Communication method and device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and device, and relates to the field of communication, and the communication method comprises the steps that network equipment indicates at least one piece of information, namely first information or second information, to terminal equipment; the first information is at least used for indicating one of the following items: a time domain offset value of a positioning time window or effective time of the positioning time window. The second information is used for indicating a plurality of time intervals corresponding to one network node, then the terminal device receives a positioning reference signal based on the first information and / or the second information indicated by the network device, and then feeds back a measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the network device. In this way, the first information and / or the second information can be indicated to the terminal equipment in combination with the change condition of the arrival time of the positioning reference signal, so that the terminal equipment can accurately receive the positioning reference signal based on the first information and / or the second information, thereby ensuring that the terminal equipment can receive enough and high-quality positioning reference signals, and improving the user experience. Therefore, the positioning precision is ensured to be high.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to communication methods and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) are a communication network architecture that utilizes communication infrastructure located outside the Earth's surface (called aircraft) to provide wireless communication services. These aircraft can include satellites, drones, high-altitude balloons, etc., communicating with devices or users on the ground via wireless links. NTNs were originally designed to address the coverage challenges of traditional terrestrial networks in remote areas, oceans, mountains, the air, or high-altitude regions, thereby expanding the coverage of communication networks and achieving seamless global connectivity. With technological advancements and growing demand, NTNs have demonstrated enormous potential and value in areas such as emergency communications, distance education, telemedicine, IoT applications, and aerospace.

[0003] In NTN positioning scenarios, due to the mobile characteristics of the aircraft, its position relative to the ground terminal equipment is constantly changing, which causes the propagation path of the positioning signal used for positioning to change constantly. This makes it impossible to guarantee that the terminal equipment can receive sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, resulting in low positioning accuracy. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus for improving positioning accuracy in NTN scenarios.

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

[0006] Firstly, a communication method is provided, which is applied to a terminal device. The execution subject of the method can be the terminal device, a component or device applied to the terminal device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the terminal device. The communication method includes: receiving first information and / or second information, wherein the first information indicates a time-domain offset value of a positioning time window and / or the effective time of the positioning time window, and the second information indicates multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node; receiving a positioning reference signal based on the first information and / or the second information; and transmitting the measurement result of the positioning reference signal.

[0007] In the first aspect, the network device instructs the terminal device to provide at least one of the following information: first information or second information. The first information indicates at least one of the following: the time-domain offset value of the positioning time window or the effective time of the positioning time window. The second information indicates multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node. The terminal device then receives a positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information instructed by the network device, and feeds back the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the network device. This allows the first and / or second information to be instructed to the terminal device in conjunction with changes in the arrival time of the positioning reference signal, enabling the terminal device to accurately receive the positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information. This ensures that the terminal device receives sufficient, high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0008] In one possible design, the method may further include: sending third information, which is used to request the first information and / or the second information.

[0009] In this design, the terminal device actively sends third information to request the first and / or second information. In this way, the terminal device can promptly request the first and / or second information for receiving positioning reference signals based on its own needs, which can ensure that the terminal device can receive sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0010] In one possible design, the second information includes multiple expected reference signal time differences, or the second information includes multiple time difference offset values ​​for the reference time differences. Optionally, the second information also includes at least one of the following: the effective time of multiple time difference ranges or multiple time intervals.

[0011] In this design, a variety of second information is flexibly designed, and the diversity of second information enables the communication system to support a wider range of application scenarios.

[0012] In one possible design, any one of multiple time difference offset values ​​is used to determine the temporal location of one or more detection time windows, which are used to detect the positioning reference signals sent by network nodes.

[0013] In this design, a time difference offset value is used to determine the temporal position of one or more detection time windows. By determining the temporal position of the detection time window through the time difference offset value, it is possible to ensure that the positioning reference signal is detected within a precise time range, thereby improving positioning accuracy.

[0014] In one possible design, there are multiple time-domain offset values, each of which is used to determine the time-domain position of the positioning time window within at least one period.

[0015] In this design, a time-domain offset value is used to determine the time-domain position of the positioning time window within one or more cycles. By determining the time-domain position of the positioning time window through the time-domain offset value, it is possible to ensure that the positioning reference signal is detected within a precise time range, thereby improving positioning accuracy.

[0016] In one possible design, the first information is carried in radio resource control signaling or media access control layer control elements.

[0017] In this design, the signaling for the first possible information carrier is designed, enabling the communication system to support a wider range of application scenarios.

[0018] In one possible design, the second information is carried in the positioning protocol signaling. Transmitting the second information through the positioning protocol signaling can ensure that the terminal device can accurately receive the positioning reference signal, thereby improving positioning accuracy.

[0019] In one possible design, the method may further include: receiving fourth information, the fourth information indicating a first time-domain position within a positioning time window, the time-domain offset value being an offset value based on the first time-domain position. Optionally, the fourth information is carried in radio resource control signaling.

[0020] In this design, the first time-domain position of the positioning time window is indicated by the fourth information. This first time-domain position can be used as the basis for adjusting the time-domain offset value. This enables the terminal device to receive the positioning reference signal within a more accurate time range and reduces positioning offset caused by time errors.

[0021] In one possible design, the first information is also used to activate the positioning time window.

[0022] In this design, the first information is also used to activate the positioning time window, thus achieving multiple functions with a single first information and reducing the signaling transmission overhead of the communication system.

[0023] Secondly, a communication method is provided, which is applied to a network device. The execution subject of the method can be the network device, a component or device applied to the network device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the network device. The communication method includes: sending first information and / or second information, wherein the first information is used to indicate the time-domain offset value of a positioning time window, and / or, the first information is used to indicate the effective time of the positioning time window, and the second information is used to indicate multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node; and receiving the measurement results of a positioning reference signal.

[0024] In the second aspect, the network device instructs the terminal device to provide at least one of the following information: first information or second information. The first information indicates at least one of the following: the time-domain offset value of the positioning time window or the effective time of the positioning time window. The second information indicates multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node. The terminal device then receives the positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information instructed by the network device, and feeds back the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the network device. This allows the first and / or second information to be instructed to the terminal device in conjunction with the changes in the arrival time of the positioning reference signal, enabling the terminal device to accurately receive the positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information. This ensures that the terminal device receives sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0025] In one possible design, the method may further include: receiving third information, which is used to request the first information and / or the second information.

[0026] In this design, the network device receives a third information requesting first information and / or second information. In this way, the network device can promptly indicate the first information and / or second information to the terminal device, thereby enabling the terminal device to receive sufficient, high-quality positioning reference signals and ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0027] In one possible design, the second information includes multiple expected reference signal time differences, or the second information includes multiple time difference offset values ​​for the reference time differences. Optionally, the second information also includes at least one of the following: the effective time of multiple time difference ranges or multiple time intervals.

[0028] In this design, a variety of second information is flexibly designed, and the diversity of second information enables the communication system to support a wider range of application scenarios.

[0029] In one possible design, any one of multiple time difference offset values ​​is used to determine the temporal location of one or more detection time windows, which are used to detect the positioning reference signals sent by network nodes.

[0030] In this design, a time difference offset value is used to determine the temporal position of one or more detection time windows. By determining the temporal position of the detection time window through the time difference offset value, it is possible to ensure that the positioning reference signal is detected within a precise time range, thereby improving positioning accuracy.

[0031] In one possible design, there are multiple time-domain offset values, each of which is used to determine the time-domain position of the positioning time window within at least one period.

[0032] In this design, a time-domain offset value is used to determine the time-domain position of the positioning time window within one or more cycles. By determining the time-domain position of the positioning time window through the time-domain offset value, it is possible to ensure that the positioning reference signal is detected within a precise time range, thereby improving positioning accuracy.

[0033] In one possible design, the first information is carried in radio resource control signaling or media access control layer control elements.

[0034] In this design, the signaling for the first possible information carrier is designed, enabling the communication system to support a wider range of application scenarios.

[0035] In one possible design, the second information is carried in the positioning protocol signaling. Transmitting the second information through the positioning protocol signaling can ensure that the terminal device can accurately receive the positioning reference signal, thereby improving positioning accuracy.

[0036] In one possible design, the method may further include: transmitting fourth information, the fourth information indicating a first time-domain position within a positioning time window, the time-domain offset being an offset value based on the first time-domain position. Optionally, the fourth information is carried in radio resource control signaling.

[0037] In this design, the first time-domain position of the positioning time window is indicated by the fourth information. This first time-domain position can be used as the basis for adjusting the time-domain offset value. This enables the terminal device to receive the positioning reference signal within a more accurate time range and reduces positioning offset caused by time errors.

[0038] In one possible design, the first information is also used to activate the positioning time window.

[0039] In this design, the first information is also used to activate the positioning time window, thus achieving multiple functions with a single first information and reducing the signaling transmission overhead of the communication system.

[0040] Thirdly, a communication device is provided for implementing the method described in any one of the first or second aspects. For example, the communication device may be a terminal device as described in the first aspect, or a device included in a terminal device, such as a chip or chip system; or, the communication device may be a network device as described in the second aspect, or a device included in a network device, such as a chip or chip system.

[0041] The communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the implementation method. These modules, units, or means can 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 functions.

[0042] In some possible designs, the communication device may include a processing module and a transceiver module. The processing module can be used to implement the processing functions in any of the above aspects and any possible implementations. The transceiver module, also called a transceiver unit, is used to implement the sending and / or receiving functions in any of the above aspects and any possible implementations. The transceiver module may consist of transceiver circuitry, a transceiver, a transceiver unit, or a communication interface.

[0043] In some possible designs, the transceiver module includes a sending module and / or a receiving module, which are used to implement the sending or receiving functions in any of the above aspects and any possible implementations.

[0044] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor and a communication interface; the communication interface being used to communicate with a module outside the communication device; the processor being used to execute computer programs or instructions to cause the communication device to perform the methods described in any of the aspects. For example, the communication device may be a terminal device as described in the first aspect, or a device included in a terminal device, such as a chip or a chip system; or, the communication device may be a network device as described in the second aspect, or a device included in a network device, such as a chip or a chip system. When the device is a chip system, it may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0045] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, comprising: at least one processor; the processor being configured to execute a computer program or instructions stored in a memory to cause the communication device to perform the method described in any of the aspects. The memory may be coupled to the processor, or the memory may exist independently of the processor; for example, the memory and the processor are two separate modules. The memory may be located outside or within the communication device.

[0046] The communication device is used to implement the method described in any of the first or second aspects. For example, the communication device can be a terminal device as described in the first aspect, or a device included in a terminal device, such as a chip or chip system; or, the communication device can be a network device as described in the second aspect, or a device included in a network device, such as a chip or chip system. When the device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or can include chips and other discrete components.

[0047] In a sixth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a communication device, enable the communication device to perform the method described in either aspect.

[0048] In a seventh aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a communication device, enables the communication device to perform the method described in either aspect.

[0049] Eighthly, a communication device is provided, configured to cause the communication device to perform the method described in any one of the aspects.

[0050] In a ninth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip including a processor and a transceiver, the processor and transceiver being configured to enable the chip to perform the methods described in any aspect.

[0051] In a tenth aspect, a communication system is provided, the communication system including at least one of the terminal equipment and network equipment described in the foregoing aspects.

[0052] It is understandable that when the communication device provided by any of the third to fifth aspects is a chip, the sending action / function of the communication device can be understood as outputting information, and the receiving action / function of the communication device can be understood as inputting information.

[0053] The technical effects of any of the design methods in aspects three through ten can be found in the technical effects of different design methods in aspects one through two, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0054] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a non-terrestrial network scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a positioning time window scenario provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 3 This application provides a schematic diagram of a satellite mobile scenario under a non-terrestrial network.

[0057] Figure 4 This application provides a schematic diagram of a downlink positioning process in a satellite positioning scenario.

[0058] Figure 5 This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0059] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a satellite movement scene provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a satellite positioning time window provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 13 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0067] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of a time interval for a satellite provided in this application embodiment;

[0068] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0071] The network architecture and business scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0072] Before introducing the embodiments of this application, some terms involved in the embodiments of this application will be explained.

[0073] I. Measurement gap (MG) for positioning and measurement

[0074] MG refers to a specific time interval set up in mobile communication systems for location measurement. During this period, the terminal device suspends regular communication with the serving cell and instead receives and measures location signals. This mechanism is particularly important in advanced mobile communication systems such as 5G NR (New Radio) because it supports more complex positioning technologies and more precise positioning requirements.

[0075] Location reference signals (MGs) play multiple crucial roles in the positioning process: they ensure that terminal devices have sufficient time windows to receive and process positioning reference signals from multiple base stations or signal sources, thus completing positioning measurements without interfering with normal communication; by focusing on receiving positioning signals, MGs reduce interference with other signals (such as data signals) in the serving cell, improving the quality of positioning reference signals and thereby enhancing the accuracy and reliability of positioning measurements; furthermore, proper configuration of MGs can effectively reduce interference with serving cell communication, optimize overall network performance, reduce congestion and latency, and improve user experience; most importantly, for complex scenarios requiring cross-frequency or cross-system measurements, MGs provide the necessary time guarantee to ensure these measurements can be performed smoothly.

[0076] In this embodiment, MG is referred to as the positioning time window.

[0077] II. Expected reference signal time difference (expected RSTD) and its uncertainty range

[0078] Expected RSTD: Since the network knows the locations of all base stations (including the serving base station and neighboring stations), this is obtained through satellite navigation, ground surveying, or other positioning methods. The network also knows which serving base station the terminal device is currently connected to. This is because the terminal device continuously exchanges signals with the serving base station during communication. Based on the location information of the base stations and the serving base station where the terminal device is located, the network can calculate the approximate distance difference between the terminal device and the serving base station and each neighboring station. This distance difference can be converted using the speed of electromagnetic wave propagation (approximately the speed of light in a vacuum) and the signal propagation time difference (i.e., RSTD). Therefore, the network can configure an expected RSTD value for each pair of base stations (the serving base station and each neighboring station constitute a base station pair).

[0079] Uncertainty Range: Because various factors in the real environment (such as atmospheric conditions, multipath effects, and equipment clock errors) can affect signal propagation time, the network also configures an uncertainty range for the desired RSTD. This range represents the degree to which the RSTD measurement may deviate from the expected value due to various factors.

[0080] After detecting the reference signal of the reference station, the terminal device determines a blind detection time window based on the configured expectedRSTD and its uncertainty range. The terminal device detects the reference signal of the neighboring station within the blind detection time window. This can reduce the duration of blind detection of the neighboring station's signal, reduce detection complexity, and save power consumption.

[0081] In the field of mobile communications, achieving high-precision positioning is one of the key technologies for improving user experience and service quality. The 5G terrestrial cellular network positioning standard supports multiple positioning technologies for terrestrial networks, including:

[0082] Downlink time difference of arrival (DL-TDOA)

[0083] Downlink angle of departure (DL-AOD)

[0084] Uplink time difference of arrival (UL-TDOA)

[0085] Uplink angle of arrival (UL-AOA)

[0086] Multi-round trip time (multi-RTT)

[0087] Among them, DL-TDOA, UL-TDOA, and multi-RTT algorithms are time-based localization techniques. These techniques require the receiver to accurately measure the arrival time of the signal sent by the transmitter, then convert these time differences into distance information between the transmitter and receiver, and finally use this distance information to estimate the position of the target to be located.

[0088] DL-AOD and UL-AOA are angle-based localization techniques. In these techniques, the receiver measures the angle of arrival (for UL-AOA) or departure angle (for DL-AOD) of the reference signal sent by the transmitter, and then combines the angle information between the receiver and multiple transmitters at known locations to infer the receiver's specific location using geometric or statistical methods.

[0089] Regardless of the method, the prerequisite for achieving accurate positioning is that the terminal device can receive sufficient, high-quality positioning reference signals and ensure that the sender and receiver are in a direct line of sight to reduce the impact of adverse factors such as multipath effects.

[0090] For example, in a DL-TDOA-based positioning solution, the terminal device relies on accurate measurement of the downlink positioning reference signal (PRS) from the base station or satellite. This process involves multiple steps. First, the location management function (LMF) requests configuration information for the PRS from the serving base station and neighboring base stations, and forwards it to the terminal device through the base station. Subsequently, the LMF instructs the terminal device to perform the measurement. The terminal device receives the PRS, measures its arrival time, and reports the measurement results to the LMF. The LMF uses this measurement data, combined with the known coordinates of the satellite or base station, to estimate the terminal device's position using mathematical algorithms (such as trilateration).

[0091] The configuration mechanism of MG and expected RSTD is particularly important for ensuring that the terminal device receives sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals.

[0092] Traditional expected RSTD and measurement time window (MG) configuration mechanisms for terrestrial networks exhibit limitations in NTN. The setting of expected RSTD relies on predicting the distance difference between the UE and the satellite, but the rapid movement of satellites complicates and makes this prediction inaccurate. Simultaneously, while MG configuration was originally intended to avoid interference between positioning measurements and data communication, in NTN, due to the highly dynamic and unpredictable arrival times of the reference signals transmitted by satellites, traditional fixed-period MG configurations cannot effectively cover all expected received reference signals, leading to missed detections of positioning information and a decrease in positioning accuracy.

[0093] For MG (Measurement Gaps), in NTN (Network-to-Network) positioning scenarios, the traditional terrestrial network-based measurement gap (MG) configuration method faces significant challenges. In terrestrial networks, the initial design intent of MG is to allow the UE to focus on measuring positioning reference signals (such as PRS) within a specific time period, thereby avoiding interference with daily data communication. However, as... Figure 1 As shown, in an NTN environment, the high-speed mobility of satellites and their non-fixed position relative to ground stations cause the time window for the reference signal transmitted by each satellite to reach the terminal equipment to become highly dynamic and unpredictable.

[0094] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown in (a) of the diagram, in terrestrial communication, since the locations of terrestrial base stations are generally fixed, the MG within each MG cycle can contain positioning reference signals from multiple base stations (terrestrial base station 1, terrestrial base station 2, and terrestrial base station 3). Figure 2As shown in (b), in satellite communication, as satellites 1 and 2 move towards the terminal device, the distance between these satellites and the terminal device becomes closer and closer. Therefore, the time it takes for the reference signals sent at different times to travel through the air becomes shorter, meaning that the signals will arrive at the terminal device earlier than expected. Conversely, for other satellites that are far away from the terminal device, such as satellite 3, the transmission time of the signals to the terminal device will be longer, meaning that the signals will arrive at the terminal device later than expected. If the original MG configuration is still used, the MG in the second MG cycle will not be able to include the positioning reference signals of multiple satellites (satellite 1, satellite 2, and satellite 3), meaning that the terminal device will not be able to receive positioning reference signals from more satellites.

[0095] In other words, the mobility of satellites means that the time when the reference signal transmitted by each satellite arrives at the terminal device varies. This makes it possible for a MG (Motion Reference) system, originally configured with a fixed period, to not accurately cover all the reference signals expected to be received. Therefore, the terminal device may not receive any valid positioning reference signals during the MG period, or may only receive a portion of the signal, resulting in missed positioning information and a decrease in positioning accuracy.

[0096] For expected RSTD, in NTN positioning scenarios, such as Figure 3 As shown, taking two satellites as an example, the time difference of arrival (RSTD) between the reference signal transmitted by the neighboring satellite (neighboring station) and the reference signal of the reference satellite (reference station) at different times is given. From left to right, the process of the distance between the neighboring station and the reference station from far to near and then far is described. During this process, the distance between the neighboring satellite and the reference satellite will change significantly, resulting in a large difference in the time difference of arrival between the reference signal of the neighboring satellite and the reference signal of the reference satellite. Therefore, the configured expected RSTD and its uncertainty range will be mismatched at different times, that is, it will not well cover the reference signal of the neighboring satellite, causing the terminal equipment to miss the reference signal of the neighboring satellite, wasting the power consumption of the terminal equipment and affecting the positioning accuracy.

[0097] In other words, in NTN positioning scenarios, even if the UE is stationary, the movement of its serving satellite and neighboring satellites causes large fluctuations in distance difference, which may lead to a mismatch in the configured expectedRSTD window, meaning it cannot accurately cover the arrival time of neighboring satellite signals. This results in missed signals by the terminal device, wasted power consumption, and decreased positioning accuracy. Just as... Figure 3 The example illustrates how changes in inter-satellite distances affect RSTD, thus causing the expectedRSTD window to fail.

[0098] In summary, in NTN positioning scenarios, due to the mobile characteristics of the aircraft, its position relative to the ground terminal equipment is constantly changing, which causes the propagation path of the positioning signal used for positioning to change continuously. This makes it impossible to guarantee that the terminal equipment can receive sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, resulting in low positioning accuracy.

[0099] To address the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of this application provide a communication method. The communication method provided by embodiments of this application is described below in conjunction with a downlink positioning process in a satellite positioning scenario. For example, embodiments of this application provide a downlink positioning process in a satellite positioning scenario, such as... Figure 4 As shown, it includes:

[0100] S1. Interactive Location Configuration Information:

[0101] The positioning server LMF and the terminal equipment interact with the service satellites and neighboring satellites for positioning-related information, such as satellite position information, the period / time of transmitting reference signals, and the configuration parameters of the reference signals (such as the transmission period, bandwidth, and frequency domain position of the reference signals).

[0102] S2. Send auxiliary information:

[0103] Before starting positioning measurements, the terminal device needs to obtain the configuration information of the reference signals sent by each satellite from the network, such as the transmission period, bandwidth, and time-frequency domain position of the reference signals of each satellite.

[0104] S3. Request for measurement:

[0105] The network may need to send a location request to the terminal device, requesting the terminal device to measure the configured reference signal. At the same time, the network will also indicate the reporting period. The period at which the terminal device reports the measurement results is generally different from the period of the reference signal mentioned earlier. That is to say, the terminal device may measure the reference signal multiple times before reporting the measurement result once.

[0106] S4. Send reference signal:

[0107] The serving satellite and neighboring satellites transmit the configured positioning reference signals;

[0108] S5. Activate MG:

[0109] The service satellite sends an instruction message to the terminal equipment to indicate the activated MG. The MG here may be multiple MGs pre-configured by the satellite for the terminal equipment. The service satellite may use media access control control element (MAC CE) signaling to activate one of the MGs.

[0110] S6. Measurement:

[0111] Measurements are performed based on the activated MG, such as measuring the time difference of arrival (RSTD), transmit / receive time difference (Rx-Tx time difference), phase difference, Doppler frequency offset, and angle of arrival for different reference signals.

[0112] S7. Report measurement results:

[0113] For terminal device-assisted positioning mode, after measuring the reference signal, the terminal device needs to report the measurement results to the network, such as TOA / RSTD / Phase; if it is periodic positioning, the terminal device reports the measurement results according to a certain period.

[0114] Then, the network calculates the location of the terminal device based on the measurement results reported by the terminal device and the satellite's location information.

[0115] The method provided in the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0116] The communication method provided in this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, 5G mobile communication systems, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) systems, future communication systems, or systems integrating multiple communication systems. This application does not limit the application to these systems. 5G can also be referred to as NR.

[0117] The communication method provided in this application can be applied to various communication scenarios, such as one or more of the following communication scenarios: enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low latency communication (URLLC), machine-type communication (MTC), massive machine-type communication (mMTC), device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), and Internet of Things (IoT).

[0118] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, Figure 5 The application scenario used in this application is illustrated using the communication system architecture shown below. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating one possible, non-limiting system. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the communication system 3000 includes a radio access network (RAN) 100 and a core network (CN) 200. RAN 100 includes at least one network device (such as...). Figure 5 101a and 101b (collectively referred to as 101) and at least one terminal (such as Figure 5 102a-102j, collectively referred to as 102, are included in RAN 100. RAN 100 may also include other RAN nodes, such as wireless relay devices and / or wireless backhaul devices. Figure 5 (Not shown in the image). Terminal 102 is connected to network device 101 wirelessly. Network device 101 is connected to core network 200 wirelessly or via wired connection. The core network device in core network 200 and network device 101 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.

[0119] RAN 100 can be a cellular system related to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as 4G, 5G mobile communication systems, or evolution systems beyond 5G. RAN 100 can also be an 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.

[0120] The apparatus provided in this application embodiment can be applied to network device 101 or to terminal 102. It is understood that... Figure 5 This application only illustrates one possible communication system architecture that can be applied to an embodiment of the present application. In other possible scenarios, the communication system architecture may also include other devices.

[0121] Network device 101 is a node in the RAN, also known as an access network device or RAN node (or device). Network device 101 is used to help terminals achieve wireless access. Multiple network devices 101 in the communication system 3000 can be nodes of the same type or different types. In some scenarios, the roles of network device 101 and terminal 102 are relative, for example... Figure 5Network element 102i can be a helicopter or a drone, and it can be configured as a mobile base station. For terminals 102j that access RAN 100 through network element 102i, network element 102i is a base station; however, for base station 101a, network element 102i is a terminal. Network device 101 and terminal 102 are sometimes referred to as communication devices, for example... Figure 5 Network elements 101a and 101b can be understood as communication devices with base station functions, while network elements 102a-102j can be understood as communication devices with terminal functions.

[0122] In one possible scenario, network equipment can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), a transmitting and receiving point (TRP), a transmitting point (TP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB), a base station in a future mobile communication system, a satellite, or an access point (AP) in a WiFi system, an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, or network equipment in a mobile switching center non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication system, meaning it can be deployed on high-altitude platforms or satellites. Network equipment can also be a macro base station (such as...). Figure 5 101a), micro base stations or indoor stations (such as Figure 5 In V2X technology, the access network device can be a relay node or donor node (e.g., 101b), or a wireless controller in a cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenario. Network devices can also function as base stations in device-to-device (D2D) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, drone communication, and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication. Optionally, network devices can also be servers, wearable devices, vehicles, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, in V2X technology, the access network device can be a roadside unit (RSU).

[0123] In another possible scenario, multiple network devices collaborate to assist terminals in achieving wireless access, with each network device performing a portion of the base station's functions. For example, network devices can be central units (CUs), distributed units (DUs), CU-control plane (CPs), CU-user plane (UPs), or radio units (RUs), etc. CUs and DUs can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio equipment or radio units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs). It is understood that network devices can be CU nodes, DU nodes, or devices comprising both CU and DU nodes. Furthermore, CUs can be classified as network devices in the access network (RAN) or the core network (CN), without limitation.

[0124] 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 open-radio access network (O-RAN) system, CU can also be called an O-RAN central unit (O-CU) (open CU), DU can also be called an O-RAN distributed unit (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 an O-RAN radio unit (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.

[0125] In this embodiment, the form of the network device is not limited. The device used to implement the function of the network device can be the network device itself, or it can be a device that supports the network device in implementing the function, such as a chip system. The device can be installed in the network device or used in conjunction with the network device.

[0126] Terminal equipment 102, also known as user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), etc., is a device used to provide voice or data connectivity to users, and can also be an Internet of Things (IoT) device. For example, terminal equipment includes handheld devices with wireless connectivity, vehicle-mounted devices, etc. Currently, terminal devices can include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices (such as smartwatches, smart bracelets, pedometers, smart glasses, etc.), in-vehicle equipment (such as cars, bicycles, electric vehicles, airplanes, ships, trains, high-speed trains, etc.), satellite terminals, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, point-of-sale (POS) machines, customer-premises equipment (CPE), light user equipment (UE), reduced capability user equipment (REDCAP UE), wireless terminals in industrial control, smart home devices (such as refrigerators, televisions, air conditioners, electricity meters, etc.), intelligent robots, robotic arms, workshop equipment, wireless terminals in autonomous driving, wireless terminals in telemedicine, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, or wireless terminals in smart homes, and flying equipment (such as intelligent robots, hot air balloons, drones, airplanes), etc. Terminal devices can also be vehicle devices, such as vehicle devices, vehicle modules, vehicle chips, on-board units (OBUs) or telematics boxes (T-BOXs). Terminal devices can also be other devices with terminal functions. For example, a terminal device can also be a device that performs terminal functions in D2D communication.

[0127] The embodiments of this application do not limit the form of the terminal device. The device used to implement the functions of the terminal device can be the terminal device itself, or it can be a device that supports the terminal device in implementing the functions, such as a chip system. The device can be installed in the terminal device or used in conjunction with the terminal device. In the embodiments of this application, the chip system can be composed of chips, or it can include chips and other discrete devices. All or part of the functions of the terminal device in this application can also be implemented by software functions running on hardware, or by virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (such as a cloud platform).

[0128] The preceding text has introduced the communication system applicable to the embodiments of this application from a macro-architectural perspective. To help deepen the understanding of this system in a practical application environment, the following will provide a more specific explanation of the communication system through several examples. It should be noted that the communication system examples listed below are for illustrative purposes and are intended to provide an intuitive understanding. The actual application scope of this application is far greater than this, and it is also compatible and adaptable to other types of communication systems, and is not limited thereto.

[0129] In one example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the communication system applicable to the embodiments of this application can be an NTN transparent transmission communication system. As an implementation of NTN technology, the core of an NTN transparent transmission communication system lies in using a satellite or high-altitude platform merely as a signal relay link, without processing or regenerating the signal, but directly forwarding the received signal to the target device. The base station function remains deployed on the ground. In this mode, the satellite or high-altitude platform is similar to a "transparent" repeater, hence the name "transparent transmission."

[0130] In another example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the communication system applicable to the embodiments of this application can be an NTN regenerative communication system. The NTN regenerative communication system is another important implementation of NTN technology. It utilizes the communication capabilities of satellites or high-altitude platforms, deploying base station functions on them to achieve direct communication and data services to ground equipment. This network architecture can provide more efficient and flexible communication services, especially in areas with insufficient or nonexistent terrestrial network coverage.

[0131] Satellite / Airborne Objects: Role in the Transparent Transmission Architecture: As a relay node, it seamlessly forwards signals from ground base stations to ground end users, ensuring direct signal transmission without processing. Role in the Regenerative Architecture: As a base station, it can communicate with ground user terminals and perform signal processing and transmission tasks.

[0132] Base station (Next Generation NodeB, gNB): Deployed in the radio access network, following 5G standards, it provides comprehensive wireless communication services to terminal devices. It takes various forms, including macro base stations, micro base stations, relay stations, access points, and even wearable and vehicle-mounted devices. It exists in both NTN pass-through and regeneration systems, but its functions and applications differ. A gNB can also be a transmission and reception point (TRP) or a transmission measurement function (TMF). A gNB can include a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU) integrated on it.

[0133] In the NTN transparent communication system, the gNB (gear node) is primarily responsible for wireless communication with ground end users. It also collaborates with the NTN gateway to seamlessly relay signals from ground base stations to end users via satellite / airborne objects. Under this architecture, the gNB does not directly process regenerated signals from satellites / airborne objects.

[0134] In the NTN regenerated communication system, the gNB (gear-based receiver) not only provides basic wireless communication services but also needs to work closely with equipment on satellites / airborne objects to receive regenerated signals and perform further decoding and encoding to ensure signal integrity and quality. Furthermore, the gNB needs stronger signal processing capabilities and adaptability to handle various complex situations that may arise during the regeneration process.

[0135] For a description of the terminal equipment, please refer to the previous text; it will not be repeated here.

[0136] NTN Gateway: As a crucial bridge in NTN systems, it is responsible for bidirectional signal forwarding between satellites and ground base stations, whether in transparent or regenerative systems. It receives satellite information and forwards it to ground base stations, or transmits signals from ground base stations to satellites, ensuring uninterrupted communication links.

[0137] 5G core network (5G CN): Whether in a transparent transmission or regeneration system, the 5G CN plays a core management and control role and communicates with the data network.

[0138] In another example, the communication system in this application embodiment can be an O-RAN system, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the O-RAN system includes:

[0139] Non-real-time RAN intelligent controller (Non-RTRIC): Used for non-real-time intelligent management of RAN functions. It enables AI / ML workflows including model training and updates, and guides applications / functions within the Near-RT RIC based on policies. The Non-RT RIC is located within the SMO module.

[0140] Near-real-time RAN intelligent controller (Near-RTRIC): Used to achieve near-real-time intelligent management of the RAN. Through data collection and related operations on the E2 interface, it enables near-real-time control and optimization of O-RAN modules and resources.

[0141] O-CU: Used to implement the radio resource control (RRC) layer, packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer, service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) layer, and other control functions in the 3GPP standard.

[0142] O-CU-CP: Similar to CU-CP in the NR system, it is used to implement the functions of the RRC layer and the control plane functions of the PDCP layer. It is part of O-CU.

[0143] O-CU-UP: Similar to CU-UP in the NR system, it is used to implement the functions of the SDAP layer and the user plane functions of the PDCP layer. It is part of O-CU.

[0144] O-DU: Based on low-layer function segmentation, it is used to implement the radio link control (RLC) layer, media access control (MAC) layer, and higher physical layer (Higher PHY) layer in the 3GPP standard. Among them, the higher physical layer functions include one or more of the following: forward error correction (FEC) encoding / decoding, scrambling / descrambling, or modulation / demodulation.

[0145] O-RU: Based on low-layer function segmentation, it is used to implement lower physical layer (PHY) functions and radio frequency (RF) functions in the 3GPP standard. For example, low physical layer functions include one or more of the following: fast fourier transform (FFT) / inverse fast fourier transform (iFFT), digital beamforming, or extraction and filtering of the physical random access channel (PRACH). O-RU is similar to TRP or RRH in 3GPP, but includes low physical layer functions such as FFT / iFFT or PRACH extraction.

[0146] O-RAN Cloud (O-Cloud): As a cloud computing platform, it includes physical infrastructure nodes for hosting O-RAN functions such as RIC or O-DU; it supports software components (such as operating systems, virtual machine monitoring, container runtimes), management and orchestration functions.

[0147] against Figure 8 The O-RAN architecture diagram, with the interfaces described below:

[0148] A1 Interface: The interface between Non-RT RIC and Near-RT RIC, used for intelligent and dynamic control of radio resources within the O-RAN. Non-RT RIC provides policies, rich information, and ML model updates to Near-RT RIC through the A1 interface, while Near-RT RIC provides policy feedback to Non-RT RIC through the A1 interface.

[0149] E2 Interface: The E2 interface is an open interface between two endpoints used to connect the Near-RT RIC and the RAN node. RAN nodes include, for example: CU and DU in 5G; O-RAN compatible eNB in ​​4G; O-CU (O-CU-CP and / or O-CU-UP) and / or O-DU in O-RAN, etc. The RIC can obtain data collection and feedback from the RAN node through the E2 node, and the RAN node can obtain control feedback from the Near-RT RIC through the E2 node.

[0150] O1 Interface: The interface between the management entity in the SMO and the O-RAN module, used for operation management. FCAPS management, software management, or file management can be achieved through this interface.

[0151] O2 Interface: The interface between the SMO and the infrastructure management framework that supports O-RAN virtual network functionality.

[0152] E1 interface: The interface between O-CU-CP and O-CU-UP.

[0153] F1-c interface: The interface between O-CU-CP and O-DU.

[0154] F1-u interface: The interface between O-CU-UP and O-DU.

[0155] In one implementation, the communication system provided in this application embodiment can also be a chip system. For example, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the chip system includes the following parts:

[0156] Processors: As the brain of the system, multiple processors are flexibly configured according to task requirements. They individually or jointly execute a series of baseband processing operations such as encoding, decoding, modulation, and demodulation. Each type of processor has its unique advantages, collectively building a powerful processing platform. Processors include central processing units (CPUs), microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), graphics processing units (GPUs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gated logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to various functions. In other words, the processors used in baseband can be used to implement the processes described below and any one or more of those processes.

[0157] Memory: A memory module closely connected to each processor, providing the necessary storage space for high-speed data processing. Memory not only temporarily stores data and instructions in progress, but also ensures rapid response to data access, making it a key guarantee of system performance.

[0158] Bus: As the nerve center of a system, the bus tightly connects components such as processors, memory, and peripherals through a bus interface. The design of a bus is flexible and can be varied, containing any number of interconnect buses and bridging elements depending on the specific application requirements and overall architecture constraints of the processing system. Its core function is to act as a communication hub, tightly coupling various circuit components (such as one or more processors, memory units, or computer-readable media). Furthermore, the bus has expansion capabilities, enabling the connection of a range of other standard circuit components, such as timers, peripheral modules, voltage regulators, and power management circuits. The bus interface, acting as a bridge, ensures the efficient and orderly transmission of data and instructions between components. Simultaneously, it integrates critical circuits such as timing sources and voltage regulators, further enhancing the stability and reliability of the system.

[0159] Radio frequency / antenna: A module that amplifies signals and radiates them into space, or receives wireless signals in space.

[0160] Computer-readable medium: As a carrier of software, readable media (such as hard disks, solid-state drives, etc.) store software programs that drive the processor to complete complex baseband processing tasks. These programs are carefully designed, covering all aspects from encoding to channel equalization, and are the source of system intelligence and functionality.

[0161] As the core control unit of the system, the processor is responsible for bus management and overall data processing tasks, including executing software programs stored on computer-readable media. When executed by the processor, these software programs endow the processing system with the ability to perform diverse functions, such as encoding, decoding, rate matching / dematching, scrambling / descrambling, modulation / demodulation, layer mapping, fast fourier transform (FFT), inverse fast fourier transform (IFFT), inverse discrete fourier transform (IDFT), precoding, resource element (RE) mapping / demapping, channel equalization, digital beamforming (BF), or the addition and removal of cyclic prefixes (CP), among other communication processing functions.

[0162] In conjunction with the aforementioned communication system, this application provides a communication method in which a network device indicates at least one of the following information to a terminal device: first information or second information. The first information indicates at least one of the following: a time-domain offset value of a positioning time window or the effective time of the positioning time window. The second information indicates multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node. The terminal device then receives a positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information indicated by the network device, and feeds back the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the network device. This allows the terminal device to receive the first and / or second information in conjunction with changes in the arrival time of the positioning reference signal, enabling the terminal device to accurately receive the positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information. This ensures that the terminal device receives sufficient, high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0163] It should be noted that in the following embodiments of this application, the message names, parameter names, or information names between network elements are just examples. Other names may also be used in other embodiments. The communication method provided in this application does not specifically limit these names.

[0164] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, each network element may execute some or all of the steps in the embodiments of this application. These steps or operations are merely examples, and the embodiments of this application may also execute other operations or variations thereof. Furthermore, the steps may be executed in different orders as presented in the embodiments of this application, and it is not necessary to execute all the operations in the embodiments of this application.

[0165] It is understood that this application uses terminal devices and network devices as examples to illustrate the execution of the interaction, but this application does not limit the execution subject of the interaction. For example, the method executed by the terminal device in this application can also be executed by a module applied to the terminal device (e.g., a chip, chip system, or processor), or by a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the terminal device; similarly, the method executed by the network device in this application can also be executed by a module applied to the network device (e.g., a chip, chip system, or processor), or by a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the network device. This application does not specifically limit this aspect.

[0166] In the preceding description, it has been mentioned that the network device can send at least one of a first message and a second message to the terminal device. To further understand and explain the communication method in the embodiments of this application, this application will first focus on an embodiment in which the network device instructs the terminal device to send the first message.

[0167] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 10 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0168] S110, the first network device sends first information to the terminal device, and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first information from the first network device.

[0169] The first piece of information is used to indicate at least one of the following: the temporal offset value of the positioning time window (e.g., the MG mentioned above), or the effective time of the positioning time window.

[0170] The time-domain offset value of the positioning time window is an offset introduced in the time domain to adjust the reception time of the positioning reference signal to improve positioning accuracy. This time-domain offset value determines the difference between the time-domain position of the actual positioning time window receiving the positioning reference signal and the first time-domain position of a certain reference positioning time window. For example, in the embodiments of this application, the aforementioned first time-domain position may be the time-domain position of one of the multiple positioning time windows pre-configured by the network device for the terminal device that is activated (e.g., activated by the network device through MAC CE signaling).

[0171] The effective time of the positioning time window defines a period of time during which the terminal device is expected or able to receive positioning reference signals, and the positioning reference signals received by the terminal device during this period are considered to be valid and reliable for subsequent positioning measurements.

[0172] In this embodiment, the network devices are divided into access network devices (referred to as the first network device) and core network devices (referred to as the second network device). For example, in a satellite positioning scenario, the first network device can be a serving satellite, and the second network device can be an LMF (Local Positioning Filter). Since the LMF knows the orbital trajectories and relative positions of all satellites, it can determine which satellites are approaching the terminal device and which are moving away from it in the following time period. Therefore, the LMF can determine whether the arrival time of the positioning reference signals sent by the satellites to the terminal device is increasing or decreasing, and thus determine a positioning time window that ensures the terminal device receives positioning reference signals from a large number of satellites. The time-domain offset value of the determined positioning time window is obtained by subtracting the first time-domain position from the determined time-domain position. Similarly, the LMF can also determine the effective time of the activated reference positioning time window.

[0173] Then, the LMF can send the first information, indicating the time-domain offset value of the positioning time window and / or the effective time of the positioning time window, to the first network device, which then sends it to the terminal device. It is understood that after receiving the first information, the first network device can either pass it through to the terminal device or adjust the first information based on network conditions before sending the adjusted information to the terminal device; there are no restrictions. As an alternative, the LMF can also send the first information directly to the terminal device.

[0174] For example, such as Figure 11 As shown, in a typical scenario, satellites 1 and 2 are close to the terminal device, meaning the time it takes for their reference signals to reach the terminal device is decreasing. Meanwhile, satellite 3 is moving away from the terminal device, so the time it takes for its reference signal to reach the terminal device is increasing. Therefore, to ensure the terminal device receives positioning reference signals from more satellites—that is, to ensure the terminal device can receive positioning reference signals from satellites 1 and 2—[the following is a continuation of the previous sentence]. Figure 11 The MG values ​​of satellites 1, 2, and 3 are shown as follows: Figure 12 As shown, in order to ensure that the terminal device can receive positioning reference signals from a large number of satellites, Figure 11 In the scenario shown, the positioning time window should take effect in advance.

[0175] Furthermore, the content of the first time that indicates the time domain offset value of the positioning time window can be flexibly designed. For example, the first information can be MG-1: the time domain offset value is -2; or, the first information can be MG-2: the time domain offset value is -3.

[0176] In a positioning scenario, there are generally multiple cycles, and each cycle contains a positioning time window; that is, there can be multiple positioning time windows. There are multiple time-domain offset values, and any one of these offset values ​​is used to determine the time-domain position of a positioning time window within one or more cycles (in another possible interpretation, any one time-domain offset value can be used to determine the time-domain position of at least one positioning time window). For example, in a scenario, there are four positioning cycles from beginning to end, and the four positioning time windows in these cycles are: time window 1 (corresponding to the first time-domain position 1), time window 2 (corresponding to the first time-domain position 2), time window 3 (corresponding to the first time-domain position 3), and time window 4 (corresponding to the first time-domain position 4).

[0177] Suppose the first information indicates MG-1: time domain offset value -2; MG-2: time domain offset value -3; MG-3: time domain offset value -1; MG-4: time domain offset value +1. If any time domain offset value is used to determine the time domain position of two positioning time windows, then MG-1: time domain offset value -2 can be used simultaneously for adjusting the first time domain position 1 and the first time domain position 2 of time window 1 and time window 2. MG-2: time domain offset value -3 can be used simultaneously for adjusting the first time domain position 3 and the first time domain position 4 of time window 3 and time window 4. For example, if any time domain offset value is used to determine the time domain position of a positioning time window, then MG-1: time domain offset value -2; MG-2: time domain offset value -3; MG-3: time domain offset value -1; MG-4: time domain offset value +1 are used respectively for adjusting the first time domain position of time window 1, time window 2, time window 3, and time window 4.

[0178] For example, in a scenario where the first time-domain position is the time-domain position of one of the multiple positioning time windows pre-configured by the network device for the terminal device, the aforementioned MG-N can refer to the time-domain offset value corresponding to the Nth MG (the first MG) after receiving the signaling to activate the MG. If the time-domain offset value is negative M, it indicates that the MG is started M time slots in advance; if the time-domain offset value is positive M, it indicates that the MG is started M time slots later.

[0179] It is understood that the above is an exemplary description of the time-domain offset value, and there is no restriction on the unit of the time-domain offset value. In actual implementation, the unit of the time-domain offset value can be flexibly set, such as time slot, subframe, frame, symbol, etc.

[0180] For example, a 10-second window is considered the effective duration of a positioning time window. This means that within this 10-second window, the aforementioned reference time window is valid and can be used for positioning measurements by the terminal device. Once these 10 seconds have elapsed, the reference positioning time window is no longer used for positioning. To ensure continuous positioning, the network device can reactivate a new positioning time window as a new reference positioning time window for the terminal device to perform positioning measurements.

[0181] In one implementation, if the first information specifies not only the validity period of the positioning time window but also a time-domain offset value, then this pair of parameters (the validity period of the positioning time window and the time-domain offset value) jointly affect the positioning measurement process during the validity period of the positioning time window. After the current reference positioning time window expires, the reference time window and its time-domain offset value can be updated to ensure the continuity and accuracy of the positioning service.

[0182] In one implementation, optionally, the first information may be carried in the signaling used to activate the positioning time window of the first time domain location (e.g., Figure 4 (The signaling that activates the MG in step S5). In other words, the first information can also be used to activate the positioning time window. For example, the first information is carried in radio resource control signaling or media access control layer control elements.

[0183] S120, the terminal device receives the positioning reference signal based on the first information.

[0184] In a satellite positioning scenario, the first network device is a satellite, which can be specifically divided into service satellites and auxiliary satellites. The service satellite is responsible for instructing the terminal device with initial information containing key parameters (such as the effective time of the positioning time window and the time-domain offset value). Simultaneously, to enhance positioning accuracy and reliability, auxiliary satellites work collaboratively with the service satellites, both of which can send positioning reference signals to the terminal device. The terminal device can receive positioning reference signals from the service and auxiliary satellites based on the time-domain offset value of the positioning time window indicated by the initial information and / or the effective time of the positioning time window.

[0185] Specifically, if the first information separately indicates the time-domain offset value of the positioning time window, the terminal device can adjust the first time-domain position based on the time-domain offset value to obtain a new positioning time window, and receive the positioning reference signal within the new positioning time window. If the first information separately indicates the effective time of the positioning time window, the terminal device can receive the positioning reference signal based on the activated positioning time window within the effective time of the positioning time window. If the first information indicates both the time-domain offset value and the effective time of the positioning time window, the terminal device can adjust the first time-domain position based on the time-domain offset value to obtain a new positioning time window, and receive the positioning reference signal based on the new positioning time window within the effective time of the positioning time window.

[0186] Then the terminal device can perform positioning measurements based on the received positioning reference signals to obtain measurement results. For example, the positioning measurement process can cover the measurement of a variety of key parameters, including at least one of the following: time difference of arrival (RSTD) between different positioning reference signals, time difference between signal reception and transmission (Rx-Tx Time Difference), signal phase difference, Doppler frequency offset effect, or signal angle of arrival, etc.

[0187] S130, the terminal device sends the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the second network device, and correspondingly, the second network device receives the measurement result of the positioning reference signal from the terminal device.

[0188] After obtaining the measurement results of the positioning reference signal, the terminal device can send the measurement results of the positioning reference signal to the second network device.

[0189] The timing of when the terminal device sends the positioning reference signal can be flexibly configured. For example, taking the terminal device as a UE, in UE-assisted positioning mode, the UE immediately reports the measurement result to the second network device after measuring the reference signal. Alternatively, in periodic positioning, the UE reports the measurement result at regular intervals. This periodic reporting method, by periodically updating the UE's measurement results, allows the network to effectively manage the terminal device and prevent the ineffective use of resources.

[0190] The second network device, such as LMF, can determine the location of the terminal device based on the measurement results of the positioning reference signal after receiving the measurement results of the positioning reference signal.

[0191] Understandably, as an alternative, the terminal device can also send the measurement results of the positioning reference signal to the first network device, which then forwards the measurement results of the positioning reference signal to the second network device.

[0192] In this embodiment, the network device indicates first information to the terminal device. This first information indicates at least one of the following: the time-domain offset value of the positioning time window or the effective time of the positioning time window. Then, the terminal device receives the positioning reference signal based on the first information indicated by the network device, and feeds back the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the network device. In this way, the arrival time variation of the positioning reference signal is indicated to the terminal device through the first information, enabling the terminal device to accurately receive the positioning reference signal based on the first information. This ensures that the terminal device receives sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0193] In one embodiment, optionally, prior to step S110, the method may further include:

[0194] S140, the terminal device sends third information to the first network device, and correspondingly, the first network device receives the third information from the terminal device.

[0195] In addition to the first network device deciding when to send the first information, the terminal device can also request the first information via third information based on its own needs. For example, when the terminal device determines that it has not measured sufficient positioning reference signals within a positioning time window for a certain period of time, it can send the aforementioned third information to request the first information.

[0196] In this embodiment, the terminal device actively sends third information to the first network device to request first information for receiving positioning reference signals. In this way, the terminal device can promptly request first information for receiving positioning reference signals based on its own needs, which can ensure that the terminal device can receive sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0197] In one embodiment, optionally, prior to step S120, the method may further include:

[0198] S150, the first network device sends the fourth information to the terminal device, and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the fourth information from the first network device.

[0199] The fourth piece of information is used to indicate the first time-domain position of the positioning time window. That is, the positioning time window can be adjusted based on the first time-domain position and the aforementioned time-domain offset value. As mentioned earlier, the first time-domain position of the activated positioning time window indicated by the first network device is the object of time-domain offset value adjustment. For example, before the terminal device receives the positioning reference signal, the aforementioned first time-domain position can be indicated to the terminal device by the first network device. That is, it is indicated to the terminal device through the aforementioned fourth piece of information.

[0200] Optionally, the fourth information is carried in the RRC.

[0201] In this embodiment, the first network device indicates the first time domain position of the positioning time window to the terminal device through the fourth information. In this way, the terminal device can determine the positioning time window for receiving the positioning reference signal based on the first time domain position and the time domain offset value of the positioning time window indicated by the first information. This can ensure that the terminal device can receive sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0202] In the above embodiments, the implementation method of the network device indicating the first information to the terminal device has been described. As mentioned above, in the embodiments of this application, the network device can also send second information to the terminal device, enabling the terminal device to receive a positioning reference signal based on the second information. This embodiment will be described below:

[0203] Figure 13 A flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 13 As shown, the method may include the following steps:

[0204] S210, the second network device sends second information to the terminal device, and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second information from the second network device.

[0205] In this embodiment, network devices are divided into access network devices (referred to as the first network device) and core network devices (referred to as the second network device). For example, in a satellite positioning scenario, satellites can be divided into serving satellites and auxiliary satellites. The first network device can be a serving satellite, network nodes can be auxiliary satellites, and the second network device can be an LMF (Local Multi-Functional Array).

[0206] The second information is used to indicate multiple time intervals corresponding to each network node. This time interval is a time interval used for receiving downlink reference signals, determined based on the second information. For example, in... Figure 3 In the scenario shown, the terminal device can calculate the expected arrival time of the positioning reference signal of the neighboring station based on the arrival time of the positioning reference signal of the reference station and the expected RSTD, and use the expected arrival time as the time basis to expand the uncertainty range (which can be understood as an offset range) to obtain a time interval.

[0207] In particular, in this embodiment of the application, each network node indicated by the second information corresponds to multiple time intervals, rather than just one time interval. These multiple time intervals are determined by the network device (e.g., LMF) based on the positional changes of the auxiliary satellite and reference satellite relative to the terminal device, which can more accurately match the actual arrival time of the positioning reference signal of the auxiliary satellite, thereby improving the success rate of the terminal device receiving the positioning reference signal of the auxiliary satellite.

[0208] To elaborate, because the LMF (Local Positioning Filter) clearly defines whether the distance between the auxiliary satellite and the reference satellite (the satellite used as a benchmark or reference during the positioning calculation, possessing characteristics such as good signal quality and a known and stable position for the terminal device; for example, the reference satellite could be the first network device) is decreasing or increasing, the LMF can determine whether the time difference between the positioning reference signal transmitted by the auxiliary satellite and the positioning reference signal transmitted by the reference satellite is increasing or decreasing. Therefore, for each auxiliary satellite (i.e., a network node), the LMF can configure multiple time intervals. For example, such as... Figure 14 As shown, for the auxiliary satellite, two time intervals are configured: time interval 1 and time interval 2. The expected reference signal time difference in time interval 1 is expected time difference 1, and the uncertainty range is range 1. In this case, the actual time difference between the positioning reference signals of the auxiliary satellite and the service satellite should be time difference 1. The expected reference signal time difference in time interval 2 is expected time difference 2, and the uncertainty range is range 2. In this case, the actual time difference between the positioning reference signals of the auxiliary satellite and the service satellite should be time difference 2.

[0209] In one implementation, the second information includes multiple expected reference signal time differences (RTDs). For example, the expected RTDs can be the aforementioned expectedRSTDs. Optionally, the second information may also include multiple time difference ranges (e.g., the aforementioned uncertain ranges) and / or the effective times of multiple time intervals. Each of the multiple expected RTDs corresponds one-to-one with a specific time difference range (these time difference ranges can be indicated by the second network device in the second information, or they can be specified by a protocol, or agreed upon by the terminal device and the second network device, without limitation). For example, in... Figure 14 In the scenario shown, multiple expected reference signal time differences include expected time difference 1 and expected time difference 2, and multiple time difference ranges include range 1 and range 2. The effective time of multiple time intervals can also be indicated by the second network device in the second information, or according to protocol specifications, or agreed upon by the terminal device and the second network device, without restriction. The effective time of multiple time intervals indicated in the second information can include the effective time of each time interval, or it can include the effective time of the first time interval in chronological order. The terminal device can calculate the effective time of other time intervals based on the effective time of the first time interval.

[0210] In one implementation, as an optional alternative, the second information includes multiple time difference offset values ​​for the reference time difference. Optionally, the second information may also include the effective times of multiple time intervals. Any one of the multiple time difference offset values ​​is used to determine the temporal location of one or more detection time windows used to detect positioning reference signals sent by network nodes, for example, in... Figure 14In the scenario shown, time interval 1 and time interval 2 each correspond to a detection time window. It can be understood that, compared to the positioning time window mentioned in step S110, the detection time window is a part of the positioning time window. The detection time window defines a smaller time domain for the terminal device to receive positioning reference signals.

[0211] The reference time difference can be specified by the protocol, agreed upon by the terminal device and the second network device, or sent by the second network device to the terminal device; there are no restrictions. Similar to the time-domain offset value described in step S110, the time difference offset value is an offset introduced in the time domain relative to the reference time difference to adjust the reception time of the positioning reference signal to improve positioning accuracy. The terminal device can determine the time interval for receiving the positioning reference signal in each detection time window based on multiple time difference offset values.

[0212] In one implementation, as an optional alternative, the second information includes multiple time difference ranges of the reference time difference, similar to the scenario where the second information includes multiple time difference offset values ​​of the reference time difference. Any one of the multiple time difference ranges is used to determine the temporal location of one or more detection time windows. This detection time window is used to detect positioning reference signals sent by network nodes. A description of the detection time window can be found above and will not be repeated here. Each time difference range, combined with the reference time difference, can determine a time interval, allowing the terminal device to receive positioning reference signals from corresponding reference satellites based on the multiple time intervals determined by the multiple time difference ranges.

[0213] Optionally, the second information sent by the second network device to the terminal device can be carried in the positioning protocol signaling. In other words, the second network device can... Figure 4 The auxiliary data and the second information from step S2 are sent to the terminal device together. Here, the second information can be understood as auxiliary data.

[0214] In one implementation, as an optional alternative, the second network device may first send the second information to the first network device, and then the first network device may send the second information to the terminal device. In this case, the second information may be carried in radio resource control signaling or media access control layer control elements.

[0215] S220, the terminal device receives the positioning reference signal based on the second information.

[0216] Among them, based on the multiple time intervals corresponding to each network node indicated by the second information, the terminal device can use multiple time intervals to blindly detect the positioning reference signal of the corresponding network node in order to achieve the reception of the positioning reference signal.

[0217] In one implementation, referring to the description in step S210, the second information may include multiple expected reference signal time differences corresponding to each network node. Taking network node A as an example, the terminal device can determine when to activate the multiple expected reference signal time differences of network node A based on the effective time of multiple time intervals of network node A (which may be indicated by the second information or agreed upon by a protocol, etc.), and combine the expected reference signal time differences, the time difference range (which may be indicated by the second information or agreed upon by a protocol, etc.), and the reference arrival time (i.e., the arrival time of the reference signal of the serving satellite) to determine an expected time window. Within this time window, the terminal device will receive the positioning reference signal of network node A. Based on the principle illustrated in the above example, the terminal device can receive positioning reference signals from multiple auxiliary satellites based on the second information.

[0218] In one implementation, as an optional alternative, referring to the description in step S210, the second information may include multiple time difference offset values ​​for the reference time difference corresponding to each network node. Taking network node A as an example, the terminal device can determine when to activate the multiple time difference offset values ​​of network node A based on the effective time of multiple time intervals of network node A (which may be indicated by the second information or agreed upon by the protocol, etc.), and determine an expected reference signal time difference by combining the time difference offset values ​​and the reference time difference. Then, by combining the expected reference signal time difference, the time difference range (which may be indicated by the second information or agreed upon by the protocol, etc.), and the reference arrival time (i.e., the arrival time of the reference signal of the serving satellite), an expected time window is determined. Within this time window, the terminal device will receive the positioning reference signal of network node A. Based on the principle illustrated in the above example, the terminal device can receive positioning reference signals from multiple auxiliary satellites based on the second information.

[0219] S230, the terminal device sends the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the second network device, and correspondingly, the second network device receives the measurement result of the positioning reference signal from the terminal device.

[0220] Referring to the description of step S130, after obtaining the measurement result of the positioning reference signal, the terminal device can send the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the second network device, which will not be repeated here.

[0221] In one embodiment, optionally, before step S210, the method may further include:

[0222] S240, the terminal device sends third information to the second network device, and correspondingly, the second network device receives the third information from the terminal device.

[0223] The third information is used to request the second information. Besides the second network device deciding when to send the second information, the terminal device can also request the second information based on its own needs using the third information. For example, when the terminal device determines that it has not measured sufficient positioning reference signals within a positioning time window for a certain period, it can send the aforementioned third information to request the first information.

[0224] In this embodiment, the terminal device actively sends a third message to the second network device requesting a second message for receiving positioning reference signals. In this way, the terminal device can promptly request the second message for receiving positioning reference signals based on its own needs, which can ensure that the terminal device can receive sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0225] Based on the above description, it can be seen that in the communication method of this application embodiment, the network device indicates at least one of the following information to the terminal device: first information or second information. The first information is used to indicate at least one of the following: the time domain offset value of the positioning time window or the effective time of the positioning time window. The second information is used to indicate multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node. Then, the terminal device receives the positioning reference signal based on the first information and / or the second information indicated by the network device, and then feeds back the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the network device. In this way, the first information and / or the second information can be indicated to the terminal device in combination with the change of the arrival time of the positioning reference signal, so that the terminal device can accurately receive the positioning reference signal based on the first information and / or the second information, thereby ensuring that the terminal device can receive sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, and thus ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0226] In summary, the embodiments of this application respectively describe a communication method when a network device indicates first information for receiving a positioning reference signal to a terminal device, and a communication method when indicating second information for receiving a positioning reference signal. It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the network device can also simultaneously indicate both first and second information for receiving a positioning reference signal to the terminal device. The terminal device can receive the positioning reference signal based on both the first and second information, thereby implementing the communication method of the embodiments of this application.

[0227] Regarding its specific implementation, since the method for the terminal device to receive the positioning reference signal based on the first information has been introduced in steps S110-S150, and the method for the terminal device to receive the positioning reference signal based on the second information has been introduced in steps S210-S240, the terminal device can simultaneously use steps S110-S150 and steps S210-S240 to receive the positioning reference signal based on the first information and the second information, thereby realizing the communication method of the embodiment of this application.

[0228] Specifically, after receiving the first information, the terminal device first determines a positioning time window based on the first information, and receives positioning reference signals within the positioning time window. After receiving the reference positioning signals, it combines the reception time of the reference positioning signals with the second information to determine multiple time intervals corresponding to each network node. Then, the terminal device continues to receive positioning reference signals from network nodes within a smaller time range within the positioning time window (i.e., the aforementioned time intervals). This saves the terminal device's energy consumption while improving the effectiveness of receiving positioning reference signals, ensuring that the terminal device can receive sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy. For specific implementation details, please refer to the corresponding descriptions of steps S110-S150 and S210-S240 above. Given the commonality of their implementation principles, specific implementation details will not be elaborated here.

[0229] It is understood that the communication method provided in this application embodiment does not limit the applicable communication system. For example, the communication method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to an O-RAN communication system. Based on the functional design of O-DU / O-CU / O-RU in the O-RAN communication system, the steps executed by the network device in the communication method provided in this application embodiment can be flexibly implemented by one or more of O-DU / O-CU / O-RU, without limitation.

[0230] In another embodiment, the communication method proposed in this application is also applicable to a chip system environment. Specifically, the chip system on the network side has a memory unit for storing first information and second information. The chip system on the terminal side can receive this information from the network side using its integrated radio frequency / antenna module. After receiving the information, the processor on the terminal side performs a measurement operation on the positioning reference signal based on the received first and second information, thereby obtaining the measurement results. Then, these measurement results are transmitted back to the network side through the radio frequency / antenna module on the terminal side. Once the network side receives these measurement results, its internal processor begins to process and calculate the data to complete the positioning process. It should be emphasized that the above description is based on a scenario where both the network side and the terminal side use chip systems, but in practical applications, this solution also supports configurations where either the network side or the terminal side uses a chip system independently, without limitation.

[0231] The foregoing mainly describes the solution provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of the execution logic of each step. It is understood that each node, such as a network device, includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules to execute each function in order to achieve the above-mentioned functions. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the algorithm steps of the examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, the method of the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in a hardware or computer software-driven hardware manner depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0232] This application embodiment can divide the network device into functional modules according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0233] In practical implementation, the network elements shown in this application, such as terminal devices, can adopt... Figure 15 The shown composition or includes Figure 15 The components shown. Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. When the communication device has the functions of the terminal device described in the embodiment of this application, the communication device can be a terminal device or a chip or system-on-a-chip in the terminal device. When the communication device has the functions of the network device described in the embodiment of this application, the communication device can be a network device or a chip or system-on-a-chip in the network device.

[0234] For example, Figure 15A schematic diagram of a possible communication device 700 is shown. It is understood that the communication device 700 includes means of the necessary form, such as modules, units, elements, circuits, or interfaces, to be appropriately configured together to perform this solution. The communication device 700 can be a terminal or network device as described in the above method embodiments, or a component (e.g., a chip) in these devices to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments. The communication device 700 includes one or more processors 701. The processor 701 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the central processing unit can be used to control the communication device, execute software programs, and process data from the software programs.

[0235] Optionally, in one design, the processor 701 may include a program 703 (sometimes also referred to as code or instructions), which can be executed on the processor 701 to cause the communication device 700 to perform the methods described in the above embodiments. In yet another possible design, the communication device 700 includes circuitry (…). Figure 15 (Not shown), the circuit is used to implement the signal processing function in the above embodiments.

[0236] Optionally, the communication device 700 may include one or more memories 702 storing a program 704 (sometimes referred to as code or instructions), which can be run on the processor 701 to cause the communication device 700 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments.

[0237] Optionally, the processor 701 and / or memory 702 may include AI modules 707 and 708, which 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 RIC module. For example, the AI ​​module may be a near real-time RIC or a non-real-time RIC.

[0238] Optionally, the processor 701 and / or memory 702 may also store data. The processor and memory may be configured separately or integrated together.

[0239] Optionally, the communication device 700 may further include a transceiver 705 and / or an antenna 706. The processor 701, sometimes referred to as a processing unit, controls the communication device. The transceiver 705, 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 through the antenna 706.

[0240] Figure 16 A structural diagram of a communication device 160 is shown, which is applied to a terminal device. Figure 16 Each module in the device shown has the function of implementing the corresponding steps in the above method embodiments and can achieve the corresponding technical effects. The beneficial effects of each module performing the steps can be referred to the description of the corresponding steps in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here. The functions can be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions. The communication device can be a terminal device or a chip or system-on-a-chip in the terminal device. For example, the communication device includes: a transceiver module 161, used to receive first information and / or second information, the first information being used to indicate the time domain offset value of the positioning time window and / or the effective time of the positioning time window, and the second information being used to indicate multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node; a processing module 162, used to receive positioning reference signals through the transceiver module 161 based on the first information and / or the second information; and a transceiver module 161, used to send the measurement results of the positioning reference signals.

[0241] In this embodiment, the network device indicates at least one of the following information to the terminal device: first information or second information. The first information indicates at least one of the following: the time-domain offset value of the positioning time window or the effective time of the positioning time window. The second information indicates multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node. The terminal device then receives the positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information indicated by the network device, and feeds back the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the network device. This allows the first and / or second information to be indicated to the terminal device in conjunction with the changes in the arrival time of the positioning reference signal, enabling the terminal device to accurately receive the positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information. This ensures that the terminal device receives sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0242] Figure 17 A structural diagram of a communication device 170 is shown, which is applied to a network device. Figure 17Each module in the device shown has the function of implementing the corresponding steps in the above method embodiments and can achieve its corresponding technical effect. The beneficial effects of each module performing the steps can be referred to the description of the corresponding steps in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here. The function can be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions. The communication device can be a network device or a chip or system-on-a-chip in a network device. For example, the communication device includes: a transceiver module 171, used to send first information and / or second information, the first information being used to indicate the time domain offset value of the positioning time window, and / or, the first information being used to indicate the effective time of the positioning time window, and the second information being used to indicate multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node; the transceiver module 171 is used to receive the measurement results of the positioning reference signal.

[0243] In this embodiment, the network device indicates at least one of the following information to the terminal device: first information or second information. The first information indicates at least one of the following: the time-domain offset value of the positioning time window or the effective time of the positioning time window. The second information indicates multiple time intervals corresponding to a network node. The terminal device then receives the positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information indicated by the network device, and feeds back the measurement result of the positioning reference signal to the network device. This allows the first and / or second information to be indicated to the terminal device in conjunction with the changes in the arrival time of the positioning reference signal, enabling the terminal device to accurately receive the positioning reference signal based on the first and / or second information. This ensures that the terminal device receives sufficient and high-quality positioning reference signals, thereby ensuring high positioning accuracy.

[0244] This application embodiment also provides a communication system for a high-speed private network information transmission scenario in a neighboring area. The communication system may include terminal equipment and network equipment. The terminal equipment may have the functions of the aforementioned communication device 160, and the network equipment may have the functions of the aforementioned communication device 170.

[0245] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in the computer-readable storage medium, and when executed, it can include the processes of the above method embodiments. The computer-readable storage medium can be a terminal device of any of the foregoing embodiments, such as an internal storage unit including a data sending end and / or a data receiving end, such as a hard disk or memory of the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be an external storage device of the terminal device, such as a plug-in hard disk, smart media card (SMC), secure digital (SD) card, flash card, etc., equipped on the terminal device. Further, the computer-readable storage medium can include both the internal storage unit and the external storage device of the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium is used to store the computer program and other programs and data required by the terminal device. The computer-readable storage medium can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.

[0246] This application also provides computer instructions. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be executed by computer instructions to instruct related hardware (such as computers, processors, network devices, and terminals). The program can be stored in the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium.

[0247] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, cause all or part of the processes described in the method embodiments to be executed.

[0248] This application also provides a chip system. The chip system may consist of chips or include chips and other discrete devices, without limitation. The chip system includes a processor and a transceiver. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be completed by this chip system, such as the chip system being used to implement the functions performed by the terminal device or network device in the above method embodiments.

[0249] In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing program instructions and / or data. When the chip system is running, the processor executes the program instructions stored in the memory to enable the chip system to perform the functions performed by the terminal device or network device in the above method embodiments.

[0250] In the embodiments of this application, the processor may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components, capable of implementing or executing the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0251] In the embodiments of this application, the memory can be non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD), or it can be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM). Memory is any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory in the embodiments of this application can also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions, used to store instructions and / or data.

[0252] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or apparatuses.

[0253] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "at least one (item)" refers to one or more, "more than one" refers to two or more, "at least two (items)" refers to two or three or more, and "and / or" is used to describe the association relationship of related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple. It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, "B corresponding to A" means that B is associated with A. For example, B can be determined based on A. It should also be understood that determining B based on A does not mean determining B solely based on A; B can also be determined based on A and / or other information. Furthermore, the term "connection" in the embodiments of this application refers to various connection methods, such as direct or indirect connections, to achieve communication between devices; the embodiments of this application do not impose any limitations on this.

[0254] Unless otherwise specified, the term "transmission" in the embodiments of this application refers to bidirectional transmission, encompassing the actions of sending and / or receiving. Specifically, "transmission" in the embodiments of this application includes sending data, receiving data, or both sending and receiving data. In other words, data transmission here includes uplink and / or downlink data transmission. Data may include channels and / or signals; uplink data transmission refers to uplink channel and / or uplink signal transmission, and downlink data transmission refers to downlink channel and / or downlink signal transmission. The terms "network" and "system" in the embodiments of this application refer to the same concept; a communication system is a communication network.

[0255] 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.

[0256] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of modules or units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0257] 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.

[0258] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit. If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the embodiments of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a device, such as a microcontroller, chip, or processor, to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0259] 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 by comprising: The method comprises: receiving first information and / or second information, the first information being used for indicating a time domain offset value of a positioning time window and / or a validity time of the positioning time window, the second information being used for indicating a plurality of time intervals corresponding to one network node; receiving a positioning reference signal based on the first information and / or the second information; sending a measurement result of the positioning reference signal.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises: sending third information, the third information being used for requesting the first information and / or the second information.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second information comprises a plurality of expected reference signal time differences, or the second information comprises a plurality of time difference offset values of a reference time difference.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, The second information further comprises at least one of a plurality of time difference ranges or an effective time of the plurality of time intervals.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, Any time difference offset value of the plurality of time difference offset values is used for determining a time domain position of one or more detection time windows, the detection time windows being used for detecting a positioning reference signal sent by the network node.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The number of the time domain offset values is a plurality, any of the time domain offset values being used for determining a time domain position of the positioning time window within at least one period.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The first information is carried in radio resource control signaling or medium access control layer control element.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The second information is carried in positioning protocol signaling.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The method further comprises: receiving fourth information, the fourth information being used for indicating a first time domain position of the positioning time window, the time domain offset value being an offset value based on the first time domain position.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, The method further comprises that the fourth information is carried in radio resource control signaling.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first information is further used for activating the positioning time window.

12. A communication method, comprising: The method comprises: sending first information and / or second information, the first information being used for indicating a time domain offset value of a positioning time window and / or a validity time of the positioning time window, the second information being used for indicating a plurality of time intervals corresponding to one network node; receiving a measurement result of a positioning reference signal.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving third information, the third information being used for requesting the first information and / or the second information.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein, The second information comprises a plurality of expected reference signal time differences, or the second information comprises a plurality of time difference offset values of a reference time difference.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein, The second information further comprises at least one of a plurality of time difference ranges or an effective time of the plurality of time intervals.

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that Any time difference offset value of the plurality of time difference offset values is used for determining a time domain position of one or more detection time windows, the detection time windows being used for detecting a positioning reference signal sent by the network node.

17. The method according to any one of claims 12-16, characterized in that, The number of the time domain offset values is a plurality, any of the time domain offset values being used for determining a time domain position of the positioning time window within at least one period.

18. The method according to any one of claims 12-17, characterized by, The first information is carried in radio resource control signaling or medium access control layer control element.

19. The method according to any one of claims 12-18, characterized in that, The second information is carried in positioning protocol signaling.

20. The method according to any one of claims 12-19, characterized in that, The method further comprises: sending fourth information, the fourth information being used for indicating a first time domain position of the positioning time window, the time domain offset value being an offset value based on the first time domain position.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein, The method further comprises that the fourth information is carried in radio resource control signaling.

22. The method according to any one of claims 12-21, characterized in that, The first information is further used to activate the positioning time window.

23. A communications device, characterized by comprising means for performing the method of any of claims 1-11; or comprising means for performing the method of any of claims 12-22.

24. A communications device, characterized by The communication device comprises a processor configured to support the communication device to perform the method of any of claims 1-22.

25. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer readable storage medium stores computer instructions that, when executed, cause the method of any of claims 1-22 to be performed.

26. A computer program product, characterised in that, When executed on a computer, cause the method of any of claims 1-22 to be performed.

27. A chip, characterized by The chip comprises a processor configured to support the chip to perform the method of any of claims 1-22.

28. A communication system, characterized by comprising means for performing the method of any of claims 1-11; or comprising means for performing the method of any of claims 12-22.

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