Communication device and communication method

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention relates to communication equipment and a communication method. In one aspect, a first device determines whether a second device satisfies a condition for communicating with an A-IoT device. If the second device satisfies the condition, the first device initiates the communication between the second device and the A-IoT device. In this way, relevant information of the potential second devices may be collected, and one of the potential second devices used to communicate with the A-IoT device may be determined.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of telecommunications, and more specifically to a communication device and a communication method involving an ambient-Internet of things (A-IoT) device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Recently, it has been proposed to incorporate A-IoT devices into cellular network communications. However, solutions for cellular communication involving A-IoT devices (also referred to herein as A-IoT communication) are still unclear and need further development. SUMMARY

[0003] Generally, embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods, devices, and computer storage media for A-IoT communication.

[0004] In a first aspect, a first device is provided. The first device can be a terminal device or an access network device. The first device includes a processor. The processor is configured to cause the first device to determine that a second device satisfies a condition for communicating with an A-IoT device, and initiate the communication between the second device and the A-IoT device.

[0005] In a second aspect, a first device is provided. The first device can be a terminal device or an access network device. The first device includes a processor. The processor is configured to cause the first device to determine that an A-IoT device is to change from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device, and determine a configuration associated with the change for communication between the third device and the A-IoT device.

[0006] In a third aspect, an A-IoT device is provided. The A-IoT device includes a processor. The processor is configured to cause the A-IoT device to receive a command for A-IoT communication from a first device, and respond to the command in accordance with a determination that information of the first device in the command matches a configuration of the A-IoT device.

[0007] In a fourth aspect, an A-IoT device is provided. The A-IoT device includes a processor. The processor is configured to cause the A-IoT device to receive a command associated with a change of the A-IoT device from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device, and update a configuration associated with the change based on the command.

[0008] In a fifth aspect, an A-IoT device is provided. The A-IoT device comprises a processor. The processor is configured to cause the A-IoT device to: receive a command to obtain mobility information of the A-IoT device; and transmit the mobility information of the A-IoT device.

[0009] In a sixth aspect, a communication method is provided. The method comprises: determining, at a first device, that a second device satisfies a condition for communicating with an A-IoT device; and initiating the communication between the second device and the A-IoT device.

[0010] In a seventh aspect, a communication method is provided. The method comprises: determining, at a first device, that an A-IoT device is to change from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device; and determining a configuration associated with the change for communication between the third device and the A-IoT device.

[0011] In an eighth aspect, a communication method is provided. The method comprises: receiving, at an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device, a command for A-IoT communication from a first device; and responding to the command in accordance with a determination that information of the first device in the command matches a configuration of the A-IoT device.

[0012] In a ninth aspect, a communication method is provided. The method comprises: receiving, at an A-IoT device, a command associated with a change of the A-IoT device from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device; and updating a configuration associated with the change based on the command.

[0013] In a tenth aspect, a communication method is provided. The method comprises: receiving, at an A-IoT device, a command to obtain mobility information of the A-IoT device; and transmitting the mobility information of the A-IoT device.

[0014] In an eleventh aspect, a computer readable medium is provided. The computer readable medium has stored thereon instructions. The instructions, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform the method according to any one of the sixth to tenth aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] Other features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0017] FIG. 1 An example communication network in which some embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented is illustrated;

[0018] FIG. 2 A schematic diagram illustrating an example functional setup for A-IoT communication according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0019] FIG. 3A A schematic diagram illustrating an example process for initiating A-IoT communication based on information collection according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0020] FIG. 3B A schematic diagram illustrating another example process for initiating A-IoT communication based on information collection according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0021] FIG. 4A A schematic diagram illustrating an example process for initiating A-IoT communication based on condition provisioning according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0022] FIG. 4B A schematic diagram illustrating another example process for initiating A-IoT communication based on condition provisioning according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0023] FIG. 5 A schematic diagram illustrating a variation of an example reader according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown;

[0024] FIG. 6 A schematic diagram illustrating an example process for determining the configuration of A-IoT communication by an access network device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided.

[0025] FIG. 7A A schematic diagram illustrating an example process for a terminal device to determine the configuration of A-IoT communication according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0026] FIG. 7B A schematic diagram illustrating another example process for a terminal device to determine the configuration of A-IoT communication according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0027] FIG. 8 A schematic diagram illustrating the process of updating the configuration of A-IoT communication according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0028] FIG. 9 A schematic diagram illustrating a process of A-IoT communication with access checks according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0029] FIG. 10 A schematic diagram illustrating a process for A-IoT communication for mobility information delivery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0030] FIG. 11Example communication methods implemented at a first device according to some embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated;

[0031] FIG. 12 Another example communication method implemented at a first device according to some embodiments of this disclosure is illustrated;

[0032] FIG. 13 Example communication methods implemented at A-IoT devices according to some embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated;

[0033] FIG. 14 Another example communication method implemented at an A-IoT device according to some embodiments of this disclosure is illustrated;

[0034] FIG. 15 This illustration further demonstrates an example communication method implemented at an A-IoT device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0035] FIG. 16 A simplified block diagram of an apparatus suitable for implementing embodiments of this disclosure is illustrated.

[0036] Throughout the accompanying drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The principles of this disclosure will now be described with reference to some embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are described for illustrative purposes only and to help those skilled in the art to understand and implement this disclosure, and do not imply any limitation on the scope of this disclosure. The disclosure described herein can be implemented in various ways other than those described below.

[0038] In the following description and claims, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0039] As used herein, the term "terminal device" refers to any device with wireless or wired communication capabilities. Examples of terminal devices include, but are not limited to: user equipment (UE); personal computers; desktop computers; mobile phones; cellular phones; smartphones; personal digital assistants (PDAs); portable computers; tablets; wearable devices; Internet of Things (IoT) devices; Ultra-reliable and Low-Latency Communication (URLLC) devices; Internet of Everything (IoE) devices; machine-type communication (MTC) devices; devices on vehicles for V2X communication, where X refers to pedestrians, vehicles, or infrastructure / networks; devices for Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB); spacecraft or aerospace vehicles in non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), including satellites and high-altitude platforms (HAPs) covering Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS); and different types of reality (such as Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR)). Extended Reality (XR) devices, including those for Virtual Reality (VR) and Virtual Reality (VR); unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), often referred to as drones (aircraft without human pilots); devices on high-speed trains (HSTs); or image capture devices such as digital cameras and sensors; gaming devices; music storage and playback equipment; or internet devices enabling wireless or wired internet access and browsing. "Terminal devices" may also have "multicast / broadcast" capabilities to support public safety and mission-critical applications, V2X applications, transparent IPv4 / IPv6 multicast delivery, IPTV, smart TV, radio services, wireless software delivery, group communication, and IoT applications. "Terminal devices" may also incorporate one or more Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs), a latter case referred to as multi-SIM. The term "terminal device" is used interchangeably with UE, mobile station, subscriber station, mobile terminal, user terminal, or wireless device.

[0040] The term "network equipment" can refer to core network equipment or access network equipment. The term "core network equipment" refers to any device or entity that provides access and mobility management function (AMF), network exposure function (NEF), authentication server function (AUSF), unified data management (UDM), session management function (SMF), user plane function (UPF), location management function (LMF), etc. In other implementations, core network equipment can be any other suitable device or entity that provides any other suitable functionality.

[0041] As used herein, the term "access network equipment" refers to equipment capable of providing or hosting communication capabilities for terminal devices within a cell or coverage area. Examples of access network equipment include, but are not limited to, satellites, unmanned aerial system (UAS) platforms, NodeBs (or NBs), evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs or eNBs), next-generation NodeBs (gNBs), transmission reception points (TRPs), remote radio units (RRUs), radioheads (RHs), remote radio heads (RRHs), IAB nodes, low-power nodes (such as femtonodes and piconodes), reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs), etc.

[0042] Terminal devices or network devices may have artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (M) capabilities. Terminal devices or network devices typically include models that have been trained on specific functions based on large amounts of collected data and can be used to predict some information.

[0043] Terminal or network devices can operate within several frequency ranges, such as FR1 (410MHz to 7125MHz), FR2 (24.25GHz to 71GHz), bands above 100GHz, and terahertz (THz). They can also operate on licensed / unlicensed / shared spectrum. In Multi-Radio Dual Connectivity (MR-DC) applications, terminal devices can be connected to more than one network device. Terminal or network devices can operate in full-duplex, flexible-duplex, and cross-division duplex modes.

[0044] The embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in test equipment (e.g., signal generator, signal analyzer, spectrum analyzer, network analyzer, test terminal equipment, test network equipment, channel simulator).

[0045] In one embodiment, the terminal device may be connected to a first network device and a second network device. One of the first and second network devices may be a master node, and the other may be a slave node. The first and second network devices may use different Radio Access Technologies (RATs). In one embodiment, the first network device may be a first RAT device, and the second network device may be a second RAT device. In one embodiment, the first RAT device is an eNB, and the second RAT device is a gNB. Information related to different RATs may be sent to the terminal device from at least one of the first or second network devices. In one embodiment, first information may be sent from the first network device to the terminal device, and second information may be sent from the second network device directly or via the first network device to the terminal device. In one embodiment, configuration-related information configured by the second network device for the terminal device may be sent from the second network device via the first network device. Reconfiguration-related information configured by the second network device for the terminal device may be sent from the second network device directly or via the first network device to the terminal device.

[0046] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term “comprising” and its variations should be understood as open terms meaning “including, but not limited to.” The term “based on” should be understood as “at least partially based on.” The terms “one implementation” and “implementation” should be understood as “at least one implementation.” The term “another implementation” should be understood as “at least one other implementation.” The terms “first,” “second,” etc., may refer to different or the same objects. Other explicit and implicit definitions are given below.

[0047] In some examples, values, programs, or devices are described as “best,” “lowest,” “highest,” “smallest,” “maximum,” etc. It should be understood that such descriptions are intended to indicate that a choice can be made among many alternative functionalities used, and that such a choice is not necessarily better, smaller, higher, or otherwise preferred than other choices.

[0048] In the context of this disclosure, the term "A-IoT" is used interchangeably with "passive IoT". The term "A-IoT device" can refer to a device that includes an energy harvesting module and a backscattering module. An A-IoT device can receive power supply signals or commands via the energy harvesting module and backscatter signals via the backscattering module. Some example use cases for A-IoT devices are listed below.

[0049] In the context of this disclosure, the term "command UE" can refer to an end device that sends commands to an A-IoT device to enable selection, inventory checks, or access (e.g., reading and writing) of the A-IoT device. The term "excitation UE" can refer to an end device that provides an excitation signal or energy to the A-IoT device. Upon receiving the excitation signal, the A-IoT device can generate an induced current and then receive and transmit information via energy obtained through the induced current. It should be understood that the names "command UE" and "excitation UE" are merely examples, and any other suitable names are also possible.

[0050] In the context of this disclosure, the term "reader" may refer to a device that communicates with A-IoT devices (e.g., a terminal device or an access network device). It should be understood that the name "reader" is merely an example, and any other suitable name is also possible.

[0051] In the context of this disclosure, the term "mobility" may refer to a change in the reader communicating with the A-IoT device. In the context of this disclosure, a change in the reader may refer to a change from a first reader in a set of first readers to a second reader in a set of second readers.

[0052] In the context of this disclosure, the term "configuration associated with change" may be used interchangeably with "mobility-related configuration". In the context of this disclosure, the term "A-IoT process" may be used interchangeably with "A-IoT communication".

[0053] The embodiments disclosed herein provide a solution for cellular communication involving A-IoT devices. In one aspect, a first device determines whether a second device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device. If the second device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device, the first device initiates communication between the second device and the A-IoT device. In some embodiments, the first device is a network device. In some embodiments, the first device is a terminal device. This allows for the collection of relevant information about potential second devices and the identification of one of these potential second devices for communicating with the A-IoT device.

[0054] On the other hand, when it is determined that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device, the first device determines a configuration associated with this change for communication between the third device and the A-IoT device. In some embodiments, the first device is a network device. In some embodiments, the first device is a terminal device. This facilitates the change of the device communicating with the A-IoT device.

[0055] On the other hand, the A-IoT device receives commands for A-IoT communication from the first device. If the information of the first device in the command matches the configuration of the A-IoT device, the A-IoT device responds to the command. In some embodiments, the first device is a network device. In some embodiments, the first device is a terminal device. This allows for selective response to A-IoT commands.

[0056] On the other hand, the A-IoT device receives a command associated with changing communication from a second device to a third device. Based on this command, the A-IoT device updates the configuration associated with the change. In some embodiments, the first device is a network device. In some embodiments, the first device is a terminal device. In some embodiments, the second device is a network device. In some embodiments, the second device is a terminal device. This allows for the updating of the A-IoT communication configuration.

[0057] On the other hand, upon receiving a command to obtain mobility information of an A-IoT device, the A-IoT device sends its mobility information. Based on the command, the A-IoT device updates its configuration associated with the change. In this way, the mobility information of the A-IoT device can be retrieved.

[0058] The principles and specific implementations of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Examples of communication networks

[0059] FIG. 1 A schematic diagram of an example communication network 100 in which some embodiments of this disclosure may be implemented is illustrated. For example...FIG. 1 As shown, the communication network 100 may include terminal devices 110 and 111 and access network device 120. In some embodiments, access network device 120 may provide one or more serving cells (not shown) to serve terminal devices 110 and 111.

[0060] like FIG. 1 As shown, the communication network 100 may further include an A-IoT device 130. In some embodiments, the access network device 120 and the A-IoT device 130 can communicate with each other. In some embodiments, one of the terminal devices 110 and 111 and the A-IoT device 130 can communicate with each other. In some embodiments, the A-IoT device 130 can communicate with one of the terminal devices 110 and 111 via a forward link and with the access network device 120 via a reverse link. In some embodiments, the A-IoT device 130 can communicate with the access network device 120 via a forward link and with one of the terminal devices 110 and 111 via a reverse link.

[0061] like FIG. 1 As shown, the communication network 100 may also include core network equipment 140 and A-IoT server 150. In some scenarios, A-IoT device 130 may communicate with A-IoT server 150 via a cellular network, which includes terminal devices 110 and / or 111 and / or 112, as well as access network equipment 120 and core network equipment 140.

[0062] It should be understood that FIG. 1 The number of devices shown is for illustrative purposes only and does not imply any limitation on this disclosure. The communication network 100 may include any suitable number of access network devices and / or terminal devices and / or A-IoT devices and / or core network devices and / or A-IoT servers suitable for implementing specific embodiments of this disclosure.

[0063] Terminal device 110 can communicate with access network device 120 via the Uu interface. Access network device 120 can communicate with core network device 140 via the Ng interface. Communication in communication network 100 can conform to any suitable standard, including but not limited to Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Evolution, LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), New Radio (NR), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), GSM EDGE Radio Access Network (GERAN), Machine Type Communication (MTC), etc. Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented according to any generation of communication protocols currently known or to be developed in the future. Examples of communication protocols include, but are not limited to, first-generation (1G), second-generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth-generation (5G), 5.5G, 5G-Advanced Networks, or sixth-generation (6G) networks.

[0064] FIG. 2 A schematic diagram 200 illustrates an example functional setup for A-IoT communication according to an embodiment of this disclosure. For convenience, reference will be made to... FIG. 1 The terminal device 110 is described therein. It should be understood that this function setting also applies to terminal devices 111 and 112.

[0065] like FIG. 2 As shown, terminal device 110 may include communication module 211 and A-IoT module 212. Access network device 120 may include communication module 221 and A-IoT module 222. A-IoT device 130 may include A-IoT module 231. Core network device 140 may include access management function (AMF) 241 and A-IoT function (AF) 242.

[0066] Each of A-IoT modules 212 and 222 is configured to handle communication between the reader (terminal device or access network device) and the A-IoT device 130. In some embodiments, each of A-IoT modules 212 and 222 may have communication functions for processing commands instructing inventory checks, selection, access, or mobility processes. In some embodiments, each of A-IoT modules 212 and 222 may have a power supply function to provide excitation signals or energy to the A-IoT device 130. In some embodiments, each of A-IoT modules 212 and 222 may have a measurement function based on A-IoT signals. For example, each of A-IoT modules 212 and 222 may generate a measurement report for the A-IoT device. In another example, each of A-IoT modules 212 and 222 may input measurement results to a corresponding communication module for generating a measurement report. Thus, the functionality of the A-IoT modules can be defined.

[0067] In some implementations, example functional settings for the communication module 211 at terminal device 110 may be described as at least one of the following: - Receive A-IoT related configurations from the network (NW) and deliver them to the A-IoT module; - Receive A-IoT commands from NW and deliver them to the A-IoT module; - Control the A-IoT module to perform A-IoT signal measurements; - Perform A-IoT signal measurements independently; - Instruct the A-IoT module to provide an excitation signal (based on requirements / configurations / instructions from NW); - Maintain the registration / capabilities / certification / authorization / context information of A-IoT devices.

[0068] In some implementations, example functional settings for the A-IoT module 212 at terminal device 110 can be described as at least one of the following: - Load configuration from the communication module; - The A-IoT process is executed based on A-IoT commands from the communication module; - Perform A-IoT signal measurements based on instructions from the communication module; - Perform A-IoT signal measurements independently; - Provide excitation signals based on instructions from the communication module; - Provides excitation signals independently; - Maintain the registration / capabilities / certification / authorization / context information of A-IoT devices.

[0069] In some implementations, example functional settings for the A-IoT module 231 at the A-IoT device 130 can be described as at least one of the following: - Execute the A-IoT process based on A-IoT commands from the reader; - A-IoT processes are executed based on the energy of the excitation signal.

[0070] In some implementations, example functional settings for the communication module 221 at the access network device 120 can be described as at least one of the following: - Deliver A-IoT related configurations to the UE; - Deliver A-IoT related configurations to the A-IoT module; - Send / forward A-IoT commands to the UE or A-IoT device; - Control the A-IoT module to perform A-IoT signal measurements; - Perform A-IoT signal measurements independently; - Instruct the A-IoT module to provide an excitation signal; - Maintain the registration / capabilities / certification / authorization / context information of A-IoT devices.

[0071] In some implementations, example functional settings for the A-IoT module 222 at the access network device 120 can be described as at least one of the following: - Load configuration from the communication module; - The A-IoT process is executed based on A-IoT commands from the communication module; - Perform A-IoT signal measurements based on instructions from the communication module; - Perform A-IoT signal measurements independently; - Provide excitation signals based on instructions from the communication module; - Provides excitation signals independently; - Maintain the registration / capabilities / certification / authorization / context information of A-IoT devices.

[0072] At this point, the functions of modules in terminal devices, access network devices, or A-IoT devices can be defined.

[0073] In some implementations, a communication module (e.g., communication module 211 or 221) may collect A-IoT function-related information. In some implementations, the communication module may deliver the collected A-IoT function-related information to an A-IoT module (e.g., A-IoT module 212 or 222) for reader identification. In some implementations, the communication module may determine the reader based on the collected A-IoT function-related information.

[0074] In some implementations, the A-IoT module (e.g., A-IoT module 212 or 222) may collect A-IoT function-related information. In some implementations, the A-IoT module may deliver the collected A-IoT function-related information to a communication module (e.g., communication module 211 or 221) for reader identification. In some implementations, the A-IoT module may determine the reader based on the collected A-IoT function-related information.

[0075] In some embodiments, the communication module (e.g., communication module 211 or 221) may perform an evaluation of conditions for an A-IoT process or A-IoT communication. When a condition is met, the communication module may indicate to the A-IoT module (e.g., A-IoT module 212 or 222) that the conditions for initiating an A-IoT process are met. In some embodiments, the A-IoT module (e.g., A-IoT module 212 or 222) may perform an evaluation of conditions for an A-IoT process or A-IoT communication. When a condition is met, the A-IoT module may indicate to the communication module (e.g., communication module 211 or 221) that the conditions for initiating an A-IoT process are met.

[0076] In some embodiments, the communication module (e.g., communication module 211 or 221) may perform an evaluation of conditions for a mobility procedure. When a condition is met, the communication module may indicate to the A-IoT module (e.g., A-IoT module 212 or 222) that the conditions for initiating a mobility procedure are met. In some embodiments, the A-IoT module (e.g., A-IoT module 212 or 222) may perform an evaluation of conditions for a mobility procedure. When a condition is met, the A-IoT module may indicate to the communication module (e.g., communication module 211 or 221) that the conditions for initiating a mobility procedure are met.

[0077] At this point, the interaction between the communication module and the A-IoT module in the terminal device or network device can be defined. It should be understood that this can be combined with... FIG. 2 The following implementation scheme will be carried out within the framework of this scheme.

[0078] In some scenarios, if all readers need to process A-IoT data simultaneously, it can lead to high power consumption and low resource utilization. In other scenarios, A-IoT devices may be unable to perform measurements and therefore cannot detect movement relative to the readers.

[0079] The embodiments disclosed herein provide a solution for A-IoT communication to address the aforementioned issues and other potential problems. References will be made below. FIG. 3A to FIG. 10 Provide a detailed description. Example implementations of A-IoT communication initiation

[0080] This disclosure provides a solution for initiating A-IoT communication. In this solution, communication between the reader and the A-IoT device is initiated if the reader meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device. Further details will be provided in [reference needed]. FIG. 3A and FIG. 4B Describe it.

[0081] FIG. 3A A schematic diagram illustrating an example process 300A for initiating A-IoT communication based on information gathering according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... FIG. 1 Describe process 300A. Process 300A may involve, for example, FIG. 1 The illustrated terminal devices 110 and 111, access network device 120, and A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that... FIG. 3A The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the instructions. For example, the order of the steps may be changed. Some steps may be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps may be added.

[0082] In this example, access network device 120 determines to trigger A-IoT communication or reader selection with A-IoT device 130, and terminal devices 110 and 111 are readers. That is, access network device 120 acts as the triggering node. In some embodiments, the triggering of A-IoT process or reader selection may be indicated by core network device 140 (e.g., AMF or AF). In some embodiments, the triggering of A-IoT process or reader selection may be indicated by A-IoT server 150.

[0083] like FIG. 3AAs shown, access network device 120 determines which reader 310 meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130 (i.e., the conditions for an A-IoT process or A-IoT communication). In some embodiments, access network device 120 may obtain 311 information associated with the communication from terminal device 110 (i.e., A-IoT function-related information) and 312 information associated with the communication from terminal device 111. Based on the reader information, access network device 120 may determine 313 which reader (e.g., terminal device 111) meets the conditions.

[0084] In some implementations, access network device 120 may obtain information about terminal device 110 or 111 via dedicated signaling. In some implementations, access network device 120 may obtain information about terminal device 110 or 111 during UE capability signaling. In some implementations, access network device 120 may obtain information about terminal device 110 or 111 during the registration process. In some implementations, access network device 120 may obtain information about terminal device 110 or 111 from the core network (e.g., core network device 140). In some implementations, access network device 120 may obtain information about terminal device 110 or 111 during the measurement and reporting process.

[0085] In some implementations, the information of terminal device 110 or 111 may be associated with capabilities for communicating with A-IoT device 130. For example, this capability may include information about whether terminal device 110 or 111 supports A-IoT services. In another example, this capability may include information about whether terminal device 110 or 111 has A-IoT signal transmission or reception capabilities.

[0086] In some implementations, the information of terminal device 110 or 111 may be associated with an authentication or authorization status used for communicating with A-IoT device 130. For example, the authentication or authorization status may include information about whether terminal device 110 or 111 has been authenticated or authorized by the core network as a legitimate A-IoT reader. In some implementations, this authentication or authorization status may be collected during the access or registration process.

[0087] In some implementations, information from terminal device 110 or 111 may be correlated with interference levels measured by terminal device 110 or 111. In other words, it will be determined whether interference caused by the surrounding environment or other nearby A-IoT communications allows communication with A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, access network device 120 may send measurement and reporting configurations to terminal device 110 or 111. In some implementations, measurements may be based on power supply signals. In some implementations, measurements may be based on trigger signals. In some implementations, measurements may be based on backscattered signals. In some implementations, reporting may be performed periodically. In some implementations, reporting may be performed after a period of time. In some implementations, reporting may be performed if predetermined conditions are met (e.g., service quality is below (i.e., below or equal to) a threshold quality for a period of time).

[0088] In some implementations, information about terminal device 110 or 111 may be associated with the mobility status of terminal device 110 or 111. For example, the mobility status may include low mobility, medium mobility, or high mobility, determined based on existing or future status detection standards. In another example, the mobility status may include movement speed.

[0089] In some implementations, the information of terminal device 110 or 111 may be associated with the quality of service (QoS) measured by terminal device 110 or 111. In some implementations, this QoS may be the quality of the serving cell of terminal device 110 or 111. For example, it could be reference signal receiving power (RSRP), reference signal receiving quality (RSRQ), signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR), etc., measured based on downlink reference signals. For instance, if the quality of the serving cell is below a threshold quality, the A-IoT device may be located at the edge of the cell coverage area, and therefore access network device 120 may not be able to directly access A-IoT device 130. In another example, if the quality of the serving cell is above (i.e., above or equal to) the threshold quality, the A-IoT device may be near the center of the cell coverage area, and therefore access network device 120 may be able to directly access A-IoT device 130.

[0090] In some implementations, this condition may be associated with the ability to communicate with A-IoT device 130. For example, the condition may include that terminal device 110 or 111 needs to support A-IoT services. In another example, the condition may include that terminal device 110 or 111 needs to have A-IoT signal transmission or reception capabilities.

[0091] In some implementations, this condition may be associated with an authentication or authorization status used to communicate with A-IoT device 130. For example, the condition may include the requirement that terminal device 110 or 111 be authenticated or authorized by the core network as a legitimate A-IoT reader.

[0092] In some implementations, this condition may be associated with an interference level measured by terminal device 110 or 111. For example, the condition may include an interference level caused by the surrounding environment that allows communication with A-IoT device 130.

[0093] In some implementations, this condition may be associated with the mobility state of terminal devices 110 or 111. For example, the condition may include a mobility state that needs to be low or moderate based on existing or future state detection standards. In another example, the condition may include a movement speed below a threshold speed.

[0094] In some implementations, this condition may be associated with the quality of service measured by terminal device 110 or 111. In some implementations, the quality of service may be the quality of the serving cell of terminal device 110 or 111. For example, the condition may include that the quality of the serving cell is above a threshold quality. In another example, the condition may include that the quality of the serving cell is within a quality range.

[0095] Continue to refer to FIG. 3A Upon determining that the reader (e.g., terminal device 111) meets the condition, access network device 120 initiates communication between terminal device 111 and A-IoT device 130. In some embodiments, access network device 120 may send an instruction to terminal device 111 to initiate the communication. Based on this instruction, terminal device 111 may initiate communication with A-IoT device 130.

[0096] In this way, the UE can be selected to participate in A-IoT communication, for example, for warehouse inventory counting or sensor data collection.

[0097] Reference FIG. 3B Description of FIG. 3A Modification of the example. FIG. 3B A schematic diagram of another example process 300B illustrating the initiation of A-IoT communication based on information gathering according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to...FIG. 1 Describe process 300B. Process 300B may involve, for example, FIG. 1 The illustrated terminal devices 110 and 111, access network device 120, and A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that... FIG. 3B The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the instructions. For example, the order of the steps may be changed. Some steps may be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps may be added.

[0098] In this example, a terminal device (e.g., terminal device 110) triggers A-IoT communication or reader selection with A-IoT device 130, and terminal devices 110 and 111 are readers. That is, terminal device 110 acts as the triggering node.

[0099] like FIG. 3B As shown, terminal device 110 determines which reader (330) meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. In some embodiments, terminal device 110 may obtain (331) information about terminal device 111 associated with the communication from other readers (e.g., terminal device 111). Based on the reader information, terminal device 110 may determine (332) the reader (e.g., terminal device 111) that meets the conditions.

[0100] Continue to refer to FIG. 3B When it is determined that the reader (e.g., terminal device 111) meets the condition, terminal device 110 initiates communication between terminal device 111 and A-IoT device 130.

[0101] In some implementations, terminal device 110 may send an instruction 341 to terminal device 111 to initiate the communication. Based on this instruction, terminal device 111 may initiate communication 342 with A-IoT device 130. In this way, terminal device 110 can directly initiate communication between terminal device 111 and A-IoT device 130.

[0102] In some implementations, terminal device 110 may send a 343 signal to access network device 120 indicating that terminal device 111 meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. Upon receiving an acknowledgment or no acknowledgment from access network device 120, terminal device 110 may send a 344 signal to terminal device 111 to initiate the communication. Based on this signal, terminal device 111 may initiate a 345 communication with A-IoT device 130. Thus, terminal device 110 can initiate communication between terminal device 111 and A-IoT device 130.

[0103] In some implementations, terminal device 110 may send an instruction 346 to access network device 120 indicating that terminal device 111 meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. Access network device 120 may send an instruction 347 to terminal device 111 to initiate the communication. Based on the instruction, terminal device 111 may initiate 348 communication with A-IoT device 130. In this way, terminal device 110 can indirectly initiate communication between terminal device 111 and A-IoT device 130 via access network device 120.

[0104] In this way, surrounding UEs can be selected to participate in A-IoT communication (e.g., assisting in triggering node access to A-IoT devices, such as object lookup). It should be understood that other details of information collection and condition assessment in procedure 300B are similar to those in procedure 300A, and therefore will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0105] FIG. 4A A schematic diagram illustrating an example process 400A for initiating A-IoT communication based on condition provisioning according to an embodiment of this disclosure is provided. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... FIG. 1 Describe process 400A. Process 400A may involve, for example: FIG. 1 The illustrated terminal devices 110 and 111, access network device 120, and A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that... FIG. 4A The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the instructions. For example, the order of the steps may be changed. Some steps may be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps may be added.

[0106] In this example, access network device 120 triggers A-IoT communication or reader selection with A-IoT device 130, and terminal devices 110 and 111 are readers.

[0107] like FIG. 4A As shown, access network device 120 can provide the reader with information 410 regarding conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. For example, access network device 120 can send information 411 regarding these conditions to terminal device 110, and send information 412 regarding these conditions to terminal device 110. Therefore, terminal devices 110 and 111 can determine whether the conditions are met.

[0108] In some implementations, access network device 120 may provide the condition information to terminal device 110 or 111 via broadcast signaling or MBS. In some implementations, access network device 120 may provide the condition information to terminal device 110 or 111 via dedicated signaling.

[0109] Continue to refer to FIG. 4ASuppose that terminal device 110 determines that it meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, terminal device 110 may determine that it meets the conditions if it meets them for a certain period of time.

[0110] In some implementations for condition assessment, terminal device 110 may send measurement and reporting configurations to terminal device 111 via a sidelink. In some implementations, measurements may be based on power supply signals. In some implementations, measurements may be based on trigger signals. In some implementations, measurements may be based on backscatter signals. In some implementations, reporting may be performed periodically. In some implementations, reporting may be performed after a period of time. In some implementations, reporting may be performed if predetermined conditions are met (e.g., service quality is below a threshold quality for a period of time).

[0111] When terminal device 110 meets the condition, terminal device 110 initiates communication with A-IoT device 130 at step 430. In some embodiments, terminal device 110 may directly initiate communication with A-IoT device 130 at step 431. In some embodiments, terminal device 110 may send an indication at step 432 to access network device 120 that terminal device 110 has met the condition for communicating with A-IoT device 130. In some embodiments, upon receiving confirmation from access network device 120, terminal device 110 may initiate communication with A-IoT device 130 at step 433.

[0112] In this way, the UE can assess the conditions related to the A-IoT function provided by the NW and determine the initiation of the A-IoT process based on these conditions. It should be understood that other details of the condition assessment in process 400A are similar to those in process 300A, and therefore will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0113] Reference FIG. 4B Description of FIG. 4A Modification of the example. FIG. 4B A schematic diagram illustrating an example process 400B for initiating A-IoT communication based on condition provisioning according to an embodiment of this disclosure is provided. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... FIG. 1 Describe process 400B. Process 400B may involve, for example, FIG. 1 The illustrated terminal devices 110 and 111, access network device 120, and A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that... FIG. 4B The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the instructions. For example, the order of the steps may be changed. Some steps may be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps may be added.

[0114] In this example, a terminal device (e.g., terminal device 110) triggers A-IoT communication or reader selection with A-IoT device 130, and terminal devices 110 and 111 are readers. That is, terminal device 110 acts as the triggering node.

[0115] like FIG. 4B As shown, terminal device 110 can send 440 information about the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130 to other readers (e.g., terminal device 111). Therefore, terminal devices 110 and 111 can determine whether the conditions are met.

[0116] In some implementations, terminal device 110 may provide the condition information to terminal device 111 via sidelink broadcast signaling or multicast signaling. In some implementations, terminal device 110 may provide the condition information to terminal device 111 via sidelink-specific signaling.

[0117] Continue to refer to FIG. 4B Assume that terminal device 111 determines 450 that it meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. Terminal device 111 initiates 460 communication with A-IoT device 130.

[0118] In some implementations, terminal device 111 may directly initiate communication 461 with A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, terminal device 111 may send 462 to access network device 120 an indication that terminal device 111 meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, upon receiving confirmation from access network device 120, terminal device 111 may initiate 463 communication with A-IoT device 130.

[0119] In some implementations, terminal device 111 may send a 464 signal to terminal device 110 indicating that terminal device 111 meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. Terminal device 110 sends a 465 signal to access network device 120 indicating that terminal device 111 meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. Upon receiving confirmation from access network device 120, terminal device 110 may send a 466 confirmation to terminal device 111. Upon receiving confirmation from terminal device 110, terminal device 111 initiates a 467 communication with A-IoT device 130.

[0120] In some implementations, terminal device 111 may send a 464 signal to terminal device 110 indicating that terminal device 111 meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, upon receiving confirmation from terminal device 110, terminal device 111 initiates a 467 communication with A-IoT device 130.

[0121] In this way, the UE can assess the A-IoT function-related conditions provided by surrounding UEs and determine the initiation of the A-IoT procedure based on these conditions. It should be understood that other details of the condition assessment in procedure 400B are similar to those in procedure 300A, and therefore will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity. Example implementations of configuration determination

[0122] The embodiments disclosed herein also provide a solution for determining the configuration of A-IoT communication. In this solution, when it is determined that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with a source reader (also referred to herein as Reader 1) to communicating with a target reader (also referred to herein as Reader 2), a configuration associated with this change is determined for communication between the target device and the A-IoT device. Further details will be referenced. FIG. 5 Describe it.

[0123] FIG. 5 A schematic diagram 500 illustrates a variation of an example reader according to an embodiment of this disclosure. For example... FIG. 5 As shown, the A-IoT device will change from connection 1 with reader 1 to connection 2 with reader 2.

[0124] In some implementations that address connectivity changes, the mobility-related configuration B of reader 2 may need to be changed to B', while the mobility-related configuration C of the A-IoT device may remain unchanged.

[0125] It should be understood that the mobility process is not limited to changing from a single reader to another. In some implementations, reader 1 and reader 2 are not limited to a single device. The identification information of reader 1 may correspond to a first group of readers, and the identification information of reader 2 may correspond to a second group of readers. If the connection change occurs within the same group of readers, the configuration can remain unchanged. In this case, moving or changing the connection from the first group of readers to the second group of readers can be considered a mobility process. Therefore, reader selection and reselection can be a choice between different groups of readers.

[0126] For illustration, refer to FIG. 6 to FIG. 7B Describe some example implementation schemes. FIG. 6A schematic diagram illustrating an example process 600 for determining the configuration of A-IoT communication by an access network device according to an embodiment of this disclosure is provided. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... FIG. 1 Describe process 600. Process 600 may involve, for example, FIG. 1 The illustrated terminal devices 110 and 111, access network device 120, and A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that... FIG. 6 The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the instructions. For example, the order of the steps may be changed. Some steps may be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps may be added.

[0127] like FIG. 6 As shown, access network device 120 determines that A-IoT device 130 will change from communicating with a source reader (e.g., terminal device 110) to communicating with a target reader (e.g., terminal device 111). In some embodiments, access network device 120 may determine that 611 needs this change if a set of conditions (i.e., conditions for mobility procedures) are met.

[0128] In some implementations, the set of conditions may include an indication of the change from an upper layer (e.g., application layer) of the access network device 120. In some implementations, the set of conditions may include an interference level of the terminal device 110 exceeding a threshold level. In some implementations, the interference level may be assessed by the access network device 120. In some implementations, the interference level may be assessed by the terminal device 110. In some implementations, the interference level may be indicated to the access network device 120 in a measurement report from the terminal device 110.

[0129] In some implementations, this set of conditions may include communication quality between terminal device 110 and A-IoT device 130 being below a threshold communication quality. In some implementations, this set of conditions may include the number of A-IoT devices served by terminal device 110 being above a threshold number.

[0130] In some implementations, this set of conditions may include the quality of the serving cell of terminal device 110 being lower than a first threshold quality. In some implementations, this set of conditions may include the quality of the serving cell of terminal device 110 being higher than a second threshold quality.

[0131] In some implementations, this set of conditions may include receiving a handover command or an indication to perform a cell change for terminal device 110. In some implementations, this set of conditions may include a change in the location of terminal device 110. In some implementations, this set of conditions may include a change in the mobility state of terminal device 110.

[0132] It should be understood that this set of conditions may include any combination of the information described above. It should also be understood that the above description of this set of conditions is only by way of example, using conditions associated with a source reader (e.g., terminal device 110). In some embodiments, the conditions associated with a source reader described above may also apply to a target reader (e.g., terminal device 111). In other words, this set of conditions may include similar conditions associated with a target reader. In some embodiments, this set of conditions may include both conditions associated with a source reader and conditions associated with a target reader.

[0133] Continue to refer to FIG. 6 Terminal device 110 may determine that 612 meets a set of conditions. In some embodiments, the set of conditions may include an instruction from an upper layer (e.g., application layer) of terminal device 110 to make the change. In some embodiments, the set of conditions may include an interference level of terminal device 110 that is higher than a threshold level. In some embodiments, the interference level may be assessed by terminal device 110. In some embodiments, the set of conditions may include communication quality between terminal device 110 and A-IoT device 130 that is lower than a threshold communication quality. In some embodiments, the set of conditions may include the number of A-IoT devices served by terminal device 110 that is higher than a threshold number. In some embodiments, the set of conditions may include the quality of the serving cell of terminal device 110 that is lower than a first threshold quality. In some embodiments, the set of conditions may include the quality of the serving cell of terminal device 110 that is higher than a second threshold quality. In some embodiments, the set of conditions may include receiving a handover command or an instruction to perform a cell change for terminal device 110. In some embodiments, the set of conditions may include a change in the location of terminal device 110. In some embodiments, the set of conditions may include a change in the mobility state of terminal device 110.

[0134] Then, terminal device 110 may send a request for this change to access network device 120. Based on this request, access network device 120 may determine that A-IoT device 130 will change from communicating with the source reader to communicating with the target reader.

[0135] refer to FIG. 6 Upon determining the change, access network device 120 determines 620 the configuration associated with the change. In some implementations, access network device 120 may select 621 a device (e.g., terminal device 111) that can communicate with A-IoT device 130 as the target reader.

[0136] When determining a target reader, access network device 120 may determine 622 the configuration associated with the change to that target reader. In some embodiments, the configuration associated with the change may include at least one of the following: a first configuration for A-IoT device 130, a second configuration for a source reader (e.g., terminal device 110), or a third configuration for a target reader (e.g., terminal device 111).

[0137] Continue to refer to FIG. 6 In some implementations, access network device 120 may send 630 the configuration associated with the change in the following manner: Access network device 120 may send 631 a command including the first configuration to A-IoT device 130. This updates the mobility-related configuration for the A-IoT device to enable communication with the target reader.

[0138] like FIG. 6 As shown, in some embodiments, access network device 120 may also send a second configuration (632) to terminal device 110. This allows the source reader to be notified of information about the target reader (e.g., identification information). In some embodiments, access network device 120 may also send a third configuration (633) to terminal device 111. This updates the mobility-related configuration for the target reader to facilitate communication with A-IoT devices.

[0139] In some implementations, the access network device 120 may periodically update the first configuration. That is, the access network device 120 may periodically send commands including the first configuration to the A-IoT device 130.

[0140] Continue to refer to FIG. 6 In some implementations, access network device 120 may send configuration associated with the change in the following manner: Access network device 120 may send a first configuration to terminal device 110 in the manner described in section 641. Terminal device 110 may send a command including the first configuration to A-IoT device 130 in the manner described in section 642. In some implementations, access network device 120 may also send a third configuration to terminal device 110, and terminal device 110 may send a third configuration to terminal device 111 in the manner described in section 643.

[0141] Continue to refer to FIG. 6 In some implementations, access network device 120 may send configuration associated with the change in the following manner: 650. Access network device 120 may send a third configuration to terminal device 110 in the manner described in 651. Terminal device 110 may forward the third configuration to terminal device 111 in the manner described in 652.

[0142] Continue to refer to FIG. 6In some implementations, access network device 120 may send configuration associated with the change at 660 as follows: Access network device 120 may send a third configuration at 661 to terminal device 111. Thus, terminal device 111 can access A-IoT device 130 based on this third configuration. In some implementations, access network device 120 may also send a second configuration at 662 to terminal device 110.

[0143] Continue to refer to FIG. 7A In some implementations, access network device 120 may send configuration associated with the change in the following manner: Access network device 120 may send a first configuration to terminal device 110 in the manner described in section 671. Terminal device 110 may send a command including the first configuration to A-IoT device 130 in the manner described in section 672. In some implementations, access network device 120 may also send a third configuration to terminal device 111 in the manner described in section 673. Thus, terminal device 111 can access A-IoT device 130 based on the third configuration.

[0144] In some implementations, when it is determined that a reader (e.g., terminal device 110) will be switched to another cell, access network device 120 may determine that an A-IoT mobility process associated with that reader can be triggered. For process 600, access network device 120 may send a handover command to the source reader. In this case, the handover command may implicitly or explicitly instruct the A-IoT device to change from communicating with the source reader (e.g., terminal device 110) to communicating with the target reader (e.g., terminal device 111). In some implementations, the handover command includes a second configuration for the source reader. In some implementations, a third configuration may also be provided to the target reader via a reconfiguration process.

[0145] FIG. 1 A schematic diagram illustrating an example process 700A for determining the configuration of A-IoT communication in a terminal device according to an embodiment of this disclosure is provided. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... FIG. 1 Describe process 700A. Process 700A may involve, for example, FIG. 7A The illustrated terminal devices 110 and 111, and A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that... FIG. 7A The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the instructions. For example, the order of the steps may be changed. Some steps may be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps may be added.

[0146] like FIG. 7AAs shown, terminal device 110 determines 710 that A-IoT device 130 will change from communicating with a source reader (e.g., terminal device 111) to communicating with a target reader. In some embodiments, the source reader (e.g., terminal device 111) may determine 711 that a set of conditions are met. Then, terminal device 111 may send 712 a request to terminal device 110 for the change to terminal device 110. Based on this request, terminal device 110 may determine 713 that A-IoT device 130 will change from communicating with a source reader to communicating with a target reader.

[0147] refer to FIG. 7A Upon determining the change, terminal device 110 determines 720 the configuration associated with the change. In some embodiments, terminal device 110 may select 721 a device (e.g., terminal device 110 or another reader) that can communicate with A-IoT device 130 as a target reader. Upon determining the target reader, terminal device 110 may determine 722 the configuration associated with the change to that target reader. In some embodiments, the configuration associated with the change may include at least one of the following: a first configuration for A-IoT device 130, a second configuration for the source reader (e.g., terminal device 111), or a third configuration for the proposed target reader. In some embodiments, the configuration associated with the change may include confirmation of being the target reader. In some embodiments, the configuration associated with the change may include information about the proposed target reader. For example, terminal device 111 may send 712 a request to terminal device 110 to designate terminal device 110 as the target reader and receive confirmation from terminal device 110. In some implementations, terminal device 111 may receive confirmation from terminal device 110 or information about a suggested target reader from terminal device 110. Upon confirmation by terminal device 110 or receipt of information about a suggested target reader, terminal device 111 may determine 722 the configuration associated with the change.

[0148] Continue to refer to FIG. 7B Terminal device 110 sends 730 the configuration associated with the change to terminal device 111. Terminal device 111 may send 740 a command including the first configuration to A-IoT device 130. This facilitates the updating of mobility-related configurations for A-IoT device 130. In some implementations where information about a suggested target reader is received, terminal device 111 may initiate additional reader selection procedures, for example, for the suggested target reader.

[0149] In some implementations, terminal device 110 may send a third configuration to the proposed target reader. This allows the proposed target reader to access A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, terminal device 110 or 111 may forward the configuration associated with the change to the network.

[0150] Using procedure 700A, the UE can perform reader selection and initiate mobility-related procedures. It should be understood that other details of the condition assessment in procedure 700A are similar to those in procedure 600, and therefore will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0151] FIG. 1 A schematic diagram of another example process 700B illustrating the determination of A-IoT communication configuration by a terminal device according to an embodiment of this disclosure is provided. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... FIG. 1 Describe process 700B. Process 700B may involve, for example, FIG. 7B The illustrated terminal devices 110 and 111, and A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that... FIG. 7B The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the example. For example, the order of the steps can be changed. Some steps can be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps can be added. In this example, the source reader performs reader selection.

[0152] like FIG. 7B As shown, terminal device 111 determines 750 that A-IoT device 130 will change from communicating with terminal device 111 to communicating with the target reader. In some embodiments, terminal device 111 may determine 751 that a set of conditions are met. Then, terminal device 111 may determine 752 that A-IoT device 130 will change from communicating with terminal device 111 to communicating with the target reader.

[0153] refer to FIG. 7B Upon determining the change, terminal device 110 determines 760 the configuration associated with the change. In some embodiments, terminal device 110 may select 761 a device (e.g., terminal device 110 or another reader) that can communicate with A-IoT device 130 as a target reader. Upon determining the target reader, terminal device 110 may determine 762 the configuration associated with the change to that target reader. In some embodiments, the configuration associated with the change may include at least one of the following: a first configuration for A-IoT device 130, a second configuration for the source reader (e.g., terminal device 111), or a third configuration for the proposed target reader (e.g., terminal device 110).

[0154] Continue to refer to Example implementations of configuration updateIn some implementations, terminal device 111 may send 770 the configuration associated with the change to terminal device 110. This allows terminal device 110 to access A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, terminal device 111 may send 780 a command including the first configuration to A-IoT device 130. This facilitates updates to mobility-related configurations for A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, terminal device 111 may forward the configuration associated with the change to the network.

[0155] Using procedure 700B, the UE, acting as the source reader, can perform reader selection and initiate mobility-related procedures. It should be understood that other details of the condition evaluation in procedure 700B are similar to those in procedure 600, and therefore will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity. FIG. 8

[0156] The embodiments disclosed herein also provide a solution for updating the configuration of A-IoT communication. Further details will be provided in [reference needed]. FIG. 8 Describe it.

[0157] FIG. 1 A schematic diagram illustrating a process 800 for updating the configuration of A-IoT communication according to an embodiment of this disclosure is provided. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... FIG. 1 Describe process 800. Process 800 may involve, for example, FIG. 8 The illustrated reader and A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that... FIG. 8 The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the discussion. For example, the order of the steps may be changed. Some steps may be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps may be added. For convenience, the following description uses terminal device 110 as an example. It should be understood that the reader may be terminal device 111 or access network device 120.

[0158] like FIG. 8 As shown, the reader (e.g., terminal device 110) sends a command 810 to the A-IoT device 130, which is associated with the A-IoT device 130 changing from communicating with the source reader to communicating with the target reader.

[0159] In some implementations, the command may be initiated by the upper layer of terminal device 110. In some implementations, the command may be initiated by access network device 120. In some implementations, the command may be initiated by core network device 140 (e.g., AMF or AF). In some implementations, the command may be initiated by A-IoT server 150.

[0160] Continue to refer to FIG. 8Based on this command, A-IoT device 130 can update the configuration associated with the change in 820. In some implementations, the configuration associated with the change may include at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices in the set of candidate devices; or a security configuration.

[0161] refer to Example implementations of access check In some implementations, A-IoT device 130 may determine whether 821 should update the configuration based on information about candidate devices or activated candidate devices in the group of candidate devices.

[0162] In some implementations, if the command is received from a candidate device in the group of candidate devices, the A-IoT device 130 may update the configuration associated with the change based on the command. In some implementations, if the command is received from an active candidate device in the group of candidate devices, the A-IoT device 130 may update the configuration associated with the change based on the command.

[0163] In some implementations, if the command is received from a candidate device or an active candidate device in the group of candidate devices, and the target reader is another candidate device in the group, the A-IoT device 130 may update the configuration associated with the change based on the command.

[0164] refer to FIG. 9 In some implementations, A-IoT device 130 may determine whether 822 should update the configuration based on a security configuration. In some implementations, if the security information of terminal device 110 matches the security configuration, i.e., a command is received from a legitimate reader, A-IoT device 130 may update the configuration associated with the change based on that command. It should be understood that any combination of the above information can also be used to trigger the update.

[0165] In some implementations, updating the configuration associated with the change may include configuring the configuration. In some implementations, updating the configuration associated with the change may include modifying the configuration. In some implementations, updating the configuration associated with the change may include adding the configuration. In some implementations, updating the configuration associated with the change may include removing the configuration.

[0166] Using process 800, mobility-related configurations can be selectively updated. FIG. 9

[0167] The embodiments disclosed herein also provide a solution for A-IoT communication with access checks. Further details will be provided in the references provided. FIG. 1 Describe it.

[0168] FIG. 1 A schematic diagram illustrating a process 900 of A-IoT communication with access checks according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... FIG. 9 Describe process 900. Process 900 may involve, for example, FIG. 9 The illustrated reader and A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that... FIG. 9 The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the discussion. For example, the order of the steps may be changed. Some steps may be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps may be added. For convenience, the following description uses terminal device 110 as an example. It should be understood that the reader may be terminal device 111 or access network device 120.

[0169] like FIG. 9 As shown, the reader (e.g., terminal device 110) sends a command for A-IoT communication to the A-IoT device 130. Upon receiving the command, the reader (e.g., terminal device 110) determines (920) whether the information of the reader in the command matches the configuration of the A-IoT device 130.

[0170] In some implementations, the configuration of the A-IoT device 130 may be pre-configured information. In some implementations, the configuration of the A-IoT device 130 may be semi-static information. In some implementations, the semi-static information may be updated by a reader (e.g., reconfigured or modified).

[0171] In some implementations, the configuration of A-IoT device 130 may include at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from that set of candidate devices; or a security configuration.

[0172] refer to Example implementations of mobility information delivery If the information of the reader in the command matches the configuration of the A-IoT device 130, then the A-IoT device 130 responds to the command.

[0173] In some implementations, the A-IoT device 130 may respond to the command if the information from the reader matches the information from a candidate device in the group of candidate devices. In some implementations, the A-IoT device 130 may respond to the command if the information from the reader matches the information from a candidate device in the group of candidate devices and the candidate device is activated. In some implementations, the A-IoT device 130 may respond to the command if the information from the reader matches the security configuration.

[0174] refer to FIG. 10 In some embodiments, responding to the command may include sending a 921 response message. In some embodiments, responding to the command may include performing the 922 action indicated by the command.

[0175] Using process 900, access checks can be performed at A-IoT devices, and selective responses to A-IoT commands can be achieved. FIG. 10

[0176] The embodiments disclosed herein also provide a solution for A-IoT communication for mobile information delivery. Further details will be provided in the references to... FIG. 1 Describe it.

[0177] FIG. 1 A schematic diagram illustrating a process 1000 for A-IoT communication for mobility information delivery according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... FIG. 10 Describe process 1000. Process 1000 may involve, for example, FIG. 10 The illustrated terminal devices 110 and 111, A-IoT device 130, and access network device 140. It should be understood that... FIG. 10 The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the discussion. For example, the order of the steps may be changed. Some steps may be omitted, or any other suitable additional steps may be added. For convenience, the following description uses terminal device 110 as an example. It should be understood that the reader may be terminal device 111 or access network device 120.

[0178] like FIG. 10 As shown, the reader (e.g., terminal device 110) sends a command 1010 to the A-IoT device 130 to obtain mobility information of the A-IoT device 130.

[0179] refer to Example implementations of methods Upon receiving the command, A-IoT device 130 may send 1020 A-IoT device 130 mobility information to a reader (e.g., terminal device 110).

[0180] In some implementations, the mobility information may include information about the last connection of the A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, the last connection information may include identification information of the last connected reader (terminal device or access network device). In some implementations, the last connection information may include identification information of the last activated reader, such as UE_ID or physical cell identifier (PCI).

[0181] In some implementations, the mobility information may include a configuration associated with the A-IoT device 130 changing from communicating with a source reader (e.g., terminal device 111) to communicating with a target reader (e.g., terminal device 110). In some implementations, the configuration associated with this change may include at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from that set; or a security configuration (e.g., a password).

[0182] Continue to refer to FIG. 11 to FIG. 15 In some implementations, terminal device 110 may send 1030 information associated with the mobility information of A-IoT device 130 to the last reader (e.g., terminal device 111). In some implementations, terminal device 110 may send 1040 information associated with the mobility information of A-IoT device 130 to access network device 120, and access network device 120 may forward 1050 the information associated with the mobility information of A-IoT device 130 to the last reader (e.g., terminal device 111). In some implementations, access network device 120 may forward the information associated with the mobility information of A-IoT device 130 to other potential readers.

[0183] In some implementations, the acquisition and forwarding of mobility information can be triggered based on instructions from the network. In some implementations, the acquisition and forwarding of mobility information can be triggered periodically.

[0184] Using process 1000, the source reader can detect the departure of an A-IoT device. Furthermore, the source reader or other readers or NW can detect changes in the serving reader, the current serving reader, or candidate readers. This facilitates connecting A-IoT devices for further A-IoT access. To further enable A-IoT access, the reader can attempt to connect to the A-IoT device based on mobility information.

[0185] It should be understood that the above processes 300A to 1000 can be performed individually or in any suitable combination. This disclosure does not limit this aspect. FIG. 11

[0186] Corresponding to the above process, embodiments of this disclosure provide communication methods implemented at a first device (i.e., a reader) and an A-IoT device. The reader can be a terminal device or an access network device. These methods will be referenced below. FIG. 1 Describe it.

[0187] FIG. 12 An example communication method 1100 implemented at a first device according to some embodiments of this disclosure is illustrated. For the purposes of discussion, reference will be made below. FIG. 1 Method 1100 is described. The first device is a reader of A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that method 1100 may include additional boxes not shown and / or some boxes as shown may be omitted from the execution, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0188] At box 1110, the first device (e.g., terminal device 110 or 111 or access network device 120) determines that the second device (e.g., terminal device 110 or 111 or access network device 120) meets the conditions for communicating with A-IoT device 130.

[0189] At box 1120, the first device initiates the communication between the second device and the A-IoT device 130.

[0190] In some implementations, the first device may determine that the second device meets the condition by: obtaining information about the second device associated with the communication from the second device; and determining that the second device meets the condition based on the information from the second device.

[0191] In some implementations, this information is associated with at least one of the following: the ability to communicate with A-IoT device 130; the authentication status for communicating with A-IoT device 130; the authorization status for communicating with A-IoT device 130; the interference level measured by the second device; the mobility status of the second device; or the quality of service measured by the second device.

[0192] In some implementations where the first device is an access network device and the second device is a terminal device, the first device may initiate the communication by sending an instruction to the second device to initiate the communication.

[0193] In some embodiments where the first device and the second device are terminal devices, the first device may initiate the communication by sending an instruction to the second device to initiate the communication. In these embodiments, the first device may send an instruction to an access network device (e.g., access network device 120) indicating that the second device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device 130.

[0194] In some embodiments where the first device and the second device are terminal devices, the first device may initiate the communication by sending an indication to an access network device (e.g., access network device 120) that the second device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device 130. Thus, access network device 120 may send an indication to the second device to initiate the communication.

[0195] In some embodiments where the second device is the first device, the first device may also receive information about the condition from the third device. In some embodiments where the first device is a terminal device and the third device is an access network device, the first device may send an indication to the third device that the first device meets the condition for communicating with the A-IoT device 130. In some embodiments where both the first device and the third device are terminal devices, the first device may send an indication to the third device or the access network device 120 that the first device meets the condition for communicating with the A-IoT device 130.

[0196] In some implementations, the condition may be associated with at least one of the following: the ability to communicate with A-IoT device 130; the authentication status for communicating with A-IoT device 130; the authorization status for communicating with A-IoT device 130; the interference level measured by the second device; the mobility status of the second device; or the quality of service measured by the second device.

[0197] Method 1100 allows you to specify the reader selection process.

[0198] FIG. 13 Another example communication method 1200 implemented at a first device according to some embodiments of this disclosure is illustrated. For the purposes of discussion, reference will be made below. FIG. 1 Method 1200 is described. The first device is a reader of A-IoT device 130. It should be understood that method 1200 may include additional boxes not shown and / or some boxes as shown may be omitted from the execution, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0199] At box 1210, the first device (e.g., terminal device 110 or 111 or access network device 120) determines that A-IoT device 130 will change from communicating with the second device (e.g., terminal device 110 or 111 or access network device 120) to communicating with the third device (e.g., terminal device 110 or 111 or access network device 120).

[0200] At box 1220, the first device determines the configuration associated with the change for communication between the third device and the A-IoT device 130.

[0201] In some implementations, the first device may determine that the A-IoT device 130 will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device if a set of conditions is met. In some implementations, the set of conditions may include at least one of the following: the upper layer of the first device indicates the change; the interference level of the second device is higher than a threshold level; the communication quality between the second device and the A-IoT device is lower than a threshold communication quality; the number of A-IoT devices served by the second device is higher than a threshold number; the quality of the serving cell of the second device is lower than a first threshold quality; the quality of the serving cell of the second device is higher than a second threshold quality; a handover command or indication to perform a cell change for the second device is received; the location of the second device changes; or the mobility state of the second device changes.

[0202] In some implementations, the first device may receive a request for the change from the second device. Based on the request, the first device may determine that the A-IoT device 130 will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device.

[0203] In some implementations, the first device may select a device that can communicate with the A-IoT device 130 as the third device, and determine the configuration associated with the change to the third device. In some implementations, the configuration may include at least one of the following: a first configuration for the A-IoT device 130, a second configuration for the second device, or a third configuration for the third device.

[0204] In some implementations, the first device may send a command including the first configuration to the A-IoT device 130. In some implementations, the first device may send the second configuration to the second device. In some implementations, the first device may send the third configuration to the third device.

[0205] In some implementations, the first device may be the second device.

[0206] Using method 1200, mobility-related configurations can be determined.

[0207] FIG. 1 Example communication method 1300 implemented at an A-IoT device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. For example, method 1300 can be implemented as follows: FIG. 14 The A-IoT device shown implements this at point 120. For discussion purposes, references will be made below. FIG. 1 Method 1300 is described. It should be understood that method 1300 may include additional boxes not shown and / or some boxes as shown may be omitted from the execution, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0208] At box 1310, A-IoT device 130 receives commands for A-IoT communication from a first device. The first device is a reader. The first device can be terminal device 110 or 111, or access network device 120.

[0209] At box 1320, A-IoT device 130 determines whether the information of the first device in the command matches the configuration of A-IoT device 130. In some embodiments, the configuration may include at least one of the following: information of a set of candidate devices; information of a set of active candidate devices from the set of candidate devices; or a security configuration.

[0210] If the information of the first device in the command matches the configuration of the A-IoT device 130, then method 1300 proceeds to block 1330. At block 1330, the A-IoT device 130 responds to the command.

[0211] In some implementations, if the information of the first device matches the information of a candidate device in the group of candidate devices, the A-IoT device 130 may respond to the command.

[0212] In some implementations, if the information of the first device matches the information of a candidate device in the group of candidate devices and the candidate device is activated, the A-IoT device 130 may respond to the command.

[0213] In some implementations, if the information of the first device matches the security configuration, the A-IoT device 130 may respond to the command.

[0214] Method 1300 enables access checks at A-IoT devices and allows for selective responses to A-IoT commands.

[0215] FIG. 1 Another example communication method 1400 implemented at an A-IoT device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. For example, method 1400 can be implemented as follows: FIG. 15 The A-IoT device shown implements this at point 130. For discussion purposes, references will be made below.FIG. 1 Method 1400 is described. It should be understood that method 1400 may include additional boxes not shown and / or some boxes as shown may be omitted from the execution, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0216] At box 1410, A-IoT device 130 receives a command associated with A-IoT device 130 changing from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device.

[0217] At box 1420, A-IoT device 130 updates the configuration associated with the change based on the command. In some implementations, the configuration associated with the change may include at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from that set; or a security configuration.

[0218] In some implementations where the configuration associated with the change includes information about a set of candidate devices, if the command is received from a candidate device in the set of candidate devices or an active candidate device, the A-IoT device 130 may update the configuration associated with the change based on the command.

[0219] In some implementations where the configuration associated with the change includes information about a set of candidate devices, if the command is received from a candidate device or an active candidate device in the set of candidate devices, and the third device is another candidate device or another active candidate device in the set of candidate devices, then the A-IoT device 130 may update the configuration associated with the change based on the command.

[0220] Method 1400 allows for the selective updating of mobility-related configurations.

[0221] FIG. 1 Another example communication method 1500 implemented at an A-IoT device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. For example, method 1500 can be implemented as follows: FIG. 3A to FIG. 10 The A-IoT device shown implements this at point 130. For discussion purposes, references will be made below. Example implementations of devices Method 1500 is described. It should be understood that method 1500 may include additional boxes not shown and / or some boxes as shown may be omitted from the execution, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0222] At box 1510, A-IoT device 130 receives a command for obtaining mobility information of A-IoT device 130.

[0223] At box 1520, A-IoT device 130 sends the mobility information of A-IoT device 130.

[0224] In some implementations, the mobility information may include at least one of the following: information about the last connection of the A-IoT device 130; or a configuration associated with the A-IoT device changing from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device. In some implementations, the configuration associated with the change may include at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from that set; or a security configuration.

[0225] Method 1500 can be used to deliver mobility information of A-IoT devices.

[0226] It should be understood that the operations of methods 1100 to 1500 correspond to the reference. FIG. 16 The operations described herein will not be elaborated upon further here for the sake of brevity. FIG. 1

[0227] FIG. 1 to FIG. 15 This is a simplified block diagram of device 1600 suitable for implementing embodiments of this disclosure. Device 1600 can be considered as follows: FIG. 1 to FIG. 15 Another example of the implementation of terminal device 110 or 111, access network device 120, or core network device 140 is shown. Therefore, device 1600 may be implemented or be implemented in, or at least a part thereof, terminal device 110 or 111, access network device 120, or core network device 140.

[0228] As shown in the figure, device 1600 includes a processor 1610, a memory 1620 coupled to the processor 1610, a suitable transceiver 1640 coupled to the processor 1610, and a communication interface coupled to the transceiver 1640. The memory 1610 stores at least a portion of a program 1630. Depending on requirements, the transceiver 1640 can be used for bidirectional or unidirectional communication. The transceiver 1640 may include at least one of a transmitter 1642 or a receiver 1644. The transmitter 1642 and receiver 1644 may be functional modules or physical entities. The transceiver 1640 has at least one antenna to facilitate communication; however, in practice, the access node mentioned in this application may have several antennas. The communication interface can represent any interface necessary for communication with other network elements, such as the X2 / Xn interface for bidirectional communication between eNBs / gNBs, the S1 / NG interface for communication between the Mobility Management Entity (MME) / Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) / SGW / UPF and eNBs / gNBs, the Un interface for communication between eNBs / gNBs and relay nodes (RNs), or the Uu interface for communication between eNBs / gNBs and terminal equipment.

[0229] Assume that program 1630 includes program instructions that, when executed by the associated processor 1610, enable device 1600 to operate according to embodiments of this disclosure, as referenced herein. ​ The embodiments discussed herein may be implemented by computer software executable by processor 1610 of device 1600, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. Processor 1610 may be configured to implement various embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, a combination of processor 1610 and memory 1620 may form a processing unit 1650 suitable for implementing various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0230] Memory 1620 can be of any type suitable for a local technology network and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as, as non-limiting examples, non-transitory computer-readable storage media, semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory. Although only one memory 1620 is shown in device 1600, several physically different memory modules may exist in device 1600. Processor 1610 can be of any type suitable for a local technology network and may include one or more of the following: as non-limiting examples, general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), and processors based on multi-core processor architectures. Device 1600 may have multiple processors, such as application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chips, which are time-dependent on a clock that synchronizes the main processor.

[0231] In some implementations, the first device includes circuitry configured to: determine that the second device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device; and initiate the communication between the second device and the A-IoT device.

[0232] In some implementations, the first device includes circuitry configured to: determine that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device; and determine a configuration associated with the change for communication between the third device and the A-IoT device.

[0233] In some implementations, the A-IoT device includes circuitry configured to: receive a command for A-IoT communication from a first device; and respond to the command based on determining that information about the first device in the command matches the configuration of the A-IoT device.

[0234] In some implementations, the A-IoT device includes circuitry configured to: receive a command associated with the A-IoT device changing its communication from a second device to a third device; and update the configuration associated with the change based on the command.

[0235] In some implementations, the A-IoT device includes circuitry configured to: receive a command for obtaining mobility information of the A-IoT device; and transmit the mobility information of the A-IoT device.

[0236] As used herein, the term "circuit" can refer to hardware circuitry and / or a combination of hardware and software circuitry. For example, a circuit can be a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry with software / firmware. As another example, a circuit can be any part of a hardware processor with software, including digital signal processors, software, and memory, which work together to enable a device (such as a terminal device or network device) to perform various functions. In yet another example, a circuit can be hardware circuitry and / or a processor (such as a microprocessor or a portion thereof) that requires software / firmware to operate, but which may be absent when operation is not required. As used herein, the term "circuit" also encompasses a specific implementation of hardware circuitry or a processor alone, or a portion thereof, and its accompanying software and / or firmware.

[0237] In summary, the implementation schemes disclosed herein provide the following solutions.

[0238] In one solution, a first device includes a processor configured to: determine that a second device meets conditions for communicating with an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device; and initiate the communication between the second device and the A-IoT device.

[0239] In some implementations, the first device is configured to determine that the second device satisfies the condition by: obtaining information about the second device associated with the communication from the second device; and determining that the second device satisfies the condition based on the information from the second device.

[0240] In some implementations, this information is associated with at least one of the following: the ability to communicate with the A-IoT device; the authentication status for communicating with the A-IoT device; the authorization status for communicating with the A-IoT device; the interference level measured by the second device; the mobility status of the second device; or the quality of service measured by the second device.

[0241] In some implementations, the first device is an access network device, and the second device is a terminal device. In some implementations, the first device is configured to initiate the communication by sending an instruction to the second device to initiate the communication.

[0242] In some embodiments, the first device and the second device are terminal devices. In some embodiments, the first device is configured to initiate the communication by sending an instruction to the second device to initiate the communication. In some embodiments, the first device is further configured to send an instruction to an access network device indicating that the second device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device.

[0243] In some embodiments where the first device and the second device are terminal devices, the first device is configured to initiate the communication by sending an indication to an access network device that the second device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device, the indication for initiating the communication being sent by the access network device to the second device.

[0244] In some implementations, the second device is the first device, and the first device is further configured to receive information about the condition from the third device.

[0245] In some implementations, the first device is a terminal device, and the third device is an access network device. In some implementations, the first device is further configured to send an indication to the third device that the first device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device.

[0246] In some implementations, the first device and the third device are terminal devices. In some implementations, the first device is further configured to send an indication to the third device or access network device that the first device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device.

[0247] In some implementations, the condition is associated with at least one of the following: the ability to communicate with the A-IoT device; the authentication status for communicating with the A-IoT device; the authorization status for communicating with the A-IoT device; the interference level measured by the second device; the mobility status of the second device; or the quality of service measured by the second device.

[0248] In another solution, a first device includes a processor configured to: determine that an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device will change from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device; and determine a configuration associated with the change for communication between the third device and the A-IoT device.

[0249] In some implementations, the first device is configured to determine that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device by: determining that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device based on a set of conditions. The set of conditions includes at least one of the following: the upper layer of the first device indicates the change; the interference level of the second device is higher than a threshold level; the communication quality between the second device and the A-IoT device is lower than a threshold communication quality; the number of A-IoT devices served by the second device is higher than a threshold number; the quality of the serving cell of the second device is lower than a first threshold quality; the quality of the serving cell of the second device is higher than a second threshold quality; a handover command or indication to perform a cell change for the second device is received; the location of the second device changes; or the mobility state of the second device changes.

[0250] In some implementations, the first device is configured to determine that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device by: receiving a request for such change from the second device; and determining that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device.

[0251] In some implementations, the first device is configured to determine the configuration associated with the change by: selecting a device that can be used to communicate with the A-IoT device as the third device; and determining the configuration associated with the change, the configuration including at least one of: a first configuration for the A-IoT device, a second configuration for the second device, or a third configuration for the third device.

[0252] In some implementations, the first device is further configured to perform at least one of the following operations: send a command including the first configuration to the A-IoT device; send the second configuration to the second device; or send the third configuration to the third device.

[0253] In some implementations, the first device is the second device.

[0254] In another solution, an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device includes a processor configured to cause the A-IoT device to: receive a command for A-IoT communication from a first device; and respond to the command based on determining that information about the first device in the command matches the configuration of the A-IoT device.

[0255] In some implementations, the configuration includes at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from the set of candidate devices; or a security configuration.

[0256] In some implementations, the A-IoT device is configured to respond to the command by determining that the information of the first device matches the information of a candidate device in the group of candidate devices.

[0257] In some implementations, the A-IoT device is made to respond to the command by determining that the candidate device is activated.

[0258] In some implementations, the A-IoT device is configured to respond to the command by determining that the information of the first device matches the security configuration.

[0259] In another solution, an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device includes a processor configured to cause the A-IoT device to: receive a command associated with the A-IoT device changing from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device; and update the configuration associated with the change based on the command.

[0260] In some implementations, the configuration associated with the change includes at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from that set of candidate devices; or a security configuration.

[0261] In some implementations, the configuration associated with the change includes information about a set of candidate devices, and the A-IoT device is configured to update the configuration by: updating the configuration associated with the change based on a command determined to be received from a candidate device or an active candidate device in the set of candidate devices; or updating the configuration associated with the change based on a command determined to be received from a candidate device or an active candidate device in the set of candidate devices, and the third device is another candidate device or another active candidate device in the set of candidate devices.

[0262] In another solution, an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device includes a processor configured to cause the A-IoT device to: receive a command for obtaining mobility information of the A-IoT device; and send the mobility information of the A-IoT device.

[0263] In some implementations, the mobility information includes at least one of the following: information about the last connection of the A-IoT device; or the configuration associated with the A-IoT device changing from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device.

[0264] In some implementations, the configuration associated with the change includes at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from that set of candidate devices; or a security configuration.

[0265] In another solution, a communication method includes: determining at a first device that a second device meets the conditions for communicating with an environmental Internet of Things (A-IoT) device; and initiating the communication between the second device and the A-IoT device.

[0266] In some implementations, determining that the second device meets the condition includes: obtaining information about the second device associated with the communication from the second device; and determining that the second device meets the condition based on the information from the second device.

[0267] In some implementations, this information is associated with at least one of the following: the ability to communicate with the A-IoT device; the authentication status for communicating with the A-IoT device; the authorization status for communicating with the A-IoT device; the interference level measured by the second device; the mobility status of the second device; or the quality of service measured by the second device.

[0268] In some implementations, the first device is an access network device, and the second device is a terminal device. In some implementations, initiating the communication includes sending an instruction to the second device to initiate the communication.

[0269] In some implementations, the first device and the second device are terminal devices. In some implementations, initiating the communication includes sending an indication to the second device to initiate the communication. In some implementations, the method further includes sending an indication to an access network device that the second device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device.

[0270] In some implementations where the first device and the second device are terminal devices, initiating the communication includes: sending an indication to an access network device that the second device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device, the indication for initiating the communication being sent by the access network device to the second device.

[0271] In some implementations, the second device is the first device, and the method further includes receiving information about the condition from a third device.

[0272] In some embodiments, the first device is a terminal device, and the third device is an access network device. In some embodiments, the method further includes sending an indication to the third device that the first device meets the condition for communicating with the A-IoT device.

[0273] In some embodiments, the first device and the third device are terminal devices. In some embodiments, the method further includes sending an indication to the third device or an access network device that the first device meets the condition for communicating with the A-IoT device.

[0274] In some implementations, the condition is associated with at least one of the following: the ability to communicate with the A-IoT device; the authentication status for communicating with the A-IoT device; the authorization status for communicating with the A-IoT device; the interference level measured by the second device; the mobility status of the second device; or the quality of service measured by the second device.

[0275] In another solution, a communication method includes: determining at a first device that an ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device will change from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device; and determining a configuration associated with the change for communication between the third device and the A-IoT device.

[0276] In some implementations, determining that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device includes: determining that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device based on a set of conditions. The set of conditions includes at least one of the following: the upper layer of the first device indicates the change; the interference level of the second device is higher than a threshold level; the communication quality between the second device and the A-IoT device is lower than a threshold communication quality; the number of A-IoT devices served by the second device is higher than a threshold number; the quality of the serving cell of the second device is lower than a first threshold quality; the quality of the serving cell of the second device is higher than a second threshold quality; a handover command or indication to perform a cell change for the second device is received; the location of the second device changes; or the mobility state of the second device changes.

[0277] In some implementations, determining that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device includes: receiving a request for such change from the second device; and determining that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device.

[0278] In some implementations, determining the configuration associated with the change includes: selecting a device that can be used to communicate with the A-IoT device as the third device; and determining the configuration associated with the change, which includes at least one of the following: a first configuration for the A-IoT device, a second configuration for the second device, or a third configuration for the third device.

[0279] In some implementations, the method further includes at least one of the following operations: sending a command including the first configuration to the A-IoT device; sending the second configuration to the second device; or sending the third configuration to the third device.

[0280] In some implementations, the first device is the second device.

[0281] In another solution, a communication method includes: receiving a command for A-IoT communication from a first device at an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device; and responding to the command based on determining that information about the first device in the command matches the configuration of the A-IoT device.

[0282] In some implementations, the configuration includes at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from the set of candidate devices; or a security configuration.

[0283] In some implementations, responding to the command includes: responding to the command based on determining that the information of the first device matches the information of a candidate device in the group of candidate devices.

[0284] In some implementations, responding to the command includes: responding to the command based on determining that the candidate device is activated.

[0285] In some implementations, responding to the command includes: responding to the command based on determining that the information of the first device matches the security configuration.

[0286] In another solution, a communication method includes: receiving at an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device a command associated with the A-IoT device changing its communication from a second device to a third device; and updating the configuration associated with the change based on the command.

[0287] In some implementations, the configuration associated with the change includes at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from that set of candidate devices; or a security configuration.

[0288] In some implementations, the configuration associated with the change includes information about a set of candidate devices, and updating the configuration includes: updating the configuration associated with the change based on a command determined to be received from a candidate device or an active candidate device in the set of candidate devices; or updating the configuration associated with the change based on a command determined to be received from a candidate device or an active candidate device in the set of candidate devices, and the third device is another candidate device or another active candidate device in the set of candidate devices.

[0289] In another solution, a communication method includes: receiving a command at an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device for obtaining mobility information of the A-IoT device; and sending the mobility information of the A-IoT device.

[0290] In some implementations, the mobility information includes at least one of the following: information about the last connection of the A-IoT device; or the configuration associated with the A-IoT device changing from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device.

[0291] In some implementations, the configuration associated with the change includes at least one of the following: information about a set of candidate devices; information about a set of active candidate devices from that set of candidate devices; or a security configuration.

[0292] Generally, various embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in hardware or special-purpose circuitry, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects can be implemented in hardware, while others can be implemented in firmware or software executable by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. Although various aspects of embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated and described using block diagrams, flowcharts, or other illustrations, it should be understood that, as non-limiting examples, the blocks, apparatuses, systems, techniques, or methods described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, special-purpose circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or any combination thereof.

[0293] This disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product includes computer-executable instructions (such as those included in program modules) that execute on a target real or virtual processor in a device to perform the functions described above. ​ The described process or method. Generally, a program module includes routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc., that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. The functionality of a program module can be combined in various implementation schemes or split among program modules as needed. The machine-executable instructions used for a program module can be executed on a local or distributed device. In a distributed device, a program module can reside on both local and remote storage media.

[0294] Program code used to perform the methods of this disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. This program code may be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, such that when executed by the processor or controller, the program code causes the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be implemented. The program code may be executed entirely on a machine, partially on a machine, as a stand-alone software package, partially on a machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0295] The aforementioned program code may be embodied on a machine-readable medium, which may be any tangible medium containing or storing a program used by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. A machine-readable medium may be a machine-readable signal medium or a machine-readable storage medium. Machine-readable media may include, but are not limited to, electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatus, or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples of machine-readable storage media will include electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fibers, portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0296] Furthermore, although the operations are described in a specific order, this should not be construed as requiring such operations to be performed in the specific order shown or in sequential order, or to perform all the illustrated operations to achieve the desired result. In some environments, multitasking and parallel processing can be advantageous. While several specific implementation details are included in the foregoing discussion, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to particular embodiments. Certain features described in the context of individual embodiments may also be implemented in a single embodiment in combination. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments.

[0297] Although this disclosure has been described using language specific to structural features and / or methodological actions, it should be understood that the disclosure as defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. Rather, the specific features and actions described above are disclosed as examples of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A first device, the first device comprising: Processor, the processor being configured to cause the first device to: Determine that the second device meets the conditions for communicating with ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) devices; and Initiate the communication between the second device and the A-IoT device.

2. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device is configured to determine that the second device satisfies the condition by: Obtain information associated with the communication from the second device; and Based on the information from the second device, it is determined that the second device meets the conditions.

3. The first device according to claim 2, wherein the information is associated with at least one of the following: The ability to communicate with the A-IoT device; Authentication status used for communicating with the A-IoT device; Authorization status used for communicating with the A-IoT device; The interference level measured by the second device; The mobility status of the second device; or The quality of service measured by the second device.

4. The first device according to claim 2, wherein the first device is an access network device and the second device is a terminal device.

5. The first device according to claim 4, wherein the first device is configured to initiate the communication in the following manner: Send an instruction to the second device to initiate the communication.

6. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the second device is the first device, and wherein the first device is further configured such that: Receive information about the conditions from a third device.

7. The first device according to claim 6, wherein the first device is a terminal device and the third device is an access network device.

8. The first device according to claim 7, wherein the first device is further configured such that: Send an indication to the third device that the first device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device.

9. The first device according to claim 6, wherein the first device and the third device are terminal devices.

10. The first device according to claim 9, wherein the first device is further configured such that: Send an indication to the third device or access network device that the first device meets the conditions for communicating with the A-IoT device.

11. The first device of claim 1, wherein the condition is associated with at least one of the following: The ability to communicate with the A-IoT device; Authentication status used for communicating with the A-IoT device; Authorization status used for communicating with the A-IoT device; The interference level measured by the second device; The mobility status of the second device; or The quality of service measured by the second device.

12. A first device, the first device comprising: Processor, the processor being configured to cause the first device to: It was determined that the Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device would change from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device; and Determine the configuration associated with the change for communication between the third device and the A-IoT device.

13. The first device of claim 12, wherein the first device is configured to determine that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device by: Based on a set of conditions, it is determined that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device, wherein the set of conditions includes at least one of the following: The change was indicated by the upper layer of the first device; The interference level of the second device is higher than the threshold level; The communication quality between the second device and the A-IoT device is below the threshold communication quality. The number of A-IoT devices served by the second device exceeds the threshold number; The quality of the serving cell of the second device is lower than the first threshold quality; The quality of the serving cell of the second device is higher than the second threshold quality; Upon receiving a handover command or instruction to perform a cell change on the second device; The position of the second device changes; or The mobility status of the second device changes.

14. The first device of claim 12, wherein the first device is configured to determine that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device by: Receive a request for the change from the second device; and It is determined that the A-IoT device will change from communicating with the second device to communicating with the third device.

15. The first device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the first device is configured to determine the configuration associated with the change by: Select a device that can communicate with the A-IoT device as the third device; and Determine the configuration associated with the change, the configuration including at least one of the following: First configuration for the A-IoT device, The second configuration for the second device, or The third configuration for the third device.

16. The first device of claim 15, wherein the first device is further configured to perform at least one of the following operations: Send a command including the first configuration to the A-IoT device; Send the second configuration to the second device; or Send the third configuration to the third device.

17. The first device according to claim 12, wherein the first device is the second device.

18. An environmental Internet of Things (A-IoT) device, the environmental Internet of Things (A-IoT) device comprising: A processor, the processor being configured to cause the A-IoT device to: Receive a command for obtaining mobility information of the A-IoT device; as well as Send the mobility information of the A-IoT device.

19. The A-IoT device of claim 18, wherein the mobility information includes at least one of the following: Information about the last connection of the A-IoT device; or The configuration associated with the A-IoT device changing from communicating with a second device to communicating with a third device.

20. The A-IoT device of claim 18, wherein the configuration associated with the change includes at least one of the following: Information on a group of candidate devices; Information about a set of activated candidate devices from the set of candidate devices; or Security configuration.

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