Communication method, communication device and communication system

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method, communication equipment and a communication system, and relates to the technical field of communication. Through application of the scheme of the embodiment of the invention, the terminal equipment can determine the first information and determine that the terminal equipment is adjusted to the first mode corresponding to the RF energy collection according to the first information, and the terminal equipment entering the first model can effectively improve the collection efficiency of the RF energy.

Description

Communication method, communication device and communication system TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of communication, and in particular, to a communication method, a communication device and a communication system. BACKGROUND

[0002] With the development of communication technology, 3GPP standardizes a series of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies such as Machine Type Communications (MTC), Narrow Band IoT (NB-IoT) and Reduced Capability (RedCap) terminals. MTC and NB-IoT significantly reduce the cost of IoT terminals by using technologies such as small bandwidth, single antenna, reduced peak rate, half duplex, and reduced transmit power.

[0003] SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure provides a communication method, a communication device and a communication system, which can improve the collection efficiency of terminal devices for RF energy.

[0005] The first aspect of the present disclosure provides a communication method, executed by a terminal device, comprising: determining first information; and adjusting a first mode corresponding to RF energy collection according to the first information.

[0006] The second aspect of the present disclosure provides a communication method, executed by a network device, comprising: sending first information to a terminal device; wherein the first information is used to instruct the terminal device to adjust a first mode corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0007] The third aspect of the present disclosure provides a terminal device, comprising: a processing module configured to determine first information; and adjust a first mode corresponding to RF energy collection according to the first information.

[0008] The fourth aspect of the present disclosure provides a network device, comprising: a transceiver module configured to send first information to a terminal device; wherein the first information is used to instruct the terminal device to adjust a first mode corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0009] The fifth aspect of the present disclosure provides a communication device, comprising: one or more processors; wherein the processor is configured to execute the method of the first aspect, or execute the method of the second aspect.

[0010] The sixth aspect of the present disclosure provides a communication system, comprising: a terminal device and a network device; the terminal device performs the method of the first aspect, and the network device performs the method of the second aspect.

[0011] The seventh aspect of the present disclosure provides a computer storage medium, wherein the computer storage medium stores computer executable instructions; the computer executable instructions are executed by a processor to implement the method of the first aspect or the second aspect.

[0012] The eighth aspect of the present disclosure provides a computer program product, wherein the computer program product stores a computer program; the computer program is executed by a processor to implement the method of the first aspect or the second aspect.

[0013] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will be made apparent from the following description of embodiments, which will be given with reference to the attached drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent and be readily appreciated from the following description of embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0015] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of an architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of an example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of an example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of an example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of an example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram of an example according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig. 10 is a block diagram of a terminal device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a network device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 12 is a structural diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 13 is a structural diagram of a chip according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the drawings, in which the same or similar components are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals throughout. The embodiments described below by reference to the drawings are exemplary and are intended to explain the present disclosure, and are not to be understood as limiting the present disclosure. It should be noted that the embodiments of the present disclosure and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other without conflict, if necessary.

[0029] To facilitate understanding, first introduce the terms related to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] 1. Internet of Things (IoT)

[0031] Through information sensing equipment, according to the agreed protocol, connect any object with the Internet, carry on information exchange and communication, in order to realize intelligent identification, positioning, tracking, monitoring and management of a network. In popular terms, the Internet of Things is "Internet of Things". 3GPP standardizes a series of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies such as Machine Type Communications (MTC), Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT) and Reduced Capability (RedCap) terminals. MTC, NB-IoT uses small bandwidth, single antenna, reduces peak rate, half duplex, reduces transmit power and other technologies to significantly reduce the cost of Internet of Things terminals. Further, by introducing enhanced discontinuous reception (eDRX), power saving mode (PSM) greatly reduces the power consumption of Internet of Things terminals. At the same time, MTC, NB-IoT can support a large number of Internet of Things terminals to access the network, thereby meeting the demand for large connections.

[0032] NB-IoT is a low-power wide-area network technology with key features such as low cost, low power consumption, strong coverage, and massive connectivity. It is largely based on the non-backward-compatible Evolved UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA) standard, with a coverage target of minimum coupling loss (MCL) of 164dB, significantly enhancing indoor coverage and supporting a large number of low-throughput, low-latency-sensitive devices. NB-IoT supports three operating modes: in-band, standalone, and guardband. Its uplink and downlink RF bandwidths are both 180kHz. Downlink uses Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) technology based on a 15kHz subcarrier spacing, while uplink uses Single-Carrier Frequency Division Multiplexing (SC-FDMA) technology, supporting both single-tone and multi-tone transmission. Enhanced versions of NB-IoT support a wealth of features including multi-carrier support, positioning, multicast, wake-up signals, and fast small data transmission, and can coexist with LTE and NR systems.

[0033] eMTC is an enhanced version of LTE-M (LTE-Machine-to-Machine), an IoT technology evolved from LTE. It is also a low-cost, low-power wide-area network technology. Compared to NB-IoT, eMTC has slightly weaker coverage, targeting an MCL of 156dB, but it can support higher transmission rates, some mobility, and voice services. eMTC has 1.4MHz uplink and downlink RF bandwidth and can support a maximum peak rate of 1Mbps.

[0034] RedCap, short for Reduced Capability, is a new technology standard based on 5G NR. Simply put, RedCap is lightweight 5G. The large-scale industrial wireless sensor network (IWSN) use cases described by 5G requirements not only include highly demanding Low Latency High Reliable Communication (URLLC) services, but also relatively low-end applications requiring small device size, support for fully wireless transmission, and battery life of several years. These applications have higher requirements than Low Power Wide Coverage (LPWA) (i.e., LTE-M / NB-IoT), but lower than URLCC and enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB). Furthermore, smart city surveillance cameras and wearable device use cases such as smartwatches, electronic health devices, and medical monitoring equipment also require small device size, simplified functionality, and connection to the 5G radio access network and core network, urgently necessitating the introduction of lower-cost, simplified 5G NR terminals.

[0035] 2. Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT)

[0036] A-IoT is a brand-new Internet of Things technology. Compared with traditional Internet of Things technology, a significant feature of A-IoT is that the number of A-IoT terminals (A-IoT UE, A-IoT IoT terminal device, A-IoT Tag) in the network is large, and large-scale items can be inventoried and monitored. In different application scenarios, A-IoT terminal devices can also be customized according to different needs, so A-IoT technology has the characteristics of wide application and strong practicality. Compared with NB-IoT terminal, A-IoT terminal has a simpler structure, lower hardware and maintenance costs, and the entire device can have or not have a power supply device.

[0037] A-IoT devices can be type 1, type 2a, type 2b, and type 2c devices. Among them, type 1 and type 2a devices belong to passive devices, and type 2b belongs to active devices. Type 1 device (IoT terminal device 1) works based on backscatter, has the lowest complexity and very small power consumption. Type 2a device (IoT terminal device 2a) supports energy storage and works based on backscatter, has higher complexity and power consumption than type 1 device, has certain signal amplification function, but still maintains a relatively low level. Type 2b (IoT terminal device 2b) works based on active transmission, and type 2b device has signal amplification function and can actively transmit information. In addition, type 2c device has the ability of active transmission and backscatter. The above IoT terminal devices can have the ability of energy collection, that is, they can draw energy from the environment to supply normal uplink and downlink transmission. The energy in the environment includes natural energy such as solar energy, wind energy, and nuclear energy, and artificial energy such as electromagnetic waves sent by artificial devices.

[0038] Currently, two basic topology scenarios are supported. One is that A-IOT base station (or reader) and A-IOT IoT terminal device are directly connected. The other is that A-IOT IoT terminal device and terminal communicate with each other, and the terminal acts as an intermediate node to send data to the network side. IoT terminal devices that perform uplink transmission based on backscattering need a continuous wave (CW) energy source (CW node) to provide electromagnetic waves for reflection. CW is generally constant amplitude. The CW node can be a separate node or just a base station / intermediate node (such as UE) that communicates with the IoT terminal device.

[0039] The frequency of the electromagnetic wave reflected by the IoT terminal device can be completely the same as the frequency of the CW or can have some offset, and the size of the offset is related to the hardware characteristics of the IoT terminal device. The offset can be a fixed value, and if the hardware of the IoT terminal device supports, multiple fixed values can also be supported, and the offset can also be a dynamically adjustable value.

[0040] The embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication method, a communication device and a communication system.

[0041] In a first aspect, the embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication method, executed by a terminal device, the method comprising: determining first information; and adjusting a first mode corresponding to RF energy collection according to the first information.

[0042] By applying the technical solution of the present disclosure, the efficiency of the terminal device for collecting RF energy can be improved.

[0043] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, the terminal device is connected to one of the following:

[0044] one matching network connected to one antenna of the terminal device, the one matching network having at least two impedance values, and the one matching network being switchable between the at least two impedance values;

[0045] at least two matching networks connected to one antenna of the terminal device through a switch circuit, the at least two matching networks corresponding to different impedance values, and the at least two matching networks being switchable through the switch circuit.

[0046] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, the at least two impedance values include a first impedance value corresponding to a communication mode and a second impedance value corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0047] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, the at least two matching networks include a first matching network corresponding to a communication mode and a second matching network corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0048] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, the first mode includes one of the following:

[0049] a mode of receiving an impedance value with the largest range;

[0050] a mode of receiving an impedance value with the strongest RF signal range;

[0051] a mode of receiving a matching network with the largest range;

[0052] a mode of receiving a matching network with the strongest RF signal range.

[0053] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first information comprises at least one of:

[0054] first signaling sent by a network device;

[0055] a power level of the terminal device;

[0056] an energy harvesting range of the terminal device.

[0057] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first signaling comprises at least one of:

[0058] an indication to adjust to the first mode;

[0059] an indication of a timer, a time length of the timer being used to determine a mode time length of the first mode.

[0060] In some embodiments of the first aspect, adjusting to the first mode according to the power level of the terminal device comprises:

[0061] adjusting to the first mode when the power level of the terminal device is less than or equal to a first threshold.

[0062] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the method further comprises:

[0063] determining the first threshold according to a predefinition of a protocol or a network configuration or a configuration of the terminal device.

[0064] In some embodiments of the first aspect, adjusting to the first mode according to the energy harvesting range of the terminal device comprises:

[0065] adjusting to the first mode to camp on by selecting a most efficient RF energy source in the energy harvesting range.

[0066] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the method further comprises:

[0067] determining second information;

[0068] determining to exit the first mode according to the second information.

[0069] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the second information comprises at least one of:

[0070] second signaling sent by a network device;

[0071] a timer, a time length of the timer being used to determine a mode time length of the first mode;

[0072] a power level of the terminal device.

[0073] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the second signaling comprises an indication to exit the first mode.

[0074] In some embodiments of the first aspect, exiting the first mode according to the timer comprises:

[0075] The time of the timer expires, and the first mode is exited.

[0076] In some embodiments of the first aspect, exiting the first mode according to the power of the terminal device comprises:

[0077] The power of the terminal device is greater than or equal to a second threshold, and the first mode is exited.

[0078] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the method further comprises:

[0079] The second threshold is determined according to a protocol predefinition, a network configuration, or a configuration of the terminal device.

[0080] In a second aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication method, performed by a network device, the method comprising: sending first information to a terminal device; wherein the first information is used to instruct the terminal device to adjust to a first mode corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0081] By applying the technical solutions of the present disclosure, the efficiency of RF energy collection of the terminal device can be improved.

[0082] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the terminal device is connected to one of the following:

[0083] one matching network, the one matching network being connected to one antenna of the terminal device, the one matching network having at least two impedance values, and the one matching network being switchable between the at least two impedance values;

[0084] at least two matching networks, the at least two matching networks being connected to one antenna of the terminal device through a switch circuit, the at least two matching networks corresponding to different impedance values, and the at least two matching networks being switchable through the switch circuit.

[0085] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the at least two impedance values comprise a first impedance value corresponding to a communication mode, and a second impedance value corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0086] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the at least two matching networks comprise a first matching network corresponding to a communication mode, and a second matching network corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0087] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the first mode comprises one of:

[0088] a mode of receiving an impedance value with a largest range;

[0089] a mode of receiving an impedance value with a largest range of RF signal strength;

[0090] a mode of receiving a matching network with a largest range;

[0091] a mode of receiving a matching network with a largest range of RF signal strength.

[0092] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the first information comprises first signaling.

[0093] The first signaling comprises at least one of:

[0094] an indication to adjust to the first mode;

[0095] an indication of a timer, a duration of the timer being used to determine a mode duration of the first mode.

[0096] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the method further comprises:

[0097] sending second information to the terminal device;

[0098] The second information is used to instruct the terminal device to exit the first mode.

[0099] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the second information comprises second signaling, and the second signaling comprises an indication to exit the first mode.

[0100] In a third aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a terminal device, comprising: a processing module configured to determine first information; and adjust to a first mode corresponding to RF energy harvesting according to the first information.

[0101] In a fourth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a network device, comprising: a transceiver module configured to send first information to a terminal device; and wherein the first information is used to instruct the terminal device to adjust to a first mode corresponding to RF energy harvesting.

[0102] In a fifth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication device, which can be a terminal device or a network device, comprising: one or more processors; wherein the processor of the terminal device is configured to execute the method of the first aspect, and the processor of the network device is configured to execute the method of the second aspect.

[0103] In a sixth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication system, comprising: a terminal device and a network device; the terminal device performs the method according to the first aspect, and the network device performs the method according to the second aspect.

[0104] In a seventh aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a computer storage medium, wherein the computer storage medium stores computer executable instructions; the computer executable instructions are executed by a processor to implement the method according to the first aspect or the method according to the second aspect.

[0105] In an eighth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a computer program product, comprising a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, can implement the method according to the first aspect or the method according to the second aspect.

[0106] In a ninth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a computer program, which, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method according to the first aspect or the method according to the second aspect.

[0107] In a tenth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a chip or a chip system. The chip or the chip system comprises processing circuitry configured to perform the method according to the first aspect or the method according to the second aspect.

[0108] It can be understood that the terminal device, the network device, the communication system and the storage medium are used to execute the method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects achieved thereby can refer to the beneficial effects in the corresponding method, which will not be described herein.

[0109] The embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication method, a communication device and a communication system. In some embodiments, the terms of the communication method, the information processing method, the information sending method and the information receiving method can be replaced with each other, the terms of the communication device, the information processing device, the information sending device and the information receiving device can be replaced with each other, and the terms of the information processing system, the communication system, the information sending system and the information receiving system can be replaced with each other.

[0110] The embodiments of the present disclosure are not exhaustive, but only illustrate some embodiments, and are not specific limitations on the protection scope of the present disclosure. In the case of no contradiction, each step in an embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be combined arbitrarily, for example, the scheme after removing part of the steps in an embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in an embodiment can be exchanged arbitrarily, in addition, the optional implementation in an embodiment can be combined arbitrarily; in addition, the embodiments can be combined arbitrarily, for example, part or all steps of different embodiments can be combined arbitrarily, an embodiment can be combined with optional implementation of other embodiments.

[0111] In each embodiment of the present disclosure, the terms and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent if there is no special description and logical conflict, and can be referred to each other, and the technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0112] The terms used in the embodiments of the present disclosure are only for the purpose of describing the specific embodiments, and not as a limitation on the present disclosure.

[0113] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the elements expressed in singular form, such as "one", "a", "the", "above", "said", "preceding", "this" and the like, can represent "one and only one", and can also represent "one or more", "at least one" and the like. For example, in the case of using articles such as "a", "an", "the" and the like in English, the noun after the article can be understood as singular expression, and can also be understood as plural expression.

[0114] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, "plurality" means two or more.

[0115] In some embodiments, the terms "at least one of", "at least one of", "at least one of", "one or more", "a plurality of", "multiple" and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0116] The description manner such as "at least one of A, B, C, …", "A and / or B and / or C, …" and the like in the embodiments of the present disclosure includes any one of A, B, C, … existing alone, and also includes any combination of any multiple of A, B, C, …, each of which can exist alone; for example, "at least one of A, B, C" includes a case of A alone, a case of B alone, a case of C alone, a case of combination of A and B, a case of combination of A and C, a case of combination of B and C, and a case of combination of A and B and C; for example, A and / or B includes a case of A alone, a case of B alone, and a case of combination of A and B.

[0117] In some embodiments, the description manner such as "A in a case, B in another case", "in response to a case A, in response to another case B" and the like can include the following technical solutions according to the case: A is executed regardless of B, that is, A in some embodiments; B is executed regardless of A, that is, B in some embodiments; A and B are selectively executed, that is, from A and B, execution is selected in some embodiments; A and B are both executed, that is, A and B in some embodiments. When there are more branches of A, B, C and the like, it is similar to the above.

[0118] The prefix words "first", "second" and the like in the embodiments of the present disclosure are only used to distinguish different description objects, and do not constitute limitation on the position, order, priority, quantity or content of the description objects. The description of the description objects should refer to the description in the context of the claims or embodiments, and should not constitute redundant limitation because of the use of the prefix words. For example, the description object is "field", and the ordinal words before "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not limit the position or order between "fields", and "first" and "second" do not limit whether the "fields" modified thereby are in the same message or not, nor limit the order of "first field" and "second field". For another example, the description object is "level", and the ordinal words before "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not limit the priority between "levels". For another example, the quantity of the description object is not limited by the ordinal words, and can be one or more. For example, "first device", wherein the quantity of "device" can be one or more. In addition, the objects modified by different prefix words can be the same or different, for example, the description object is "device", and "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and the types thereof can be the same or different; for another example, the description object is "information", and "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and the contents thereof can be the same or different.

[0119] In some embodiments, "including A", "containing A", "for indicating A", "carrying A" can be interpreted as directly carrying A, or indirectly indicating A.

[0120] In some embodiments, the terms "in response to", "in response to determining", "in the case of", "when", "if", "if", etc. can be replaced with each other.

[0121] In some embodiments, the terms "greater than", "greater than or equal to", "not less than", "more than", "more than or equal to", "not less than", "higher than", "higher than or equal to", "not lower than", "above", etc. can be replaced with each other, and the terms "less than", "less than or equal to", "not greater than", "less than", "less than or equal to", "not more than", "lower than", "lower than or equal to", "not higher than", "below", etc. can be replaced with each other.

[0122] In some embodiments, the device, etc. can be interpreted as an entity, and can also be interpreted as virtual, and the name is not limited to the name described in the embodiments. The terms "device", "equipment", "equipment (IoT terminal device)", "circuit", "network element", "node", "function", "unit", "section", "system", "network", "chip", "chip system", "entity", "subject", etc. can be replaced with each other.

[0123] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as a device (for example, access network device, core network device, etc.) contained in the network.

[0124] In some embodiments, the terms “access network device (AN IoT terminal device),” “radio access network device (RAN IoT terminal device),” “base station (BS),” “radio base station,” “fixed station,” “node,” “access point,” “transmission point (TP),” “reception point (RP),” “transmission / reception point (TRP),” “panel,” “antenna panel,” “antenna array,” “cell,” “macro cell,” “small cell,” “femto cell,” “pico cell,” “sector,” “cell group,” “carrier,” “component carrier,” “bandwidth part (BWP),” and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0125] In some embodiments, the terms "terminal," "terminal IoT device," "user equipment (UE)," "user terminal," "mobile station (MS)," "mobile terminal (MT)," "subscriber station," "mobile unit," "subscriber unit," "wireless unit," "remote unit," "mobile device," "wireless device," "wireless communication device," "remote device," "mobile subscriber station," "access terminal," "mobile terminal," "wireless terminal," "remote terminal," "handset," "user agent," "mobile client," "client," "Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT) device," and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0126] In some embodiments, the access network device, the core network device, or the network device can be replaced with a terminal. For example, the structure in which the communication between the access network device, the core network device, or the network device and the terminal is replaced with the communication between a plurality of terminals (for example, also referred to as device-to-device (IoT terminal device-to-IoT terminal device, D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), and the like) can also apply the embodiments of the present disclosure. In this case, it can also be configured as a structure in which the terminal has all or part of the functions of the access network device. In addition, the language of "uplink," "downlink," and the like can also be replaced with the language corresponding to the communication between terminals (for example, "side"). For example, the uplink channel, the downlink channel, and the like can be replaced with the side channel, and the uplink, the downlink, and the like can be replaced with the sidelink.

[0127] In some embodiments, the terminal device can be replaced with the access network device, the core network device, or the network device. In this case, it can also be configured as a structure in which the access network device, the core network device, or the network device has all or part of the functions of the terminal.

[0128] In some embodiments, the data, information, etc. can be obtained in compliance with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is located.

[0129] In some embodiments, the data, information, etc. can be obtained after obtaining the consent of the user.

[0130] In some embodiments, the threshold mentioned in the embodiments can be a numerical value, a constant, or some fixed value, etc.

[0131] In addition, each element, each row, or each column in the table of the embodiments of the disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0132] The correspondence shown in each table in the disclosure can be configured or predefined. The values of the information in each table are only examples, and other values can be configured, and the disclosure is not limited. When configuring the correspondence between the information and each parameter, it is not necessarily required to configure all the correspondences shown in each table. For example, the correspondences shown in some rows in the table in the disclosure can not be configured. For another example, the above table can be appropriately deformed, adjusted, etc., such as splitting, merging, etc. The names of the parameters shown in the titles of the above tables can also use other names understandable by the communication device, and the values or representations of the parameters can also use other values or representations understandable by the communication device. The above tables can also use other data structures when implemented, such as arrays, queues, containers, stacks, linear tables, pointers, linked lists, trees, graphs, structures, classes, heaps, hash tables, etc.

[0133] The predefinition in the disclosure can be understood as definition, predefinition, storage, pre-storage, pre-negotiation, pre-configuration, solidification, or pre-burning.

[0134] The communication method, communication device, and communication system provided by the disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0135] FIG. 1 shows a structure diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the system architecture can include a terminal device 11 and a network device 12.

[0136] In some embodiments, the terminal device 11 can be a physical device for connecting to an Internet of Things network, or can be referred to as an Internet of Things device, etc.

[0137] In some examples, the terminal device 11 can be a terminal, a user equipment (UE), a mobile station (MS), a mobile terminal (MT), or the like. The terminal device 11 can also be a car with communication function, a smart car, a mobile phone, a wearable device, a tablet (Pad), a computer with wireless transceiver function, a virtual reality device, an augmented reality device, a wireless terminal device in industrial control, a wireless terminal device in self-driving, a wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, a wireless terminal device in smart grid, a wireless terminal device in transportation safety, a wireless terminal device in smart city, a wireless terminal device in smart home, or the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure do not limit the specific technology and specific device form of the terminal device 11.

[0138] In some embodiments, the network device 12 can be an entity on the network side for transmitting or receiving signals. For example, the network device can be a base station or a core network node or a server, and the like, and specifically can be a communication satellite, an evolved NodeB (eNB), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next generation NodeB (gNB) in an NR system, a base station in other future mobile communication systems, or an access node in a wireless fidelity (WiFi) system, and the like. Embodiments of the present disclosure do not limit the specific technology and specific device form of the network device. The network device provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure can be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU), wherein the CU can also be referred to as a control unit (control unit). The CU-DU structure can split the protocol layers of the network device, for example, the base station, and the functions of part of the protocol layers are controlled by the CU, and the functions of the remaining part or all of the protocol layers are distributed in the DU and controlled by the CU.

[0139] It can be understood that the communication system described in the embodiments of the present disclosure is for more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions proposed by the embodiments of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art can know that, with the evolution of system architecture and the appearance of new business scenarios, the technical solutions proposed by the embodiments of the present disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0140] The following embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to the communication system shown in FIG. 1 or part of the subject, but are not limited thereto. The subjects shown in FIG. 1 are illustrative, and the communication system can include all or part of the subjects in FIG. 1, or other subjects other than FIG. 1. The number and form of each subject is arbitrary, and the connection relationship between the subjects is illustrative. The subjects can be connected or not connected, and the connection can be in any way, can be direct connection or indirect connection, can be wired connection or wireless connection.

[0141] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to satellite communication, Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G NR, Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM (registered trademark)), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.20, Ultra-WideBand (UWB), Bluetooth (Bluetooth (registered trademark)), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) network, device-to-device (IoT terminal-to-IoT terminal, D2D) system, Machine to Machine (M2M) system, Internet of Things (IoT) system, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), system using other communication methods, next-generation system expanded based thereon, and the like. Further, a plurality of systems can be applied in combination (for example, combination of LTE or LTE-A and 5G, and the like).

[0142] A big feature of IoT terminal devices is low power consumption, the essential purpose of which is to increase the battery life. Some IoT terminal devices, such as Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT), can complete device charging by collecting environmental energy, and theoretically can achieve infinite battery life. The structure of an IoT terminal device is that an antenna is connected to a RF energy harvester through a matching network. If the RF source received by the antenna does not match the impedance of the matching network, the RF signal will be reflected and will not enter the RF energy harvester.

[0143] To increase the collection efficiency of terminal devices such as IoT terminal devices for RF energy, by applying the scheme of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the terminal device can determine first information and determine, according to the first information, that the terminal device adjusts to a first mode corresponding to RF energy collection. The terminal device entering the first mode can effectively improve the collection efficiency for RF energy.

[0144] Further, in order to illustrate the specific execution process of the above communication system, taking the terminal device as an IoT terminal device as an example, FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method is applied to the above communication system, as shown in FIG. 2, and can include the following steps:

[0145] Step S201, the network device sends first information to the IoT terminal device.

[0146] In some embodiments, the IoT terminal device is connected to one of the following A1 to B1:

[0147] A1, one matching network, the one matching network is connected to one antenna of the IoT terminal device, the one matching network has at least two impedance values, and the one matching network can be switched between the at least two impedance values. In some examples, the at least two impedance values include a first impedance value corresponding to a communication mode and a second impedance value corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0148] B1, at least two matching networks, the at least two matching networks are connected to one antenna of the IoT terminal device through a switch circuit, the at least two matching networks correspond to different impedance values, and the at least two matching networks can be switched through the switch circuit. In some examples, the at least two matching networks include a first matching network corresponding to a communication mode and a second matching network corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0149] For example, in a network, IoT network devices communicate with IoT terminal devices, which include base stations, intermediate nodes, auxiliary nodes, etc. The types of IoT terminal devices include at least one of Type 1, Type 2a, Type 2b, Type 2c. IoT terminal devices can collect energy from the environment to supply the IoT terminal devices to complete the communication transmission. The energy in the environment includes both natural energy and artificial energy. The artificial energy collected by the IoT terminal device includes RF energy, which is received by the IoT terminal device through an antenna. In order to increase the collection efficiency of RF energy, the IoT terminal device can refer to the following examples.

[0150] As an example, as shown in FIG. 3, the components of the IoT terminal device include a matching network and an antenna, and the antenna is directly connected to the matching network. Further, the matching network can be switched between two impedance values, i.e. the first impedance value corresponding to the communication mode and the second impedance value corresponding to the energy collection. The first impedance value can match the communication network, at least one of which satisfies reliable communication, efficient energy transmission, and reduces signal distortion. The second impedance value can maximize the receiving range of the antenna, for example, the impedance value is 0. As shown in FIG. 3, it is a part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0151] As an example, as shown in FIG. 4, the components of the IoT terminal device include a matching network and an antenna, and the antenna is directly connected to the matching network. Further, the matching network can be switched between at least two impedance values, and the matching network with different impedance values can adapt to different communication modes and different energy collection modes. As shown in FIG. 4, it is a part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0152] As an example, as shown in FIG. 5, the components of the IoT terminal device include two matching networks and an antenna, and the antenna is connected to the two matching networks through a switch circuit. Further, the two matching networks can be switched by the switch, i.e. the first matching network corresponding to the communication mode and the second matching network corresponding to the energy collection. The first matching network can match the communication network, at least one of which satisfies reliable communication, efficient energy transmission, and reduces signal distortion. The second matching network can maximize the receiving range of the antenna, for example, the impedance value is 0. As shown in FIG. 5, it is a part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0153] As an example, as shown in FIG. 6, the components of the IoT terminal device include at least two matching networks and an antenna, and the antenna is connected to the matching networks through a switch circuit. Further, the matching networks can be switched by the switch, and the matching network with different impedance values can adapt to different communication modes and different energy collection modes. As shown in FIG. 6, it is a part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0154] As an example, as shown in FIG. 7, the components of the IoT terminal device include at least one matching network and an antenna, the antenna is connected with the matching networks through a switch, and the charging module is connected with the antenna through a switch. Further, the switch can switch the connection of different matching networks and charging modules, and different impedance values of the matching networks can adapt to different communication modes, and can also be switched to the charging module for energy collection. As shown in FIG. 7, it is part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0155] In some embodiments, the IoT terminal device receives first information sent by the network device, which can be indication information or a signaling message, etc.

[0156] In some embodiments, the first information is carried by at least one of the following:

[0157] Radio Resource Control (RRC) message; Downlink Control Information (DCI); Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE); Master Information Block (MIB); System Information Block (SIB).

[0158] Step S202, the IoT terminal device adjusts to a first mode corresponding to RF energy collection according to the first information.

[0159] In some embodiments, the first mode includes one of the following A2 to E2:

[0160] A2, the mode of the largest receiving range of impedance value, such as one matching network switching to the mode of the largest receiving range of impedance value, for example, for the structure as shown in FIG. 3, the impedance value of the matching network of the IoT terminal device is adjusted to the mode of the largest receiving range.

[0161] B2, the mode of the strongest receiving range of RF signal impedance value, such as one matching network switching to the mode of the strongest receiving range of RF signal impedance value, for example, for the structure as shown in FIG. 4, the impedance of the matching network of the IoT terminal device is adjusted to the mode of the strongest receiving range of RF signal.

[0162] C2, the mode of the largest receiving range of matching network, such as switching to the mode of the largest receiving range of matching network, for example, for the structure as shown in FIG. 5, the matching network of the IoT terminal device is switched to the mode of the largest receiving range.

[0163] D2, a mode of the matching network in the strongest reception range of the RF signal, such as switching to the mode of the matching network in the strongest reception range of the RF signal, for example, for the structure as shown in FIG. 6, the matching network of the IoT terminal device switches to the mode in the strongest reception range of the RF signal.

[0164] E2, a mode of the antenna directly connecting the charging module, for example, for the structure as shown in FIG. 7, the mode of the antenna of the IoT terminal device directly connecting the charging module.

[0165] In some embodiments, the first information includes first signaling sent by the network device, which can be used to instruct the IoT terminal device to adjust itself to the first mode.

[0166] In some examples, the first signaling includes at least one of the following A3 to B3:

[0167] A3, an indication to adjust to the first mode, for example, instructing the IoT terminal device to adjust itself to the first mode.

[0168] B3, an indication of a timer, the duration of the timer being used to determine the mode duration of the first mode, for example, through the indication of the timer, so that the IoT terminal device determines the mode duration of the first mode according to the timing duration of the timer, that is, the duration of the IoT terminal device maintaining the first mode, at the end of the timing of the timer, the IoT terminal device exits the first mode.

[0169] After the IoT terminal device enters the first mode, the collection efficiency of the RF energy can be effectively improved, and as for when to exit the first mode, in some embodiments, the IoT terminal device can determine the second information and determine to exit the first mode according to the second information.

[0170] In some embodiments, the IoT terminal device can determine the second information according to the protocol predefinition or the network indication or the configuration of the IoT terminal device.

[0171] In some embodiments, if the second information is determined through the network indication, the network device sends the second information to the IoT terminal device, which is carried through at least one of the following:

[0172] RRC message; DCI; MAC CE; MIB; SIB.

[0173] In some embodiments, the second information includes at least one of the following A4 to C4:

[0174] A4, second signaling sent by the network device, in some examples, the second signaling can include an indication to exit the first mode.

[0175] B4, a timer, a time length of the timer can be used to determine a mode time length of the first mode. In some examples, the timer of B4 can be determined according to the timer indication of B3. In some examples, determining the IoT terminal device to exit the first mode according to the timer includes: when the time of the timer arrives, i.e., when the timer timing ends, determining the IoT terminal device to exit the first mode.

[0176] C4, an electric quantity of the IoT terminal device. In some examples, determining the IoT terminal device to exit the first mode according to the electric quantity of the IoT terminal device includes: when the electric quantity of the IoT terminal device is greater than or equal to a second threshold value, determining the IoT terminal device to exit the first mode. In some examples, the IoT terminal device can determine the second threshold value according to a protocol predefinition or a network configuration or a configuration of the IoT terminal device.

[0177] The communication method related to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S201-S202. For example, step S201 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and step S202 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. In addition, part or all of the steps S201-S202 can be combined to implement an independent embodiment, which is not limited by the embodiments.

[0178] By applying the scheme of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the IoT terminal device can determine the first information, and determine the IoT terminal device to adjust to the first mode corresponding to the RF energy collection according to the first information. The IoT terminal device entering the first mode can effectively improve the collection efficiency of the RF energy.

[0179] In order to illustrate the specific execution process of the terminal, taking the terminal device as an IoT terminal device for example, FIG. 8 shows a flow diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Applied to the IoT terminal device side execution, it can include the following steps.

[0180] Step S301, the IoT terminal device determines first information.

[0181] In some embodiments, the IoT terminal device is connected to one of the following A1-B1:

[0182] A1, a matching network, the matching network is connected to an antenna of the IoT terminal device, the matching network has at least two impedance values, and the matching network can be switched between the at least two impedance values; in some examples, the at least two impedance values include a first impedance value corresponding to a communication mode, and a second impedance value corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0183] B1, at least two matching networks, the at least two matching networks are connected with one antenna of the IoT terminal device through a switch circuit, the at least two matching networks correspond to different impedance values, and the at least two matching networks can be switched through the switch circuit. In some examples, the at least two matching networks include a first matching network corresponding to a communication mode, and a second matching network corresponding to RF energy harvesting.

[0184] In some embodiments, the IoT terminal device can determine the first information according to a protocol definition or network indication or a configuration of the IoT terminal device.

[0185] Step S302, the IoT terminal device adjusts to a first mode corresponding to RF energy harvesting according to the first information.

[0186] In some embodiments, the first mode includes one of the following A2 to E2:

[0187] A2, a mode of the largest receiving range of impedance value, such as a matching network switching to a mode of the largest receiving range of impedance value, for example, for the structure shown in FIG. 3, the impedance value of the matching network of the IoT terminal device is adjusted to a mode of the largest receiving range.

[0188] B2, a mode of the strongest receiving range of RF signal impedance value, such as a matching network switching to a mode of the strongest receiving range of RF signal impedance value, for example, for the structure shown in FIG. 4, the impedance of the matching network of the IoT terminal device is adjusted to a mode of the strongest receiving range of RF signal.

[0189] C2, a mode of the largest receiving range of matching network, such as switching to a mode of the largest receiving range of matching network, for example, for the structure shown in FIG. 5, the matching network of the IoT terminal device is switched to a mode of the largest receiving range.

[0190] D2, a mode of the strongest receiving range of matching network of RF signal, such as switching to a mode of the strongest receiving range of matching network of RF signal, for example, for the structure shown in FIG. 6, the matching network of the IoT terminal device is switched to a mode of the strongest receiving range of RF signal.

[0191] E2, a mode of directly connecting the antenna to the energy charging module, for example, for the structure shown in FIG. 7, the antenna of the IoT terminal device is directly connected to the energy charging module.

[0192] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following A5 to C5:

[0193] A5, first signaling sent by a network device, which can be used to instruct the IoT terminal device to adjust itself to the first mode.

[0194] B5, power of the IoT terminal device. In some examples, adjusting to the first mode according to the power of the IoT terminal device comprises: adjusting to the first mode when the power of the IoT terminal device is less than or equal to a first threshold. In some examples, the first threshold is determined according to a protocol predefinition or a network configuration or a configuration of the IoT terminal device.

[0195] C5, energy harvesting range of the IoT terminal device. In some examples, adjusting to the first mode according to the energy harvesting range of the IoT terminal device comprises: the IoT terminal device selecting a most efficient RF energy source by traversing the energy harvesting range, and adjusting to the first mode for camping.

[0196] In some examples, the first signaling comprises at least one of A3 to B3 below:

[0197] A3, an indication of adjusting to the first mode;

[0198] B3, an indication of a timer, a time length of the timer being used to determine a mode time length of the first mode.

[0199] In some embodiments, the IoT terminal device determines second information; and exits the first mode according to the second information.

[0200] In some embodiments, the second information comprises at least one of A4 to C4 below:

[0201] A4, second signaling sent by the network device, in some examples, the second signaling comprises an indication of exiting the first mode.

[0202] B4, a timer, a time length of the timer being used to determine a mode time length of the first mode. In some examples, exiting the first mode according to the timer comprises: determining the IoT terminal device to exit the first mode when a time of the timer arrives.

[0203] C4, power of the IoT terminal device. In some examples, exiting the first mode according to the power of the IoT terminal device comprises: exiting the first mode when the power of the IoT terminal device is greater than or equal to a second threshold. In some examples, the second threshold is determined according to a protocol predefinition or a network configuration or a configuration of the IoT terminal device.

[0204] The description of the specific examples in the embodiments can refer to the corresponding description of the embodiments in FIGS. 1 to 7, which will not be repeated here.

[0205] The communication method related to the embodiments can include at least one of steps S301-S302. For example, step S301 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and step S302 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. In addition, part or all of the steps S301-S302 can be combined to implement an independent embodiment, which is not limited in this embodiment.

[0206] By applying the scheme of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the IoT terminal device can determine the first information, and determine the first mode corresponding to the RF energy collection according to the first information. The IoT terminal device entering the first mode can effectively improve the collection efficiency of the RF energy.

[0207] FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Taking the terminal device as an IoT terminal device for example, as shown in FIG. 9, the method is applied to the network device side and can include the following steps.

[0208] Step S401, the network device sends first information to the IoT terminal device.

[0209] In some embodiments, the first information is used to indicate that the IoT terminal device adjusts to a first mode corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0210] In some embodiments, the IoT terminal device is connected to one of the following A1-B1:

[0211] A1, one matching network connected to one antenna of the IoT terminal device, the one matching network having at least two impedance values, and the one matching network being switchable between the at least two impedance values;

[0212] B1, at least two matching networks connected to one antenna of the IoT terminal device through a switch circuit, the at least two matching networks corresponding to different impedance values, and the at least two matching networks being switchable through the switch circuit.

[0213] In some embodiments, the at least two impedance values include a first impedance value corresponding to a communication mode and a second impedance value corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0214] In some embodiments, the at least two matching networks include a first matching network corresponding to a communication mode and a second matching network corresponding to RF energy collection.

[0215] In some embodiments, the first mode includes one of the following A2-E2:

[0216] A2, a mode of an impedance value of a largest reception range, such as a matching network switching to a mode of an impedance value of a largest reception range, for example, for a structure as shown in FIG. 3, the IoT terminal device's matching network impedance value is adjusted to a mode of a largest reception range.

[0217] B2, a mode of an impedance value of a strongest RF signal reception range, such as a matching network switching to a mode of an impedance value of a strongest RF signal reception range, for example, for a structure as shown in FIG. 4, the IoT terminal device's matching network impedance is adjusted to a mode of a strongest RF signal reception range.

[0218] C2, a mode of a matching network of a largest reception range, such as switching to a mode of a matching network of a largest reception range, for example, for a structure as shown in FIG. 5, the IoT terminal device's matching network is switched to a mode of a largest reception range.

[0219] D2, a mode of a matching network of a strongest RF signal reception range, such as switching to a mode of a matching network of a strongest RF signal reception range, for example, for a structure as shown in FIG. 6, the IoT terminal device's matching network is switched to a mode of a strongest RF signal reception range.

[0220] E2, a mode of an antenna directly connected to a power charging module, for example, for a structure as shown in FIG. 7, the IoT terminal device's antenna is directly connected to a mode of a power charging module.

[0221] In some embodiments, the first information comprises first signaling; the first signaling comprises at least one of the following A3 to B3:

[0222] A3, an indication of adjusting to a first mode;

[0223] B3, an indication of a timer, a time length of the timer being used to determine a mode time length of the first mode.

[0224] In some embodiments, the network device sends second information to the IoT terminal device; wherein the second information is used to instruct the IoT terminal device to exit the first mode.

[0225] In some embodiments, the second information comprises second signaling, the second signaling comprising an indication of exiting the first mode.

[0226] The description of the specific examples in the embodiments can refer to the corresponding description of the embodiments in FIG. 1 to FIG. 8, which will not be repeated here.

[0227] By applying the scheme of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the IoT terminal device can determine the first information, and determine the first mode corresponding to the RF energy collection according to the first information. The IoT terminal device entering the first mode can effectively improve the collection efficiency of the RF energy.

[0228] Based on the above description of various embodiments, the following specific examples are given, but are not limited thereto:

[0229] Example 1

[0230] In a network, IoT network devices communicate with IoT terminal devices, and the IoT network devices include base stations, intermediate nodes, auxiliary nodes, etc. The types of IoT terminal devices include at least one of type 1, type 2a, type 2b, and type 2c. The IoT terminal device collects energy from the environment to supply the IoT terminal device to complete the communication transmission. The energy in the environment includes both natural energy and artificial energy. The artificial energy collected by the IoT terminal device includes RF energy, and the IoT terminal device receives RF radio frequency through an antenna. The method for the IoT terminal device to expand the RF collection range includes at least one of the following:

[0231] Method 1:

[0232] The components of the IoT terminal device include a matching network and an antenna, and the antenna is directly connected to the matching network. Further, the matching network can be switched between two impedance values, i.e., a first value corresponding to a communication mode and a second value corresponding to energy collection. The first value can match the communication network to meet at least one of the functions of reliable communication, efficient energy transmission, and reduced signal distortion. The second value can maximize the receiving range of the antenna, for example, the impedance value is 0. As shown in FIG. 3, it is a part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0233] Method 2:

[0234] The components of the IoT terminal device include a matching network and an antenna, and the antenna is directly connected to the matching network. Further, the matching network can be switched between at least two impedance values, and the matching network with different impedance values can adapt to different communication modes and different energy collection modes. As shown in FIG. 4, it is a part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0235] Method 3:

[0236] The IoT terminal device includes at least two matching networks and an antenna, and the antenna is connected to the matching networks through a switch. Further, the matching networks can be switched through the switch, and the matching networks with different impedance values can adapt to different communication modes and different energy harvesting modes. As shown in FIG. 6, it is a part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0237] Method 4:

[0238] The IoT terminal device includes at least two matching networks and an antenna, and the antenna is connected to the matching networks through a switch. Further, the matching networks can be switched through the switch, and the matching networks with different impedance values can adapt to different communication modes and different energy harvesting modes. As shown in FIG. 6, it is a part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0239] Method 5:

[0240] The IoT terminal device includes at least two matching networks and an antenna, and the antenna is connected to the matching networks through a switch. Further, the matching networks can be switched through the switch, and the matching networks with different impedance values can adapt to different communication modes and different energy harvesting modes. As shown in FIG. 6, it is a part of the structure of the IoT terminal device.

[0241] Example 2

[0242] In a network, the IoT network device communicates with the IoT terminal device, and the IoT network device includes a base station, an intermediate node, an auxiliary node, etc. The type of the IoT terminal device includes at least one of type 1, type 2a, type 2b, and type 2c. The IoT terminal device collects energy from the environment to supply the IoT terminal device to complete the communication transmission. The energy in the environment includes both natural energy and artificial energy.

[0243] The artificial energy collected by the IoT terminal device includes RF energy, and the IoT terminal device receives RF radio frequency through an antenna. The method for the IoT terminal device to adjust itself to the first mode includes at least one of the following:

[0244] Method 1:

[0245] The IoT terminal device receives the signaling of the network device, which is used to indicate whether the IoT terminal device adjusts itself to the first mode.

[0246] Method 2

[0247] IoT terminal device determines whether to adjust itself to the first mode based on its power. Further, the protocol defines the first threshold, or the network device configures the first threshold, or the IoT terminal device defines the first threshold. When the power is lower / higher than the first threshold, the IoT terminal device adjusts itself to the first mode.

[0248] Method 3

[0249] IoT terminal device actively traverses the energy collection range, and selects the highest performance to reside in the first mode.

[0250] The first mode includes at least one of the following:

[0251] The matching network impedance value of the IoT terminal device is adjusted to the mode with the largest receiving range;

[0252] The matching network impedance of the IoT terminal device is adjusted to the mode with the strongest RF signal receiving range;

[0253] The matching network of the IoT terminal device is switched to the mode with the largest receiving range;

[0254] The matching network of the IoT terminal device is switched to the mode with the strongest RF signal receiving range;

[0255] The mode of the IoT terminal device in which the antenna is directly connected to the energy charging module.

[0256] Example 3

[0257] In a network, IoT network devices communicate with IoT terminal devices, and the IoT network devices include base stations, intermediate nodes, auxiliary nodes, etc. The types of IoT terminal devices include at least one of type 1, type 2a, type 2b, and type 2c. The IoT terminal device collects energy from the environment to supply the IoT terminal device to complete communication transmission. The energy in the environment includes both natural energy and artificial energy.

[0258] The artificial energy collected by the IoT terminal device includes RF energy, and the IoT terminal device receives RF radio frequency through an antenna. The method for the IoT terminal device to leave the first mode includes at least one of the following:

[0259] Method 1

[0260] The IoT terminal device accepts the signaling of the network device, and the signaling is used to indicate whether the IoT terminal device leaves the first mode.

[0261] Method 2

[0262] The IoT terminal device determines whether to exit the first mode based on its own power. Further, the protocol defines a second threshold, or the network device configures the second threshold, or the IoT terminal device defines the first threshold. When the power is higher than / not lower than the second threshold, the IoT terminal device exits the first mode.

[0263] The first mode includes at least one of the following:

[0264] The impedance value of the matching network of the IoT terminal device is adjusted to the mode with the largest receiving range;

[0265] The impedance of the matching network of the IoT terminal device is adjusted to the mode with the strongest RF signal receiving range;

[0266] The matching network of the IoT terminal device is switched to the mode with the largest receiving range;

[0267] The matching network of the IoT terminal device is switched to the mode with the strongest RF signal receiving range;

[0268] The mode in which the antenna of the IoT terminal device is directly connected to the charging module.

[0269] Based on the above examples, 1. For a matching network, the matching network adjusts the impedance through a switching circuit, and when collecting energy, the IoT terminal device adjusts the impedance of the matching network to the mode with the largest receiving range.

[0270] For how to enter the energy collection mode, i.e. the matching network impedance is adjusted to the mode with the largest receiving range:

[0271] (1) The IoT terminal device determines whether to adjust the matching network according to the signaling of the network device, which includes but is not limited to switching signaling for switching ON / OFF, Timer release signaling.

[0272] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to adjust the matching network according to its own power, which is lower than the first threshold.

[0273] For how to exit the energy collection mode, i.e. the matching network impedance is adjusted to the normal signal receiving mode:

[0274] (1) Based on Timer.

[0275] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to adjust the matching network according to its own power, which is higher than / not lower than the second threshold.

[0276] 2. For a matching network, the matching network adjusts the impedance through a switching circuit, and when collecting energy, the IoT terminal device adjusts the impedance of the matching network to the mode with the strongest RF signal receiving range.

[0277] For how to enter the energy harvesting mode, i.e. the mode that the matching network impedance is adjusted to the receiving range where the RF signal is strongest:

[0278] (1) The IoT terminal device determines whether to adjust the matching network according to the signaling of the network device, and the signaling includes but is not limited to switching ON / OFF signaling, Timer release signaling.

[0279] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to adjust the matching network according to its own power, which is lower than the first threshold.

[0280] (3) The IoT terminal device actively traverses the collected range and selects the one with the highest performance for camping.

[0281] For how to exit the energy harvesting mode, i.e. the mode that the matching network impedance is adjusted to the normal signal receiving mode:

[0282] (1) Based on Timer.

[0283] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to adjust the matching network according to its own power, which is higher than / not lower than the second threshold.

[0284] 3. For multiple matching networks, the multiple matching networks are switched through a switch circuit, and when harvesting energy, the IoT terminal device will switch to the one with the largest receiving range of the matching network impedance.

[0285] For how to enter the energy harvesting mode, i.e. the mode that the matching network impedance is adjusted to the one with the largest receiving range:

[0286] (1) The IoT terminal device determines whether to switch the matching network and which matching network to switch to according to the signaling of the network device, and the signaling includes but is not limited to switching ON / OFF signaling, Timer release signaling.

[0287] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to switch the matching network according to its own power, which is lower than the first threshold.

[0288] For how to exit the energy harvesting mode, i.e. the mode that the matching network is in the normal signal receiving mode:

[0289] (1) Based on Timer.

[0290] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to switch the matching network according to its own power, which is higher than / not lower than the second threshold.

[0291] 4. For multiple matching networks, the multiple matching networks are switched through a switch circuit, and when harvesting energy, the IoT terminal device will switch to the one with the strongest receiving range of the matching network matching the strongest RF signal.

[0292] For how to enter the energy collection mode, i.e. switch to the matching network that matches the strongest receiving range of the RF signal:

[0293] (1) The IoT terminal device determines whether to switch the matching network and which matching network to switch to according to the signaling of the network device, and the signaling includes but is not limited to switching ON / OFF signaling, Timer release signaling.

[0294] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to switch the matching network according to its own power, which is lower than the first threshold.

[0295] For how to exit the energy collection mode, i.e. the matching network that matches the normal signal:

[0296] (1) Based on Timer.

[0297] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to switch the matching network according to its own power, which is higher than / not lower than the second threshold.

[0298] 5, For the energy charging module directly connected with the antenna through the switch, the switch circuit is used to switch whether the antenna is connected with the matching network or the energy charging module.

[0299] For how to enter the energy collection mode, i.e. the antenna is connected with the energy charging module:

[0300] (1) The IoT terminal device determines whether to switch according to the signaling of the network device, and the signaling includes but is not limited to switching ON / OFF signaling, Timer release signaling.

[0301] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to switch according to its own power, which is lower than the first threshold.

[0302] For how to exit the energy collection mode, i.e. the antenna is connected with the matching network:

[0303] (1) Based on Timer.

[0304] (2) The IoT terminal device determines whether to switch according to its own power, which is higher than / not lower than the second threshold.

[0305] The embodiment is based on the IoT terminal device with the structures of variable impedance matching network, multiple matching networks, and energy charging module directly connected with the radio frequency antenna, and gives the specific way of switching impedance, such as signaling switching or IoT terminal device autonomous switching, which can effectively improve the collection efficiency of RF energy.

[0306] The embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a device for implementing any of the above methods, for example, a device comprising units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the IoT terminal device in any of the above methods. For another example, another device is further provided, comprising units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the network device (such as an access network device, a core network function node, a core network device, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0307] It should be understood that the division of each unit or module in the above device is only a logical function division, and all or part of the units or modules can be integrated into one physical entity or physically separated in actual implementation. In addition, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of processor calling software: for example, the device comprises a processor connected with a memory, the memory stores instructions, and the processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of each unit or module of the device, wherein the processor is a general processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory is a memory in the device or a memory outside the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuit, and the functions of part or all of the units or modules can be implemented by designing the hardware circuit, and the hardware circuit can be understood as one or more processors; for example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the functions of part or all of the units or modules are implemented by designing the logical relationship of elements in the circuit; for another example, in another implementation, the hardware circuit is a programmable logic device (PLD), and taking a field programmable gate array (FPGA) as an example, it can include a large number of logic gate circuits, and the connection relationship between the logic gate circuits is configured by a configuration file, so as to implement the functions of part or all of the units or modules. All units or modules of the above device can be implemented in the form of processor calling software, or all units or modules can be implemented in the form of hardware circuit, or part of the units or modules are implemented in the form of processor calling software, and the remaining part is implemented in the form of hardware circuit.

[0308] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capability. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction reading and running capability, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), a digital signal processor (DSP), or the like. In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through a logical relationship of hardware circuits, and the logical relationship of the hardware circuits is fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented by an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In the reconfigurable hardware circuit, the processor loads a configuration document to implement the configuration of the hardware circuit. It can be understood that the processor loads instructions to implement the functions of part or all of the units or modules described above. In addition, the hardware circuit can also be designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a neural network processing unit (NPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a deep learning processing unit (DPU), or the like.

[0309] FIG. 10 is a structural schematic diagram of a terminal device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 10, the terminal device can include a processing module 61. In some embodiments, the processing module 61 is configured to perform at least one of the communication steps performed by the terminal device (for example, steps S301-S302, but not limited thereto) in any of the methods described above. Details are not described herein again.

[0310] FIG. 11 is a structural schematic diagram of a network device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 11, the network device can include a transceiver module 71. In some embodiments, the transceiver module 71 is configured to perform at least one of the communication steps performed by the network device (for example, step S401, but not limited thereto) in any of the methods described above. Details are not described herein again.

[0311] In some embodiments, the transceiver module described above can include a sending module and / or a receiving module. The sending module and the receiving module can be separate or integrated together. Alternatively, the transceiver module can be replaced by a transceiver.

[0312] FIG. 12 is a structural schematic diagram of a communication device 8100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication device 8100 can be a network device (e.g., an access network device, a core network device, etc.), a terminal (e.g., a user equipment, etc.), an IoT terminal device, a chip, a chip system, or a processor supporting the network device to implement any of the above methods, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor supporting the terminal to implement any of the above methods. The communication device 8100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments, which can be referred to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0313] As shown in FIG. 12, the communication device 8100 includes one or more processors 8101. The processor 8101 can be a general processor or a special-purpose processor, for example, a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit can be used to control the communication device (e.g., a base station, a baseband chip, a terminal device, a terminal device chip, a DU or a CU, etc.), execute programs, and process data of the programs. Optionally, the communication device 8100 is configured to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the one or more processors 8101 are configured to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 8100 to perform any of the above methods.

[0314] In some embodiments, the communication device 8100 further includes one or more transceivers 8102. When the communication device 8100 includes the one or more transceivers 8102, the transceiver 8102 performs the communication steps such as transmitting and / or receiving in the above methods, and the processor 8101 performs at least one of the other steps. In optional embodiments, the transceiver can include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which can be separate or integrated together. Optionally, the terms of transceiver, transceiving unit, transceiver, transceiving circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc. can be replaced by each other, and the terms of transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc. can be replaced by each other, and the terms of receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc. can be replaced by each other.

[0315] In some embodiments, the communication device 8100 further includes one or more memories 8103 for storing data. Optionally, all or part of the memory 8103 can also be outside the communication device 8100. In optional embodiments, the communication device 8100 can include one or more interface circuits 8104. Optionally, the interface circuit 8104 is connected with the memory 8102, and the interface circuit 8104 can be used to receive data from the memory 8102 or other devices, and can be used to send data to the memory 8102 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 8104 can read the data stored in the memory 8102 and send the data to the processor 8101.

[0316] The communication device 8100 described in the above embodiments can be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 8100 described in the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 8100 can not be limited by FIG. 12. The communication device can be a standalone device or can be part of a larger device. For example, the communication device can be: 1) a standalone integrated circuit (IC), or a chip, or a chip system or subsystem; (2) a set of one or more ICs, which can optionally also include storage components for storing data, programs; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, a terminal device, a smart terminal device, a cellular phone, a wireless device, a handset, a mobile unit, a vehicle-mounted device, a network device, a cloud device, an artificial intelligence device, and the like; (6) other devices, and the like.

[0317] FIG. 13 is a structural schematic diagram of a chip 8200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For the case where the communication device 8100 is a chip or a chip system, the structural schematic diagram of the chip 8200 shown in FIG. 13 can be referred to, but is not limited thereto.

[0318] The chip 8200 includes one or more processors 8201. The chip 8200 is configured to perform any of the above methods.

[0319] In some embodiments, the chip 8200 further includes one or more interface circuits 8202. Optionally, the terms interface circuit, interface, transceiver pin, and the like can be replaced with each other. In some embodiments, the chip 8200 further includes one or more memories 8203 for storing data. Optionally, all or part of the memory 8203 can be outside the chip 8200. Optionally, the interface circuit 8202 is connected to the memory 8203, and the interface circuit 8202 can be configured to receive data from the memory 8203 or other devices, and the interface circuit 8202 can be configured to send data to the memory 8203 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 8202 can read data stored in the memory 8203 and send the data to the processor 8201.

[0320] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 8202 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above methods. The interface circuit 8202 performing the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above methods means that the interface circuit 8202 performs data interaction between the processor 8201, the chip 8200, the memory 8203, or a transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 8201 performs at least one of the communication method steps described above.

[0321] The modules and / or devices described in each embodiment of the virtual device, the physical device, the chip, etc. can be combined or separated as appropriate. Alternatively, part or all of the steps can also be performed by a plurality of modules and / or devices in cooperation, which is not limited here.

[0322] The disclosure further provides a storage medium having stored instructions that, when executed on the communication device 8100, cause the communication device 8100 to perform any of the above methods. Alternatively, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but is not limited to this, and it can also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Alternatively, the storage medium can be a non-transitory storage medium, but is not limited to this, and it can also be a transitory storage medium.

[0323] The disclosure further provides a program product that, when executed by the communication device 8100, causes the communication device 8100 to perform any of the above methods. Alternatively, the program product is a computer program product.

[0324] The disclosure further provides a computer program that, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method is performed by a terminal device, and the method comprises: determining first information; adjusting to a first mode corresponding to RF energy harvesting according to the first information.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The terminal device is connected to one of the following: one matching network connected to one antenna of the terminal device, the one matching network having at least two impedance values, the one matching network being switchable between the at least two impedance values; at least two matching networks connected to one antenna of the terminal device through a switch circuit, the at least two matching networks corresponding to different impedance values, the at least two matching networks being switchable through the switch circuit.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, The at least two impedance values comprise a first impedance value corresponding to a communication mode and a second impedance value corresponding to RF energy harvesting.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein, The at least two matching networks comprise a first matching network corresponding to a communication mode and a second matching network corresponding to RF energy harvesting.

5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The first mode comprises one of the following: a mode of receiving an impedance value with a largest receiving range; a mode of receiving an impedance value with a strongest receiving range of RF signals; a mode of receiving a matching network with a largest receiving range; a mode of receiving a matching network with a strongest receiving range of RF signals.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The first information comprises at least one of the following: first signaling sent by a network device; a power level of the terminal device; an energy harvesting range of the terminal device.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein, The first signaling comprises at least one of the following: an indication of adjusting to the first mode; an indication of a timer, a time length of the timer being used to determine a mode time length of the first mode.

8. The method of any one of claims 6-7, wherein, Adjusting to the first mode according to the power level of the terminal device comprises: adjusting to the first mode when the power level of the terminal device is less than or equal to a first threshold value.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, The method further comprises: determining the first threshold value according to a protocol predefinition, a network configuration or a configuration of the terminal device.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that, Adjusting to the first mode according to the energy harvesting range of the terminal device comprises: selecting an RF energy source with a highest efficiency by traversing the energy harvesting range, and adjusting to the first mode for camping.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The method further comprises: determining second information; determining to exit the first mode according to the second information.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The second information comprises at least one of the following: second signaling sent by a network device; a timer, a time length of the timer being used to determine a mode time length of the first mode; a power level of the terminal device.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, The second signaling comprises an indication of exiting the first mode.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, Exiting the first mode according to the timer comprises: exiting the first mode when a time of the timer arrives.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that, Exiting the first mode according to the power level of the terminal device comprises: exiting the first mode when the power level of the terminal device is greater than or equal to a second threshold value.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein, The method further comprises: determining the second threshold value according to a protocol predefinition, a network configuration or a configuration of the terminal device.

17. A method of communication, comprising: The method is performed by a network device, and the method further comprises: sending first information to a terminal device; wherein the first information is used to instruct the terminal device to adjust to a first mode corresponding to RF energy harvesting.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, The terminal device is connected to one of the following: one matching network connected with one antenna of the terminal device, the one matching network having at least two impedance values, the one matching network being switchable between the at least two impedance values; at least two matching networks connected with one antenna of the terminal device through a switch circuit, the at least two matching networks corresponding to different impedance values, the at least two matching networks being switchable through the switch circuit.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein, The at least two impedance values include a first impedance value corresponding to a communication mode, and a second impedance value corresponding to RF energy harvesting.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein, The at least two matching networks include a first matching network corresponding to a communication mode, and a second matching network corresponding to RF energy harvesting.

21. The method of any one of claims 18-20, wherein, The first mode includes one of: a mode of an impedance value with a largest reception range; a mode of an impedance value with a strongest reception range of RF signals; a mode of a matching network with a largest reception range; a mode of a matching network with a strongest reception range of RF signals.

22. The method of any one of claims 17-21, wherein, The first information includes first signaling. The first signaling includes at least one of: an indication of adjusting to the first mode; an indication of a timer, a time length of the timer being used to determine a mode time length of the first mode.

23. The method of any one of claims 17-22, wherein, The method further includes: sending second information to the terminal device; wherein the second information is used to instruct the terminal device to exit the first mode.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein, The second information includes second signaling, the second signaling including an indication of exiting the first mode.

25. A terminal device, comprising: comprising: a processing module configured to determine first information; adjusting to a first mode corresponding to RF energy harvesting according to the first information.

26. A network device, comprising: comprising: a transceiving module configured to send first information to a terminal device; wherein the first information is used to instruct the terminal device to adjust to a first mode corresponding to RF energy harvesting.

27. A communications device, characterized by comprising: one or more processors; wherein the processor is used to execute the method in any one of claims 1 to 24.

28. A computer storage medium, wherein, The computer storage medium stores computer executable instructions; the computer executable instructions are executed by the processor to implement the method in any one of claims 1 to 24.

29. A computer program product comprising a computer program, the computer program being executed by a processor to implement the method in any one of claims 1 to 24.

29. A computer program product comprising a computer program, the computer program being executed by a processor to implement the method in any one of claims 1 to 24.

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