Communication method and device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and device, and relates to the technical field of communication. In the method, a terminal performs interference measurement through a first reference signal to obtain information of an interference level when the terminal adopts a first precoding mode. According to the embodiment of the invention, the terminal can send the information of the interference level to the wireless access network node through the first information, so that the wireless access network node can determine the second precoding mode suitable for the current interference level of the terminal according to the information of the interference level. Alternatively, the terminal can also determine a second precoding mode suitable for the current interference level according to the information of the interference level, and indicate the second precoding mode to the wireless access network device through the first information. Thus, the terminal or the wireless access network node can flexibly adjust the precoding mode according to the information of the interference level, the interference degree of the terminal can be effectively reduced, and the transmission performance of a communication system is improved.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In communication systems, there are scenarios where multiple users share transmission resources, such as multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) communication. In this scenario, inter-user interference (IPI) occurs among the users sharing transmission resources. IPI can significantly degrade the communication performance of the system. Therefore, precoding techniques are commonly used in communication systems to reduce IPI during communication. These precoding techniques can include linear precoding or nonlinear precoding.

[0003] However, in the process of determining the precoding scheme, the access network node can only determine the precoding scheme through the measurement results of channel state information by users in the communication system, resulting in the precoding scheme being ineffective in reducing interference between users. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus that can adjust the precoding scheme based on the interference level obtained by the terminal through interference measurement, so as to effectively reduce the interference to the terminal and improve the transmission performance of the communication system.

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

[0006] Firstly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a terminal, or by components of the terminal, such as the terminal's processor, chip, or chip system, or by a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal's functions. The following explanation uses the execution of this method by a terminal as an example.

[0007] The method includes: a terminal receiving a first reference signal, the first reference signal being used by the terminal to perform interference measurement based on a first precoding method. Then, the terminal sends first information based on the interference measurement result, wherein the first information is used to indicate one or more of the following: interference level information or a second precoding method, the interference level information indicating the degree of interference experienced by the terminal, the interference level information being used to determine the second precoding method, and the second precoding method being used to adjust the degree of interference experienced by the terminal.

[0008] Based on the method provided in the first aspect above, the terminal performs interference measurement using a first reference signal to obtain information about the interference level when the terminal adopts a first precoding method. On one hand, the terminal can transmit the interference level information via the first information, enabling nodes receiving the first information, such as radio access network nodes, to determine a second precoding method suitable for the terminal's current interference level based on the interference level information. On the other hand, the terminal can determine the second precoding method suitable for the current interference level based on the interference level information and indicate the second precoding method via the first information. In summary, the terminal or radio access network node can determine a matching second precoding method based on the interference level information, thereby adjusting the precoding method and more effectively reducing the interference experienced by the terminal, thus improving the transmission performance of the communication system.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the second precoding method differs from the first precoding method. Based on this, when the interference measurement result of the first reference signal is within an unacceptable range, the terminal determines to adjust the first precoding method, meaning the second precoding method differs from the first. This allows for flexible adjustment of the precoding method used by the terminal, effectively reducing the degree of interference experienced by the terminal.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the second precoding method is the same as the first precoding method. Based on this, when the interference measurement result of the first reference signal is within an acceptable range, the terminal determines to continue using the first precoding method to reduce the interference level, meaning the second precoding method is the same as the first precoding method, in order to reduce the degree of interference experienced by the terminal.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: the terminal receiving second information, the second information including one or more of the following: measurement type information of the first reference signal, feedback method information of the first information, or measurement period of the first reference signal. Based on this, the terminal determines how to measure the first reference signal or how to report the first information based on one or more of the information indicated by the second information. The measurement type information of the first reference signal indicates that the terminal obtains information about its interference level by performing interference measurement based on the first reference signal. The feedback method of the first information may instruct the terminal to directly report the interference level information, or it may instruct the terminal to report a second precoding method. The measurement period of the first reference signal indicates the period during which the terminal performs interference measurement on the first reference signal.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the feedback method information of the first information includes a method for determining the interference level, and the first information indicates the interference level information; if the feedback method information of the first information includes a first threshold, the first information indicates a second precoding method; if the feedback method information of the first information includes both a method for determining the interference level and a first threshold, the first information indicates a second precoding method; wherein the first threshold is used to determine the second precoding method in conjunction with the interference level information. Based on this, the terminal can determine the method for determining the interference level information through the feedback method information of the first information, and the content contained in the first information sent by the terminal can also be determined through the feedback method information of the first information. That is, on the one hand, if the feedback method information of the first information includes a method for determining the interference level, the terminal can directly determine the interference level information based on the interference measurement result of the first reference signal according to that method. On the other hand, the terminal can determine the content contained in the first information based on whether the feedback method information of the first information carries the first threshold. If the feedback method information of the first information carries the first threshold, the terminal determines the second precoding method based on the first threshold and the interference level information, and sends the second precoding method through the first information. If the feedback method information of the first information does not carry the first threshold, the terminal sends the interference level information through the first information. The terminal can flexibly determine the reporting method of the first information based on the feedback method information of the first information.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the interference level information indicates the measured value of the interference level; or, the range or level to which the measured value of the interference level belongs. Based on this, during the process of the terminal sending the interference level information via the first information, the interference level information can be sent in different forms. For example, the measured value of the interference level, the range or level to which the measured value of the interference level belongs, or other parameters that can reflect the interference level measured by the terminal. The terminal can select the form of reporting the interference level information according to the application scenario.

[0014] In one possible implementation, when the interference level information indicates a measured value of the interference level, a first threshold is used to determine a second precoding scheme in conjunction with the interference level information. This includes: when the measured value of the interference level is greater than the first threshold, the second precoding scheme's ability to reduce interference is higher than the first precoding scheme's ability to reduce interference; when the measured value of the interference level is less than or equal to the first threshold, the second precoding scheme's ability to reduce interference is lower than or equal to the first precoding scheme's ability to reduce interference. Based on this, when the measured value of the interference level is greater than the first threshold, the terminal enhances the interference reduction capability of the first precoding scheme to obtain a second precoding scheme. When the measured value of the interference level is less than or equal to the first threshold, the terminal weakens or maintains the interference reduction capability of the first precoding scheme to obtain a second precoding scheme that better matches the interference level, effectively reducing the degree of interference experienced by the terminal.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: the terminal sending third information indicating that the terminal has the function of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode. Based on this, the terminal can report its ability to measure the first reference signal and adjust the precoding mode through the third information, enabling the radio access network node to determine that the terminal supports interference measurement of the first reference signal and supports adjusting the precoding mode based on the interference measurement results.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: the terminal receiving fourth information, the fourth information instructing the terminal to activate the functions of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode. Based on this, the terminal can activate the capabilities of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode according to the instructions of the fourth information, enabling the radio access network node to adjust the terminal's precoding mode based on the terminal's capabilities. Furthermore, the terminal can also activate the capabilities of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode according to the instructions of the fourth information.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: the terminal receiving a second reference signal, wherein the first precoding method is determined based on the measurement results of the second reference signal. Based on this, the terminal determines the first precoding method by measuring the measurement results obtained from the second reference signal, thereby reducing interference experienced by the terminal. Then, the terminal can determine the changing trend of the precoding method based on the first precoding method, and then determine the relative relationship between the second and first precoding methods based on the changing trend, thereby determining the second precoding method.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the first reference signal is a demodulation reference signal (DMRS), and the second reference signal is a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS). Based on this, the terminal can adjust the precoding method obtained from the CSI-RS based on the interference measurement results of the DMRS.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the first reference signal is a first DMRS, and the second reference signal is a second DMRS. Based on this, the terminal can adjust the precoding scheme obtained from the second DMRS based on the interference measurement results of the first DMRS.

[0020] Secondly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a wireless access network node, or by a component of the wireless access network node, such as its processor, chip, or chip system. It can also be implemented by a logic module or software capable of performing all or part of the functions of the wireless access network node. The following explanation uses the execution of this method by a wireless access network node as an example.

[0021] The method includes: a wireless access network node transmitting a first reference signal, the first reference signal being used by a terminal to perform interference measurement based on a first precoding method; the wireless access network node receiving first information, the first information being used to indicate one or more of the following: interference level information or a second precoding method, the interference level information indicating the degree of interference received by the terminal, the interference level information being used to determine the second precoding method, and the second precoding method being used to adjust the degree of interference received by the terminal.

[0022] Based on the method provided in the second aspect above, the wireless access network node transmits a first reference signal, which the terminal uses to perform interference measurement, obtaining the interference measurement result when the terminal adopts a first precoding method. The wireless access network node receives first information reflecting the interference measurement result. On one hand, the first information includes interference level information, and the access network node can determine a second precoding method suitable for the current interference level of the terminal based on the interference level information. On the other hand, the first information includes the second precoding method, and the wireless access network node can directly obtain the second precoding method carried in the first information. In summary, the terminal or the wireless access network node can determine a matching second precoding method based on the interference level information, thereby adjusting the precoding method and more effectively reducing the degree of interference experienced by the terminal, improving the transmission performance of the communication system.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the second precoding method differs from the first precoding method. Based on this, when the interference measurement result of the first reference signal is within an unacceptable range, the wireless access network node determines to adjust the first precoding method, meaning the second precoding method differs from the first. This allows for flexible adjustment of the precoding method, effectively reducing the level of interference experienced by the terminal.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the second precoding method is the same as the first precoding method. Based on this, when the interference measurement result of the first reference signal is within an acceptable range, the wireless access network node determines to continue using the first precoding method to reduce the interference level, meaning the second precoding method is the same as the first precoding method. This aims to reduce the degree of interference experienced by the terminal.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: a radio access network node sending second information, the second information including one or more of the following: measurement type information of a first reference signal, feedback method information of the first information, or measurement period of the first reference signal. Based on this, the radio access network node uses the second information to instruct one or more of the following to configure resources for the measurement of the first reference signal or the reporting of the first information. Specifically, the measurement type information of the first reference signal instructs the terminal to perform interference measurement based on the first reference signal to obtain information about the terminal's interference level. The feedback method of the first information can instruct the terminal to directly feedback the interference level information, or it can instruct the terminal to feedback a second precoding method. The measurement period of the first reference signal instructs the period during which the terminal performs interference measurement on the first reference signal.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the feedback method information of the first information includes one or more of the following: a method for determining interference level information, or a first threshold, wherein the first threshold is used by the terminal to determine a second precoding method in conjunction with the interference level information. Based on this, on the one hand, when the feedback method information of the first information includes a method for determining interference level information, the radio access network node instructs the terminal to determine the interference level information based on the interference measurement result of the first reference signal according to that method. On the other hand, the radio access network node indicates the content contained in the first information through the first threshold. If the feedback method information of the first information carries the first threshold, the terminal determines the second precoding method based on the first threshold and the interference level information, and sends the second precoding method through the first information. If the feedback method information of the first information does not carry the first threshold, the terminal sends the interference level information through the first information. The radio access network node can flexibly adjust the reporting method of the first information through the feedback method information of the first information.

[0027] In one possible implementation, interference level information is used to determine a second precoding scheme, including: when the first information indicates interference level information, the interference level information is used by the radio access network node in conjunction with a first threshold to determine the second precoding scheme. Based on this, the radio access network node can determine the second precoding scheme according to the first information. When the first information indicates interference level information, the radio access network node determines the second precoding scheme based on the interference level information and the first threshold. When the first information indicates a second precoding scheme, the second precoding scheme is directly obtained from the first information. This allows for adjustment of the precoding scheme.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the interference level information indicates the measured value of the interference level; or, the range or level to which the measured interference level belongs. Based on this, the interference level information received by the radio access network node can be transmitted in different forms. For example, the measured value of the interference level, the range or level to which the measured interference level belongs, or other parameters that reflect the interference level measured by the terminal.

[0029] In one possible implementation, when the interference level information indicates a measured value of the interference level, the interference level information is used by the radio access network node (RANN) in conjunction with a first threshold to determine a second precoding scheme. This includes: when the measured value of the interference level is greater than the first threshold, the interference reduction capability of the second precoding scheme is higher than that of the first precoding scheme; when the measured value of the interference level is less than or equal to the first threshold, the interference reduction capability of the second precoding scheme is lower than or equal to that of the first precoding scheme. Based on this, when the measured value of the interference level is greater than the first threshold, the RANN enhances the interference reduction capability of the first precoding scheme to obtain a second precoding scheme. When the measured value of the interference level is less than or equal to the first threshold, the RANN weakens or maintains the interference reduction capability of the first precoding scheme to obtain a second precoding scheme. In other words, the RANN can adjust the second precoding scheme relative to the first precoding scheme—enhancing, weakening, or maintaining it—based on the measured value of the interference level to obtain a second precoding scheme that better matches the interference level, effectively reducing the degree of interference experienced by the terminal.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: a radio access network node receiving third information indicating that the terminal has the function of measuring a first reference signal and adjusting a precoding mode. Based on this, the radio access network node receives the third information to determine whether the terminal supports interference measurement of the first reference signal and whether it supports adjusting the precoding mode based on the result of the interference measurement.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: a radio access network node receiving fourth information, which instructs a terminal to activate the functions of measuring a first reference signal and adjusting a precoding mode. Based on this, the radio access network node, through the fourth information, instructs the terminal to activate its capabilities of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode, enabling the radio access network node to adjust the terminal's precoding mode based on the terminal's capabilities. Furthermore, the radio access network node also activates its capabilities of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode through the instruction of the fourth information.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: a radio access network node transmitting a second reference signal, wherein the first precoding scheme is determined based on measurements of the second reference signal. Based on this, the radio access network node transmits the second reference signal to enable the terminal to determine the first precoding scheme, thereby reducing interference experienced by the terminal. Then, the radio access network node determines the trend of precoding scheme changes based on the first precoding scheme, and then determines the relative relationship between the second and first precoding schemes based on the trend, thereby determining the second precoding scheme.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the first reference signal is DMRS, and the second reference signal is CSI-RS. Based on this, the radio access network node can adjust the precoding scheme obtained from CSI-RS based on the interference measurement results of DMRS.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the first reference signal is a first DMRS, and the second reference signal is a second DMRS. Based on this, the radio access network node can adjust the precoding scheme obtained according to the second DMRS based on the interference measurement results of the first DMRS.

[0035] Thirdly, a communication device is provided for implementing the method provided in the first aspect. The communication device can be the terminal described in the first aspect. The communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the method described above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the functions described above.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the communication device may include a processing module and an interface module. The processing module can be used to implement the processing functions described in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof. The processing module may be, for example, a processor. The interface module, also referred to as an interface unit, is used to implement the sending and / or receiving functions described in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof. The interface module may consist of an interface circuit, a transceiver, a transceiver unit, or a communication interface.

[0037] In one possible implementation, an interface module is configured to receive a first reference signal, which is used by the terminal to perform interference measurement based on a first precoding method. A processing module is configured to send first information based on the interference measurement result, wherein the first information indicates one or more of the following: interference level information or a second precoding method, the interference level information indicating the degree of interference experienced by the terminal, the interference level information used to determine the second precoding method, and the second precoding method used to adjust the degree of interference experienced by the terminal.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the second precoding method may be the same as or different from the first precoding method.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the interface module is further configured to receive second information, which includes one or more of the following: measurement type information of the first reference signal, feedback method information of the first information, or measurement period of the first reference signal.

[0040] In one possible implementation, when the feedback method information of the first information includes a method for determining the interference level, the first information indicates the interference level information; when the feedback method information of the first information includes a first threshold, the first information indicates a second precoding method; when the feedback method information of the first information includes a method for determining the interference level and a first threshold, the first information indicates a second precoding method; wherein the first threshold is used to determine the second precoding method in conjunction with the interference level information.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the information on the interference level indicates the measured value of the interference level; or, the range or level to which the measured value of the interference level belongs.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the interference level information indicates the measured value of the interference level; if the measured value of the interference level is greater than a first threshold, the second precoding method has a higher ability to reduce interference than the first precoding method; if the measured value of the interference level is less than or equal to the first threshold, the second precoding method has a lower ability to reduce interference than the first precoding method.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the interface module is also used to send third information, which indicates that the terminal has the function of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the interface module is also used to receive fourth information, which instructs the terminal to activate the function of measuring the first reference signal and the function of adjusting the precoding mode.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the interface module is also used to receive a second reference signal, and the first precoding method is determined based on the measurement results of the second reference signal.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the first reference signal is DMRS and the second reference signal is CSI-RS.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the first reference signal is the first DMRS, and the second reference signal is the second DMRS.

[0048] Fourthly, a communication device is provided for implementing the method provided in the second aspect. The communication device can be a wireless access network node as described in the second aspect. The communication device includes modules, units, or means that implement the method described above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the functions described above.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the communication device may include a processing module and an interface module. The processing module can be used to implement the processing functions in the second aspect described above and any possible implementation thereof. The processing module may be, for example, a processor. The interface module, also referred to as an interface unit, is used to implement the sending and / or receiving functions in the second aspect described above and any possible implementation thereof. The interface module may consist of an interface circuit, a transceiver, a transceiver unit, or a communication interface.

[0050] In one possible implementation, an interface module is used to send a first reference signal, which is used by the terminal to perform interference measurement based on a first precoding method; a processing module is used to control the interface module to receive first information, which is used to indicate one or more of the following: interference level information or a second precoding method, wherein the interference level information indicates the degree of interference received by the terminal, the interference level information is used to determine the second precoding method, and the second precoding method is used to adjust the degree of interference received by the terminal.

[0051] In one possible implementation, the second precoding method may be the same as or different from the first precoding method.

[0052] In one possible implementation, the interface module is further configured to send second information, which includes one or more of the following: measurement type information of the first reference signal, feedback method information of the first information, or measurement period of the first reference signal.

[0053] In one possible implementation, the feedback method information of the first information includes one or more of the following: a method for determining the interference level, or a first threshold, which is used by the terminal to determine a second precoding method in conjunction with the interference level information.

[0054] In one possible implementation, if the first information indicates information about the interference level, the interference level information is used by the radio access network node in conjunction with the first threshold to determine the second precoding method.

[0055] In one possible implementation, the information on the interference level indicates the measured value of the interference level; or, the range or level to which the measured value of the interference level belongs.

[0056] In one possible implementation, the interference level information indicates the measured value of the interference level. If the measured value of the interference level is greater than a first threshold, the second precoding method has a higher ability to reduce interference than the first precoding method; if the measured value of the interference level is less than or equal to the first threshold, the second precoding method has a lower ability to reduce interference than the first precoding method.

[0057] In one possible implementation, the interface module is also used to receive third information, which indicates that the terminal has the function of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode.

[0058] In one possible implementation, the interface module is also used to receive fourth information, which instructs the terminal to activate the function of measuring the first reference signal and the function of adjusting the precoding mode.

[0059] In one possible implementation, the interface module is also used to send a second reference signal, and the first precoding method is determined based on the measurement results of the second reference signal.

[0060] In one possible implementation, the first reference signal is DMRS and the second reference signal is CSI-RS.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the first reference signal is the first DMRS, and the second reference signal is the second DMRS.

[0062] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor; configured to cause the communication device to perform the method described in any of the preceding aspects by executing a computer program (or computer-executable instructions) stored in a memory, and / or by means of logic circuitry. The communication device may be a terminal as described in the first aspect; or, the communication device may be a wireless access network node as described in the second aspect. Optionally, the number of processors may be one or more.

[0063] In one possible implementation, the communication device also includes a memory.

[0064] In one possible implementation, the processor and memory are integrated together; or, the memory is independent of the processor.

[0065] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a communication interface for communicating with other devices, such as transmitting or receiving data and / or signals. Exemplarily, the communication interface may be a transceiver, circuit, bus, module, or other type of communication interface.

[0066] In one possible implementation, the processor and / or memory also include an artificial intelligence (AI) module for implementing AI-related functions. The AI ​​module can implement AI functions through software, hardware, or a combination of both. For example, the AI ​​module may include a radio access network (RAN) intelligent controller (RIC) module. The AI ​​module could be a near real-time RIC or a non-real-time RIC.

[0067] In one possible implementation, the communication device is a chip or a chip system. Optionally, when the communication device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0068] A sixth aspect provides a communication device, comprising: a processor and an interface circuit; the interface circuit being configured to receive a computer program or instructions and transmit them to the processor; the processor being configured to execute the computer program or instructions to cause the communication device to perform the method described in any of the preceding aspects. The communication device may be a terminal as described in the first aspect; or, the communication device may be a wireless access network node as described in the second aspect. Optionally, the number of processors may be one or more.

[0069] In one possible implementation, the processor also includes an AI module for implementing AI-related functions. The AI ​​module can implement AI functions through software, hardware, or a combination of both. For example, the AI ​​module may include a RIC module. The AI ​​module could be a near real-time RIC or a non-real-time RIC.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the communication device is a chip or a chip system. Optionally, when the communication device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0071] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores instructions which, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described in any of the preceding aspects.

[0072] Eighthly, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, enables the computer to perform the methods described in any of the preceding aspects.

[0073] A ninth aspect provides a communication system comprising a terminal for performing the method described in the first aspect and a wireless access network node for performing the method described in the second aspect.

[0074] The technical effects of any possible implementation of any of the third to ninth aspects can be found in the technical effects of any of the first to second aspects or different possible implementations of any of the first to second aspects, and will not be repeated here.

[0075] Understandably, provided that the solutions do not contradict each other, the solutions in the above aspects can be combined. Attached Figure Description

[0076] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the nonlinear precoding principle provided in this application;

[0077] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the communication system architecture provided in this application;

[0078] Figure 3 This application provides a schematic diagram of the signaling interaction principle of the communication system.

[0079] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the communication device provided in this application;

[0080] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the hardware structure of the baseband unit provided in this application;

[0081] Figure 6 Flowchart of the communication method provided in this application Figure 1 ;

[0082] Figure 7 Flowchart of the communication method provided in this application Figure 2 ;

[0083] Figure 8 A schematic diagram illustrating the principle of the communication method provided in this application;

[0084] Figure 9 Flowchart of the communication method provided in this application Figure 3 ;

[0085] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device provided in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0086] In multi-user communication systems, interference can occur between users during data transmission on shared resources. This interference can significantly degrade system communication performance, thereby affecting user experience and service quality. To reduce interference and improve system communication performance, precoding techniques can be employed during the communication process.

[0087] For example, precoding techniques include linear precoding and nonlinear precoding. Linear precoding has lower computational complexity and can be applied to scenarios with low interference levels. Nonlinear precoding has higher computational complexity and stronger interference cancellation capabilities, making it suitable for scenarios with high interference levels. See also Figure 1 During data transmission, the transmitting end can perform nonlinear precoding on the original symbols based on prior interference information to obtain non-interference-free symbols that can adapt to the fading characteristics of the channel, and then transmit these non-interference-free symbols to reduce interference between users during data transmission.

[0088] In some embodiments, during the determination of a precoding scheme, radio access network (RAN) nodes can only determine the precoding scheme using channel state information in the communication system, and cannot accurately obtain the interference level experienced by the terminal after adopting precoding technology. This results in the precoding scheme being ineffective in reducing inter-user interference.

[0089] Based on this, this application provides a communication method and apparatus. In this method, a terminal receives a first reference signal to perform interference measurement and sends first information. The first information is used to provide feedback on the interference level or a second precoding method, thereby adjusting the precoding method to effectively reduce the interference experienced by the terminal and improve the transmission performance of the communication system.

[0090] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0091] The method provided in this application can be used in various communication systems. For example, the communication system can be a Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) system, a Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, a 5th Generation (5G) communication system, a Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) system, a 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) related communication system, a future communication system evolving after 5G, or a system integrating multiple systems, etc., without limitation. Among them, 5G can also be referred to as New Radio (NR). The following uses... Figure 2 The method provided in this application will be described using the communication system 1000 shown as an example. Figure 2 This is merely an illustrative diagram and does not constitute a limitation on the applicable scenarios of the technical solutions provided in this application.

[0092] like Figure 2 The diagram shown is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system 1000 provided in this application. Figure 2 In this context, the communication system 1000 includes RAN100 and core network (CN) 200. RAN 100 includes at least one RAN node (e.g., Figure 2 110a and 110b (collectively referred to as 110) and at least one terminal (such as Figure 2 RAN 100, denoted as RAN 120a-120j, is collectively referred to as RAN 120. RAN 100 may also include other RAN nodes, such as wireless relay equipment and / or wireless backhaul equipment. Figure 2 (Not shown in the image). Terminal 120 is connected to RAN node 110 wirelessly. RAN node 110 is connected to core network 200 wirelessly or via wired connection. The core network equipment in core network 200 and RAN node 110 in RAN 100 can be different physical devices, or they can be the same physical device integrating core network logical functions and radio access network logical functions.

[0093] RAN 100 can be a 3GPP-related cellular system, such as a 4G, 5G mobile communication system, or a future-oriented evolution system. RAN 100 can also be an open access network (open RAN, O-RAN, or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (CRAN), or a WiFi system. RAN 100 can also be a communication system that integrates two or more of the above systems.

[0094] RAN node 110, sometimes also referred to as access network equipment, network equipment, RAN entity, or access node, constitutes part of the communication system and is used to help terminals achieve wireless access. Multiple RAN nodes 110 in the communication system 1000 can be of the same type or different types.

[0095] In one possible scenario, a RAN node can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), an access point (AP), a transmission reception point (TRP), a base station in a future mobile communication system, or an access node in a WiFi system, etc. A RAN node can also be a macro base station (such as...) Figure 2 110a), micro base stations or indoor stations (such as Figure 2 RAN nodes can be 110b), relay nodes or donor nodes, or wireless controllers in CRAN scenarios. Optionally, RAN nodes can also be servers, wearable devices, vehicles, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology, the access network equipment can be a roadside unit (RSU). In some scenarios, the roles of RAN node 110 and terminal 120 are relative. For example, a helicopter or drone, which is usually configured as a terminal, can also be configured as a mobile base station, and the device accessing the RAN via the helicopter or drone is configured as a terminal.

[0096] In another possible scenario, multiple RAN nodes collaborate to assist the terminal in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes each implementing some of the base station's functions. Specifically, RAN nodes can be central units (CUs), distributed units (DUs), or radio units (RUs), etc. For example, a CU can perform the functions of the base station's radio resource control (RRC) layer and packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer. A CU can also perform the functions of the service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) layer. A DU can perform the functions of the base station's radio link control (RLC) layer and medium access control (MAC) layer. A DU can also perform some or all of the physical layer functions. An RU can be used to implement radio frequency signal transmission and reception. CUs and DUs can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). The RU can be included in radio frequency equipment or radio frequency units, such as in a remote radio unit (RRU), an active antenna unit (AAU), or a remote radiohead (RRH). Furthermore, the CU can be further divided into the CU-control plane (CP) and the CU-user plane (UP).

[0097] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0098] Terminal 120 is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities that can be deployed on land, including indoors, outdoors, handheld, or vehicle-mounted; it can also be deployed on water (such as on ships); and it can be deployed in the air (such as on airplanes, balloons, and satellites). A terminal can also be called a terminal device, which can be user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), or any device used to provide voice or data connectivity to a user. UE includes handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, vehicle-mounted devices (e.g., cars, bicycles, electric vehicles, airplanes, ships, trains, high-speed trains), wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches, smart bracelets, pedometers), or computing devices. For example, a UE can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, PDA, mobile internet device (MID), satellite terminal, or computer with wireless transceiver capabilities. UE can also be a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless modem, a point-of-sale (POS) machine, customer-premises equipment (CPE), a smart robot, a robotic arm, workshop equipment, smart home devices (e.g., refrigerators, televisions, air conditioners, electricity meters, etc.), a wireless terminal in industrial control, a wireless terminal in autonomous driving, a wireless terminal in telemedicine, a wireless terminal in a smart grid, a wireless terminal in transportation safety, a wireless terminal in intelligent transportation, a wireless terminal in a smart city, a wireless terminal in a smart home, an in-vehicle terminal, an RSU with terminal functionality, or flying equipment (e.g., a smart robot, a hot air balloon, a drone, an airplane), etc. A terminal can also be other devices with terminal functionality; for example, a terminal can be a device that acts as a terminal in device-to-device (D2D) communication.

[0099] By way of example and not limitation, in this application, the terminal can be a wearable device. Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that utilize wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Wearable devices are portable devices that are worn directly on the body or integrated into a user's clothing or accessories. For example, wearable devices are not merely hardware devices, but also devices that achieve powerful functions through software support, data interaction, and cloud interaction. Broadly speaking, wearable smart devices include devices that are feature-rich, large in size, and can achieve complete or partial functions without relying on a smartphone, such as smartwatches or smart glasses, as well as devices that focus on a specific type of application function and can be used in conjunction with other devices such as smartphones, such as various smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0100] In this application, the terminal can be a terminal in an Internet of Things (IoT) system. IoT is an important component of future information technology development, and its main technical feature is connecting objects to networks through communication technologies, thereby realizing an intelligent network of human-machine interconnection and machine-to-machine interconnection. The terminal in this application can be a terminal in machine-type communication (MTC).

[0101] For example, see Figure 3 Taking a UE as the terminal and a gNB as the RAN node as an example, the gNB and UE can interact via RRC signaling; the gNB and UE can also interact via MAC control element (MAC-CE) signaling. The physical layer (PHY) of the gNB and UE can interact; for example, the gNB and UE can interact via the physical uplink control channel (PUCCH) or physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), or via the physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) or physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) for data exchange.

[0102] In practical implementation, Figure 2 Each network element or device shown (e.g., RAN node 110, terminal 120, etc.) can be adopted. Figure 4 The shown composition structure, or including Figure 4The components shown. Figure 4 The diagram shows a hardware structure schematic of a communication device applicable to this application. It will be understood that the communication device 40 includes necessary means, such as modules, units, elements, circuits, or interfaces, to be appropriately configured together to execute the solution provided in this application. For example, the communication device 40 includes one or more processors 401 for implementing the method provided in this application.

[0103] Processor 401 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor. For example, processor 401 can be a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU can be used to control the communication device 40 (such as a RAN node, terminal, or chip), execute software programs, and process data from the software programs. Optionally, in one design, processor 401 may include program 405 (sometimes also referred to as code or instructions), which can be run on processor 401 to cause the communication device 40 to perform the methods described in the following embodiments. In yet another possible design, communication device 40 includes circuitry (…). Figure 4 (Not shown), the circuit is used to implement the functions of the RAN node or terminal in the following embodiments.

[0104] Optionally, the communication device 40 may include one or more memories 403. The memory 403 may be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM), cache, or other type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions. It may also be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory provided in this application may generally be non-volatile. Optionally, the memory 403 stores a program 407 (sometimes referred to as code or instructions), which can be run on the processor 401 to cause the communication device 40 to perform the methods described in the following method embodiments.

[0105] Optionally, the processor 401 may include an AI module 406, and / or the memory 403 may include an AI module 408. The aforementioned AI modules are used to implement AI-related functions. The AI ​​modules can be implemented through software, hardware, or a combination of both. For example, the AI ​​module may include a RIC module. For example, the AI ​​module can be a near real-time RIC or a non-real-time RIC.

[0106] Optionally, data may also be stored in the processor 401 and / or the memory 403. The processor 401 and the memory 403 may be configured separately or integrated together.

[0107] Optionally, the communication device 40 may also include a transceiver 402 and / or an antenna 404. The processor 401, sometimes referred to as a processing unit, controls the communication device 40. The transceiver 402, sometimes referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, or transceiver, is used to realize the transmission and reception functions of the communication device 40 through the antenna 404.

[0108] In some embodiments, the communication device 40 is a baseband unit. For example, the communication device 40 includes a processor, memory, a computer-readable medium, a bus, and a bus interface; specifically, it may be as follows: Figure 5 As shown. The baseband unit may include memory, a processor (e.g., processor 1-processor n), or a computer-readable medium (e.g., computer-readable medium 1-computer-readable medium n). The processor may be a baseband processor. The memory, processor, and computer-readable medium are connected via a bus. The bus may include any number of interconnect buses and bridges, and may also link various other circuits, such as timing sources, peripherals, voltage regulators, and power management circuits. The bus communicates with the outside of the baseband unit through a bus interface. For example, the bus may communicate with a transceiver through the bus interface, and the bus may communicate with other interfaces through the bus interface.

[0109] For example, the functions that a processor, memory, or computer-readable medium can implement include: encoding, decoding, rate matching, rate dematching, scrambling, descrambling, modulation, demodulation, layer mapping, fast fourier transform (FFT), inverse fast fourier transform (IFFT), inverse discrete fourier transform (IDFT), precoding, resource element (RE) mapping, channel equalization, RE demapping, digital beamforming (BF), adding a cyclic prefix (CP), removing a CP, etc.

[0110] Understandable. Figure 4 The structural composition shown does not constitute a limitation on the communication device, except... Figure 4 In addition to the components shown, the communication device may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0111] The method provided in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Each network element in the following embodiments may possess... Figure 4 The components shown are not described in detail.

[0112] It is understood that in this application, the terminal and / or RAN node may perform some or all of the steps in this application. These steps are merely examples, and this application may also perform other steps or variations thereof. Furthermore, the steps may be performed in different orders as presented in this application, and it is possible that not all steps in this application need to be performed.

[0113] It is understood that the methods described below in this application use a terminal and a RAN node as examples to illustrate the interaction, but this application does not limit the execution subject of the interaction. For example, the terminal in the method provided in the following embodiments of this application can also be a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing the method, or it can be a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the terminal's functions; similarly, the RAN node in the method provided below can also be a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the RAN node in implementing the method, or it can be a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the RAN node's functions.

[0114] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The method may include the following steps:

[0115] S601: The RAN node sends a first reference signal to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the first reference signal from the RAN node.

[0116] In this application, the RAN node can be any RAN node in the communication system 1000. The terminal is any terminal in the communication system 1000 that communicates with the RAN node. For example, the RAN node could be... Figure 2 In the RAN node 110a, the terminal can be terminal 120a that accesses network device 110a in the communication system 1000.

[0117] One possible design involves using a first reference signal for interference measurement by the terminal based on a first precoding method. The first precoding method reduces interference during transmission between the RAN node and the terminal. Before transmitting the first reference signal, the RAN node processes it using the first precoding method and then sends the processed first reference signal to the terminal. The terminal performs interference measurement based on the first reference signal, obtaining the interference measurement results under the first precoding method.

[0118] Optionally, the first precoding method may be indicated by the RAN node to the terminal. Alternatively, the first precoding method may be determined by the terminal through measurement results obtained by measuring the reference signal. No limitations are imposed here.

[0119] Optionally, the first precoding method can be either linear precoding or nonlinear precoding.

[0120] For example, linear precoding includes: singular value decomposition (SVD) precoding, block diagonalization (BD) precoding, zero forcing (ZF) precoding, signal-to-leakage-and-noise ratio (SLNR) precoding, or minimum mean square error (MMSE) precoding. Nonlinear precoding includes deep learning (DL) precoding, convolutional neural network (CNN) precoding, recurrent neural network (RNN) precoding, or dirty paper coding (DPC), etc.

[0121] Optionally, the first reference signal can be DMRS or other reference signals that can be used for interference measurement; no limitation is made here.

[0122] S602: The terminal sends the first information to the RAN node based on the interference measurement results. Correspondingly, the RAN node receives the first information from the terminal.

[0123] One possible design involves the terminal performing interference measurement on the first reference signal based on a first precoding method, and determining the corresponding interference level information based on the interference measurement results. In other words, the interference level information characterizes the degree of interference experienced by the terminal when using the first precoding method.

[0124] Optionally, the information on the interference level may indicate the measured value of the interference level; or, the range or level to which the measured value of the interference level belongs.

[0125] Optionally, after determining the interference level information, the terminal can send the interference level information to the RAN node, so that the RAN node can determine a matching second precoding method based on the current interference level information.

[0126] One possible design is that the first information can indicate the interference level. This interference level information indicates the degree of interference experienced by the terminal, and is used by the RAN node to determine the second precoding method.

[0127] Understandably, the terminal sends the interference level information to the RAN node through the first information, so that the RAN node can determine and execute the second precoding method based on the interference level information, thereby adjusting the precoding method.

[0128] One possible design is that the first information may include a second precoding scheme. This second precoding scheme is used by the RAN node to adjust the level of interference experienced by the terminal.

[0129] Optionally, the terminal judges the interference level information, determines the corresponding second precoding method, and sends the second precoding method to the RAN node. After receiving the first information, the RAN node executes the second precoding method in the first information to adjust the precoding method.

[0130] One possible design is that the first information could indicate the level of interference and the second precoding method.

[0131] Optionally, the terminal judges the interference level information, determines the corresponding second precoding method, and sends the second precoding method and the interference level information to the RAN node. After receiving the first information, the RAN node can combine the second precoding method and the interference level information to determine and execute the second precoding method to adjust the precoding method.

[0132] Optionally, the second precoding method can be either linear precoding or nonlinear precoding.

[0133] One possible design is that the second precoding method and the first precoding method can be the same or different. That is, if the interference level is within an acceptable range, the terminal or RAN node determines to continue using the first precoding method to reduce the interference level, meaning the second precoding method is the same as the first. If the interference level is within an unacceptable range, the terminal or RAN node determines to adjust the first precoding method, meaning the second precoding method is different from the first. This allows for flexible adjustment of the precoding method, effectively reducing the interference experienced by the terminal.

[0134] The above describes the process by which the terminal obtains interference level information by measuring the interference of the first reference signal. The terminal or RAN node then determines the second precoding method based on this interference level information.

[0135] Optional, see Figure 7 The terminal or RAN node can determine the first precoding scheme by measuring the second reference signal. For example, Figure 6 The method shown may also include the following steps:

[0136] S600a: The RAN node sends a second reference signal to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the second reference signal from the RAN node.

[0137] The second reference signal is used to determine the first precoding method. For example, the terminal receives the second reference signal, performs measurements to obtain corresponding measurement results, and determines the first precoding method based on the measurement results. Alternatively, the terminal indicates the measurement results to the RAN node so that the RAN node can determine the first precoding method based on the measurement results.

[0138] In this application, the second reference signal can be CSI-RS, DMRS, or other reference signals, without limitation. The following describes the process by which the terminal or RAN node determines the first precoding method, using CSI-RS or DMRS as an example.

[0139] (1) The second reference signal is CSI-RS

[0140] One possible implementation involves the terminal obtaining interference measurement reference quantities by measuring the CSI-RS. For example, the interference measurement reference quantities may include one or more of the following: channel quality indicator (CQI), rank indication (RI), or precoding matrix indicator (PMI), etc. The terminal determines a first precoding scheme based on the aforementioned interference measurement reference quantities. Subsequently, the terminal can indicate the first precoding scheme to the RAN node.

[0141] Another possible implementation involves the terminal obtaining an interference measurement reference value by measuring the CSI-RS, and sending the interference measurement reference value to the RAN node. The RAN node then determines a first precoding method based on the interference measurement reference value. Subsequently, the RAN node can indicate the first precoding method to the terminal.

[0142] (2) The second reference signal is DMRS

[0143] One possible implementation involves the terminal performing interference measurements on the DMRS to obtain interference measurement results, and determining the corresponding interference level information based on these results. The terminal then determines a first precoding scheme based on the interference level information. Subsequently, the terminal can indicate the first precoding scheme to the RAN node.

[0144] Another possible implementation is that the terminal obtains the interference level information by performing interference measurement on the DMRS, and sends the interference level information to the RAN node. The RAN node then determines the first precoding method based on the interference level information.

[0145] Optionally, the second reference signal may also be other reference signals used for channel state information measurement or interference level measurement, without any limitation.

[0146] Understandably, a RAN node may send a second reference signal to the terminal before sending the first reference signal. A RAN node may also send both the first and second reference signals to the terminal simultaneously. No limitations are imposed here.

[0147] Optional, see Figure 7 Terminals can report their own capability information through third-party information. For example, Figure 6 The method shown may also include the following steps:

[0148] S600b: The terminal sends third information to the RAN node. Correspondingly, the RAN node receives the third information from the terminal.

[0149] The third piece of information is used by the terminal to report its own capability information to the RAN node.

[0150] One possible design is that the third information indicating terminal has the function of measuring the first reference signal. The function of measuring the first reference signal indicates that the terminal can implement the relevant embodiments involved in S601 described above by measuring the first reference signal, which will not be elaborated here.

[0151] One possible design is that the third information indicating terminal has the function of adjusting the precoding mode. The function of adjusting the precoding mode indicates that the terminal can implement the relevant embodiments involved in S602 above by adjusting the precoding mode, which will not be elaborated here.

[0152] One possible design is that the third information indicating terminal has the functions of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode. The terminal can implement the relevant embodiments involved in S601-S602 above based on the functions of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode. Further details are omitted here.

[0153] Optionally, if the terminal does not have the function of measuring the first reference signal and / or adjusting the precoding mode, it can report to the RAN node through third information that the terminal does not have the above functions.

[0154] Optionally, if the terminal does not have the function of measuring the first reference signal and / or adjusting the precoding mode, the above S600b is not executed.

[0155] Accordingly, after receiving the third information, the RAN node can provide further instructions to the terminal based on the terminal capabilities indicated by the third information. For example, the RAN node can execute the following S600c:

[0156] S600c: The RAN node sends the fourth information to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the fourth information from the RAN node.

[0157] One possible design is that the fourth information instructs the terminal to activate or deactivate the function of measuring the first reference signal. For example, if the precoding method is adjusted and the terminal has the function of measuring the first reference signal, the fourth information instructs the terminal to activate the function of measuring the first reference signal. If the precoding method is not adjusted, the fourth information instructs the terminal to deactivate the function of measuring the first reference signal.

[0158] One possible design is that the fourth information instructs the terminal to activate or deactivate the function of adjusting the precoding mode. For example, if the precoding mode is to be adjusted and the terminal has the function of adjusting the precoding mode, the fourth information instructs the terminal to activate the function of adjusting the precoding mode. If the precoding mode is not to be adjusted, the fourth information instructs the terminal to deactivate the function of adjusting the precoding mode.

[0159] One possible design is that the fourth information instructs the terminal to activate or deactivate the functions of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode. For example, when adjusting the precoding mode, and the terminal has the functions of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode, the fourth information instructs the terminal to activate the functions of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode. When not adjusting the precoding mode, the fourth information instructs the terminal to deactivate the functions of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode.

[0160] It is understandable that S600a can be executed before S600b-S600c, after S600b-S600c, or simultaneously with S600b-S600c; no restrictions are imposed here.

[0161] Optional, see Figure 7 Before measuring the first reference signal, the RAN node configures resources for the measurement of the first reference signal and the reporting of the first information. For example, Figure 6 The method shown may also include the following steps:

[0162] S600d: The RAN node sends the second information to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the second information from the RAN node.

[0163] The second information is used to configure resources for the measurement of the first reference signal or the reporting of the first information.

[0164] One possible design is that the second information includes one or more of the following: measurement type information of the first reference signal, feedback method information of the first information, or measurement period of the first reference signal.

[0165] The measurement type information of the first reference signal includes either routine measurement or interference measurement. For example, routine measurement could be a routine DMRS measurement, and interference measurement could be a DMRS interference measurement. When the measurement type information of the first reference signal indicates interference measurement, the terminal performs interference measurement based on the first reference signal to obtain information about the terminal's interference level. When the measurement type information of the first reference signal indicates routine measurement, the terminal performs routine measurement based on the first reference signal to obtain channel state information.

[0166] The feedback method of the first information can instruct the terminal to provide feedback on the interference level, or it can instruct the terminal to provide feedback on the second precoding method.

[0167] Understandably, the feedback method information of the first information can instruct the terminal to determine the second precoding method based on the interference level information when the terminal provides feedback information on the first information. Conversely, the feedback method information of the first information can instruct the terminal to determine the second precoding method based on the interference level information when the terminal provides feedback information on the first information.

[0168] One possible design is that the feedback method of the first information includes one or more of the following: a method for determining the interference level or a first threshold. On one hand, if the feedback method of the first information includes the first threshold, the first information indicates a second precoding method. The first threshold is used to determine the second precoding method in conjunction with the interference level information.

[0169] For example, if the feedback information of the first information includes a first threshold, the terminal can determine the interference level information according to a pre-configured method, and combine the interference level information and the first threshold to obtain a second precoding method. Then, the second precoding method is sent to the RAN node as the first information.

[0170] On the other hand, when the feedback method information of the first information includes the method for determining the interference level and the first threshold, the first information indicates the second precoding method. The first threshold is used to determine the second precoding method in conjunction with the interference level information.

[0171] For example, if the feedback method for the first information includes the determination method for the first threshold and the interference level, the terminal can obtain the interference level information based on the interference measurement results of the first reference signal according to the method for determining the interference level. It then combines the interference level information and the first threshold to obtain the second precoding method. Finally, the second precoding method is sent to the RAN node as the first information.

[0172] On the other hand, when the feedback method of the first information includes the method of determining the interference level, the first information indicates the interference level.

[0173] Optionally, if the feedback method information of the first information includes the method for determining the interference level information but does not include the first threshold, then the terminal sends the interference level information to the RAN node through the first information, and the RAN node determines the second precoding method based on the interference level information.

[0174] For example, if the feedback method of the first information includes the method for determining the interference level, the terminal can obtain the interference level information based on the interference measurement result of the first reference signal according to the method for determining the interference level information, and send the interference level information as the first information to the RAN node.

[0175] One possible design is that the terminal or RAN node can determine the second precoding method by comparing the measured value of the interference level with a first threshold.

[0176] Optionally, if the measured interference level is greater than a first threshold, the terminal or RAN node determines that the interference reduction capability of the second precoding method is higher than that of the first precoding method. In other words, the terminal or RAN node enhances the interference reduction capability of the first precoding method to obtain the second precoding method. For example, the terminal or RAN node determines to activate the precoding enhancement function.

[0177] Optionally, if the measured interference level is less than or equal to a first threshold, the interference reduction capability of the second precoding method is lower than or equal to the interference reduction capability of the first precoding method. That is, the interference reduction capability of the first precoding method in the terminal or RAN node is weakened or remains unchanged to obtain the second precoding method. For example, the terminal or RAN node may decide to deactivate the precoding enhancement function.

[0178] Another possible design is that the terminal or RAN node can determine the second precoding scheme by comparing the range of the measured interference level with a second threshold. Alternatively, the terminal or RAN node can determine the second precoding scheme by comparing the level of the measured interference level with a third threshold. For details, please refer to the aforementioned examples of determining the second precoding scheme based on the measured interference level; these will not be elaborated upon here.

[0179] One possible design involves the second information including the measurement period of the first reference signal. The measurement period of the first reference signal can instruct the terminal to perform interference measurements on the first reference signal at fixed time intervals and adjust the precoding method based on the interference measurement results. This ensures the stability of the measurement of the first reference signal and the adjustment of the precoding method.

[0180] Another possible design, if the second information does not include the measurement period of the first reference signal, can trigger interference measurement of the first reference signal through feedback from the terminal regarding interference conditions, and adjust the precoding method based on the interference measurement results. This improves the flexibility of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding method, and avoids unnecessary measurement and computational overhead.

[0181] In some embodiments, see Figure 8 This section details the process by which RAN nodes and terminals adjust their precoding methods.

[0182] Specifically, the RAN node sends a second reference signal (e.g., CSI-RS) to the terminal through the channel. The terminal obtains CQI, RI, or PMI by measuring the second reference signal, and applies the linear precoding (the first precoding method in the aforementioned embodiments) determined based on CQI, RI, or PMI to the transmission process between the RAN node and the terminal.

[0183] On one hand, the mapping layer in the RAN node sends the first reference signal, which has been linearly precoded, to the terminal. The terminal receives the reference signal, which has been linearly precoded and channel equalized, and performs signal demodulation.

[0184] On the other hand, the RAN node instructs the terminal to measure a first reference signal (e.g., DMRS) by sending configuration information (e.g., configured via the second information in the aforementioned embodiment). This allows the terminal to measure the interference level after applying linear precoding to the first reference signal. The terminal then feeds back the measured interference level information to the RAN node (e.g., via the first information in the aforementioned embodiment). The RAN node adjusts the precoding method based on the interference level information, for example, switching from linear precoding to nonlinear precoding. Subsequently, the mapping layer of the RAN node can transmit signaling or data based on the nonlinear precoding method. The terminal receives the channel-equalized reference signal after precoding enhancement (i.e., nonlinear precoding) and performs signal demodulation.

[0185] In some embodiments, see Figure 9 Based on the communication method provided in the foregoing embodiments, the details of this communication method will be illustrated below. The communication method specifically includes the following steps:

[0186] S901: The terminal reports its capabilities to the RAN node.

[0187] For example, the terminal sends capability information (i.e., the third information in the aforementioned embodiments) to the RAN node. Correspondingly, the RAN node receives the capability information from the terminal.

[0188] Optionally, the terminal reports its capabilities to the RAN node via RRC messages.

[0189] S902: The RAN node sends an interference measurement activation or deactivation message to the terminal (i.e., the fourth information in the aforementioned embodiment). Accordingly, the terminal receives the interference measurement activation or deactivation message from the RAN node.

[0190] Optionally, the RAN node sends an interference measurement activation or deactivation message to the terminal via MAC CE.

[0191] The RAN node determines the configuration information of the first reference signal (e.g., DMRS) and the interference measurement configuration information based on the capability information reported by the terminal, and sends the configuration information (i.e., the second information in the aforementioned embodiment) to the terminal through S903-S904.

[0192] S903: The RAN node sends the first reference signal configuration information to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the first reference signal configuration information from the RAN node.

[0193] The configuration information of the first reference signal may include measurement type information (and the measurement type information of the first reference signal in the foregoing embodiments).

[0194] S904: The RAN node sends interference measurement configuration information to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the interference measurement configuration information from the RAN node.

[0195] The interference measurement configuration information may include the method for determining and feeding back the interference level information (i.e., the method for feeding back the first information in the aforementioned embodiments).

[0196] Optionally, the RAN node may send the first reference signal configuration information or interference measurement configuration information to the terminal via RRC messages.

[0197] S905: The terminal sends acknowledgments (ACK) to the RAN node to confirm that it has received the configuration information in S903-S904. Alternatively, the terminal sends negative acknowledgments (NACK) to the RAN node to indicate that it has not received the configuration information in S903-S904.

[0198] Optionally, the terminal sends an ACK or NACK to the RAN node via PUSCH or PUCCH.

[0199] S906: The RAN node sends a first reference signal (e.g., DMRS) to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the first reference signal sent by the RAN node. The first reference signal is used for interference measurement.

[0200] After receiving the first reference signal, the terminal performs interference measurement based on the first reference signal and sends the interference measurement result (i.e., the first information in the aforementioned embodiment) to the RAN node via S907.

[0201] Optionally, the RAN node sends the first reference signal to the terminal via PDSCH.

[0202] S907: The terminal sends interference level information or a precoding enhancement request (i.e., the second precoding method in the aforementioned embodiments) to the RAN node. Correspondingly, the RAN node receives the interference level information or precoding enhancement request from the terminal.

[0203] Optionally, the terminal may send interference level information or precoding enhancement requests to the RAN node via PUCCH.

[0204] The RAN node determines whether to activate or deactivate precoding enhancement based on the received interference level information or precoding enhancement request.

[0205] S908: The RAN node sends a precoding enhancement activation or deactivation message to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the precoding enhancement activation / deactivation message from the RAN node.

[0206] Optionally, after receiving a precoding enhancement activation or deactivation message, the terminal performs the precoding enhancement activation or deactivation.

[0207] The RAN node calculates the precoding enhancement weights to obtain the first reference signal configuration information corresponding to the adjusted precoding method (i.e., the second precoding method in the aforementioned embodiment).

[0208] If the RAN node determines that the precoding method needs adjustment, the RAN node can instruct the terminal to update the first reference signal configuration information. For example, the RAN node can execute S909 as follows.

[0209] S909: The RAN node sends a first reference signal configuration information update instruction to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the first reference signal configuration information update instruction from the RAN node.

[0210] Optionally, the RAN node sends a first reference signal configuration information update indication to the terminal via an RRC message.

[0211] After receiving the first reference signal configuration update instruction, the terminal updates the first reference signal configuration information.

[0212] S910: The RAN node sends a first reference signal to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the first reference signal sent by the RAN node. The first reference signal is used by the terminal for interference measurement.

[0213] Optionally, the RAN node sends the first reference signal to the terminal via PDSCH.

[0214] The terminal receives the first reference signal after precoding and channel equalization, and demodulates the first reference signal.

[0215] S911: Data transmission between RAN nodes and terminals.

[0216] Specifically, data transmission between RAN nodes and terminals is based on the precoding method enhanced by precoding (i.e., the second precoding method in the aforementioned embodiments).

[0217] Optionally, data transmission between RAN nodes and terminals can be performed via PDSCH.

[0218] The various embodiments mentioned above in this application can be combined without contradiction, and no limitation is imposed.

[0219] The above mainly describes the solution provided in this application from the perspective of interaction between various network elements. Correspondingly, this application also provides a communication device, which can be a terminal in the above method embodiments, or a device containing the above terminal, or a component usable in a terminal; or, the communication device can also be a RAN node in the above method embodiments, or a device containing the above RAN node, or a component usable in a RAN node. It is understood that the above-mentioned terminal or RAN node, etc., includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function in order to achieve the above functions. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the unit and algorithm operations of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0220] This application can divide the terminal or RAN node into functional modules based on the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It is understood that the module division in this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0221] For example, when dividing the functional modules using an integrated approach. Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a communication device 100 is shown. The communication device 100 includes an interface module 1001 and a processing module 1002. The interface module 1001, also known as an interface unit, is used to perform transmit and receive operations, and may be, for example, an interface circuit, a transceiver, a transceiver unit, or a communication interface. The processing module 1002, also known as a processing unit, is used to perform operations other than transmit and receive operations, and may be, for example, a processing circuit or a processor.

[0222] In some embodiments, the interface module 1001 may also be referred to as a transceiver module or transceiver unit, and may include a sending module (unit) and / or a receiving module (unit); the sending module is used to perform the sending operation in the above method embodiments, and the receiving module is used to perform the receiving operation in the above method embodiments.

[0223] It is understood that the communication device 100 may include a transmitting module but not a receiving module. Alternatively, the communication device 100 may include a receiving module but not a transmitting module. Specifically, it depends on whether the above-described scheme executed by the communication device 100 includes both transmitting and receiving actions.

[0224] In some embodiments, the communication device 100 may further include a storage module. Figure 10 (Not shown in the image), used to store program instructions and data. In one example, the communication device is a terminal, which can be used to implement any of the methods executed by the terminal in the foregoing embodiments.

[0225] For example, a terminal, or a communication module within a terminal, or a circuit or chip within a terminal responsible for communication functions. The communication device 100 can be a terminal, or a component configurable within a terminal.

[0226] For example, interface module 1001 is used to receive a first reference signal, which is used by the terminal to perform interference measurement based on a first precoding method. Processing module 1002 is used to send first information based on the interference measurement result, wherein the first information indicates one or more of the following: interference level information or a second precoding method; the interference level information indicates the degree of interference experienced by the terminal; the interference level information is used to determine the second precoding method; and the second precoding method is used to adjust the degree of interference experienced by the terminal. Figure 6 The relevant descriptions of the embodiments shown will not be elaborated upon further.

[0227] In another example, the communication device is a RAN node, which can be used to implement any of the methods executed by the RAN node in the foregoing embodiments. For example, the communication device 100 is a RAN node or a communication module in a RAN node, or a circuit or chip in a RAN node responsible for communication functions. The communication device 100 can be a RAN node or a component configurable in a RAN node.

[0228] For example, interface module 1001 is used to send a first reference signal, which is used by the terminal to perform interference measurement based on a first precoding method; processing module 1002 is used to control interface module 1001 to receive first information, which indicates one or more of the following: interference level information or a second precoding method, wherein the interference level information indicates the degree of interference received by the terminal, the interference level information is used to determine the second precoding method, and the second precoding method is used to adjust the degree of interference received by the terminal. Figure 6 The relevant descriptions of the embodiments shown will not be elaborated upon further.

[0229] In a simplified embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that the communication device 100 can employ... Figure 4 The form shown. For example, Figure 4 The processor 401 can call computer execution instructions stored in the memory 403 to cause the communication device 100 to execute the method described in the above method embodiment.

[0230] For example, Figure 10 The functions / implementation process of the processing module 1002 and the interface module 1001 can be achieved through... Figure 4 The processor 401 in the memory calls computer execution instructions stored in the memory 403 to implement the function. Alternatively, Figure 10 The function / implementation process of the processing module 1002 can be achieved through... Figure 4 The processor 401 in the memory calls computer execution instructions stored in the memory 403 to implement this. Figure 10 The function / implementation process of interface module 1001 can be accessed through... Figure 4 This is achieved using transceiver 402.

[0231] It is understood that one or more of the above modules or units can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of both. When any of the above modules or units are implemented by software, the software exists as computer program instructions and is stored in memory. The processor can be used to execute the program instructions and implement the above method flow. The processor can be built into a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or it can be a stand-alone semiconductor chip. In addition to the core that executes software instructions for computation or processing, the processor may further include necessary hardware accelerators, such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), or logic circuits that implement dedicated logic operations.

[0232] When the above modules or units are implemented in hardware, the hardware can be any one or any combination of a CPU, microprocessor, digital signal processing (DSP) chip, microcontroller unit (MCU), artificial intelligence processor, ASIC, SoC, FPGA, PLD, application-specific digital circuit, hardware accelerator, or non-integrated discrete device, which can run the necessary software or perform the above method flow independently of software.

[0233] Optionally, this application also provides a chip system, including: at least one processor and an interface, wherein the at least one processor is coupled to a memory via the interface, and when the at least one processor executes a computer program or instructions in the memory, the method in any of the above method embodiments is executed. In one possible implementation, the chip system further includes a memory. Optionally, the chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices; this application does not specifically limit this.

[0234] Optionally, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be implemented by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium. When executed, the program can include the processes described in the above method embodiments. The computer-readable storage medium can be an internal storage unit of the communication device in any of the foregoing embodiments, such as the hard disk or memory of the communication device. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can also be an external storage device of the communication device, such as a plug-in hard disk, smart media card (SMC), secure digital (SD) card, flash card, etc., equipped on the communication device. Further, the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can include both internal storage units and external storage devices of the communication device. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium is used to store the aforementioned computer program and other programs and data required by the communication device. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can also be used to temporarily store data that has been output or will be output.

[0235] Optionally, this application also provides a computer program product. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be executed by a computer program instructing related hardware. This program can be stored in the above computer program product, and when executed, it can include the processes described in the above method embodiments.

[0236] Optionally, this application also provides computer instructions. All or part of the processes in the above method embodiments can be executed by computer instructions instructing related hardware (such as a computer, processor, terminal, or RAN node). The program can be stored in the aforementioned computer-readable storage medium or the aforementioned computer program product.

[0237] Optionally, this application also provides a communication system, including: Figure 6 The terminal and RAN node in the illustrated embodiment.

[0238] Through the above description of the implementation methods, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the division of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules according to the application scenario, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0239] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of modules or units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another device, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0240] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. A component shown as a unit can be one or more physical units; that is, it can be located in one place or distributed in multiple different locations. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment based on the actual application scenario.

[0241] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0242] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: Receive a first reference signal, which is used by the terminal to perform interference measurement based on a first precoding method; Based on the result of interference measurement performed by the terminal, first information is sent, the first information being used to indicate one or more of the following: interference level information or a second precoding method, the interference level information indicating the degree of interference received by the terminal, the interference level information being used to determine the second precoding method, the second precoding method being used to adjust the degree of interference received by the terminal.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second precoding method is different from the first precoding method.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second precoding method is the same as the first precoding method.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second information, which includes one or more of the following: measurement type information of the first reference signal, feedback method information of the first information, or measurement period of the first reference signal.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the feedback method information of the first information includes the method for determining the interference level information, the first information indicates the interference level information; If the feedback method information of the first information includes the first threshold, the first information indicates the second precoding method; When the feedback method information of the first information includes the method for determining the interference level and the first threshold, the first information indicates the second precoding method; The first threshold is used to determine the second precoding method in conjunction with information about the interference level.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The information on the interference level indicates the measured value of the interference level; or, the range or level to which the measured value of the interference level belongs.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The information regarding the interference level indicates the measured value of the interference level; The first threshold is used to determine the second precoding method in conjunction with information about the interference level, including: When the measured value of the interference level is greater than the first threshold, the second precoding method has a higher ability to reduce interference than the first precoding method. If the measured value of the interference level is less than or equal to the first threshold, the ability of the second precoding method to reduce interference is less than or equal to the ability of the first precoding method to reduce interference.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The method further includes: A third message is sent, indicating that the terminal has the function of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second reference signal is received, and the first precoding method is determined based on the measurement results of the second reference signal.

10. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: A first reference signal is transmitted, which is used by the terminal to perform interference measurement based on a first precoding method; The terminal receives first information, which is obtained based on the result of interference measurement. The first information is used to indicate one or more of the following: interference level information or a second precoding method. The interference level information indicates the degree of interference received by the terminal. The interference level information is used to determine the second precoding method. The second precoding method is used to adjust the degree of interference received by the terminal.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second precoding method is different from the first precoding method.

12. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second precoding method is the same as the first precoding method.

13. The method according to any one of claims 10-12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second message, which includes one or more of the following: measurement type information of the first reference signal, feedback method information of the first message, or measurement period of the first reference signal.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, When the feedback method information of the first information includes the method for determining the interference level information, the first information indicates the interference level information; If the feedback method information of the first information includes the first threshold, the first information indicates the second precoding method; When the feedback method information of the first information includes the method for determining the interference level and the first threshold, the first information indicates the second precoding method; The first threshold is used to determine the second precoding method in conjunction with information about the interference level.

15. The method according to any one of claims 10-14, characterized in that, The information on the interference level indicates the measured value of the interference level; or, the range or level to which the measured value of the interference level belongs.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, When the interference level information indicates a measured value of the interference level, the interference level information is used in conjunction with the first threshold to determine the second precoding method, including: When the measured value of the interference level is greater than the first threshold, the second precoding method has a higher ability to reduce interference than the first precoding method. If the measured value of the interference level is less than or equal to the first threshold, the ability of the second precoding method to reduce interference is less than or equal to the ability of the first precoding method to reduce interference.

17. The method according to any one of claims 10-16, characterized in that, The method further includes: The terminal receives third information, which indicates that it has the function of measuring the first reference signal and adjusting the precoding mode.

18. The method according to any one of claims 10-17, characterized in that, The method further includes: A second reference signal is transmitted, and the first precoding method is determined based on the measurement results of the second reference signal.

19. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a unit or module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-9, or a unit or module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 10-18.

20. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer program instructions, which, when executed, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-9, or the method as described in any one of claims 10-18.

21. A computer program product containing instructions, characterized in that, When the computer program product is run on a computer, it causes the method as described in any one of claims 1-9 to be implemented, or causes the method as described in any one of claims 10-18 to be implemented.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor coupled to a memory for storing programs or instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1-9, or the method as claimed in any one of claims 10-18.

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