi-Fi module). The terminal device may also be a communication module with satellite communication capabilities, a satellite phone or its components, or a very small aperture terminal (VSAT). The terminal device may be a mobile terminal device, such as a mobile phone (also known as a "cellular" phone, mobile phone), a computer, and a data card. For example, the terminal device may be a portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-built-in, or vehicle-mounted mobile device that exchanges voice and / or data with a wireless access network. Examples include personal communication service (PCS) phones, cordless phones, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablet computers, and computers with wireless transceiver capabilities. A wireless terminal device may also be referred to as a system, a subscriber unit, a subscriber station, a mobile station, a mobile station (MS), a remote station, an access point (AP), a remote terminal, an access terminal, a user terminal, a user agent, a subscriber station (SS), a customer premises equipment (CPE), a terminal, a user equipment (UE), a mobile terminal (MT), a drone, etc. The terminal device may also be a wearable device and a next-generation communication system, for example, a terminal device in a 6G communication system or a terminal device in a future-evolved public land mobile network (PLMN). Of course, the terminal device in this application may also refer to a chip, a modem, a system on a chip (SoC) that is primarily responsible for relevant communication functions in the device, or a communication platform that may include a radio frequency (RF) part, etc.

[0093] 2. Network equipment

[0094] A network device can be a device in a wireless network. For example, a network device can be a radio access network (RAN) node (or device) that connects a terminal device to a wireless network, also known as a base station. Currently, some examples of RAN devices include: a new generation base station in a future communication system, a transmission reception point (TRP), an evolved Node B (eNB), a radio network controller (RNC), a Node B (NB), a base station controller (BSC), a base transceiver station (BTS), a home base station (e.g., a home evolved Node B, or HNB), a baseband unit (BBU), or a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) access point (AP). In addition, in a network architecture, a network device can include a centralized unit (CU) node, a distributed unit (DU) node, or a RAN device including both a CU node and a DU node.

[0095] In some implementations, the network equipment may also include satellites, aircraft, drones, and ground station equipment connected to the satellites, aircraft, and drones.

[0096] Among them, the network device can send configuration information to the terminal device (for example, carried in a scheduling message and / or an indication message), and the terminal device further performs network configuration according to the configuration information, so that the network configurations between the network device and the terminal device are aligned; or, through the network configuration preset in the network device and the network configuration preset in the terminal device, the network configurations between the network device and the terminal device are aligned. Specifically, "alignment" means that when there are interactive messages between the network device and the terminal device, the two have a consistent understanding of the carrier frequency for sending and receiving interactive messages, the determination of the interactive message type, the meaning of the field information carried in the interactive message, or other configurations of the interactive message.

[0097] In addition, in other possible cases, the network device may be another device that provides wireless communication functions for the terminal device. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology and specific device form used by the network device. For the convenience of description, the embodiments of this application are not limited.

[0098] In the embodiments of the present application, the apparatus for implementing the function of the network device may be the network device, or may be a device capable of supporting the network device in implementing the function, such as a chip system, which may be installed in the network device. In the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application are described by taking the network device as an example.

[0099] 3. Configuration and pre-configuration

[0100] In this application, configuration and pre-configuration are used simultaneously. Configuration refers to the network device / server sending some parameter configuration information or parameter values ​​to the terminal through messages or signaling, so that the terminal can determine the communication parameters or resources during transmission based on these values ​​or information. Pre-configuration is similar to configuration and can be parameter information or parameter values ​​pre-negotiated between the network device / server and the terminal device, parameter information or parameter values ​​used by the base station / network device or terminal device as specified in the standard protocol, or parameter information or parameter values ​​pre-stored in the base station / server or terminal device. This application does not limit this.

[0101] Furthermore, these values ​​and parameters can be changed or updated.

[0102] 4. In this application, "used for indication" can include direct indication and indirect indication. When describing that a certain indication information is used to indicate A, it can be understood that the indication information carries A, directly indicates A, or indirectly indicates A.

[0103] In this application, the information indicated by the indication information is referred to as the information to be indicated. In the specific implementation process, there are many ways to indicate the information to be indicated. For example, it can be implemented by direct indication, such as by indicating the information to be indicated itself or the index of the information to be indicated. It can also be implemented by indirectly indicating other information, wherein there is an association between the other information and the information to be indicated. It is also possible to indicate only a part of the information to be indicated, while the other parts of the information to be indicated are known or agreed in advance. For example, the indication of specific information can also be achieved with the help of the arrangement order of each information agreed in advance (for example, stipulated in the protocol), thereby reducing the indication overhead to a certain extent.

[0104] The information to be indicated can be sent as a whole, or divided into multiple sub-information and sent separately, and the sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information can be the same or different. The specific sending method is not limited in this application. Among them, the sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information can be pre-defined, for example, pre-defined according to the protocol, or configured by the transmitting device by sending configuration information to the receiving device. Among them, the configuration information can, for example, but not limited to, include one or a combination of at least two of RRC signaling, medium access control (MAC) layer signaling and physical layer signaling. Among them, MAC layer signaling, for example, includes MAC CE; physical layer signaling, for example, includes downlink control information (DCI).

[0105] 5. In the embodiments of this application, "sending" and "receiving" refer to the direction of signal transmission. In this application, when entity A sends information to entity B, A may send it directly to B or indirectly to B through another entity. Similarly, when entity B receives information from entity A, entity B may directly receive the information sent by entity A or indirectly receive the information sent by entity A through another entity. Entities A and B herein may be RAN nodes or terminals, or modules within a RAN node or terminal. The sending and receiving of information may be information exchange between a RAN node and a terminal, for example, between a base station and a terminal; between two RAN nodes, for example, between a CU and a DU; or between different modules within a device, for example, between a terminal chip and other modules in the terminal, or between a base station chip and other modules within the base station. "Sending" may also be understood as the "output" of a chip interface, for example, a baseband chip outputting information to a radio frequency chip, and "receiving" may also be understood as the "input" of a chip interface.

[0106] 6. The terms "system" and "network" in the embodiments of the present application can be used interchangeably. "At least one" means one or more, and "plurality" means two or more. "And / or" describes the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that three relationships may exist. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the previous and next associated objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refers to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, "at least one of A, B and C" includes A, B, C, AB, AC, BC or ABC. And, unless otherwise specified, the ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of the present application are used to distinguish multiple objects, and are not used to limit the order, timing, priority or importance of multiple objects.

[0107] The present application can be applied to a long term evolution (LTE) system, a new radio (NR) system, or a new wireless vehicle to everything (NR V2X) system; it can also be applied to a system with a hybrid LTE and 5G network; or a device-to-device (D2D) communication system, a machine-to-machine (M2M) communication system, an Internet of Things (IoT), or a drone communication system; or a communication system that supports multiple wireless technologies such as LTE and NR technologies; or a non-ground communication system, such as a satellite communication system, a high-altitude communication platform, etc. Alternatively, the communication system may also be applicable to narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), enhanced data rate for GSM evolution (EDGE), wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), code division multiple access 2000 (CDMA2000), time division-synchronization code division multiple access (TD-SCDMA), and future-oriented communication technologies. Or it may be other communication systems, wherein the communication system includes network equipment and terminal equipment, the network equipment serves as a configuration information sending entity, and the terminal equipment serves as a configuration information receiving entity. Specifically, in the communication system, there is an entity that sends configuration information to another entity, and sends data to another entity, or receives data sent by another entity; another entity receives the configuration information, and sends data to the configuration information sending entity according to the configuration information, or receives data sent by the configuration information sending entity. Among them, the present application can be applied to terminal devices in a connected state or an active state (active), and can also be applied to terminal devices in a non-connected state (inactive) or an idle state (idle).

[0108] See also Figure 1 , is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system 1000 used in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 1As shown, the communication system includes a radio access network (RAN) 100 and a core network 200. Optionally, the communication system 1000 may further include the Internet 300. The RAN 100 includes at least one RAN node (e.g. Figure 1 110a and 110b in the figure, collectively referred to as 110), may also include at least one terminal (such as Figure 1 120a-120j in the figure, collectively referred to as 120). RAN 100 may also include other RAN nodes, such as wireless relay equipment and / or wireless backhaul equipment ( Figure 1 (not shown). Terminal 120 is wirelessly connected to RAN node 110, and RAN node 110 is wirelessly or wiredly connected to core network 200. The core network equipment in core network 200 and RAN node 110 in RAN 100 can be independent and distinct physical devices, or they can be a single physical device that integrates the logical functions of the core network equipment and the logical functions of the RAN node. Terminals and RAN nodes can be interconnected via wired or wireless means.

[0109] It should be noted that the technical solution of the embodiment of the present application is applicable to a communication system that integrates terrestrial communication and satellite communication, which can also be called a non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication system. In other words, Figure 1 The RAN 100 may include a ground base station, wherein the ground base station may include a TN cell (ie, a signal of the TN cell may be transmitted and received through the ground base station); and Figure 1 The RAN 100 may also include a non-terrestrial base station. For example, if the non-terrestrial base station is a satellite, the satellite may include an NTN cell (i.e., the signal of the NTN cell may be transmitted and received via the satellite). The terrestrial communication system may be, for example, a long term evolution (LTE) system, a universal mobile telecommunication system (UMTS), a 5G communication system or a new radio (NR) system, or a communication system that is the next step in the development of the 5G communication system, etc., and is not limited here.

[0110] Compared to traditional mobile communication systems, satellite communications offer advantages such as wider coverage, communication costs unrelated to transmission distance, and the ability to overcome natural geographical obstacles such as oceans, deserts, and mountains. To overcome the shortcomings of traditional communication networks, satellite communications can serve as an effective supplement to traditional networks. It is generally believed that non-terrestrial network communications have different channel characteristics than terrestrial network communications, such as longer transmission delays and greater Doppler frequency deviations. For example, the round-trip delay for GEO satellite communications is 238 to 270 milliseconds (ms). The round-trip delay for LEO satellite communications is 8 to 20 ms. Satellite communication systems can be categorized into three types based on their orbital altitude: high Earth orbit (GEO) satellite communication systems, also known as synchronous orbit satellite systems; medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellite communication systems; and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication systems.

[0111] GEO satellites, also known as geostationary orbit satellites, orbit at an altitude of 35,786 kilometers (km). Their primary advantages are stationary relative to the Earth and wide coverage. However, GEO satellites also have significant disadvantages: their distance from Earth requires larger antennas; their transmission latency is relatively high, around 0.5 seconds, making them inadequate for real-time services; and their orbital resources are relatively limited, resulting in high launch costs and a lack of coverage in polar regions. MEO satellites, orbiting at altitudes between 2,000 and 35,786 km, can achieve global coverage with a relatively small number of satellites. However, their transmission latency is higher than that of LEO satellites, and they are primarily used for positioning and navigation. Furthermore, satellites orbiting at altitudes between 300 and 2,000 km are called low-Earth Orbit (LEO). LEO satellites are lower than MEO and GEO satellites, resulting in lower data transmission latency, less power consumption, and relatively lower launch costs. Consequently, LEO satellite communication networks have made significant progress in recent years and garnered significant attention.

[0112] In a possible implementation, satellite equipment can be divided into a transparent mode and a regenerative mode according to its working mode.

[0113] The following will be Figure 2a 、 Figure 2b 、 Figure 2c and Figure 2d The implementation shown is an exemplary description of these two modes.

[0114] like Figure 2a In the implementation of the transparent transmission mode shown in FIG, the satellite and the gateway station (ie Figure 2a NTN Gateway in the Figure 2a The Remote Radio Unit (RRU) shown in the figure requires relaying between the terminal device and the gNB. In other words, in transparent transmission mode, the satellite performs relay functions. The satellite's functions include radio frequency filtering, frequency conversion, and amplification. In other words, the satellite primarily acts as an L1 relay, regenerating the physical layer signal.

[0115] For example, in Figure 2b In the transparent transmission mode implementation shown, satellites (including GEO, MEO, and LEO satellites) operate in transparent transmission mode, performing relay functions. Gateway stations perform base station functions or partial base station functions, and in this case, gateway stations can be considered base stations. Alternatively, base stations can be deployed separately from gateway stations, in which case the feeder link latency includes both the satellite-to-gateway latency and the gateway-to-gNB latency.

[0116] Optionally, the transparent transmission mode can be based on the case where the gateway station and the gNB are together or located close to each other. For the case where the gateway station and the gNB are far apart, the feeder link delay can be calculated by adding the delay from the satellite to the gateway station and the delay from the gateway station to the gNB.

[0117] like Figure 2c In one implementation of the regeneration mode shown, the satellite in this mode can also be understood as a regeneration satellite without an intersatellite link. Figure 2c The NTN Gateway in the satellite acts as a gNB, enabling communication with end devices. In other words, in regenerative mode, the satellite performs base station functions or partial base station functions, and can be considered a base station. A regenerative satellite without an intersatellite link (ISL) possesses base station processing capabilities, and the gNB processes payloads.

[0118] For example, in Figure 2d In the implementation of the regeneration mode shown in FIG, when the satellite (including GEO satellite, MEO satellite, LEO satellite, etc.) works in the regeneration mode, compared with Figure 2b In the implementation shown, the satellite has the function of a base station or part of the function of a base station. In this case, the satellite can be regarded as a base station.

[0119] It's important to note that NTN and terrestrial base stations can interconnect through a common core network. Interfaces defined between base stations can also enable more timely collaboration and interconnection. In NR, the interface between base stations is called the Xn interface, and the interface between base stations and the core network is called the NG interface. In a converged network, NTN nodes and terrestrial nodes can achieve interoperability and collaboration using these interfaces.

[0120] like Figure 2e In another implementation of the regenerative mode, the satellite can also be considered a regenerative satellite with an intersatellite link (ISL). The satellite has base station functionality or partial base station functionality, and can be considered a base station. This includes base station processing capabilities, such as a regenerative satellite with ISL and gNB processed payload. Figure 2e and Figure 2c The difference is that Figure 2e ISL exists in the scenario.

[0121] In addition, the present application can be applied to the long term evolution (LTE) system, the new radio (NR) system, or the communication system evolved after 5G (such as 6G, 7G, etc.). Taking 5G as an example, a 5G satellite communication system architecture is as follows: Figure 2f As shown in the figure, ground-based terminal devices access the network via the 5G new air interface. 5G base stations are deployed on satellites and connected to the ground core network via wireless links. Furthermore, wireless links exist between satellites, enabling signaling exchanges and user data transmission between base stations. Figure 2f The devices and interfaces in the are described as follows:

[0122] 5G core network: Provides services such as user access control, mobility management, session management, user security authentication, and billing. It consists of multiple functional units, which can be divided into control plane and data plane functional entities. The access and mobility management function (AMF) is responsible for user access management, security authentication, and mobility management. The user plane function (UPF) is responsible for managing user plane data transmission, traffic statistics, and other functions. The session management function (SMF) is primarily responsible for session management in mobile networks, such as session establishment, modification, and release.

[0123] Ground station: responsible for forwarding signaling and service data between satellite base stations and 5G core network.

[0124] 5G New Air Interface: The wireless link between the terminal and the base station.

[0125] Xn interface: The interface between 5G base stations, mainly used for signaling interactions such as switching.

[0126] NG interface: The interface between the 5G base station and the 5G core network, which mainly interacts with the core network's non-access stratum (NAS) signaling and user service data.

[0127] like Figure 2g In another implementation of the regenerative mode shown, the satellite in this mode can also be understood as a regenerative satellite with base station DU processing capabilities (NG-RAN with a regenerative satellite based on gNB-DU). The satellite has base station processing capabilities such as regenerative satellite with ISL, gNB processed payload, etc. Figure 2g With the aforementioned Figure 2c and Figure 2e The difference is that Figure 2g In the scenario, the satellite acts as DU.

[0128] In addition, the network devices in the terrestrial network communication system and the satellites in the NTN communication system can be uniformly regarded as network devices. The device used to implement the function of the network device can be a network device; it can also be a device that can support the network device to implement the function, such as a chip system, which can be installed in the network device. When describing the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present application below, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present application are described by taking the device used to implement the function of the network device as a satellite as an example. It can be understood that when the method provided by the embodiments of the present application is applied to the terrestrial network communication system, the actions performed by the satellite can be applied to the base station or network device for execution.

[0129] In the embodiments of the present application, the device for realizing the function of the terminal device may be a terminal device; or it may be a device capable of supporting the terminal device to realize the function, such as a chip system, which may be installed in the terminal device. In the embodiments of the present application, the chip system may be composed of a chip, or may include a chip and other discrete devices. In the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application are described by taking the case where the device for realizing the function of the terminal device is a terminal or UE as an example.

[0130] In addition, the above-mentioned satellites can be geostationary satellites, non-geostationary satellites, artificial satellites, low-orbit satellites, medium-orbit satellites, high-orbit satellites, etc., which are not specifically limited in this application.

[0131] The above content introduces various scenarios of wireless communication involved in this application. It should be understood that the above content is only an exemplary description of the scenarios in which this application can be applied. This application can also be applied to other application scenarios (for example, scenarios where satellites are used as integrated access backhaul (IAB)), etc.), which are not limited here. The following will introduce the wireless communication process involved in this application.

[0132] exist Figure 1 / Figure 2a / Figure 2b / Figure 2c / Figure 2d / Figure 2e / Figure 2f / Figure 2g In the illustrated communication system, a signal that a network device can send (e.g., a signal carrying configuration information / configuration signaling, etc.) can configure communication resources. The communication resources may include the communication resources of the network device itself, as well as the communication resources of any adjacent network devices, so that the receiver of the signal can determine the corresponding communication resources based on the signal. For example, if the receiver of the signal is a terminal device, the terminal device can obtain network services based on the communication resources.

[0133] To reduce energy consumption in terminal devices, a DRX mechanism has been introduced. The terminal device periodically enters sleep mode and stops monitoring the PDCCH. When monitoring is required, it wakes up from sleep mode, saving power. Furthermore, the DRX mechanism can be used in both idle and connected states. When used in connected state, it is also referred to as C-DRX.

[0134] For example, a typical C-DRX is Figure 3a As shown in the figure, the period marked "On Duration" is the time when the terminal device monitors PDCCH. During this period, the terminal device is in the awake state, which belongs to the "active period". When the terminal device enters sleep mode and does not monitor PDCCH in order to save power, it belongs to the "dormant period" (or inactive period). Figure 3a As can be seen in the figure, the longer the time used for DRX sleep, the lower the power consumption of the terminal device, but correspondingly, the delay of service transmission will also increase.

[0135] Currently, C-DRX involves drx-RetransmissionTimer and HARQ-RTT-Timer. If the TB decoding of a downlink HARQ process fails, the terminal device can assume that there will be retransmission at least after "HARQ RTT", so when the drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer is running, the terminal device does not need to monitor the PDCCH. When the drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer times out and the data received by the corresponding HARQ process is not successfully decoded, the terminal device will start a drx-RetransmissionTimer for the HARQ process. The drx-RetransmissionTimer indicates the maximum time the terminal device waits for retransmission. When the drx-RetransmissionTimer is running, the terminal device will monitor the PDCCH for HARQ retransmission.

[0136] In the NTN scenario, the round-trip time (RTT) between the UE and the base station is much longer than the range of the drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer. Therefore, after the UE fails to decode and feedback NACK, it starts the drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer after the RTT. When the drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer expires, the UE starts the drx-RetransmissionTimer and starts monitoring the PDCCH. For simplicity, as Figure 3b As shown, NTN introduces HARQ-RTT-Timer-NTN, the value of which is equal to RTT plus drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer (ie, HARQ-RTT-Timer-NTN=drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer+RTT). In the downlink transmission process, the above-mentioned timer can also be called TimerDL.

[0137] However, in the NTN scenario, since the satellite, as a network device, needs to provide services to all terminal devices within the satellite coverage area as much as possible, the satellite needs to provide services through "beam hopping". This method can also be understood as providing services to multiple terminal devices in a time-division manner. For example, Figure 3c An example diagram of a scenario with two users is shown. Figure 3d This figure shows the satellite's discontinuous transmission (DTX) rules. Specifically, the satellite serves user 1 at time T1 and user 2 at time T2. User 2 cannot receive data sent by the satellite at time T1. In other words, even if user 2 were listening for data at time T1, the satellite would not transmit data to user 2 at that time.

[0138] Therefore, in the NTN beam-hopping scenario, the satellite cannot always serve a certain terminal device. Even if the drx-RetransmissionTimer is turned on, the terminal device cannot receive the retransmitted data. Ineffective monitoring will waste the energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0139] In order to solve the above technical problems, the embodiments of the present application provide a communication method and related equipment, which can ensure data retransmission in the NTN beam hopping scenario (or understood as a satellite power-limited scenario). Specifically, during the operation of the first timer, and within the first activation time period when the network device sends downlink data, the first downlink data is received. During the operation of the first timer, the first preset condition is met and the first downlink data is not received. The first preset condition includes any one of the following: the first activation time period expires, the first activation time period ends, or the first timer runs in the first non-activation time period, and the first non-activation time period is a time period when the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device. Compared with the prior art of determining whether to receive retransmitted data only based on whether the first timer is running, it can reduce invalid reception of the terminal device in the first non-activation time period and save energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0140] See also Figure 4 , a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application, the method may include steps 401 to 404. Steps 401 to 404 may be executed by a communication device, or may be executed by some components in the communication device (such as a processor, chip or chip system, etc.), or may be implemented by a logic module or software that can realize all or part of the functions of the communication device. The following description is taken as an example of execution by a communication device. The processing performed by a single execution subject in steps 401 to 404 may also be divided into executions by multiple execution subjects, and these execution subjects may be logically and / or physically separated. For example, in the case where the communication device is a network device, such as a base station, the processing performed by the communication device may be divided into executions by at least one of CU, DU and RU. Steps 401 to 404 are described in detail below. The communication device may include the aforementioned Figures 1 to 2g terminal devices and / or network devices in the network.

[0141] Step 401: The network device sends first downlink data within a first activation time period.

[0142] The network device sends first downlink data to the terminal device within the first activation time period, where the first downlink data is retransmitted data of the second downlink data.

[0143] The first activation time period can be interpreted in many ways. It can refer to the time period during which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device. It can also refer to the time period during which the terminal device receives downlink data sent by the network device. It can also refer to the time period during which the network device covers or serves the terminal device. It can also refer to the time period during which the network device can transmit data (such as downlink data transmission) with the terminal device. It can also refer to the activation time period of the network device DTX. It can also refer to the activation time period of the cell DTX. It can also refer to the activation time period of the beam DTX. It can also refer to the activation time period of the fixed area DTX.

[0144] Optionally, the network device does not send the first downlink data during the first inactive time period.

[0145] Accordingly, the first inactive time period has multiple interpretations. It may refer to a time period when the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device. It may also refer to a time period when the terminal device does not receive downlink data sent by the network device. It may also refer to a time period when the network device does not cover or serve the terminal device. It may also refer to a time period when the network device cannot transmit data (such as downlink data transmission) with the terminal device. It may also refer to the inactive time period of the network device DTX. It may also refer to the inactive time period of the cell DTX. It may also refer to the inactive time period of the beam DTX. It may also refer to the inactive time period of the fixed area DTX.

[0146] Optionally, the first downlink data may also be understood as retransmission data of downlink data of a HARQ process, for example, retransmission of a Medium Access Control Protocol Data Unit (MAC PDU), retransmission of HARQ feedback, and the like.

[0147] Furthermore, in order to achieve flexible scheduling, the first activation time period and the first non-activation time period corresponding to different terminal devices are different.

[0148] For example, continuing the above Figure 3d For example, the first activation time period and the first inactivation time period of terminal device 1, and the first activation time period and the first inactivation time period of terminal device 2 can be as follows: Figure 5 As shown in the figure, it can be seen that the first activation time period of terminal device 1 is different from the first activation time period of terminal device 2, and the first inactive time period of terminal device 1 is different from the first inactive time period of terminal device 2. It is understandable that in actual applications, the first activation time period of terminal device 1 may overlap with the first activation time period of terminal device 2, and the first inactive time period of terminal device 1 may overlap with the first inactive time period of terminal device 2.

[0149] Step 402: The terminal device receives first downlink data while the first timer is running and within the first activation time period.

[0150] The terminal device receives the first downlink data during the operation of the first timer and within the first activation time period.

[0151] This step can also be understood as the terminal device receiving the first downlink data within a certain time period, the time period is within the first activation time period, and the first timer runs within the time period.

[0152] The process of receiving the first downlink data may also be understood as the process of monitoring the PDCCH.

[0153] In the embodiment of the present application, the first timer is used by the terminal device to determine a time period for receiving retransmitted data. The first timer may also be called a downlink reselection timer, for example, drx-Retransmission Timer or drx-Retransmission TimerDL.

[0154] Step 403: During the operation of the first timer, the terminal device satisfies the first preset condition and determines not to receive the first downlink data.

[0155] During the operation of the first timer, the terminal device meets the first preset condition and determines not to receive the first downlink data

[0156] The first preset condition in the embodiment of the present application includes any one of the following: the first activation time period expires, the first activation time period ends, or the random access response window is within the first non-activation time period (which may refer to the start time of the first non-activation time period or other times of the first non-activation time period, etc.), etc., and is not specifically limited here.

[0157] In one possible implementation, during the operation of the first timer, the first preset condition is met, and the first duration of at least one first non-activated time period is added to the first timer. The first timer continues to run during the first non-activated time period, and the first downlink data is not received during the first non-activated time period (or it can be understood as not monitoring the PDCCH corresponding to the retransmitted data). That is, the terminal device will receive the first downlink data only when the first timer is running and in the first activated time period. If the first timer runs in the first non-activated time period, the terminal device does not receive the first downlink data. This method reduces the situation where the terminal device determines that the retransmitted data reception has failed due to not increasing the duration by increasing the first duration.

[0158] It is understandable that the process of increasing the first duration in the above manner can be performed once or multiple times. That is, if after increasing the first duration, the random access response window is running and the first preset condition is met, the duration of at least one first inactive time period is further increased for the random access response window.

[0159] For example, Figure 6 As shown, the network device sends the second downlink data to the terminal device during the first activation time period. The terminal device does not receive the second downlink data or fails to decode the second downlink data. The terminal device sends a negative response corresponding to the second downlink data to the network device. The terminal device starts the first timer to prepare to receive the retransmitted data (i.e., the first downlink data). If the first timer runs within the first inactive time period, the first duration is increased for the first inactive time period. Taking the first duration as 1 first inactive time period as an example, the first timer continues to run during the first inactive time period, but no retransmitted data is received.

[0160] In another possible implementation, if a first preset condition is met during the operation of the first timer, the terminal device pauses the first timer and resumes the paused first timer during the next active time period. Pausing the first timer can prevent the terminal device from ineffectively monitoring the network device during an inactive time period when the network device is not sending data.

[0161] It is understood that the pause-resume process in the above manner can be performed once or multiple times. That is, if after resuming the paused first timer, another period of the first timer running occurs and the first preset condition is met, the first timer is paused again and the paused first timer is resumed in the next activation time period.

[0162] For example, Figure 7 As shown, after the first timer runs for a period of time in the first activation time period, if the first preset condition is met, the first timer is paused and continues to run in the next activation time period.

[0163] In another possible implementation, if a first preset condition is met during the operation of the first timer, the terminal device stops or expires the first timer and does not restart the first timer during the next first activation period. This approach can also be interpreted as the terminal device directly deeming the retransmission to have failed. Expiration can be understood as the timer being shut down due to a failure to receive retransmitted data, and termination can be understood as the timer being actively triggered to shut down by the terminal device.

[0164] In an embodiment of the present application, during the operation of the first timer and within the first activation time period in which the network device sends downlink data, the first downlink data is received. During the operation of the first timer, the first preset condition is met and the first downlink data is not received. The first preset condition includes any one of the following: the first activation time period expires, the first activation time period ends, or the first timer runs within a first inactive time period, where the first inactive time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device. Compared to the prior art in which whether to receive retransmitted data is determined only based on whether the first timer is running, this method can reduce invalid reception by the terminal device within the first inactive time period, thereby saving energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0165] See also Figure 8 , another flow chart of the communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application, the method may include steps 801 to 804. Steps 801 to 804 may be executed by a communication device, or may be executed by some components in the communication device (such as a processor, chip or chip system, etc.), or may be implemented by a logic module or software that can realize all or part of the functions of the communication device. The following description is taken as an example of execution by a communication device. The processing performed by a single execution subject in steps 801 to 804 may also be divided into executions by multiple execution subjects, and these execution subjects may be logically and / or physically separated. For example, in the case where the communication device is a network device, such as a base station, the processing performed by the communication device may be divided into executions by at least one of the CU, DU and RU. Steps 801 to 804 are described in detail below. The communication device may include the aforementioned Figures 1 to 2g terminal devices and / or network devices in the network.

[0166] It is understandable that steps 801 to 804 in this embodiment can be used as a separate embodiment or can be combined with the above-mentioned steps. Figure 4 In combination with the above-mentioned embodiment Figure 4 In the case of combining the illustrated embodiments, steps 801 to 804 may be performed before step 401 .

[0167] Step 801: The network device sends second downlink data to the terminal device.

[0168] The network device sends the second downlink data to the terminal device.

[0169] The second downlink data in the embodiment of the present application can be sent to a specific terminal device or to multiple terminal devices, which is not limited here.

[0170] In addition, this step may be actively triggered by the network device, or may be passively triggered based on a request from the terminal device, and the specifics are not limited here.

[0171] Optionally, the second downlink data may also be understood as downlink data of a HARQ process, for example, MAC PDU, HARQ feedback, and the like.

[0172] Optionally, in order to reduce ineffective monitoring by the terminal device, the network device may send the second downlink data to the terminal device within a second activation time period, which is before the first activation time period.

[0173] The second activation time period can be interpreted in many ways. It can refer to the time period during which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device. It can also refer to the time period during which the terminal device receives downlink data sent by the network device. It can also refer to the time period during which the network device covers or serves the terminal device. It can also refer to the time period during which the network device can transmit data (such as downlink data transmission) with the terminal device. It can also refer to the activation time period of the network device DTX. It can also refer to the activation time period of the cell DTX. It can also refer to the activation time period of the beam DTX. It can also refer to the activation time period of the fixed area DTX.

[0174] Step 802: The terminal device sends feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data to the network device.

[0175] After the network device sends the second downlink data to the terminal device, the terminal device fails to receive the second downlink data (or it can be understood that the terminal device fails to correctly receive the second downlink data).

[0176] In the embodiments of the present application, there are various situations in which the terminal device fails to receive the second downlink data. For example, the terminal device fails to receive the second downlink data. Another example is that the terminal device fails to correctly receive the second downlink data. Another example is that the terminal device fails to decode the second downlink data.

[0177] After the terminal device fails to receive the second downlink data, the terminal device sends feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data to the network device. Specifically, the feedback information is a negative acknowledgement (Negative-Acknowledgment, NACK).

[0178] Furthermore, in order to ensure that the network device can receive the above feedback information sent by the terminal device, conditions for sending the feedback information can be added.

[0179] Specifically, if a condition is met, feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data is sent. This condition is related to at least one of the following: round-trip time (RTT) or a third activation time period. The third activation time period is the time period during which the network device receives uplink data sent by the terminal device. RTT is the transmission delay between the terminal device and the network device.

[0180] For example, the conditions include: the first time period is greater than half of the RTT. For another example, the conditions include: the first time period is greater than the one-way delay between the terminal device and the network device, etc. For another example, the conditions include: the first time period is greater than a time threshold. Of course, in actual applications, the delay compared with the first time period can also be multiplied by a correction coefficient according to actual needs, etc., and the specific details are not limited here. The first time period is the time period between the end time of the feedback information and the end time of the third activation time period. For another example, the conditions include: the time period for the terminal device to send feedback information + the one-way delay is within the third activation time period.

[0181] The above-mentioned conditions for sending feedback information can prevent the network device from not receiving feedback information due to power limitation or beam hopping. Figure 3d For example, user 1 sends feedback information at time T1. However, considering the transmission delay in the NTN scenario, assuming that the feedback information is sent to the satellite at time T2, the satellite cannot receive the feedback information sent by user 1 at time T1.

[0182] Step 803: The terminal device starts a second timer.

[0183] The terminal device starts a second timer.

[0184] The second timer in the embodiment of the present application is used by the terminal device to determine the start time of receiving the retransmitted data. Alternatively, it can be understood that after the terminal device sends a negative response, it assumes that there will be retransmission at least after the second timer. For example, the second timer is drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer or drx-HARQ-RTT-TimerDL, etc. For another example, in the NTN scenario, the second timer is HARQ-RTT-Timer-NTN or HARQ-RTT-TimerDL-NTN, etc.

[0185] Optionally, the second timer is the sum of the third timer and RTT. The third timer is the minimum duration before the terminal device expects the hybrid automatic repeat request HARQ retransmission downlink allocation (i.e., drx-HARQ-RTT-Timer or drx-HARQ-RTT-TimerDL), and RTT is the round-trip time between the network device and the terminal device.

[0186] Furthermore, the second timer is started after the terminal device sends a negative acknowledgment. For example, the second timer corresponding to the HARQ process is started in the first time domain symbol (e.g., radio frame, subframe, time slot, symbol, etc.) corresponding to the end of the transmission of the negative acknowledgment. For another example, the second timer is started when the negative acknowledgment is sent, etc., and the specific details are not limited here.

[0187] Step 804: When the second timer is running in the second inactive time period, the terminal device stops the second timer.

[0188] If the second timer runs within a second inactive time period, the terminal device stops the second timer. The second inactive time period is before the first inactive time period.

[0189] Among them, the second inactive time period has multiple interpretations. It can refer to the time period when the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device. It can also refer to the time period when the terminal device does not receive downlink data sent by the network device. It can also refer to the time period when the network device does not cover or serve the terminal device. It can also refer to the time period when the network device cannot transmit data (such as downlink data transmission) with the terminal device. It can also refer to the inactive time period of the network device DTX. It can also refer to the inactive time period of the cell DTX. It can also refer to the inactive time period of the beam DTX. It can also refer to the inactive time period of the fixed area DTX.

[0190] In one possible implementation, after the terminal device stops the second timer, the terminal device starts the first timer at the start time of the activation period after the second inactive period or at a certain time after the start time. The description of the first timer can refer to the aforementioned Figure 4 The description in the illustrated embodiment will not be repeated here. Alternatively, it can be understood that the second timer continues to run in the second inactive time period, the terminal device does not start the first timer when the second timer ends, and starts the first timer at the start time of the second active time period or at a time after the start time. For example, the terminal device synchronizes or resynchronizes (for example, downlink synchronization) with the network device at the start time of the next active time period or at a time after the start time, and starts the first timer.

[0191] Alternatively, the first timer can be started during the next active period without waiting for the second timer to expire. This effectively cancels out the second timer during the inactive period. This approach improves the speed at which terminal devices receive retransmitted data, compared to existing solutions that require the first timer to be started after the second timer expires.

[0192] For example, Figure 9 As shown, if the second timer is in the inactive time period, the second timer is stopped and the first timer is directly started at the start time of the next active time period or at a time after the start time. That is, the second timer is no longer used to determine whether to start the first timer.

[0193] In another possible implementation, if the second timer is running but the second activation period expires, the second timer is stopped. The terminal device starts the first timer and adds an inactivation period to the first timer. The first timer continues to run during the inactivation period and does not receive downlink data (or monitor the PDCCH) during the inactivation period.

[0194] Furthermore, if the first timer is still running at the end of the next activation time period, the first timer is stopped or expired.

[0195] In the embodiments of the present application, on the one hand, the terminal device considers the RTT when sending feedback information to the network device, that is, it limits the conditions for sending feedback information. This prevents the network device from not receiving feedback information due to power limitations or beam hopping. On the other hand, during the second active time period, the network device sends the second downlink data to the terminal device. Compared with the existing solution in which the terminal device monitors downlink data throughout the entire process, this can reduce invalid reception by the terminal device during the second inactive time period, thereby saving energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0196] Furthermore, the aforementioned Figure 4 In the embodiment shown, before or in the preceding step 401 Figure 8 Before step 801 in the illustrated embodiment, the network device may also send at least one of the following to the terminal device: instruction information, configuration information. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the at least one of the above items sent by the network device.

[0197] The indication information is used to indicate that the power of the network device is limited or to indicate that the network device uses a beam hopping method to serve the terminal device.

[0198] Of course, the network device may not send the indication information. The terminal device may implicitly indicate the power limitation of the network device or instruct the network device to use beam hopping to serve the terminal device through certain fields or pre-configuration.

[0199] The configuration information may be used to indicate at least one of the following: a first active time period, a first inactive time period, a second active time period, a second inactive time period, a third active time period, and the like.

[0200] Optionally, the configuration information may also include at least one of the following resources used by the terminal device to transmit data: time domain resources, frequency domain resources, code domain resources, spatial domain resources, etc.

[0201] In addition, the granularity of the configuration information can be cell granularity, beam granularity, fixed area granularity, etc., which is not limited here.

[0202] The communication method in the embodiment of the present application is described above. The communication device in the embodiment of the present application is described below. Figure 10 , an embodiment of the communication device 1000 in the embodiment of the present application, the communication device 1000 can implement the functions of the terminal device in the above method embodiment, and thus can also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiment. In the embodiment of the present application, the communication device 1000 can be a communication device, or it can be an integrated circuit or component inside the communication device, such as a chip. The communication device 1000 includes: a transceiver unit 1001 and a processing unit 1002. Or the communication device 1000 includes: a transceiver unit 1001.

[0203] In one possible implementation, the communication device 1000 is the aforementioned Figures 1 to 9 In the terminal device of the embodiment shown, the functions of each unit in this case are as follows:

[0204] The transceiver unit 1001 is configured to receive first downlink data during a first timer operation and within a first activation time period, where the first activation time period is a time period during which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device, and the first downlink data is retransmission data of the second downlink data;

[0205] The processing unit 1002 is configured to, when a first preset condition is met during the operation of the first timer, determine not to receive the first downlink data;

[0206] The first preset condition includes any one of the following: the first activation time period expires, the first activation time period ends, or the first timer runs in the first non-activation time period, and the first non-activation time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device.

[0207] Optionally, the processing unit 1002 is also used to meet the first preset condition during the operation of the first timer, increase the first duration of at least one first non-activation time period for the first timer, continue to run the first timer during the first non-activation time period, and not receive the first downlink data during the first non-activation time period.

[0208] Optionally, the processing unit 1002 is further configured to, when a first preset condition is satisfied during the running of the first timer, pause the first timer, and continue to run the paused first timer in the next activation time period.

[0209] Optionally, the processing unit 1002 is further configured to, when a first preset condition is met during the operation of the first timer, stop or expire the first timer, and not start the first timer in a next first activation time period.

[0210] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1001 is also used to send feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data; the processing unit 1002 is also used to start a second timer; the processing unit 1002 is also used to stop the second timer when the second timer runs within a second inactive time period, and the second inactive time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device, and the second inactive time period is before the first inactive time period.

[0211] Optionally, no downlink data is received during the operation of the second timer; the processing unit 1002 is also used to start the first timer at the start time of the activation time period after the second non-activation time period or at a certain time after the start time, and the second activation time period is the time period for the network device to send downlink data to the terminal device.

[0212] Optionally, the second timer is the sum of the third timer and the round-trip time RTT, the third timer is the shortest duration expected by the terminal device before the hybrid automatic repeat request HARQ retransmission downlink allocation, and RTT is the round-trip time between the terminal device and the network device.

[0213] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1001 is specifically used to send a negative response corresponding to the second downlink data if the first time period is greater than half of the RRT between the terminal device and the network device and the second downlink data is not received correctly. The first time period is the time period between the end time of the negative response and the end time of the third activation time period. The third activation time period is the time period for the network device to receive the uplink data sent by the terminal device.

[0214] Optionally, processing unit 1002 is also used to stop the second timer if the second timer is running but the second activation time period expires; processing unit 1002 is also used to start the first timer and add an inactivation period to the first timer. The first timer continues to run during the inactivation period and does not receive downlink data during the inactivation period.

[0215] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1001 is further configured to receive configuration information, where the configuration information is used to indicate a first inactive time period and a first active time period.

[0216] Optionally, the communication device is applied to a retransmission scenario.

[0217] In this embodiment, the operations performed by each unit in the communication device are the same as those described above. Figures 1 to 9 The description of the terminal device in the illustrated embodiment is similar and will not be repeated here.

[0218] In this embodiment, during the operation of the first timer and within the first activation time period when the network device sends downlink data, the transceiver unit 1001 receives the first downlink data. During the operation of the first timer, the first preset condition is met, and the processing unit 1002 determines not to receive the first downlink data. The first preset condition includes any one of the following: the first activation time period expires, the first activation time period ends, or the first timer runs within the first inactive time period, and the first inactive time period is a time period during which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device. Compared with the prior art in which whether to receive retransmitted data is determined only based on whether the first timer is running, invalid reception of the terminal device in the first inactive time period can be reduced, thereby saving energy consumption of the terminal device.

[0219] In another possible implementation, the communication device 1000 is the aforementioned Figures 1 to 9 In the network device of the embodiment shown, the functions of each unit in this case are as follows:

[0220] The transceiver unit 1001 is used to send the first downlink data within the first activation time period, which is the time period during which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device; not to send the first downlink data within the first non-activation time period, which is the time period during which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device, and the first downlink data is the retransmission data of the second downlink data.

[0221] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1001 is also used to send second downlink data within a second activation time period, where the second activation time period is a time period for the network device to send downlink data to the terminal device, and the second activation time period is before the first activation time period; the transceiver unit 1001 is also used to receive feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data.

[0222] Optionally, the feedback information is a negative acknowledgement, and the first downlink data is retransmission data of the second downlink data.

[0223] Optionally, the transceiver unit 1001 is further configured to send configuration information, where the configuration information is used to indicate a first inactive time period and a first active time period.

[0224] Optionally, the communication device is applied to a retransmission scenario.

[0225] In this embodiment, the operations performed by each unit in the communication device are the same as those described above. Figures 1 to 9 The description of the network devices in the illustrated embodiment is similar and will not be repeated here.

[0226] In this embodiment, on the one hand, the transceiver unit 1001 sends the first downlink data and / or the second downlink data during the active time period, and does not send downlink data during the inactive time period. Compared with the solution of monitoring the PDCCH throughout the whole process in the prior art, it can reduce the invalid monitoring of the terminal device during the inactive time period and save the energy consumption of the terminal device. On the other hand, the transceiver unit 1001 considers the RTT when sending feedback information to the network device, that is, limits the conditions for sending feedback information. This can prevent the network device from not receiving feedback information due to power limitation or beam hopping.

[0227] See also Figure 11 , is another schematic structural diagram of the communication device 1100 provided in this application, wherein the communication device 1100 includes a logic circuit 1101 and an input / output interface 1102. The communication device 1100 may be a chip or an integrated circuit.

[0228] in, Figure 10 The transceiver unit 1001 shown may be a communication interface, which may be Figure 11 The input / output interface 1102 in the embodiment may include an input interface and an output interface. Alternatively, the communication interface may be a transceiver circuit, which may include an input interface circuit and an output interface circuit. Figure 10 The processing unit 1002 shown may be Figure 11 Logic circuit 1101 in.

[0229] Optionally, when the communication device is a terminal device in the aforementioned embodiment, the logic circuit 1101 is used for at least one of the following: determining not to receive the first downlink data, controlling the first timer (e.g., starting, pausing, etc.), and controlling the second timer (e.g., starting, pausing, etc.). The input / output interface 1102 is used for at least one of the following: receiving the second downlink data, sending feedback information, receiving the first downlink data, receiving configuration information, etc.

[0230] Optionally, when the communication apparatus is the network device in the aforementioned embodiment, the input / output interface 1102 is used for at least one of the following: sending second downlink data, receiving feedback information, sending first downlink data, sending configuration information, etc.

[0231] The logic circuit 1101 and the input / output interface 1102 may also execute other steps executed by the terminal device or the network device in any embodiment and achieve corresponding beneficial effects, which will not be described in detail here.

[0232] Optionally, the logic circuit 1101 may be a processing device, and the functions of the processing device may be partially or entirely implemented by software. The functions of the processing device may be partially or entirely implemented by software.

[0233] Optionally, the processing device may include a memory and a processor, wherein the memory is used to store a computer program, and the processor reads and executes the computer program stored in the memory to perform corresponding processing and / or steps in any one of the method embodiments.

[0234] Alternatively, the processing device may include only a processor. A memory for storing the computer program is located outside the processing device, and the processor is connected to the memory via circuits / wires to read and execute the computer program stored in the memory. The memory and processor may be integrated or physically separate.

[0235] Optionally, the processing device may be one or more chips, or one or more integrated circuits. For example, the processing device may be one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), system-on-chips (SoCs), central processor units (CPUs), network processors (NPs), digital signal processors (DSPs), microcontroller units (MCUs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), or other integrated chips, or any combination of the above chips or processors.

[0236] See also Figure 12 , is the communication device 1200 involved in the above embodiments provided in the embodiments of the present application. The communication device 1200 can specifically be the communication device serving as the terminal device in the above embodiments.

[0237] Herein, a possible logical structure diagram of the communication device 1200 is shown. The communication device 1200 may include but is not limited to at least one processor 1201 and a communication port 1202 .

[0238] in, Figure 10 The transceiver unit 1001 shown may be a communication interface, which may be Figure 12 The communication port 1202 may include an input interface and an output interface. Alternatively, the communication port 1202 may be a transceiver circuit, which may include an input interface circuit and an output interface circuit.

[0239] It is understandable that Figure 12 The communication port 1202 in the embodiment can be used to transmit at least one of the following: second downlink data, feedback information, first downlink data, configuration information, etc. For example, when the communication device 1200 is a terminal device in the aforementioned embodiment, the communication port 1202 is used for at least one of the following: receiving the second downlink data, sending feedback information, receiving the first downlink data, receiving configuration information, etc. For another example, when the communication device 1200 is a network device in the aforementioned embodiment, the communication port 1202 is used for at least one of the following: sending the second downlink data, receiving feedback information, sending the first downlink data, sending configuration information, etc.

[0240] Further optionally, the device may also include at least one of a memory 1203 and a bus. In an embodiment of the present application, the at least one processor 1201 is used to control and process the actions of the communication device 1200.

[0241] In addition, the processor 1201 can be a central processing unit, a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array or other programmable logic device, a transistor logic device, a hardware component, or any combination thereof. It can implement or execute the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. The processor can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as a combination of one or more microprocessors, a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, and so on. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that for the sake of convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the aforementioned method embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0242] It is understandable that this application Figure 12 The number of the components shown is not limited. For example, the number of processors 1201, the number of communication ports 1202, and the number of memories 1203 can be one or more, and are not specifically limited here.

[0243] It should be noted that Figure 12 The communication device 1200 shown can be specifically used to implement the steps implemented by the terminal device in the aforementioned method embodiment and achieve the corresponding technical effects of the terminal device. Figure 12 The specific implementation of the communication device shown can refer to the description in the aforementioned method embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0244] See also Figure 13 , is a structural diagram of the communication device 1300 involved in the above embodiment provided in the embodiment of the present application. The communication device 1300 can specifically be the communication device as the network device in the above embodiment. The structure of the communication device can refer to Figure 13 The structure shown.

[0245] The communication device 1300 includes at least one processor 1311 and at least one network interface 1314. Further optionally, the communication device also includes at least one memory 1312, at least one transceiver 1313 and one or more antennas 1315. The processor 1311, the memory 1312, the transceiver 1313 and the network interface 1314 are connected, for example, via a bus. In an embodiment of the present application, the connection may include various interfaces, transmission lines or buses, etc., which are not limited in this embodiment. The antenna 1315 is connected to the transceiver 1313. The network interface 1314 is used to enable the communication device to communicate with other communication devices through a communication link. For example, the network interface 1314 may include a network interface between the communication device and the core network device, such as an S1 interface, and the network interface may include a network interface between the communication device and other communication devices (such as other network devices or core network devices), such as an X2 or Xn interface.

[0246] in, Figure 10 The transceiver unit 1001 shown may be a communication interface, which may be Figure 13 The network interface 1314 in the embodiment may include an input interface and an output interface. Alternatively, the network interface 1314 may also be a transceiver circuit, which may include an input interface circuit and an output interface circuit.

[0247] Processor 1311 is primarily used to process communication protocols and communication data, control the entire communication device, execute software programs, and process software program data, for example, to support the communication device in performing the actions described in the embodiments. The communication device may include a baseband processor and a central processing unit. The baseband processor is primarily used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the central processing unit is primarily used to control the entire communication device, execute software programs, and process software program data. Figure 13 The processor 1311 in the embodiment can integrate the functions of a baseband processor and a central processing unit. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the baseband processor and the central processing unit can also be independent processors interconnected via a bus or other technology. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a communication device can include multiple baseband processors to adapt to different network standards, and a communication device can include multiple central processing units to enhance its processing capabilities. The various components of the communication device can be connected via various buses. The baseband processor can also be expressed as a baseband processing circuit or a baseband processing chip. The central processing unit can also be expressed as a central processing circuit or a central processing chip. The function of processing the communication protocol and communication data can be built into the processor, or it can be stored in the memory in the form of a software program, and the processor executes the software program to implement the baseband processing function.

[0248] The memory is primarily used to store software programs and data. Memory 1312 can exist independently and be connected to processor 1311. Alternatively, memory 1312 can be integrated with processor 1311, for example, within a single chip. Memory 1312 can store program code for executing the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and execution is controlled by processor 1311. The various computer program codes executed can also be considered drivers for processor 1311.

[0249] Figure 13 Only one memory and one processor are shown. In an actual communication device, multiple processors and multiple memories may exist. The memory may also be referred to as a storage medium or a storage device. The memory may be a storage element on the same chip as the processor, i.e., an on-chip storage element, or an independent storage element, which is not limited in the embodiments of the present application.

[0250] The transceiver 1313 can be used to support the reception or transmission of radio frequency signals between the communication device and the terminal. The transceiver 1313 can be connected to the antenna 1315. The transceiver 1313 includes a transmitter Tx and a receiver Rx. Specifically, one or more antennas 1315 can receive radio frequency signals. The receiver Rx of the transceiver 1313 is used to receive the radio frequency signal from the antenna, convert the radio frequency signal into a digital baseband signal or a digital intermediate frequency signal, and provide the digital baseband signal or digital intermediate frequency signal to the processor 1311 so that the processor 1311 can further process the digital baseband signal or digital intermediate frequency signal, such as demodulation and decoding. In addition, the transmitter Tx in the transceiver 1313 is also used to receive a modulated digital baseband signal or digital intermediate frequency signal from the processor 1311, convert the modulated digital baseband signal or digital intermediate frequency signal into a radio frequency signal, and transmit the radio frequency signal through one or more antennas 1315. Specifically, the receiver Rx can selectively perform one or more stages of down-mixing and analog-to-digital conversion on the RF signal to obtain a digital baseband signal or a digital intermediate frequency signal. The order of the down-mixing and analog-to-digital conversion processes is adjustable. The transmitter Tx can selectively perform one or more stages of up-mixing and digital-to-analog conversion on the modulated digital baseband signal or digital intermediate frequency signal to obtain a RF signal. The order of the up-mixing and digital-to-analog conversion processes is adjustable. The digital baseband signal and the digital intermediate frequency signal may be collectively referred to as digital signals.

[0251] The transceiver 1313 may also be referred to as a transceiver unit, a transceiver, a transceiver device, etc. Optionally, a device in the transceiver unit that implements a receiving function may be referred to as a receiving unit, and a device in the transceiver unit that implements a transmitting function may be referred to as a transmitting unit. That is, the transceiver unit includes a receiving unit and a transmitting unit. The receiving unit may also be referred to as a receiver, an input port, a receiving circuit, etc., and the transmitting unit may be referred to as a transmitter, a transmitter, or a transmitting circuit, etc.

[0252] It should be noted that Figure 13 The communication device 1300 shown can be specifically used to implement the steps implemented by the network device in the aforementioned method embodiment and achieve the corresponding technical effects of the network device. Figure 13 The specific implementation of the communication device 1300 shown can refer to the description in the aforementioned method embodiment, and will not be repeated here.

[0253] When the above-mentioned communication device is a chip applied to a terminal, the terminal chip implements the functions of the terminal in the above-mentioned method embodiment. The terminal chip receives information from other modules in the terminal (such as a radio frequency module or antenna), and the information is sent by the base station to the terminal; or the terminal chip sends information to other modules in the terminal (such as a radio frequency module or antenna), and the information is sent by the terminal to the base station. For example, when the first device is a terminal, the terminal sending the indication information can be understood as the process of the terminal chip outputting the indication information.

[0254] When the above-mentioned communication device is a module applied to a base station, the base station module implements the function of the base station in the above-mentioned method embodiment. The base station module receives information from other modules in the base station (such as a radio frequency module or an antenna), and the information is sent by the terminal to the base station; or, the base station module sends information to other modules in the base station (such as a radio frequency module or an antenna), and the information is sent by the base station to the terminal. The base station module here can be a baseband chip of the base station, or it can be a DU or other module. The DU here can be a DU under an open radio access network (O-RAN) architecture. For example, when the first device is a base station, the base station sending indication information can be understood as a process in which the base station chip outputs indication information.

[0255] The method steps in the embodiments of the present application can be implemented in hardware or in software instructions that can be executed by a processor. The software instructions can be composed of corresponding software modules, and the software modules can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disk, mobile hard disk, CD-ROM or any other form of storage medium well known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor so that the processor can read information from the storage medium and write information to the storage medium. The storage medium can also be an integral part of the processor. The processor and storage medium can be located in an ASIC. In addition, the ASIC can be located in a base station or a terminal. The processor and storage medium can also exist in a base station or a terminal as discrete components.

[0256] In the above embodiments, all or part of the embodiments may be implemented using software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, all or part of the embodiments may be implemented in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of the present application are performed in whole or in part. The computer may be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a user device, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions may be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium may be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; an optical medium, such as a digital video disk; or a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium may be a volatile or nonvolatile storage medium, or may include both volatile and nonvolatile types of storage media.

[0257] In the various embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise specified or there is a logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that: The method comprises: During the operation of the first timer and within the first activation time period, first downlink data is received, where the first activation time period is a time period for the network device to send downlink data to the terminal device, and the first downlink data is retransmitted data of the second downlink data; During the running of the first timer, a first preset condition is met, and it is determined that the first downlink data is not received; The first preset condition includes any one of the following: the first activation time period expires, the first activation time period ends, or the first timer runs in the first non-activation time period, and the first non-activation time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The method further comprises: During the operation of the first timer, if the first preset condition is met, the first duration of at least one of the first non-activation time periods is added to the first timer, the first timer continues to run during the first non-activation time period, and the first downlink data is not received during the first non-activation time period.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The method further comprises: During the operation of the first timer, if the first preset condition is met, the first timer is paused, and the paused first timer is continued to operate in the next activation time period.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The method further comprises: During the operation of the first timer, if the first preset condition is met, the first timer is stopped or expires, and the first timer is not started in the next first activation time period.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that Before receiving the first downlink data, the method further includes: sending feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data; Start the second timer; The second timer runs in a second inactive time period, and the second timer is stopped. The second inactive time period is a time period in which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device. The second inactive time period is before the first inactive time period.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that No downlink data is received during the operation of the second timer; After stopping the second timer, the method further includes: The first timer is started at the start time of the activation time period after the second non-activation time period or after the start time, and the second activation time period is the time period for the network device to send downlink data to the terminal device.

7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that The second timer is the sum of the third timer and the round-trip time RTT, the third timer is the shortest duration before the hybrid automatic repeat request HARQ retransmission downlink allocation expected by the terminal device, and the RTT is the round-trip time between the terminal device and the network device.

8. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that The sending feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data includes: If the first time period is greater than half of the RRT between the terminal device and the network device, and the second downlink data is not received correctly, a negative response corresponding to the second downlink data is sent. The first time period is the time period between the end time of the negative response and the end time of the third activation time period. The third activation time period is the time period for the network device to receive the uplink data sent by the terminal device.

9. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that The method further comprises: If the second timer is running but the second activation period expires, stop the second timer; The first timer is started, and an inactive duration is added to the first timer. The first timer continues to run during the inactive duration, and no downlink data is received during the inactive duration.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that The method further comprises: Configuration information is received, where the configuration information is used to indicate the first inactive time period and the first active time period.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that The method is applied to a retransmission scenario.

12. A communication method, characterized in that: The method comprises: The first downlink data is sent within a first activation time period, which is a time period during which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device; the first downlink data is not sent within a first non-activation time period, which is a time period during which the network device does not send downlink data to the terminal device, and the first downlink data is retransmission data of the second downlink data.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that Before sending the first downlink data within the first activation time period, the method further includes: Sending the second downlink data within a second activation time period, where the second activation time period is a time period in which the network device sends downlink data to the terminal device, and the second activation time period is before the first activation time period; Receive feedback information corresponding to the second downlink data.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that The feedback information is a negative acknowledgement, and the first downlink data is retransmission data of the second downlink data.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that The method further comprises: Send configuration information, where the configuration information is used to indicate the first inactive time period and the first active time period.

16. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that The method is applied to a retransmission scenario.

17. A communication device, characterized in that: The communication device includes: a processing unit and a transceiver unit; The processing unit and the transceiver unit are configured to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. A communication device, characterized in that: The method comprises at least one processor coupled to at least one memory; the at least one processor is configured to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

19. A chip or a chip system, characterized in that: The chip or chip system is configured to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

20. A communication system, characterized in that: The invention comprises a communication device for executing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and a communication device for executing the method according to any one of claims 12 to 16.

21. A readable storage medium, characterized in that The storage medium stores a computer program or instruction. When the computer program or instruction is executed by the communication device, the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16 is implemented.

22. A computer program product, characterized in that The method comprises instructions which, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

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