Communication method and device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and device, and relates to the technical field of communication. In the method, when a first RAN node receives a first message sent by an RAN node or a terminal on the second day and the first RAN node is in an energy-saving mode, a second message is sent to indicate that the first RAN node is in the energy-saving mode. Wherein the first message is used for requesting to access the first RAN node. The first RAN node is prevented from still frequently receiving the request message for requesting to access the first RAN node after the access to the first RAN node fails, transmission resources are saved, the switching success rate or the access success rate of the wireless communication system is improved, and the user experience is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to communication methods and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of wireless communication and the gradual increase in carriers of various standards and frequency bands, the energy consumption of RAN nodes has also gradually increased. In order to reduce the energy consumption of RAN nodes, RAN nodes will enter energy-saving mode during certain periods to ensure the energy distribution of the RAN node.

[0003] However, even after a RAN node enters power-saving mode, it will still receive handover requests from other RAN nodes to switch to the RAN node in power-saving mode, or receive access requests to access the RAN node in power-saving mode, resulting in a decrease in the handover success rate or access success rate of the wireless communication system. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus that, when a RAN node in energy-saving mode receives a handover request or access request, feeds back information that the RAN node is in energy-saving mode, thereby avoiding receiving a handover request again after a handover failure or an access request again after an access failure, and improving the handover success rate or access success rate of the wireless communication system.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] Firstly, this application provides a communication method that can be executed by a first wireless access node, or by a component of the first wireless access node, such as its processor, chip, or chip system, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first wireless access node. The following description uses the execution of this method by the first wireless access node as an example.

[0007] The method may include: a first wireless access node receiving a first message, the first message being used to request access to the first wireless access node; and, when the first wireless access node is in a first state, the first wireless access node sending a second message, the second message indicating that the first wireless access node is in the first state, the first state representing that the first wireless access node is in a power-saving mode.

[0008] Based on the method provided in the first aspect above, if the first wireless access node receives a first message requesting access to the first wireless access node, and the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode, it sends a second message to indicate that the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode. This avoids the first wireless access node from frequently receiving access request messages even after the access request in the first message has failed, saving transmission resources while improving the handover success rate or access success rate of the wireless communication system, thus enhancing the user experience.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the first message is used to request access to the first wireless access node, including: the first message being used by the second wireless access node to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on the same frequency; or the first message being used by the second terminal device to request access to the first wireless access node. Based on this, if the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode, sending the first message to the first wireless access node by either the second wireless access node or the second terminal device will result in a second message being sent back by the first wireless access node, thus improving the handover success rate of the first terminal device or the access success rate of the second terminal device.

[0010] In one possible implementation, when the first message is used by the second wireless access node to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on the same frequency, the first wireless access node is in a first state, including: the capacity layer of the first wireless access node is in a carrier aggregation (CA) secondary carrier state. Based on this, the energy-saving mode of the first wireless access node is that the capacity layer is in a carrier aggregation (CA) secondary carrier state, indicating that the first wireless access node refuses the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node. The first wireless access node can use a second message to indicate that the capacity layer is in energy-saving mode.

[0011] In one possible implementation, when the first message is used by the second wireless access node to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on the same frequency, the method further includes: the first wireless access node receiving a third message, the third message being used by the second wireless access node to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on a different frequency; and the first wireless access node accepting the coverage layer of the first terminal device switching from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node. Based on this, when the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode, the first terminal device cannot switch to the first wireless access node on the same frequency, but the first wireless access node can accept the first terminal device switching to the first wireless access node on a different frequency, avoiding the situation where the second wireless access node frequently requests the first terminal device to switch to the first wireless access node on the same frequency, thus improving the handover success rate of the first terminal device.

[0012] In one possible implementation, when the first message is used for a second terminal device to request access to the first wireless access node, the first wireless access node is in a first state, including: the first wireless access node is in a CA secondary carrier state; or the first wireless access node is in a BAR (Blocked Access) state. Based on this, the energy-saving mode of the first wireless access node is either the capacity layer is in a CA secondary carrier state or the first wireless access node is in a BAR state, indicating that the first wireless access node rejects the second terminal device's request to access the first wireless access node. The first wireless access node can use a second message to indicate which of the above energy-saving modes it is in.

[0013] In one possible implementation, when the first message is used for a second terminal device to request access to the first wireless access node, the second message is used to trigger the second terminal device to redirect to another wireless access node other than the first wireless access node. Based on this, the first wireless access node can send the second message to trigger the second terminal device to reselect a wireless access node and initiate an access request, thereby improving the access success rate of the second terminal device.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: the first wireless access node allowing the second terminal device to access the first wireless access node. Based on this, the first wireless access node can convert the access request of the second terminal device into a handover request by allowing the access of the second terminal device, thereby improving the access success rate of the second terminal device.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the second message also indicates the duration for which the first wireless access node is in the first state. Based on this, the first wireless access node indicates the duration it is in power-saving mode, which avoids receiving handover or access requests during that duration, thus saving transmission resources and improving the handover success rate of the first terminal device or the access success rate of the second terminal device.

[0016] Secondly, this application provides a communication method that can be executed by a second wireless access node, or by a component of the second wireless access node, such as its processor, chip, or chip system, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second wireless access node. The following description uses the execution of this method by the second wireless access node as an example.

[0017] The method may include: a second wireless access node sending a first message, the first message being used to request access to the first wireless access node; the second wireless access node receiving a second message, the second message indicating that the first wireless access node is in a first state, the first state representing that the first wireless access node is in a power-saving mode.

[0018] Based on the method provided in the second aspect above, the second wireless access node sends a first message requesting access to the first wireless access node, receives a second message, and the second message indicates that the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode, causing the access request of the first message to fail. After this, the second wireless access node no longer sends a request message to the first wireless access node to request access to the first wireless access node, thereby saving transmission resources and improving the handover success rate or access success rate of the wireless communication system, thus enhancing the user experience.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the first message is used to request access to the first wireless access node, including: the first message requests the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on the same frequency. Based on this, the second wireless access node sends the first message to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node. If the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode, the second wireless access node will receive a second message to indicate that the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the first wireless access node is in a first state, including: the capacity layer of the first wireless access node is in a carrier aggregation (CA) secondary carrier state. Based on this, the second message feedback indicates that the energy-saving mode of the first wireless access node is that the capacity layer is in a carrier aggregation (CA) secondary carrier state, indicating that the first wireless access node refuses the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on the same frequency.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: a second wireless access node sending a third message, the third message being used to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on a different frequency. Based on this, after receiving the second message, the second wireless access node determines that the first terminal device cannot switch to the first wireless access node on the same frequency, and can send the third message to request the first terminal device to switch to the first wireless access node on a different frequency. This avoids the second wireless access node frequently requesting the first terminal device to switch to the first wireless access node on the same frequency, thus improving the handover success rate of the first terminal device.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the second message also indicates the duration for which the first wireless access node is in the first state. Based on this, during the duration the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode, the second wireless access node will no longer send a handover request to the first terminal device to switch to the first wireless access node on the same frequency, thus saving transmission resources and improving the handover success rate of the first terminal device.

[0023] Thirdly, this application provides a communication method that can be executed by a second terminal device, or by a component of the second terminal device, such as a processor, chip, or chip system of the second terminal device, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second terminal device. The following description uses the execution of this method by a second terminal device as an example.

[0024] The method may include: a second terminal device sending a first message, the first message being used to request access to a first wireless access node; the second terminal device receiving a second message, the second message indicating that the first wireless access node is in a first state, the first state representing that the first wireless access node is in an energy-saving mode.

[0025] Based on the method provided in the third aspect above, the second terminal device sends a first message requesting access to the first wireless access node. Upon receiving a second message indicating that the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode, causing the access request in the first message to fail, the second terminal device ceases sending access request messages to the first wireless access node. This saves transmission resources while improving the handover success rate or access success rate of the wireless communication system, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first message is used to request access to the first wireless access node, including: the first message is used by the second terminal device to request access to the first wireless access node. Based on this, the second terminal device sends the first message to request access to the first wireless access node. If the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode, the second terminal device will receive a second message to indicate that the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the first wireless access node is in a first state, including: the first wireless access node is in a CA secondary carrier state; or the first wireless access node is in a BAR state. Based on this, the energy-saving mode of the first wireless access node is either the capacity layer is in a CA secondary carrier state or the first wireless access node is in a BAR state, indicating that the first wireless access node rejects the request from the second terminal device to access the first wireless access node. The first wireless access node can use a second message to indicate which of the above energy-saving modes it is in.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the second message is used to trigger the second terminal device to redirect to a wireless access node other than the first wireless access node. Based on this, the second terminal device can receive the second message, trigger the redirection, and reselect a wireless access node other than the first wireless access node to initiate an access request, thus improving the access success rate of the second terminal device.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the second message also indicates the duration for which the first wireless access node is in the first state. Based on this, during the duration the first wireless access node is in power-saving mode, the second terminal device will no longer send access requests to the first wireless access node, thus saving transmission resources and improving the access success rate of the second terminal device.

[0030] Fourthly, a communication device is provided for implementing the method provided in the above aspects. The communication device may be a first wireless access node as described in the first aspect, or a device comprising the first wireless access node, or a device included in the first wireless access node, such as a chip. Alternatively, the communication device may be a second wireless access node as described in the second aspect, or a device comprising the second wireless access node, or a device included in the second wireless access node, such as a chip. Alternatively, the communication device may be a second terminal device as described in the third aspect, or a device comprising the second terminal device, or a device included in the second terminal device, such as a chip. The communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the above methods, which may be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the above functions.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the communication device may include a processing module and an interface module. The processing module can be used to implement the processing functions in any of the above aspects and their possible implementations. The processing module may be, for example, a processor. The interface module, also called an interface unit, is used to implement the sending and / or receiving functions in any of the above aspects and their possible implementations. The interface module may consist of an interface circuit, a transceiver, a transceiver unit, or a communication interface.

[0032] In some possible designs, the interface module includes a sending module and a receiving module, which are used to implement the sending and receiving functions in any of the above aspects and any possible implementation methods.

[0033] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor; configured to cause the communication device to perform the method described in any of the preceding aspects by executing a computer program (or computer-executable instructions) stored in a memory, and / or by logic circuitry. The communication device may be a first wireless access node as described in the first aspect, or a device comprising the first wireless access node, or a device included in the first wireless access node, such as a chip. Alternatively, the communication device may be a second wireless access node as described in the second aspect, or a device comprising the second wireless access node, or a device included in the second wireless access node, such as a chip. Alternatively, the communication device may be a second terminal device as described in the third aspect, or a device comprising the second terminal device, or a device included in the second terminal device, such as a chip.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the communication device also includes a memory.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the processor and memory are integrated together; alternatively, the memory is independent of the processor.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a communication interface for communicating with other devices, such as transmitting or receiving data and / or signals. Exemplarily, the communication interface may be a transceiver, circuit, bus, module, or other type of communication interface.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the communication device is a chip or a chip system. Optionally, when the communication device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0038] A sixth aspect provides a communication device, comprising: a processor and an interface circuit; the interface circuit being configured to receive a computer program or instructions and transmit them to the processor; the processor being configured to execute the computer program or instructions to cause the communication device to perform the method described in any of the preceding aspects. The communication device may be a first wireless access node as described in the first aspect, or a device comprising the first wireless access node, or a device included in the first wireless access node, such as a chip. Alternatively, the communication device may be a second wireless access node as described in the second aspect, or a device comprising the second wireless access node, or a device included in the second wireless access node, such as a chip. Alternatively, the communication device may be a second terminal device as described in the third aspect, or a device comprising the second terminal device, or a device included in the second terminal device, such as a chip.

[0039] Optionally, the number of the aforementioned processors can be one or more.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the communication device is a chip or a chip system. Optionally, when the communication device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0041] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described in any of the preceding aspects.

[0042] Eighthly, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, enables the computer to perform the methods described in any of the preceding aspects.

[0043] A ninth aspect provides a communication system comprising a first wireless access node for performing the method described in the first aspect, a second wireless access node for performing the method described in the second aspect, and a second terminal device for performing the method described in the third aspect.

[0044] The technical effects of any possible implementation of aspects four through nine can be found in the technical effects of any one of aspects one through three or different possible implementations of any one of aspects, and will not be repeated here.

[0045] Understandably, provided that the solutions do not contradict each other, the solutions in the above aspects can be combined. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of terminal device switching failure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of terminal device access failure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0049] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0050] Figure 5 Flowchart of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 1 ;

[0051] Figure 6 Flowchart of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 2 ;

[0052] Figure 7A schematic diagram illustrating the terminal device switching principle of the communication method provided in this application embodiment;

[0053] Figure 8 Flowchart of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 3 ;

[0054] Figure 9 Flowchart of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 4 ;

[0055] Figure 10 A schematic diagram illustrating the terminal device access principle of the communication method provided in this application embodiment;

[0056] Figure 11 Flowchart of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 5 ;

[0057] Figure 12 Flowchart of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 6 ;

[0058] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0059] With the development of wireless communication technology, the energy consumption of RAN nodes has gradually increased. To reduce the energy consumption of RAN nodes, they will enter energy-saving mode during certain periods. However, even when a RAN node is in energy-saving mode, it will still receive access requests or handover requests, but due to the energy-saving mode, it cannot successfully access or handover the RAN node.

[0060] In some embodiments, see Figure 1 After the first RAN node switches to power-saving mode, the second RAN node will still send a handover request message to the first RAN node. This handover request message is used to request the terminal device to switch from the second RAN node to the first RAN node. Because the first RAN node is in power-saving mode, it refuses the terminal device's switchover, resulting in handover admission failure.

[0061] In other embodiments, see Figure 2 Even after the first RAN node switches to power-saving mode, the terminal device will still send an access request message to the first RAN node to request access. Because the first RAN node is in power-saving mode, it refuses the terminal device's access, causing the terminal device's access to fail.

[0062] Based on this, this application provides a communication method and apparatus. In this method, when a RAN node receives an access request and is in power-saving mode, it can send a message to indicate that the RAN node is in power-saving mode, thereby avoiding sending access requests even after access failure. This saves transmission resources while improving the access success rate of the wireless communication system.

[0063] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0064] like Figure 3 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system 1000 provided in this application. Figure 3 In this context, the communication system 1000 includes a radio access network (RAN) 100 and a core network (CN) 200. RAN 100 includes at least one RAN node (e.g., ...). Figure 3 110a and 110b (collectively referred to as 110) and at least one terminal device (such as Figure 3 RAN 100, denoted as RAN 120a-120j, is collectively referred to as RAN 120. RAN 100 may also include other RAN nodes, such as wireless relay equipment and / or wireless backhaul equipment. Figure 3 (Not shown in the image). Terminal device 120 is connected to RAN node 110 wirelessly. RAN node 110 is connected to core network 200 wirelessly or via wired connection. The core network equipment in core network 200 and RAN node 110 in RAN 100 can be different physical devices, or they can be the same physical device integrating core network logical functions and radio access network logical functions.

[0065] RAN 100 can be a 3GPP-related cellular system, such as a 4G, 5G mobile communication system, or a future-oriented evolution system. RAN 100 can also be an open access network (open RAN, O-RAN, or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (CRAN), or a WiFi system. RAN 100 can also be a communication system that integrates two or more of the above systems.

[0066] The core network 200 may include one or more network elements / entities. For example, the core network 200 may include a mobility management entity (MME). Optionally, the core network 200 may also include one or more of the following: user plane function (UPF), access management function (AMF), session management function (SMF), policy control function (PCF), authentication server function (AUSF), network slice selection function (NSSF), network exposure function (NEF) (also known as capability exposure network element), network repository function (NRF), and unified data management (UDM). It should be understood that the TCE may also be located in the access network without restriction.

[0067] RAN node 110, sometimes also referred to as access network equipment, network equipment, RAN entity, or access node, constitutes part of the communication system and is used to help terminal equipment achieve wireless access. Multiple RAN nodes 110 in the communication system 1000 can be of the same type or different types.

[0068] In one possible scenario, RAN node 110 can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), an access point (AP), a transmission reception point (TRP), a base station in a future mobile communication system, or an access node in a WiFi system, etc. RAN nodes can be macro base stations (such as...) Figure 3 110a), micro base stations or indoor stations (such as Figure 3The RAN node can be 110b), a relay node or donor node, or a radio controller in a CRAN scenario. Optionally, the RAN node can also be a server, wearable device, vehicle, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, the access network equipment in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology can be a roadside unit (RSU). In some scenarios, the roles of RAN node 110 and terminal equipment 120 are relative. For example, a helicopter or drone, typically configured as a terminal equipment, can also be configured as a mobile base station, and the equipment accessing the RAN via the helicopter or drone is configured as a terminal equipment.

[0069] In another possible scenario, multiple RAN nodes collaborate to assist terminal devices in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes implementing some of the base station's functions. Specifically, RAN nodes can be centralized units (CUs), distributed units (DUs), or radar units (RUs), etc. For example, a CU can perform the functions of the base station's Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer. A CU can also perform the functions of the Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) layer. A DU can perform the functions of the base station's Radio Link Control (RLC) layer and Medium Access Control (MAC) layer. A DU can also perform some or all of the physical layer functions. An RU can be used to implement radio frequency signal transmission and reception. CUs and DUs can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). The RU can be included in radio frequency equipment or radio frequency units, such as in a remote radio unit (RRU), an active antenna unit (AAU), or a remote radio head (RRH). Furthermore, the CU can be further divided into the CU-control plane (CP) and the CU-user plane (UP).

[0070] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0071] Terminal device 120 is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities that can be deployed on land, including indoors, outdoors, handheld, or vehicle-mounted; it can also be deployed on water (such as on ships); and it can be deployed in the air (such as on airplanes, balloons, and satellites). Terminal device can also be called a terminal, and can be user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), or a device used to provide voice or data connectivity to users. UE includes handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, vehicle-mounted devices (e.g., cars, bicycles, electric vehicles, airplanes, ships, trains, high-speed trains), wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches, smart bracelets, pedometers), or computing devices. For example, UE can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, PDA, mobile internet device (MID), satellite terminal, or computer with wireless transceiver capabilities. UE can also be a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless modem, a point-of-sale (POS) machine, customer-premises equipment (CPE), a smart robot, a robotic arm, workshop equipment, smart home devices (e.g., refrigerators, televisions, air conditioners, electricity meters, etc.), a wireless terminal in industrial control, a wireless terminal in autonomous driving, a wireless terminal in telemedicine, a wireless terminal in a smart grid, a wireless terminal in transportation safety, a wireless terminal in intelligent transportation, a wireless terminal in a smart city, a wireless terminal in a smart home, an in-vehicle terminal, an RSU with terminal functionality, or flying equipment (e.g., a smart robot, a hot air balloon, a drone, an airplane), etc. A terminal device can also be other devices with terminal device functionality; for example, a terminal device can also be a device that performs terminal device functionality in device-to-device (D2D) communication.

[0072] By way of example and not limitation, the terminal device in this application can be a wearable device. Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that utilize wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Wearable devices are portable devices that are worn directly on the body or integrated into the user's clothing or accessories. For example, wearable devices are not merely hardware devices, but also devices that achieve powerful functions through software support, data interaction, and cloud interaction. Broadly speaking, wearable smart devices include devices that are feature-rich, large in size, and can achieve complete or partial functions without relying on a smartphone, such as smartwatches or smart glasses, as well as devices that focus on only one type of application function and need to be used in conjunction with other devices such as smartphones, such as various smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0073] In this application, the terminal device can be a terminal device in an Internet of Things (IoT) system. IoT is an important component of future information technology development, and its main technical feature is connecting objects to networks through communication technologies, thereby realizing an intelligent network of human-machine interconnection and machine-to-machine interconnection. The terminal device in this application can be a terminal device in machine-type communication (MTC).

[0074] The terminal device of this application can be an on-board module, on-board component, on-board chip, on-board unit (OBU), or telecommunications box (T-BOX) built into a vehicle as one or more components or units. The vehicle can implement the methods of this application through the built-in on-board module, on-board component, on-board chip, on-board unit, or T-BOX. The terminal device can also be a complete vehicle device. Therefore, this application can be applied to vehicle networking, such as V2X, Long Term Evolution of Vehicle (LTE-V), and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V).

[0075] In practical implementation, Figure 3 Each network element or device shown (e.g., RAN node 110, terminal device 120, etc.) can be adopted Figure 4 The shown composition structure, or including Figure 4 The components shown. Figure 4The diagram shows a hardware structure schematic of a communication device applicable to this application. It will be understood that the communication device 40 includes means of the necessary form, such as modules, units, elements, circuits, or interfaces, appropriately configured together to execute the solution provided in this application. For example, the communication device 40 includes one or more processors 401 for implementing the method provided in this application.

[0076] Processor 401 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor. For example, processor 401 can be a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU can be used to control the communication device 40 (such as a first RAN node, a second RAN node, a terminal device, or a chip, etc.), execute software programs, and process data from the software programs. Optionally, in one design, processor 401 may include program 405 (sometimes also referred to as code or instructions), which can be run on processor 401 to cause the communication device 40 to perform the methods described in the following embodiments. In yet another possible design, the communication device 40 includes circuitry (…). Figure 4 (Not shown), the circuit is used to implement the functions of the first RAN node, the second RAN node, or the terminal device in the following embodiments.

[0077] Optionally, the communication device 40 may include one or more memories 403. The memory 403 may be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM), cache, or other type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions. It may also be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures that can be accessed by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory provided in this application may generally be non-volatile. Optionally, the memory 403 stores a program 407 (sometimes referred to as code or instructions), which can be run on the processor 401 to cause the communication device 40 to perform the methods described in the following method embodiments.

[0078] Optionally, the processor 401 may include an artificial intelligence (AI) module 406, and / or the memory 403 may include an AI module 408. The aforementioned AI modules are used to implement AI-related functions. The AI ​​modules can be implemented through software, hardware, or a combination of both. For example, the AI ​​module may include a wireless intelligent controller (RIC) module. For example, the AI ​​module can be a near real-time RIC or a non-real-time RIC.

[0079] Optionally, data may also be stored in the processor 401 and / or the memory 403. The processor 401 and the memory 403 may be configured separately or integrated together.

[0080] Optionally, the communication device 40 may also include a transceiver 402 and / or an antenna 404. The processor 401, sometimes referred to as a processing unit, controls the communication device 40. The transceiver 402, sometimes referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, or transceiver, is used to realize the transmission and reception functions of the communication device 40 through the antenna 404.

[0081] Understandable. Figure 4 The structural composition shown does not constitute a limitation on the communication device, except... Figure 4 In addition to the components shown, the communication device may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0082] In some examples, the first RAN node in this application can also be replaced by a chip in the first RAN node. The second RAN node in this application can also be replaced by a chip in the second RAN node. The second terminal device in this application can be replaced by a chip in the second terminal device. That is to say, Figure 4 The communication device structure diagram shown can also represent the chip structure diagram applicable to this application.

[0083] The method provided in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Each network element in the following embodiments may possess... Figure 4 The components shown are not described in detail.

[0084] It is understood that in this application, the terminal device and RAN node may perform some or all of the steps in this application. These steps are merely examples, and this application may also perform other steps or variations thereof. Furthermore, the steps may be performed in different orders as presented in this application, and it is not necessary to perform all the steps in this application.

[0085] It is understood that the methods described below in this application are illustrated using terminal devices and RAN nodes as the execution entities in the interaction illustration, but this application does not limit the execution entities in the interaction illustration. For example, the terminal device in the methods provided in the following embodiments of this application may also be a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the implementation of the method on the terminal device, or it may also be a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the terminal device; similarly, the RAN node in the methods provided in the following embodiments of this application may also be a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the implementation of the method on the RAN node, or it may also be a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the RAN node.

[0086] The method provided in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Each network element or device in the following embodiments may possess... Figure 4 The components shown are not described in detail.

[0087] It is understood that the message names between network elements or the names of parameters in the messages in the following embodiments of this application are just examples, and other names may be used in the specific implementation. This application does not make any specific limitations on this.

[0088] It is understood that in this application, " / " can indicate that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can mean A or B; "and / or" can be used to describe three relationships between the related objects. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. Furthermore, expressions like "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" are generally used to indicate any of the following: A exists alone; B exists alone; C exists alone; A and B exist simultaneously; A and C exist simultaneously; B and C exist simultaneously; A, B, and C exist simultaneously. The above examples using three elements (A, B, and C) illustrate the optional entries for this item. When the expression contains more elements, its meaning can be obtained according to the aforementioned rules.

[0089] To facilitate the description of the technical solutions of this application, the terms "first" and "second" may be used to distinguish technical features with the same or similar functions. The terms "first" and "second" do not limit the number or execution order, nor do they imply that they are necessarily different. In this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design scheme described as "exemplary" or "for example" should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design schemes. The use of "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner for ease of understanding.

[0090] It is understood that the term "embodiment" used throughout the specification means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic related to an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of this application. Therefore, various embodiments throughout the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, these specific features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. It is understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the sequence number of each process does not imply a sequential order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of this application.

[0091] It is understood that in this application, "when," "under the circumstances," "if," and "if" all refer to the corresponding processing that will be carried out under certain objective circumstances, and are not time-limited, nor do they require that there must be a judgment action when implemented, nor do they imply any other limitations.

[0092] It is understood that some optional features in this application can be implemented independently in certain scenarios without relying on other features, such as the current solution upon which they are based, to solve the corresponding technical problems and achieve the corresponding effects. Alternatively, they can be combined with other features as needed in certain scenarios. Correspondingly, the apparatus provided in this application can also implement these features or functions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0093] It is understood that the same step or step with the same function or technical feature in this application can be referenced and learned from each other in different embodiments.

[0094] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, this application provides a communication method, which may include the following steps:

[0095] S501: The second RAN node or the second terminal device sends a first message to the first RAN node. Correspondingly, the first RAN node receives the first message from the second RAN node or the second terminal device.

[0096] In this application, the first RAN node can be RAN node 110 in the communication system 1000. Alternatively, the second RAN node can be RAN node 110 in the communication system 1000. The first RAN node and the second RAN node are different.

[0097] In this application, the second terminal device may be terminal device 120 in the communication system 1000.

[0098] One possible design is that the first message can be used to request access to the first RAN node.

[0099] Optionally, the first message is used to request the terminal device to access the first RAN node. The terminal device can access the first RAN node either by directly connecting to the first RAN node or by switching from the second RAN node to the first RAN node.

[0100] Optionally, if the first message originates from the second RAN node, the first message requests the first terminal device to switch from the second RAN node to the first RAN node. In this case, the first terminal device has a communication connection with the second RAN node, and the second RAN node provides services to the first terminal device.

[0101] Optionally, if the first message comes from the second terminal device, the first message requests the second terminal device to access the first RAN node.

[0102] S502: When the first RAN node is in the first state, the first RAN node sends a second message to the second RAN node or the second terminal device. Correspondingly, the second RAN node or the second terminal device receives the second message from the first RAN node.

[0103] Optionally, the first RAN node being in the first state indicates that the first RAN node is in energy-saving mode.

[0104] Optionally, the capacity layer of the first RAN node is in power-saving mode.

[0105] Understandably, when the first RAN node is in power-saving mode, it will not accept access or handover of terminal devices. In other words, when the first RAN node is in power-saving mode, it will cause the first terminal device to fail to access or handover.

[0106] One possible design is that the second message is used to indicate the reason for the failure to access the first RAN node. For example, the second message indicates that the first RAN node is in power-saving mode. Another example is that the second message indicates that the capacity layer of the first RAN node is in power-saving mode.

[0107] One possible design is that the second message indicates that the first RAN node is in a first state, and the first state indicates that the first RAN node is in an energy-saving mode.

[0108] Optionally, the second message indicates to the second RAN node or the second terminal device that the first RAN node is in power-saving mode, so that the second RAN node or the second terminal device knows that the first RAN node rejects the access request carried in the first message, thereby giving up repeatedly sending access requests to the first RAN node and avoiding wasting resources.

[0109] Optionally, the second message is used to indicate that the capacity layer of the first RAN node is in power-saving mode.

[0110] Optionally, if there is an X2 interface between the first RAN node and the second RAN node, the second message can be transmitted through the X2 interface between the first RAN node and the second RAN node.

[0111] Optionally, if there is no X2 interface between the first RAN node and the second RAN node, an S1 interface can be added between the first RAN node and the second RAN node for transmitting the aforementioned second message.

[0112] Optionally, the second message may also indicate the duration for which the first RAN node remains in the first state. This allows the second RAN node, upon receiving the second message, to refrain from requesting access to the first RAN node for the duration indicated by the second message.

[0113] The above provides an overview of how, when the first RAN node is in power-saving mode, it sends a notification to the second RAN node or the second terminal device after receiving an access request. The following sections will describe the interaction methods between the first RAN node and the second RAN node, as well as between the first RAN node and the second terminal device.

[0114] In some embodiments, see Figure 6 The first RAN node and the second RAN node interact to implement the communication method of this application.

[0115] As described in S501 of the aforementioned embodiment, the second RAN node sends a first message to the first RAN node, and correspondingly, the first RAN node receives the first message from the second RAN node.

[0116] Optionally, the first message carries a frequency-based handover request. For example, the first message may be used to request the first terminal device to switch from the second RAN node to the first RAN node on the same frequency.

[0117] Optionally, the first RAN node is in a first state. This first state can be a CA secondary carrier state.

[0118] Optionally, the capacity layer of the first RAN node is in CA secondary carrier state.

[0119] Understandably, when the first RAN node is in CA secondary carrier state, the first RAN node does not support the first terminal device to switch from the second RAN node to the first RAN node at the same frequency.

[0120] Accordingly, as described in S502 of the aforementioned embodiment, the first RAN node sends a second message to the second RAN node. Correspondingly, the second RAN node receives the second message from the first RAN node.

[0121] Optionally, the second message indicates that the first RAN node is in a first state. This first state can be a CA secondary carrier state.

[0122] Optionally, the second message indicates that the capacity layer of the first RAN node is in CA secondary carrier state.

[0123] Optionally, after receiving the second message, the second RAN node sets a handover penalty for the first RAN node, so that the second RAN node will not trigger the first terminal device to switch to the first RAN node for a period of time.

[0124] Optionally, the second message may also indicate the duration for which the first RAN node remains in the first state. This allows the second RAN node, upon receiving the second message, to refrain from requesting access to the first RAN node for the duration indicated by the second message.

[0125] One possible design, see Figure 6 After receiving the second message, the method may further include the following steps:

[0126] S503a: The second RAN node sends a third message to the first RAN node. Correspondingly, the first RAN node receives the third message from the second RAN node.

[0127] Optionally, the third message carries a frequency handover request. For example, the third message is used to request the first terminal device to handover from the second RAN node to the first RAN node.

[0128] Optionally, the third message is used to request the first terminal device to switch from the second RAN node to the coverage layer of the first RAN node via a different frequency.

[0129] One possible design is that after the first RAN node receives the third message, the first RAN node accepts the first terminal device's frequency switch from the second RAN node to the first RAN node.

[0130] Optionally, the first RAN node accepts the first terminal device's frequency handover from the second RAN node to the coverage layer of the first RAN node.

[0131] For example, see Figure 7 The capacity layer of the first RAN node is in power-saving mode. For example, the capacity layer of the first RAN node is in CA secondary carrier mode. At this time, the first terminal device cannot switch from the capacity layer of the second RAN node to the capacity layer of the first RAN node at the same frequency. The second RAN node sends an inter-frequency handover request to the first RAN node, enabling the first terminal device to switch from the capacity layer of the second RAN node to the coverage layer of the first RAN node at an inter-frequency level.

[0132] In one example, seeFigure 8 Interaction between the first RAN node and the second RAN node requires the participation of the core network. For example, the first RAN node and the second RAN node can interact through the MME in the core network, and the method includes:

[0133] S801: The first RAN node switches to CA secondary carrier state (i.e., the first state in the aforementioned embodiment).

[0134] S802: The second RAN node sends a same-frequency handover request to the MME (i.e., the first message in the aforementioned embodiment). Correspondingly, the MME receives the same-frequency handover request from the second RAN node.

[0135] S803: The MME sends a same-frequency handover request to the first RAN node. Correspondingly, the first RAN node receives the same-frequency handover request from the MME.

[0136] S804: The first RAN node sends a handover admission failure message to the MME. Correspondingly, the MME receives the handover admission failure message from the first RAN node.

[0137] Optionally, the handover admission failure message carries the second information from the aforementioned embodiments, used to indicate that the first RAN node is in power-saving mode. For example, the first RAN node is in CA secondary carrier state.

[0138] S805: The MME sends a handover admission failure message to the second RAN node. Correspondingly, the second RAN node receives the handover admission failure message from the MME.

[0139] S806: The second RAN node sends an inter-frequency handover request to the MME (i.e., the third message in the aforementioned embodiment). Correspondingly, the MME receives the inter-frequency handover request from the second RAN node.

[0140] S807: The MME sends a frequency handover request to the first RAN node. Correspondingly, the first RAN node receives the frequency handover request from the MME.

[0141] S808: The first RAN node sends a handover admission success message to the MME. Correspondingly, the MME receives the handover admission success message from the first RAN node.

[0142] S809: The MME sends a handover admission success message to the second RAN node. Correspondingly, the second RAN node receives the handover admission success message from the MME.

[0143] In other embodiments, see Figure 9 The first RAN node and the second terminal device interact to implement the communication method of this application.

[0144] As described in S501 of the aforementioned embodiment, the second terminal device sends a first message to the first RAN node, and correspondingly, the first RAN node receives the first message from the second terminal device.

[0145] Optionally, the first message is used for the second terminal device to request access to the first RAN node.

[0146] Optionally, the first RAN node is in power-saving mode. For example, the first RAN node can be in CA secondary carrier mode or BAR mode.

[0147] Optionally, as described in S502 of the foregoing embodiment, the second message indicates that the first RAN node is in a first state. For example, the first RAN node may be in a CA secondary carrier state or in a BAR state.

[0148] Optionally, the second message can indicate to the second terminal device the type of energy-saving mode in which the first RAN node is located by carrying the identifier or number corresponding to different energy-saving modes.

[0149] Optionally, the second message may also indicate the duration for which the first RAN node is in the first state. This allows the second terminal device, upon receiving the second message, to refrain from requesting access to the first RAN node for the duration indicated by the second message.

[0150] Optionally, the first RAN node can send the aforementioned second message via the release cause cell and redirection cell of the RRC connection release signaling.

[0151] One possible design, see Figure 9 After receiving the second message, the method may further include the following steps:

[0152] S503b: The second terminal device triggers redirection.

[0153] Optionally, the second terminal device may select other RAN nodes besides the first RAN node to send an access request via redirection.

[0154] Optionally, the second terminal device may select a second RAN node via redirection to send an access request. The signal strength of the second RAN node must meet the requirements of the second terminal device.

[0155] Optionally, the second terminal device can adjust the reselection threshold corresponding to the first RAN node to prevent the first RAN node from being selected during the redirection process.

[0156] For example, see Figure 10The second terminal device sends an access request to the first RAN node. Because the first RAN node is in power-saving mode (e.g., its capacity layer is in power-saving mode), the second terminal device fails to access the first RAN node. Upon receiving the second message, the second terminal device triggers a redirection process and selects to access the second RAN node. The second terminal device then sends an access request to the second RAN node and successfully accesses it. For example, the second terminal device accesses the capacity layer of the second RAN node.

[0157] In one example, see Figure 11 If a second terminal device fails to connect to the first RAN node, it can trigger a redirection to connect to the second RAN node. This method may include:

[0158] S1101: The first RAN node switches to CA secondary carrier state, or the first RAN node switches to BAR state.

[0159] S1102: The first RAN node sends a second message to the second terminal device. Correspondingly, the second terminal device receives the second message from the first RAN node.

[0160] Optionally, the second message indicates that the first RAN node is in CA secondary carrier state or BAR state.

[0161] S1103: The second terminal device adjusts the reselection threshold.

[0162] Optionally, the second terminal device raises the reselection threshold of the first RAN node so that the first RAN node will not be selected again during subsequent redirection.

[0163] S1104: The second terminal device sends an RRC connection request (i.e., the first message in the aforementioned embodiment) to the first RAN node. Correspondingly, the first RAN node receives the RRC connection request from the second terminal device.

[0164] S1105: The first RAN node instructs the second terminal device to redirect.

[0165] Optionally, the first RAN node instructs the second terminal device to redirect via the second message in the foregoing embodiments.

[0166] S1106: The second terminal device sends a connection request to the second RAN node. Correspondingly, the second RAN node receives the connection request from the second terminal device.

[0167] In another example, see Figure 12When the first RAN node receives the first message in power-saving mode, it can accept the access of the second terminal device and then request to switch the second terminal device to another RAN node. This method may include:

[0168] S1201: The first RAN node switches to CA secondary carrier state or switches to BAR state.

[0169] S1202: The second terminal device sends a first message to the first RAN node. Correspondingly, the first RAN node receives the first message from the second terminal device.

[0170] Optionally, the first message can be an access request, used by the second terminal device to request access to the first RAN node.

[0171] S1203: The first RAN node allows the second terminal device to access.

[0172] Optionally, the first RAN node allows the second terminal device to briefly access the first RAN node, and then the first terminal device is switched to the second RAN node.

[0173] S1204: The first RAN node sends an access success message to the second terminal device. Correspondingly, the second terminal device receives the access success message from the first RAN node.

[0174] S1205: The first RAN node sends a handover request to the second RAN node. Correspondingly, the second RAN node receives the handover request from the first RAN node.

[0175] Optionally, the first RAN node sends a frequency switching request to the second RAN node.

[0176] Optionally, the second terminal device can switch from the first RAN node to the second RAN node via a different frequency.

[0177] In some embodiments, the RAN node in this application can be replaced by a cell. The way the cell implements this application is the same as the way the RAN node implements this application in the foregoing embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0178] The above mainly describes the solution provided in this application from the perspective of interaction between various network elements. Correspondingly, this application also provides a communication device, which can be the terminal device in the above method embodiments, or a device containing the above terminal device, or a component usable in the terminal device; the communication device can also be the RAN node in the above method embodiments, or a device containing the above RAN node, or a component usable in the RAN node. It is understood that the above-mentioned terminal devices, etc., include hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function in order to achieve the above functions. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the unit and algorithm operations of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0179] This application can divide terminal devices or RAN nodes into functional modules based on the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It is understood that the module division in this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0180] For example, when dividing the functional modules using an integrated approach. Figure 13 A schematic diagram of a communication device 130 is shown. The communication device 130 includes an interface module 1301 and a processing module 1302. The interface module 1301, also known as an interface unit, is used to perform transmit and receive operations. For example, it can be an interface circuit, a transceiver, a transceiver unit, or a communication interface. The processing module 1302, also known as a processing unit, is used to perform operations other than transmit and receive operations. For example, it can be a processing circuit or a processor.

[0181] In some embodiments, the communication device 130 may further include a storage module. Figure 13 (Not shown in the image) is used to store program instructions and data.

[0182] In one example, the communication device is a first RAN node, which can be used to implement any of the methods executed by the first RAN node in the foregoing embodiments.

[0183] For example, interface module 1301 is used to receive a first message, which is used to request access to the first RAN node; when the first RAN node is in a first state, processing module 1302 is used to control the interface module to send a second message, which indicates that the first RAN node is in a first state, and the first state indicates that the first RAN node is in an energy-saving mode.

[0184] In one example, the communication device is a second RAN node or a second terminal device, which can be used to implement any of the methods executed by the second RAN node or the second terminal device in the foregoing embodiments.

[0185] For example, interface module 1301 is used to send a first message, which is used to request access to the first RAN node; processing module 1302 is used to control the interface module to receive a second message, which indicates that the first RAN node is in a first state, and the first state indicates that the first RAN node is in an energy-saving mode.

[0186] When the communication device is used to implement the functions of the first RAN node, the second RAN node, or the second terminal device, other functions that the communication device 130 can implement can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 5 The relevant descriptions of the embodiments shown will not be elaborated upon further.

[0187] In a simplified embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that the communication device 130 can employ... Figure 4 The form shown. For example, Figure 4 The processor 401 can call computer execution instructions stored in the memory 403 to cause the communication device 130 to execute the method described in the above method embodiment.

[0188] For example, Figure 13 The functions / implementation process of the processing module 1302 and the interface module 1301 can be achieved through... Figure 4 The processor 401 in the memory calls computer execution instructions stored in the memory 403 to implement the function. Alternatively, Figure 13 The function / implementation process of the processing module 1302 can be achieved through... Figure 4 The processor 401 in the memory calls computer execution instructions stored in the memory 403 to implement this. Figure 13 The function / implementation process of interface module 1301 can be accessed through... Figure 4 This is achieved using transceiver 402.

[0189] It is understood that one or more of the above modules or units can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of both. When any of the above modules or units are implemented by software, the software exists as computer program instructions and is stored in memory. The processor can be used to execute the program instructions and implement the above method flow. The processor can be built into a system on a chip (SoC) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or it can be a separate semiconductor chip. In addition to the core that executes software instructions for computation or processing, the processor may further include necessary hardware accelerators, such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), or logic circuits that implement dedicated logic operations.

[0190] When the above modules or units are implemented in hardware, the hardware can be any one or any combination of a CPU, microprocessor, digital signal processing (DSP) chip, microcontroller unit (MCU), artificial intelligence processor, ASIC, SoC, FPGA, PLD, application-specific digital circuit, hardware accelerator, or non-integrated discrete device, which can run the necessary software or perform the above method flow independently of software.

[0191] Optionally, this application also provides a chip system, including: at least one processor and an interface, wherein the at least one processor is coupled to a memory via the interface, and when the at least one processor executes a computer program or instructions in the memory, the method in any of the above method embodiments is executed. In one possible implementation, the chip system further includes a memory. Optionally, the chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices; this application does not specifically limit this.

[0192] Optionally, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be executed by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium. When executed, the program can include the processes described in the above method embodiments. The computer-readable storage medium can be an internal storage unit of the communication device in any of the foregoing embodiments, such as a hard disk or memory of the communication device. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can also be an external storage device of the communication device, such as a plug-in hard disk, smart memory card (SMC), secure digital card (SD), flash card, etc., equipped on the communication device. Further, the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can include both internal storage units and external storage devices of the communication device. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium is used to store the aforementioned computer program and other programs and data required by the communication device. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.

[0193] Optionally, this application also provides a computer program product. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be executed by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in the above computer program product, and when executed, it can include the processes described in the above method embodiments.

[0194] Optionally, this application also provides computer instructions. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be executed by computer instructions instructing related hardware (such as a computer, processor, terminal device, or RAN node). The program can be stored in the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium or the aforementioned computer program product.

[0195] Optionally, this application also provides a communication system, including: Figure 5 The second terminal device, the first RAN node, and the second RAN node in the illustrated embodiment.

[0196] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the division of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0197] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For example, the division of modules or units is merely a logical functional division, and there may be other division methods in actual implementation. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection of devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0198] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. A component shown as a unit can be one or more physical units; that is, it can be located in one place or distributed in multiple different locations. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0199] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0200] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: Receive a first message, which is used to request access to the first wireless access node; When the first wireless access node is in the first state, a second message is sent, the second message indicating that the first wireless access node is in the first state, the first state indicating that the first wireless access node is in power saving mode.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first message is used to request access to the first wireless access node, including: The first message is used by the second wireless access node to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on the same frequency; or The first message is used by the second terminal device to request access to the first wireless access node.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the first message is used by the second wireless access node to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on the same frequency, the first wireless access node is in a first state, including: The capacity layer of the first wireless access node is in carrier aggregation (CA) auxiliary carrier state.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, When the first message is used by the second wireless access node to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on the same frequency, the method further includes: Receive a third message, the third message being used by the second wireless access node to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node via a different frequency; The first terminal device accepts the switch from the second wireless access node to the coverage layer of the first wireless access node.

5. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the first message is used for a second terminal device to request access to the first wireless access node, the first wireless access node is in a first state, including: The first wireless access node is in CA secondary carrier state; or the first wireless access node is in BAR disabled state.

6. The method according to claim 2 or 5, characterized in that, When the first message is used for the second terminal device to request access to the first wireless access node, the second message is used to trigger the second terminal device to redirect to another wireless access node other than the first wireless access node.

7. The method according to claim 2, 5 or 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second terminal device is allowed to access the first wireless access node.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The second message also indicates the duration for which the first wireless access node is in the first state.

9. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: Send a first message, the first message being used to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node on the same frequency; A second message is received, indicating that the first wireless access node is in a first state, and the first state indicates that the first wireless access node is in a power-saving mode.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first wireless access node is in a first state, including: The capacity layer of the first wireless access node is in carrier aggregation (CA) auxiliary carrier state.

11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The method further includes: A third message is sent, which is used to request the first terminal device to switch from the second wireless access node to the first wireless access node via a different frequency.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The second message also indicates the duration for which the first wireless access node is in the first state.

13. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: Send a first message, which is used by the second terminal device to request access to the first wireless access node; A second message is received, indicating that the first wireless access node is in a first state, and the first state indicates that the first wireless access node is in a power-saving mode.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first wireless access node is in a first state, including: The first wireless access node is in the CA secondary carrier state; or The first wireless access node is in BAR state.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The second message is used to trigger the second terminal device to redirect to another wireless access node other than the first wireless access node.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13-15, characterized in that, The second message also indicates the duration for which the first wireless access node is in the first state.

17. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a unit or module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-8, or for performing the method as described in any one of claims 9-12, or for performing the method as described in any one of claims 13-16.

18. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer program instructions, which, when executed, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-8, or the method as described in any one of claims 9-12, or the method as described in any one of claims 13-16.

19. A computer program product containing instructions, characterized in that, When the computer program product is run on a computer, it causes the method as described in any one of claims 1-8 to be implemented, or causes the method as described in any one of claims 9-12 to be implemented, or causes the method as described in any one of claims 13-16 to be implemented.

20. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor coupled to a memory for storing a program or instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the device to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1-8, or the method as claimed in any one of claims 9-12, or the method as claimed in any one of claims 13-16.

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