Communication method and device, computer readable storage medium and computer program product

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and device, a computer readable storage medium and a computer program product, and the communication method comprises the steps: transmitting a first sensing signal which is used for requesting random access; and sending a sensing result, wherein the sensing result is determined according to the echo signal of the first sensing signal. The invention provides a scheme for realizing early perception of terminal equipment through existing communication signals.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus, a computer-readable storage medium, and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] Future communication devices, such as user equipment (UE), may not only be equipped with communication functions but also undertake some sensing functions. The principle behind this sensing is to estimate the position, shape, and motion of objects in the surrounding environment based on the electromagnetic waves received by the communication device. These electromagnetic waves can be echoes emitted by the communication device itself or electromagnetic waves actively emitted by other objects.

[0003] Communication and sensing integration is an important technological direction for the development of wireless communication. Its main features are: on the one hand, the device can share the hardware for signal transmission and reception between the communication module and the sensing module to save hardware costs; on the other hand, the device can realize the function of sensing the communication environment by detecting the communication signal transmission channel.

[0004] How to achieve early sensing of terminal devices using existing communication signals is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a scheme for enabling early sensing of terminal devices using existing communication signals.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution:

[0007] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided, comprising: sending a first sensing signal, the first sensing signal being used to request random access; and sending a sensing result, the sensing result being determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

[0008] Optionally, transmitting the sensing result includes: transmitting the sensing result in response to the signal quality of the echo signal reaching a first threshold.

[0009] Optionally, the sensing result includes information about the target object and quality information about the echo signal, wherein the echo signal is formed by the target object reflecting the first sensing signal.

[0010] Optionally, transmitting the sensing result includes: transmitting the sensing result on a first physical uplink shared channel (PO) time slot, wherein the first PO and the random access time slot where the first sensing signal is located have a first time interval, and the first time interval is used to determine the sensing result.

[0011] Optionally, the first PO is also used to send a connection establishment request message.

[0012] Optionally, the communication method further includes: sending a connection establishment request message on the second PO, wherein the second PO and the random access time of the first sensing signal have a second time interval, the second time interval being shorter than the first time interval.

[0013] Optionally, the communication method further includes: sending a connection establishment request message on a first PO, wherein the first PO and the random access time at which the first sensing signal is located have a first time interval, and the first time interval is used to determine the sensing result.

[0014] Optionally, sending the first sensing signal includes: sending the first sensing signal at a first random access timing, wherein the first random access timing indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

[0015] Optionally, before sending the first sensing signal, the method further includes receiving a first signaling, wherein the first signaling includes configuration information of the first random access timing.

[0016] Optionally, the first sensing signal indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

[0017] Optionally, transmitting the first sensing signal includes: transmitting the first sensing signal using multiple beams, wherein the sensing result is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal on at least one beam, and the sensing result includes the identifier of the at least one beam.

[0018] Optionally, after sending the first sensing signal, the method further includes: receiving a random access response, wherein the random access response includes first information, and the first information indicates whether to report the sensing result.

[0019] Optionally, the random access response has a first bit field, which is used to carry the first information.

[0020] Optionally, before sending the first sensing signal, the method further includes receiving a second signaling, the second signaling including second information, the second information indicating whether the sensing result should be reported.

[0021] Secondly, this application also provides a communication method, the communication method comprising: receiving a first sensing signal, the first sensing signal being used to request random access; and receiving a sensing result, the sensing result being determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

[0022] Optionally, sending the sensing result includes: receiving the sensing result on a first physical uplink shared channel (PO), wherein the first PO and the random access time where the first sensing signal is located have a first time interval, and the first time interval is used to determine the sensing result.

[0023] Optionally, the communication method further includes: receiving a connection establishment request message on a first PO, wherein the first PO and the random access time at which the first sensing signal is located have a first time interval, and the first time interval is used to determine the sensing result.

[0024] Optionally, receiving the first sensing signal includes: receiving the first sensing signal at a first random access timing, wherein the first random access timing indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

[0025] Optionally, before receiving the first sensing signal, the method further includes: sending a first signaling message, wherein the first signaling message includes configuration information of the first random access timing.

[0026] Optionally, after receiving the first sensing signal, the method further includes: sending a random access response, wherein the random access response includes first information, and the first information indicates whether to report the sensing result.

[0027] Optionally, before receiving the first sensing signal, the method further includes sending a second signaling message, the second signaling message including second information, the second information indicating whether the sensing result should be reported.

[0028] Thirdly, this application also provides a communication device, comprising: a communication module for transmitting a first sensing signal, the first sensing signal being used to request random access; the communication module is further configured to transmit a sensing result, the sensing result being determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

[0029] Fourthly, this application also provides a communication device, comprising: a communication module for receiving a first sensing signal, the first sensing signal being used to request random access; the communication module is further configured to receive a sensing result, the sensing result being determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

[0030] Fifthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon, the computer program being executed by a processor to perform any one of the methods provided in the first or second aspect.

[0031] In a sixth aspect, a communication device is provided, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program executable on the processor, and the processor executes the computer program to perform any of the methods provided in the first aspect.

[0032] In a seventh aspect, a communication device is provided, including a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program executable on the processor, and the processor executes the computer program to perform any of the methods provided in the second aspect.

[0033] Eighthly, a computer program product is provided, on which a computer program is stored, the computer program being executed by a processor to perform any one of the methods provided in the first or second aspect.

[0034] Ninthly, a communication system is provided, including the aforementioned terminal equipment and the aforementioned network equipment.

[0035] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a chip (or data transmission device) on which a computer program is stored, and when the computer program is executed by the chip, the steps of the above method are implemented.

[0036] Eleventhly, embodiments of this application also provide a system chip for use in a terminal. The chip system includes at least one processor and an interface circuit. The interface circuit and the at least one processor are interconnected via a line. The at least one processor is used to execute instructions to perform any one of the methods provided in the first or second aspect.

[0037] Compared with the prior art, the technical solution of this application has the following beneficial effects:

[0038] In this application's technical solution, the terminal device sends a first sensing signal, which is used to request random access; it also sends a sensing result, which is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal. This application's technical solution, by performing sensing during the random access process, enables the terminal device to obtain environmental awareness information early in the network access process and report the sensing result to the network device during network access. This helps optimize the network device's subsequent communication / sensing scheduling and improves the communication experience.

[0039] Furthermore, the terminal device sends the sensing results when the signal quality of the echo signal reaches a first threshold. In the technical solution of this application, the terminal device reports the sensing results to the network device when the signal quality of the echo signal is sufficiently good, which can ensure the reliability of the sensing results.

[0040] Furthermore, a first sensing signal is sent at the first random access opportunity, indicating that the sensing function is enabled, or the first sensing signal indicates that the sensing function is enabled. In the technical solution of this application, the terminal device enables the sensing function through the first random access opportunity or the first sensing signal, enabling the network device to know that the terminal device has enabled the sensing function, and may send the sensing result, which can reduce the number of blind detections by the network device to a certain extent and improve communication efficiency.

[0041] Furthermore, the terminal device uses multiple beams to transmit the first sensing signal, and the sensing result is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal on at least one beam. The sensing result includes the identifier of at least one beam. This technical solution determines the sensing result using the first sensing signal on at least one beam, enabling the terminal device to sense target objects in multiple directions and improving sensing efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0042] Figure 1 This is an interactive flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 2 This is an interactive flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a random access timing and PO provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 4 This is an interactive flowchart of another communication method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0046] Figure 5 This is an interactive flowchart of another communication method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0047] Figure 6 This is an interactive flowchart of another communication method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0048] Figure 7 This is an interactive flowchart of another communication method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0049] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a specific application scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0052] The communication systems applicable to the embodiments of this application include, but are not limited to, Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, 5th-generation (5G) systems, New Radio (NR) systems, and future evolution systems or multiple converged communication systems. The 5G system can be a non-standalone (NSA) 5G system or a standalone (SA) 5G system. The technical solutions of this application are also applicable to different network architectures, including but not limited to relay network architectures, dual-connectivity architectures, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication architectures.

[0053] This application primarily relates to communication between terminal devices and network devices. Specifically:

[0054] The network device in this application embodiment can also be called an access network device, for example, it can be a base station (BS) (also called a base station device). A network device is a device deployed in a radio access network (RAN) to provide wireless communication functions. For example, in second-generation (2G) networks, the equipment providing base station functionality includes base transceiver stations (BTS); in third-generation (3G) networks, the equipment providing base station functionality includes nodes (NodeB); in fourth-generation (4G) networks, the equipment providing base station functionality includes evolved nodes (eNB); in wireless local area networks (WLANs), the equipment providing base station functionality is the access point (AP); in NR, the equipment providing base station functionality includes next-generation node base stations (gNBs) and further evolved nodes (ng-eNBs). gNBs and terminal devices communicate using NR technology, while ng-eNBs and terminal devices communicate using evolved universal terrestrial radio access (E-UTRA) technology. Both gNBs and ng-eNBs can connect to the 5G core network. The network devices in this application embodiment also include devices that provide base station functions in future new communication systems.

[0055] In this application, "terminal equipment" can refer to various forms of access terminals, user units, user stations, mobile stations, mobile stations (MS), remote stations, remote terminals, mobile devices, user terminals, wireless communication equipment, user agents, or user devices. Terminal equipment can also be cellular phones, cordless phones, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phones, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) stations, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, terminal equipment in future 5G networks, or terminal equipment in future evolved Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs), etc. This application does not limit the scope of these terms. Terminal equipment can also be referred to as User Equipment (UE), terminal, etc.

[0056] As described in the background section, how to achieve early perception of terminal devices using existing communication signals is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved.

[0057] Specifically, if environmental awareness information can be obtained early in the process of terminal devices accessing the network, it will be beneficial for subsequent processes such as beam management and channel state information (CSI) feedback.

[0058] Random access procedures are divided into contention-based random access and non-contention-based random access, used to establish uplink synchronization between terminal devices and network devices. Contention-based random access procedures are mainly divided into four-step random access (RACH), also known as 4-step RACH, and two-step random access (2-step RACH). In the two-step random access procedure, message A (MsgA) contains the contents of messages 1 (Msg1) and 3 (Msg3) from the 4-step RACH, and message B (MsgB) contains the contents of messages 2 (Msg2) and 4 (Msg4) from the 4-step RACH.

[0059] Non-contention-based random access is triggered by Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) orders or Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling sent by network devices, and allocates dedicated preamble and Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) resources, thus eliminating contention. Triggering reasons include: downlink (DL) data arriving at the terminal device but uplink synchronization failure, cell handover, increased uplink data volume, the need to add a new cell with a different time alignment (TA) than the already synchronized cell, and the need for location services.

[0060] The technical solution of this application enables terminal devices to obtain environmental awareness information in the early stages of network access by performing perception during random access. Furthermore, it enables terminal devices to report perception results to network devices during network access, thereby assisting in optimizing subsequent communication / perception scheduling of network devices and improving the communication experience.

[0061] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, specific embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] See Figure 1 The method provided in this application specifically includes the following steps:

[0063] Step 101: The terminal device sends a first sensing signal to the network device. The first sensing signal is used to request random access.

[0064] Step 102: The terminal device sends the sensing result to the network device. The sensing result is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

[0065] It should be noted that the sequence number of each step in this embodiment does not represent a limitation on the execution order of each step.

[0066] It is understood that, in specific implementations, the communication method can be implemented using a software program, which runs in a processor integrated within the chip or chip module. The method can also be implemented using a combination of software and hardware; this application does not impose any restrictions.

[0067] The perception results in this embodiment can also be referred to as perception messages, perception information, etc., and this application does not impose any restrictions on them.

[0068] In this embodiment, steps 101 and 102 can be executed synchronously. For example, in a two-step random access process, the terminal device carries the first sensing signal and the sensing result in the same message (i.e., message A). Steps 101 and 102 can also be two steps, carried in two messages. For example, in a four-step random access process, the terminal device sends the first sensing signal in message 1 and carries the sensing result in message 3.

[0069] Specifically, the first sensing signal can be a preamble, which the terminal device sends to request random access. That is, the preamble can be used to request random access or for environmental sensing. The terminal device sends the first sensing signal, and the target object reflects the signal, forming an echo signal. The terminal device receives the echo signal and determines the sensing result based on it. The sensing result can include information about the target object, such as its position, distance, and reflectivity.

[0070] Optionally, the preamble used for the self-transmitting and self-receiving sensing function of terminal devices can be configured independently. That is, when the terminal device sends this type of preamble, it will simultaneously detect the echo of the preamble and subsequently report the sensing information to the network side. Alternatively, the random access timing (RO) resources used for the self-transmitting and self-receiving sensing function of terminal devices can be configured independently. That is, when the terminal device uses this type of RO resource to send the preamble, it will simultaneously detect the echo of the preamble and subsequently report the sensing information to the network side.

[0071] The technical solution of this application enables terminal devices to obtain environmental awareness information in the early stages of network access by performing perception during random access. Furthermore, it enables terminal devices to report perception results to network devices during network access, thereby assisting in optimizing subsequent communication / perception scheduling of network devices and improving the communication experience.

[0072] In a non-limiting embodiment of this application, the terminal device sends a sensing result in response to the signal quality of the echo signal reaching a first threshold.

[0073] In this embodiment, the terminal device only sends the sensing results when the signal quality of the echo signal reaches a first threshold, that is, when the signal quality of the echo signal is good enough. This is because when the signal quality of the echo signal is below the first threshold, the accuracy of the sensing results is low and has little reference value, so the terminal device may not report the sensing results. Reporting the sensing results to the network device when the signal quality of the echo signal is good enough ensures the reliability of the sensing results.

[0074] Specifically, the signal quality of the echo signal can be represented by one or more of the following parameters: Reference Signal Receiving Power (RSRP), Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio (SINR), Reference Signal Receiving Quality (RSRQ), Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI), etc.

[0075] Currently, the selection criterion for the two-step random access procedure is the measured value of the downlink path loss reference signal, such as RSRP being greater than a certain threshold (which can be expressed as msgA-RSRP-Threshold). Therefore, in this embodiment, the selection criterion for the two-step random access procedure can further include the following condition: the signal quality of the echo signal is greater than or not lower than a first threshold. That is, when both the measured value of the downlink path loss reference signal and the signal quality of the echo signal meet the above conditions, the terminal device performs random access using the two-step random access procedure and sends sensing information to the network side.

[0076] It should be noted that the first threshold can be configured by the network device for the terminal device through higher-layer signaling or downlink control information (DCI), or it can be specified by the communication standard protocol. This application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0077] In a non-limiting embodiment of this application, the sensing result includes information about the target object and quality information about the echo signal, which is formed by the target object reflecting the first sensing signal.

[0078] Unlike the previous embodiments, this application embodiment does not consider the signal quality of the echo signal when reporting the sensing results. That is, the terminal device directly reports the sensing result to the network device after sensing and determining it. In addition to information about the target object, the sensing result may also include echo signal quality information, which the network device can use to make decisions based on the sensing results.

[0079] The following descriptions illustrate different random access scenarios with specific implementation examples.

[0080] Example 1: Two-step random access process. The terminal device sends the sensing result on the first Physical Uplink Shared Channel Occasion (PO) and sends a connection establishment request message on the second PO.

[0081] Please refer to the details. Figure 2 In step 201, the terminal device sends message A to the network device. Message A includes a first sensing signal, a sensing result, and a connection establishment request message. The sensing result is located on the first PO, and the connection establishment request message is located on the second PO.

[0082] In this embodiment of the application, the sensing result and the connection establishment request message are sent on two POs respectively.

[0083] Refer to together Figure 3 The first PO and the random access timing (PRACH Occasion, RO) of the first sensing signal have a first time interval, and the second PO and RO have a second time interval N. gap The second time interval is shorter than the first time interval. The second PO can be a traditional PO.

[0084] The first PO used to send the sensing results has a longer time interval because the terminal device needs more time to process the echo signal compared to sending a connection establishment request. That is, the time difference Δ between the first and second time intervals... gap It can enable terminal devices to receive echo signals and process them to obtain sensing results.

[0085] In this embodiment, one RO corresponds to two POs (i.e., the first PO and the second PO). Accordingly, the network device needs to perform blind detection at both PO locations.

[0086] In step 202, the network device sends message B to the terminal device. Accordingly, the terminal device receives message B. Specifically, message B may include a random access response and a contention resolution message.

[0087] Example 2: Two-step random access process, the terminal device sends the sensing result and connection establishment request message on the first PO.

[0088] Unlike the previous embodiments where the terminal device sends the sensing result and connection establishment request message on two POs, this embodiment sends the sensing result and connection establishment request message on one PO.

[0089] Specifically, the terminal device sends a sensing result and a connection establishment request message on the first PO, and the first PO and the random access time where the first sensing signal is located have a first time interval Δ. gap +N gap .

[0090] In this embodiment, one RO corresponds to one PO (i.e., the first PO). Accordingly, for the network device, it only needs to perform blind detection at the location of the first PO.

[0091] Example 3: Two-step random access process, the terminal device sends a connection establishment request message on the first PO.

[0092] In this embodiment, one RO corresponds to one PO (i.e., the first PO). Accordingly, for the network device, it only needs to perform blind detection at the location of the first PO.

[0093] In this embodiment, the terminal device sends the sensing result when the signal quality of the echo signal reaches a first threshold. Therefore, if the signal quality of the echo signal does not reach the first threshold, the terminal device does not need to provide a sensing result. In this case, the terminal device may also only report a connection establishment request message on the first PO.

[0094] Example 4: Two-step random access process, the terminal device sends the first sensing signal at the first random access time.

[0095] Specific reference Figure 4 In step 401, the terminal device sends message A to the network device. Correspondingly, the network device receives message A. Message A includes a first sensing signal, which is located at a first random access timing. The first random access timing indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

[0096] In other words, when the terminal device sends a first sensing signal during the first random access opportunity, and the network device receives the first sensing signal during the first random access opportunity, the network device can know that the terminal device has enabled the sensing function. The terminal device can receive the echo signal of the first sensing signal and determine the sensing result. Then the network device can know that the terminal device may report the sensing result.

[0097] In this embodiment, the first sensing signal can be a common / existing / traditional preamble.

[0098] Specifically, the first random access opportunity can be a specific RO resource that differs from existing random access opportunities. This resource can be configured by the network device for the terminal device or specified by the communication standard protocol; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0099] In one specific embodiment, if the signal quality of the echo signal reaches a first threshold, the terminal device reports the sensing result; otherwise, the terminal device does not report the sensing result.

[0100] In another specific embodiment, the terminal device may disregard the signal quality of the echo signal and directly report the sensing result to the network device after determining the sensing result.

[0101] In step 402, the network device sends message B to the terminal device.

[0102] Example 5: In the two-step random access process, the first sensing signal sent by the terminal device indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

[0103] In this embodiment, the terminal device can send message A during a traditional random access event. Message A includes a first sensing signal, which can indicate whether the sensing function is enabled. Specifically, the first sensing signal can be a special preamble.

[0104] In this embodiment, the random access timing resource where the first sensing signal is located can be a normal / existing / traditional random access timing resource.

[0105] Furthermore, the aforementioned first sensing signal may be configured by the network device for the terminal device, or may be specified by the communication standard protocol; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0106] Example 6: A four-step random access process. The random access response includes first information, which indicates whether the sensing result should be reported.

[0107] Please refer to the details. Figure 5 In step 501, the terminal device sends message 1 to the network device, message 1 including a first sensing signal.

[0108] In step 502, the network device sends message 2 to the terminal device. Message 2 includes a random access response, which includes first information that indicates whether to report the sensing results.

[0109] Specifically, the random access response has a first bit field, which is used to carry first information. For example, the first information occupies one bit, and when the value of this bit is 1, it indicates that the sensing result needs to be reported; when the value of this bit is 0, it indicates that the sensing result does not need to be reported.

[0110] If the first information indicates that the perception result should be reported, in step 503, the terminal device sends message 3 to the network device. Message 3 includes the perception result and a random access request.

[0111] If the first information indicates that the perception result should not be reported, message 3 includes a random access request.

[0112] In step 504, the network device sends message 4 to the terminal device, message 4 including a contention resolution message.

[0113] Example 7: Four-step random access process, the terminal device sends the first sensing signal at the first random access time.

[0114] Refer to together Figure 6 In step 601, the terminal device sends message 1 to the network device. Message 1 includes a first sensing signal, and the first sensing signal is located at a first random access timing. The first random access timing indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

[0115] In other words, when the terminal device sends a first sensing signal during the first random access opportunity, and the network device receives the first sensing signal during the first random access opportunity, the network device can know that the terminal device has enabled the sensing function. The terminal device can receive the echo signal of the first sensing signal and determine the sensing result. Then the network device can know that the terminal device may report the sensing result.

[0116] In step 602, the network device sends message 2 to the terminal device.

[0117] In step 603, the terminal device sends message 3 to the network device. Message 3 may include the sensing result.

[0118] In step 604, the network device sends message 4 to the terminal device.

[0119] Example 8: In the four-step random access process, the first sensing signal sent by the terminal device indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

[0120] In this embodiment, the terminal device can send message 1 during a traditional random access event. Message 1 includes a first sensing signal, which can indicate whether the sensing function is enabled. Specifically, the first sensing signal can be a special preamble.

[0121] Example 9: Non-contention random access, random access is triggered by PDCCH command or RRC signaling, and the terminal device sends a first sensing signal at the first random access opportunity.

[0122] In this embodiment, the terminal device receives a PDCCH command, such as Downlink Control Information (DCI), indicating that random access should be triggered.

[0123] Then, the terminal device sends a first sensing signal during the first random access opportunity, and the network device receives the first sensing signal during the first random access opportunity. The network device can then determine that the terminal device has enabled the sensing function. The terminal device can receive the echo signal of the first sensing signal and determine the sensing result. Therefore, the network device can then determine that the terminal device may report the sensing result.

[0124] In this embodiment, the first sensing signal can be a common / existing / traditional preamble.

[0125] Example 10: Non-contention random access, random access is triggered by PDCCH command (PDCCH order) or RRC signaling, instructing the terminal device to send a first sensing signal, which is used for sensing function.

[0126] In this embodiment, the first sensing signal itself can indicate whether the sensing function is enabled. Specifically, the first sensing signal can be a special preamble.

[0127] Optionally, the PDCCH command may indicate at least one of the following: preamble information for sensing (such as sequence index number), RO time-frequency resource information for transmitting the preamble, Physical Uplink Control Channel (PUCCH) resources or Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) resources for feeding back sensing information, the time interval between the preamble for sensing and the PUCCH or PUSCH carrying the sensing information, and the time interval between the PUCCH resources or PUSCH resources for feeding back sensing information and the PDCCH command.

[0128] In this embodiment, the random access timing resource where the first sensing signal is located can be a normal / existing / traditional random access timing resource.

[0129] Example 11: Non-contention random access, random access is triggered by PDCCH command or RRC signaling, and the network indicates the reporting of sensing results through second signaling.

[0130] Please refer to the details. Figure 7 In step 701, the network device sends a second signaling message to the terminal device. The second signaling message includes second information, which indicates whether the sensing result should be reported.

[0131] In step 702, the network device sends a PDCCH command or RRC signaling to the terminal device, indicating the triggering of random access. The PDCCH command or RRC signaling includes configuration information for the first sensing signal. Specifically, the configuration information may indicate a dedicated preamble and dedicated PRACH resources.

[0132] In step 703, the terminal device sends a first sensing signal to the network device. Specifically, this can be the aforementioned dedicated preamble.

[0133] In step 704, the terminal device sends the sensing results to the network device.

[0134] In one variation, the second signaling is the same as the PDCCH command or RRC signaling in step 702. That is, the network device sends the configuration information of the first sensing signal and the second information through the PDCCH command or RRC signaling.

[0135] Example 12: The terminal device uses multiple beams to send a first sensing signal. The sensing result is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal on at least one beam. The sensing result includes the identifier of the at least one beam.

[0136] In this embodiment, the terminal device can repeatedly transmit the first sensing signal on multiple beams (i.e., in multiple directions), and the terminal device can receive the echo signal of the first sensing signal on at least one beam. In other words, the terminal device can sense target information in more directions, achieving comprehensive sensing. (See also...) Figure 8 The terminal device can repeatedly transmit the first sensing signal on beams 1-5. There are target 1 and target 2 around the terminal device. The terminal device can receive the echo signal of target 1 on beam 4 and the echo signal of target 2 on beam 3.

[0137] Furthermore, when the terminal device reports the perception results, since the perception results may include perception information from multiple directions, the terminal device can include the beam identifier in the perception results and report it to the network device so that the network device can obtain target information from multiple directions and the direction information of the target.

[0138] Optionally, the terminal device can select one or several beams with the best echo quality to report. The echo quality can be determined by directly checking if the channel quality of the echo is greater than or equal to a certain threshold, or the terminal can manually select one or several of the best echoes to report. The number of echoes can be pre-configured by the network side via higher-layer signaling, determined by the terminal device itself, or determined through a predefined method.

[0139] Continue to refer to Figure 8 The terminal device reports the target information of target 1 and the index of beam 4, the target information of target 2 and the index of beam 3 in the perception results.

[0140] Specifically, this embodiment can be used for four-step random access procedures, two-step random access procedures, and non-contention-based access procedures. For example, in a four-step random access procedure, the terminal device repeatedly transmits message 1 on multiple beams and reports the sensing results in message 3. As another example, in a two-step random access procedure, the terminal device repeatedly transmits message A on multiple beams, where message A includes a preamble and the sensing results.

[0141] For more specific implementations of the embodiments of this application, please refer to the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0142] Please refer to Figure 9 , Figure 3 A communication device 90 is shown, which may include:

[0143] Communication module 901 is used to receive a first sensing signal sent by the receiving module. The first sensing signal is used to request random access.

[0144] The communication module 901 is also used to send the sensing results, which are determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

[0145] In specific implementations, the aforementioned communication device 90 may correspond to a chip with communication function in a terminal device, such as a system-on-a-chip (SOC), a baseband chip, etc.; or to a chip module in a terminal device that includes a chip with communication function; or to a chip module with a chip with data processing function; or to a terminal device.

[0146] Furthermore, the communication module 901 sends the sensing result in response to the signal quality of the echo signal reaching a first threshold.

[0147] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is used to transmit the sensing result on the first physical uplink shared channel timing PO, the first PO and the random access timing where the first sensing signal is located have a first time interval, the first time interval is used to determine the sensing result.

[0148] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is used to send a connection establishment request message on the second PO, and the second PO and the random access time where the first sensing signal is located have a second time interval, which is shorter than the first time interval.

[0149] Furthermore, the communication module 901 sends a connection establishment request message on the first PO. The first PO and the random access time where the first sensing signal is located have a first time interval, which is used to determine the sensing result.

[0150] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is used to send a first sensing signal at a first random access opportunity, the first random access opportunity indicating the enabling of the sensing function.

[0151] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is used to transmit a first sensing signal using multiple beams, and the sensing result is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal on at least one beam. The sensing result includes the identification of at least one beam.

[0152] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is used to receive a random access response, which includes first information indicating whether to report the sensing results.

[0153] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is used to receive a second signaling, which includes second information indicating whether the sensing result should be reported.

[0154] In another non-limiting embodiment, the communication module 901 is configured to receive a first sensing signal, the first sensing signal being used to request random access;

[0155] The communication module 901 is also used to receive the sensing result, which is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

[0156] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is also used to receive the sensing results on the first physical uplink shared channel PO.

[0157] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is also used to receive a connection establishment request message on the first PO.

[0158] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is also used to receive a first sensing signal at a first random access opportunity, the first random access opportunity indicating the enabling of the sensing function.

[0159] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is also used to send a first signaling message, which includes configuration information for a first random access opportunity.

[0160] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is also used to send a random access response, which includes first information indicating whether to report the sensing results.

[0161] Furthermore, the communication module 901 is also used to send a second signaling message, which includes second information indicating whether the sensing result should be reported.

[0162] In specific implementations, the aforementioned communication device 90 may correspond to a chip with communication function in a network device, such as a SOC or baseband chip; or to a chip module in a network device that includes a chip with communication function; or to a chip module with a chip that has data processing function; or to a network device.

[0163] Other relevant descriptions of the communication device 90 can be found in the descriptions in the foregoing embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0164] Regarding the modules / units included in the various devices and products described in the above embodiments, they can be software modules / units, hardware modules / units, or a combination of both. For example, for devices and products applied to or integrated into a chip, all modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits, or at least some modules / units can be implemented using software programs running on a processor integrated within the chip, while the remaining (if any) modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. For devices and products applied to or integrated into a chip module, all modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. Different modules / units can be located in the same component (e.g., chip, circuit module, etc.) or different components of the chip module, or at least some modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. The implementation is achieved through a software program that runs on a processor integrated within the chip module. The remaining modules / units (if any) can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. For various devices and products applied to or integrated into terminal equipment, each of their modules / units can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits. Different modules / units can be located in the same component (e.g., chip, circuit module, etc.) or different components within the terminal equipment. Alternatively, at least some modules / units can be implemented using a software program that runs on a processor integrated within the terminal equipment, while the remaining modules / units (if any) can be implemented using hardware methods such as circuits.

[0165] This application also discloses a storage medium, which is a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon. The computer program can be executed when it runs. Figures 1 to 3 The steps of the method shown are illustrated. The storage medium may include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk, or optical disk, etc. The storage medium may also include non-volatile memory or non-transitory memory, etc.

[0166] Please refer to Figure 10 This application also provides a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a communication device. The device includes a processor 1001, a memory 1002, and a transceiver 1003.

[0167] Processor 1001 can be a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits used to control the execution of the program according to the present application. Processor 1001 may also include multiple CPUs, and processor 1001 can be a single-core processor or a multi-core processor. Here, processor can refer to one or more devices, circuits, or processing cores used to process data (e.g., computer program instructions).

[0168] The memory 1002 can be a ROM or other type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, RAM or other type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions, or it can be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), a magnetic disk storage medium or other magnetic storage device, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this. The memory 1002 can exist independently (in this case, the memory 1002 can be located outside or inside the device) or it can be integrated with the processor 1001. The memory 1002 may contain computer program code. The processor 1001 is used to execute the computer program code stored in the memory 1002 to implement the method provided in this application embodiment.

[0169] The processor 1001, memory 1002, and transceiver 1003 are connected via a bus. The transceiver 1003 is used to communicate with other devices or communication networks. Optionally, the transceiver 1003 may include a transmitter and a receiver. The device in the transceiver 1003 that implements the receiving function can be considered as a receiver, and the receiver is used to perform the receiving steps in the embodiments of this application. The device in the transceiver 1003 that implements the transmitting function can be considered as a transmitter, and the transmitter is used to perform the transmitting steps in the embodiments of this application.

[0170] when Figure 10The schematic diagram shown illustrates the structure of the terminal device involved in the above embodiments. The processor 1001 is used to control and manage the actions of the terminal device. For example, the processor 1001 is used to support the terminal device in performing... Figure 1 Steps 101 and 102 in the text, or Figure 2 The actions performed by the terminal device in steps 302, 303, and 304, and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. The processor 1001 can communicate with other network entities via the transceiver 1003, for example, with the aforementioned network device. The memory 1002 is used to store the program code and data of the terminal device.

[0171] when Figure 10 The schematic diagram shown illustrates the structure of the network device involved in the above embodiments. The processor 1001 is used to control and manage the actions of the network device. For example, the processor 1001 is used to support the network device in performing... Figure 2 Steps 201 and 202 in the text, or Figure 2 The processor 1001 performs actions in steps 301 and 302, and / or other processes described in the embodiments of this application. The processor 1001 can communicate with other network entities via the transceiver 1003, for example, with the aforementioned terminal device. The memory 1002 is used to store the program code and data of the network device.

[0172] In this application embodiment, a one-way communication link from the access network to the terminal device is defined as a downlink, and the data transmitted on the downlink is called downlink data. The transmission direction of the downlink data is called the downlink direction. On the other hand, a one-way communication link from the terminal device to the access network is defined as an uplink, and the data transmitted on the uplink is called uplink data. The transmission direction of the uplink data is called the uplink direction.

[0173] It should be understood that the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0174] In the embodiments of this application, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0175] The descriptions of "first," "second," etc., appearing in the embodiments of this application are for illustrative purposes and to distinguish the objects being described. They have no order and do not indicate any special limitation on the number of devices in the embodiments of this application, nor do they constitute any limitation on the embodiments of this application.

[0176] In this application, the term "connection" refers to various connection methods, such as direct connection or indirect connection, to achieve communication between devices. This application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0177] The above embodiments can be implemented, in whole or in part, by software, hardware, firmware, or any other combination thereof. When implemented using software, the above embodiments can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions or computer programs. When the computer instructions or computer program are loaded or executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means.

[0178] It should be understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned processes does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0179] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed methods, apparatuses, and systems can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for example, the division of units is merely a logical functional division, and other division methods may exist in actual implementation; for example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0180] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0181] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can be physically included separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or in the form of hardware plus software functional units.

[0182] The integrated unit implemented as a software functional unit described above can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. This software functional unit, stored in a storage medium, includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute some steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application.

[0183] While this application discloses the above information, it is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can make various modifications and alterations without departing from the spirit and scope of this application; therefore, the scope of protection of this application shall be determined by the scope defined in the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send a first sensing signal, which is used to request random access; The sensing result is sent, which is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

2. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission of the sensing result includes: in response to the signal quality of the echo signal reaching a first threshold, transmitting the sensing result.

3. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensing result includes information about the target object and quality information about the echo signal, which is formed by the target object reflecting the first sensing signal.

4. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmission of the sensing result includes: transmitting the sensing result on a first physical uplink shared channel (PO) time slot, wherein the first PO and the random access time slot where the first sensing signal is located have a first time interval, and the first time interval is used to determine the sensing result.

5. The communication method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first PO is also used to send a connection establishment request message.

6. The communication method according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: A connection establishment request message is sent on the second PO. The second PO and the random access timing where the first sensing signal is located have a second time interval, which is less than the first time interval.

7. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A connection establishment request message is sent on the first PO. The first PO and the random access time of the first sensing signal have a first time interval, and the first time interval is used to determine the sensing result.

8. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sending of the first sensing signal includes: The first sensing signal is sent at a first random access opportunity, which indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

9. The communication method according to claim 8, characterized in that, Before sending the first sensing signal, the process also includes: Receive the first signaling, which includes the configuration information of the first random access timing.

10. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first sensing signal indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

11. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sending of the first sensing signal includes: The first sensing signal is transmitted using multiple beams, and the sensing result is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal on at least one beam, the sensing result including the identifier of the at least one beam.

12. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After sending the first sensing signal, the process further includes: Receive a random access response, the random access response including first information, the first information indicating whether to report the sensing result.

13. The communication method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The random access response has a first bit field, which is used to carry the first information.

14. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before sending the first sensing signal, the process also includes: Receive a second signaling message, the second signaling message including a second message, the second message indicating whether to report the sensing result.

15. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive a first sensing signal, which is used to request random access; The sensing result is received, and the sensing result is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

16. The communication method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The receiving sensing result includes: receiving the sensing result on a first physical uplink shared channel (PO), wherein the first PO and the random access time where the first sensing signal is located have a first time interval, and the first time interval is used to determine the sensing result.

17. The communication method according to claim 15, characterized in that, Also includes: A connection establishment request message is received on the first PO. The first PO and the random access time of the first sensing signal have a first time interval, and the first time interval is used to determine the sensing result.

18. The communication method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The receiving of the first sensing signal includes: The first sensing signal is received at a first random access opportunity, which indicates that the sensing function is enabled.

19. The communication method according to claim 18, characterized in that, Before receiving the first sensing signal, the process also includes: Send a first signaling message, which includes configuration information for the first random access opportunity.

20. The communication method according to claim 18, characterized in that, After receiving the first sensing signal, the process further includes: Send a random access response, the random access response including first information, the first information indicating whether to report the sensing result.

21. The communication method according to claim 18, characterized in that, Before receiving the first sensing signal, the process also includes: Send a second signaling message, the second signaling message including a second message, the second message indicating whether to report the sensing result.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The communication module is used to send a first sensing signal, which is used to request random access; the communication module is also used to send a sensing result, which is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

23. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The communication module is used to receive a first sensing signal, which is used to request random access; the communication module is also used to receive a sensing result, which is determined based on the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

24. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, The computer program, when executed by a processor, performs the steps of the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

25. A computer program product comprising a computer program / instructions, characterized in that, When the computer program / instructions are executed by the processor, they implement the steps of the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

26. A communication device comprising a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program executable on the processor, characterized in that, When the processor runs the computer program, it performs the steps of the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

27. A communication device comprising a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program executable on the processor, characterized in that, When the processor runs the computer program, it performs the steps of the communication method according to any one of claims 15 to 21.

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