Communication method and device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and device, relates to the technical field of communication, and is used for solving the problem of link breakage between devices caused by inconsistent frequency hopping point tables of two communication parties. The method comprises the following steps: a first device sends a first signaling to a second device, wherein the first signaling is used for indicating to update a frequency hopping point table between the first device and the second device to a first frequency hopping point table; and under the condition that the updating of the first frequency hopping frequency point table fails, the first equipment communicates with the second equipment by using a fixed frequency point table agreed in advance. Thus, under the condition that the updating of the first frequency hopping frequency point table fails, the first device and the second device return to the fixed frequency point table agreed in advance, thereby ensuring that the first device and the second device use the same frequency point table for communication, avoiding the occurrence of link breakage between the devices, further reducing the system delay, enhancing the anti-interference capability, and improving the user experience. And the reliability and robustness of the system are improved.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Devices based on communication protocols such as StarFlash and Bluetooth mostly employ frequency hopping technology for communication. Frequency hopping allows the carrier frequency to continuously change, thus avoiding interfering frequencies and reducing interference from other devices. Currently, during communication between the first and second devices using frequency hopping technology, the frequency hopping table can be updated periodically between them. Specifically, the first device can send the frequency hopping table to the second device via signaling. Upon receiving the table, the second device sends a response to the first device. After the signaling takes effect, both devices can simultaneously update their frequency hopping tables and then use them for frequency hopping.

[0003] However, during the above communication process, if the frequency hopping table fails to update, for example, if the second device has updated to the frequency hopping table but the first device has not, the frequency hopping tables of the first device and the second device will be inconsistent, which will cause the first device and the second device to be unable to hop to the same frequency for a long time, and thus cause a link break between the first device and the second device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus to solve the problem of disconnection between devices caused by inconsistencies in the frequency hopping point tables of the two communicating parties.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0006] Firstly, a communication method is provided, comprising: a first device sending a first signaling instruction to a second device, the first signaling instruction instructing the frequency hopping table between the first device and the second device to be updated to a first frequency hopping table; if the update of the first frequency hopping table fails, the first device communicates with the second device using a fixed frequency table, for example, the fixed frequency table includes multiple available frequencies. Optionally, the first device and the second device are a G node and a T node in a star-flash system, respectively. Optionally, the first device determines that the update of the first frequency hopping table has failed by: the first device not receiving a response from the second device within a certain period of time after sending the first signaling instruction.

[0007] In the above technical solution, if the frequency hopping table update between the first and second devices fails, the first and second devices communicate using a fixed frequency table. This fixed frequency table includes multiple available frequencies and is pre-agreed upon. Thus, in the event of a frequency hopping table update failure, the first and second devices can revert to the pre-agreed fixed frequency table, ensuring that they communicate using the same frequency table. This avoids link interruptions between the first and second devices, reduces system latency, enhances anti-interference capabilities, and improves system reliability and robustness.

[0008] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the method further includes: a first device receiving a broadcast message from a second device, the broadcast message indicating the fixed frequency table. In the above possible implementations, the first device obtains the fixed frequency table through the broadcast message from the second device, which can reduce signaling interaction between the first and second devices and improve the flexibility of configuring the fixed frequency table.

[0009] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the fixed frequency point table includes broadcast frequencies. In the aforementioned possible implementations, in the event of a failure to update the frequency hopping table, the first device and the second device communicate using broadcast frequencies, which can reduce system latency, enhance anti-interference capabilities, and improve system reliability and robustness.

[0010] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the fixed frequency point table includes the frequency points at both ends of the communication channel between the first device and the second device. In the above possible implementation, in the event of a frequency hopping table update failure, the first device and the second device communicate using the frequency points at both ends of the communication channel, which can reduce system latency, enhance anti-interference capability, and improve system reliability and robustness.

[0011] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first device communicates with the second device using a fixed frequency point table, including: the first device sending a second signaling message to the second device using the fixed frequency point table, the second signaling message indicating that the frequency hopping table between the first device and the second device be updated to a second frequency hopping table. In the above possible implementation, the first device sending the second signaling message to the second device using the fixed frequency point table can improve the success rate of updating the second frequency hopping table, and at the same time avoid the first device and the second device communicating using the fixed frequency point table for extended periods.

[0012] Secondly, a communication method is provided, comprising: a second device receiving a first signaling from a first device, the first signaling instructing the frequency hopping table between the first device and the second device to be updated to a first frequency hopping table; if the update of the first frequency hopping table fails, the second device communicates with the first device using a fixed frequency table, for example, the fixed frequency table includes multiple available frequencies. Optionally, the first device and the second device are a G node and a T node in a star-flash system, respectively. Optionally, the second device determines that the update of the first frequency hopping table has failed, including: communication between the second device and the first device fails for a certain period of time after the first frequency hopping table takes effect.

[0013] In the above technical solution, if the frequency hopping table update between the first and second devices fails, the first and second devices communicate using a fixed frequency table. This fixed frequency table includes multiple available frequencies and is pre-agreed upon. Thus, in the event of a frequency hopping table update failure, the first and second devices can revert to the pre-agreed fixed frequency table, ensuring that they communicate using the same frequency table. This avoids link interruptions between the first and second devices, reduces system latency, enhances anti-interference capabilities, and improves system reliability and robustness.

[0014] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the method further includes: the second device sending a broadcast message indicating the fixed frequency table. In the above possible implementations, the second device notifies the first device of the fixed frequency table via a broadcast message, which reduces signaling interaction between the first and second devices and improves the flexibility of configuring the fixed frequency table.

[0015] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the fixed frequency point table includes broadcast frequencies. In the aforementioned possible implementations, in the event of a failure to update the frequency hopping table, the first device and the second device communicate using broadcast frequencies, which can reduce system latency, enhance anti-interference capabilities, and improve system reliability and robustness.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the fixed frequency point table includes the frequency points at both ends of the communication channel between the first device and the second device. In the above possible implementations, in the event of a frequency hopping table update failure, the first device and the second device communicate using the frequency points at both ends of the communication channel, which can reduce system latency, enhance anti-interference capabilities, and improve system reliability and robustness.

[0017] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the second device communicates with the first device using a fixed frequency point table, including: the second device using the fixed frequency point table to receive second signaling from the first device, the second signaling instructing the frequency hopping table between the first and second devices to be updated to a second frequency hopping table. In the above possible implementation, the second device using the fixed frequency point table to receive the second signaling from the first device can improve the success rate of updating the second frequency hopping table and avoid prolonged communication between the first and second devices using the fixed frequency point table.

[0018] Thirdly, a communication device is provided, which serves as a first device or is applied to a chip within a first device, and can perform the functions executed by the first device in the above-described method. These functions can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the aforementioned functions.

[0019] In one possible implementation of the third aspect, the device includes a processing unit and a communication unit; the processing unit is configured to support the device in performing the corresponding functions in the above method; the communication unit can be used to support the device in communicating with a second device.

[0020] In another possible implementation of the third aspect, the device includes a processor and a transceiver; the processor is configured to support the device in performing the corresponding functions in the methods described above; the transceiver is used to support communication between the device and the second device. Optionally, the device also includes a memory coupled to the processor, which stores necessary program instructions and data for the device.

[0021] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, which serves as a second device or is applied to a chip within a second device, and can perform the functions executed by the second device in the above-described method. These functions can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the aforementioned functions.

[0022] In one possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the device includes a processing unit and a communication unit; the processing unit is configured to support the device in performing the corresponding functions in the above method; the communication unit can be used to support the device in communicating with the first device.

[0023] In another possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the device includes a processor and a transceiver; the processor is configured to support the device in performing the corresponding functions in the methods described above; the transceiver is used to support communication between the device and the first device. Optionally, the device also includes a memory coupled to the processor, which stores necessary program instructions and data for the device.

[0024] In another aspect of this application, a communication system is provided, comprising a first device and a second device. The first device is capable of communicating with the second device. The first device includes a communication apparatus as provided in the third aspect or any possible implementation thereof, and the second device includes a communication apparatus as provided in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation thereof. Optionally, the communication system may be a WiFi system, a StarFlash system, or a Bluetooth communication system, etc.

[0025] In another aspect of this application, a readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a device, cause the device to perform a communication method as provided in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0026] In another aspect of this application, a readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a device, cause the device to perform the communication method provided by the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0027] In another aspect of this application, a computer program product is provided, comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when executed by a device, causes the device to perform the communication method provided by the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0028] In another aspect of this application, a computer program product is provided, comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when executed by a device, causes the device to perform the communication method provided by the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0029] It is understood that the beneficial effects achieved by any of the communication devices, communication systems, computer-readable storage media and computer program products provided above can be referred to in accordance with the beneficial effects of the communication methods provided above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a frequency hopping process provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating an update of a frequency hopping table is provided in this application embodiment;

[0032] Figure 3 A schematic diagram illustrating an update of the frequency hopping table provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 4 This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0034] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 6 A schematic diagram illustrating another method for updating the frequency hopping table provided in this application embodiment;

[0036] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a communication process provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of another communication process provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of another first communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another second communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, a, b, and c; where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0044] The embodiments of this application use terms such as "first" and "second" to distinguish objects with similar names, functions, or roles. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or order of execution. In this application, words such as "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is being used as an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design solutions. Specifically, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner.

[0045] Before introducing the embodiments of this application, the relevant scenarios involved in this application will be described first.

[0046] Devices based on communication protocols such as StarFlash and Bluetooth mostly employ frequency hopping technology for communication. Frequency hopping allows the carrier frequency to continuously change, thereby avoiding interfering frequencies and reducing interference from other devices. Specifically, when using frequency hopping, the device can determine the hopping frequency through a corresponding frequency hopping procedure and can update the frequency hopping table used in the procedure; this frequency hopping table can also be simply referred to as the frequency hopping table. The following example uses a StarFlash device for illustration.

[0047] For example, Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a frequency hopping process is shown, which includes three parts: a pseudo-random number generation process, an initial frequency point mapping process, and an available frequency point mapping process. In the pseudo-random number generation process, the pseudo-random number generator generates a 16-bit random number based on input parameters (e.g., synchronization sequence and time slot count), which serves as the input for the initial frequency point mapping process. During the initial frequency point mapping process, the random number is modulo 76, and the result is mapped to a frequency point in a 76-frequency point hopping table to obtain the hopping frequency point. If the hopping frequency point obtained from the initial frequency point mapping is a valid frequency point, it is output; otherwise, it proceeds to the available frequency point mapping process. In the available frequency point mapping process, the random number is remapped (or re-operated) and mapped to a frequency point in the available frequency point hopping table to output the hopping frequency point.

[0048] For example, taking communication between a first device and a second device based on frequency hopping technology as an example, the first device and the second device can update the frequency hopping table at regular intervals. Figure 2As shown, the process of updating the frequency hopping table may include: a first device requesting an update to the channel classification, i.e., requesting an update to the frequency hopping table; then, the first device sends a frequency hopping table indication via signaling, for example, the first device sends the frequency hopping table to a second device via signaling. This frequency hopping table has a bit map, which may include a binary sequence, where each bit corresponds to a frequency point, and all frequency points are arranged in ascending order; after receiving the frequency hopping table, the second device sends a response message back to the first device; after the effective time of the signaling arrives, the first and second devices can simultaneously update the frequency hopping table and then use the frequency hopping table for frequency hopping. The effective time of the signaling can refer to the effective time of the frequency hopping table indicated by the signaling. Figure 2 The first device can be a G node, and the second device can be a T node.

[0049] During the aforementioned communication process, if the frequency hopping table fails to update, for example, if the second device has updated to the frequency hopping table but the first device has not, the frequency hopping tables of the first device and the second device will be inconsistent. This will cause the first device and the second device to be unable to hop to the same frequency for a long time when performing frequency hopping based on their respective frequency hopping tables, which will lead to a link break between the first device and the second device.

[0050] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, taking the first device as node G and the second device as node T as an example, assuming that the frequency hopping table used by nodes G and T before the update is called the old frequency hopping table, after node G sends the new frequency hopping table to node T via signaling, node T sends an ACK response to node G. However, node G does not receive the ACK due to strong interference. After the effective time of the signaling arrives, node T has updated to the new frequency hopping table, while node G has not updated. That is, node G is still using the old frequency hopping table. Therefore, after the effective time, the frequency hopping tables of node G and node T will be inconsistent. Figure 3 The following is an explanation using the example of the old frequency hopping table, which includes frequency points 1 to 79, all of which are available, and the new frequency hopping table, which includes frequency points 1 to 79, where frequency point 1 is an unavailable frequency point and frequency points 2 to 79 are available frequencies.

[0051] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method. In this method, after a first device sends a frequency hopping table to a second device via signaling, if the frequency hopping table update fails, the first device and the second device communicate using a fixed frequency table. The fixed frequency table includes multiple available frequencies, which can be pre-agreed. Thus, in the event of a frequency hopping table update failure, the first device and the second device can revert to the pre-agreed fixed frequency table, ensuring that the first device and the second device communicate using the same frequency table. This avoids communication interruptions between the first and second devices, reduces system latency, enhances anti-interference capabilities, and improves system reliability and robustness.

[0052] The technical solutions provided in this application can be used in any communication system. This communication system can be a third-generation partnership project (3GPP) communication system, such as a long-term evolution (LTE) system; it can also be a fifth-generation (5G) mobile communication system, a hybrid LTE and 5G network system, a new radio (NR) system, a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) system, a device-to-device (D2D) communication system, a machine-to-machine (M2M) communication system, an internet of things (IoT) system, a narrowband internet of things (NB-IoT) system, enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable and low-latency communication (URLLC), or enhanced machine-type communication. No restrictions are imposed on communication systems such as eMTC (electronic medium-range communication), vehicular short-range wireless communication systems, and various types of future communication systems, such as non-terrestrial network (NTN) systems (e.g., satellite communication systems) and non-3GPP communication systems.

[0053] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication system may include at least one terminal node and at least one management node. The terminal node can be wirelessly connected to the management node, and the management node can be connected to the core network via wired or wireless means. The terminal node, referred to as a T node, can be a node that receives data scheduling information and sends data according to the data scheduling information in the communication system. The management node, referred to as a G node, can be a node that sends data scheduling information in the communication system.

[0054] In one possible example, the management node may include management node a through management node c, and the terminal node may include terminal node a through terminal node c.

[0055] Optionally, the terminal node can be a device with wireless transceiver capabilities or a chip or chip system that can be configured on the device, allowing users to access the network and providing voice and / or data connectivity to users. The terminal node can also be referred to as user equipment (UE), subscriber unit, terminal, mobile station (MS), or mobile terminal (MT), etc.

[0056] For example, the terminal node can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, or computer with wireless transceiver capabilities. The terminal node can also be a user station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal node, mobile terminal node, user terminal node, wireless communication device, user agent, user device, cellular phone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, computing device, processing device connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle device, wearable device, terminal node in the Internet of Things (IoT), smart home device (e.g., refrigerator, television, air conditioner, electricity meter, etc.), smart robot, robotic arm, workshop equipment, virtual reality (VR) terminal, augmented reality (AR) terminal, wireless terminal in industrial control, wireless terminal in autonomous driving, wireless terminal in telemedicine, wireless terminal in smart grid, wireless terminal in smart city, and smart home. The following are not limited to wireless terminals in the home, vehicles with vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication capabilities, intelligent connected vehicles, drones with UAV-to-UAV (U2U) communication capabilities, terminal nodes in future networks, or terminal nodes in future evolved public land mobile networks (PLMNs). The terminal node in this application can also be an on-board module, on-board component, on-board chip, or on-board unit built into a vehicle as one or more components or units. The terminal node can also be other devices with terminal functions; for example, it can be a device that performs terminal functions in D2D communication. The embodiments of this application do not limit the device form of the terminal node. The device used to implement the terminal function can be a terminal node; it can also be a device that supports the terminal in implementing this function, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the terminal or used in conjunction with the terminal. In the embodiments of this application, the chip system can be composed of chips or can include chips and other discrete devices.

[0057] Optionally, the management node can be any device deployed in the network capable of wireless communication with terminal nodes. It can also be a chip or chip system embedded in such devices, a logical node, a logical module, or a function implemented in software. It can be used to implement functions such as wireless physical control, resource scheduling and wireless resource management, wireless access control, and mobility management. Specifically, the management node can be used to provide access services to terminal nodes; for example, the management node can be a device that supports wired access or a device that supports wireless access.

[0058] For example, a management node can consist of one or more access network (AN) / radio access network (RAN) nodes. AN / RAN nodes can be: evolved Node B (gNB), transmission reception point (TRP), evolved Node B (eNB), radio network controller (RNC), Node B (NB), base station controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), home base station (e.g., home-evolved Node B, or home Node B, HNB), base band unit (BBU), or access point (AP), wireless relay node, wireless backhaul node, various forms of macro base station, micro base station (also known as small cell), relay station, access point, wearable device, vehicle-mounted device, etc.

[0059] In another example, the management node may include a baseband unit (BBU) and a remote radio unit (RRU). The BBU and RRU can be located in different locations; for example, the RRU can be deployed remotely to a high-traffic area, while the BBU is located in the central equipment room. Alternatively, the BBU and RRU can be located in the same equipment room. Furthermore, the BBU and RRU can be different components within the same rack.

[0060] In another example, the management node can be a device that includes centralized unit (CU) nodes, distributed unit (DU) nodes, or both CU and DU nodes. For instance, the management node can be logically divided into CUs and DUs, with some protocol layer functions centrally controlled by the CU, and the remaining partial or complete protocol layer functions distributed across the DU, which is then centrally controlled by the CU. CUs and DUs can be separate entities or included in the same network element, such as a BBU. Furthermore, the centralized unit (CU) can be further divided into a control plane (CU-CP) and a user plane (CU-UP).

[0061] In another example, the management node may also be a device that includes a radio unit (RU), or a device that includes a CU, a DU, and a RU. The RU may be included in a radio frequency device or radio frequency unit, such as an RRU, an active antenna unit (AAU), or a remote radio head (RRH).

[0062] It is understood that CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names in different systems, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an open radioaccess network (O-RAN) 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 a software module, a hardware module, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0063] Optionally, the communication system provided in this application embodiment can be a star-flash system.

[0064] Understandable, Figure 4 The communication system shown is merely exemplary and does not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application. In practical applications, the communication system may also include other nodes, such as other management nodes and / or other terminal nodes.

[0065] Figure 5This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The method can be applied to a communication system including a first device and a second device. For example, the first device and the second device can be the management node and terminal device in the communication system provided above. The method includes the following steps.

[0066] S201a: The first device sends a first signaling message to the second device, the first signaling message being used to instruct the frequency hopping point table between the first device and the second device to be updated to the first frequency hopping point table. S201b: The second device receives the first signaling message from the first device.

[0067] Optionally, the first device can be a management node, the second device can be a terminal node, and the first signaling can be signaling sent from the management node to the terminal node, for example, the first signaling is signaling for updating channel classification. For example, the first signaling may carry a frequency hopping indicator, which can be used to indicate a first frequency hopping table, and the first frequency hopping table can be a bitmap.

[0068] The first frequency hopping table can be used to indicate multiple frequency points, which are arranged in ascending order. At least some of these frequency points are available. For example, the first frequency hopping table includes multiple bits, which correspond one-to-one with the multiple frequency points. For any frequency point, when the value of the corresponding bit is 1 (or 0), it can be used to indicate that the frequency point is available; when the value of the corresponding bit is 0 (or 1), it can be used to indicate that the frequency point is unavailable.

[0069] Additionally, the first signaling instruction is used to instruct the frequency hopping table between the first device and the second device to be updated to the first frequency hopping table. This could mean updating the frequency hopping table currently used by the first device and the second device to the first frequency hopping table. The currently used frequency hopping table could be the frequency hopping table used by the first device and the second device before the update.

[0070] Furthermore, the number of frequency points included in the frequency hopping table between the first and second devices can be fixed, and the frequency or spectrum range corresponding to each frequency point can also be fixed. For example, when the communication system is a star-flash system, the number of frequency points included in the frequency hopping table can be 79, which specifically may include 76 data transmission frequency points and 3 broadcast frequency points.

[0071] In one possible embodiment, during the process of establishing a link (also called a link or connection) between the first device and the second device and conducting frequency hopping communication through the established link, the first device may send a first signaling message to the second device to instruct the frequency hopping point table between the first device and the second device to be updated to a first frequency hopping point table. For example, establishing a link between the first device and the second device may include: the first device sending a scan access request to the second device, and the second device sending a scan access response to the first device, thus establishing a link between the first device and the second device.

[0072] Optionally, the frequency hopping table used between the first device and the second device can be generated by the first device, for example, the first device can generate the aforementioned first frequency hopping table. Similarly, before the first device sends the first signaling to the second device, the frequency hopping table used by the first device and the second device can also be generated by the first device. The first device and the second device can also update the frequency hopping table once or multiple times before transmitting the first signaling. This application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on this.

[0073] S202: If the first frequency hopping table update fails, the first device and the second device shall communicate using a fixed frequency table.

[0074] Optionally, the fixed frequency point table includes multiple available frequency points. In one possible example, the fixed frequency point table includes frequency points at both ends of the communication channel between the first device and the second device. Taking a star-flash system as an example, the fixed frequency point table may include frequency points located at both ends of a list of 79 frequency points arranged in ascending order, such as frequency points 1, 2, and 75; furthermore, the fixed frequency point table may also include frequency points located in the middle of the 79 frequency points, such as frequency point 39.

[0075] Optionally, the first signaling is also used to indicate the effective time of the first frequency hopping table, that is, the time when the first device and the second device update the currently used frequency hopping table to the first frequency hopping table, or the time when the first device and the second device enable the first frequency hopping table, or the time when the first frequency hopping table takes effect.

[0076] The failure to update the first frequency hopping table can mean that either the first device or the second device fails to update its current frequency hopping table to the first frequency hopping table. For example, the second device may have successfully updated its current frequency hopping table to the first frequency hopping table, while the first device may not have. In this case, after the effective time of the first frequency hopping table, the frequency hopping tables used by the first and second devices will be inconsistent. Consequently, the first and second devices cannot simultaneously hop to the same frequency based on their respective frequency hopping tables, leading to communication failure between them. For instance, for a period of time after the effective time of the first frequency hopping table, the first device may be unable to successfully send data to the second device, and / or the first device may be unable to successfully receive data from the second device.

[0077] Optionally, for the first device, the failure to update the first frequency hopping table may include: the first device not receiving a response from the second device within a first duration after sending the first signaling, or communication between the first device and the second device failing within a second duration after the effective time of the first frequency hopping point. For the second device, the failure to update the first frequency hopping table may include: communication between the second device and the first device failing within a second duration after the effective time of the first frequency hopping point. For example, the first and second durations may be preset, such as by using timers in the first and second devices respectively.

[0078] In one example, after the second device receives the first signaling, the second device can send a response message to the first device, which can be used to indicate that the first signaling was successfully received. If the first device does not receive the response message, the first device will not update its currently used frequency hopping table to the first frequency hopping table, while the second device will update its currently used frequency hopping table to the first frequency hopping table according to the first signaling. As a result, after the effective time of the first frequency hopping table, the frequency hopping table used by the first device and the frequency hopping table used by the second device will be inconsistent.

[0079] For example, in combination Figure 3 ,like Figure 6As shown, taking the first device as node G and the second device as node T as an example, assuming that the frequency hopping table used by nodes G and T before the update is called the old frequency hopping table, after node G sends the new frequency hopping table to node T via signaling, node T sends an ACK response to node G. However, node G does not receive the ACK due to strong interference. After the effective time of the signaling arrives, node T has updated to the new frequency hopping table, while node G has not updated, meaning node G is still using the old frequency hopping table. Therefore, after the effective time, the frequency hopping tables of node G and node T will be inconsistent. Thus, after the first timeout period after the effective time, node G and node T communicate using a pre-agreed fixed frequency table. Figure 4 The old frequency hopping table includes frequency points 1 to 79, all of which are available frequencies. The new frequency hopping table includes frequency points 1 to 79, where frequency point 1 is an unavailable frequency point and frequency points 2 to 79 are available frequencies. N represents the available frequency point table. This explanation will be based on the example of the available frequency point table.

[0080] In one possible embodiment, if the first frequency hopping table update fails, the first device and the second device communicate using a fixed frequency table. This fixed frequency table includes multiple available frequencies, meaning the first and second devices can use these multiple available frequencies for frequency hopping. This fixed frequency table can be pre-agreed upon by the first and second devices. Thus, if the frequency hopping table update fails, the first and second devices can fall back to the pre-agreed fixed frequency table, ensuring that they communicate using the same frequency table. This avoids communication interruptions between the first and second devices, reduces system latency, enhances anti-interference capabilities, and improves system reliability and robustness.

[0081] In practical applications, the aforementioned fixed frequency point table can be specified by a protocol, pre-configured in the first and second devices, or determined and sent to the other device by either the first or second device. For example, the fixed frequency point table can be determined and sent to the first device by the second device, or determined and sent to the second device by the first device. The following explanation uses the example of the second device sending the fixed frequency point table to the first device.

[0082] Furthermore, in combination Figure 5 ,like Figure 7 As shown, prior to S201a, the method further includes the following steps.

[0083] S200a: The second device sends an indication message to the first device, which is used to indicate the fixed frequency point table. S200b: The first device receives the indication message.

[0084] The indication information can be used to indicate multiple available frequency points in the fixed frequency point table. For example, the indication information can be used to indicate the number of multiple available frequency points in the fixed frequency point table, which can also be called an index; or, the indication information can be used to indicate the frequency of the multiple available frequency points; or, the indication information can be used to indicate the spectral range corresponding to the multiple available frequency points.

[0085] In one possible embodiment, the indication information is a broadcast message, i.e., the second device sends a broadcast message to indicate multiple available frequencies in the fixed frequency point table. Thus, the second device can determine the multiple available frequencies by parsing the received broadcast message. Optionally, the multiple available frequencies can be broadcast frequencies or non-broadcast frequencies. For example, in the case where the communication system is a satellite flash system and the multiple available frequencies are broadcast frequencies, the multiple available frequencies can be numbered 76, 77, and 78.

[0086] Optionally, when the multiple available frequency points are broadcast frequency points, the broadcast message can be used to indicate that the fixed frequency point table includes broadcast frequency points without specifically indicating information such as the broadcast frequency point number, frequency, or spectrum range. Furthermore, broadcast frequency points experience less interference, and using broadcast frequency points for frequency hopping communication between the first and second devices can further reduce interference during communication.

[0087] In one example, before the first device establishes a link with the second device, the second device may send a broadcast message to indicate the fixed frequency point table.

[0088] Furthermore, in some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, the above S202 may specifically include: S202a. The first device uses the fixed frequency point table to send a second signaling to the second device, the second signaling being used to instruct the frequency hopping table between the first device and the second device to be updated to a second frequency hopping table; S202b. The second device uses the fixed frequency point table second signaling.

[0089] The second signaling is used to instruct the frequency hopping table between the first and second devices to be updated to the second frequency hopping table. This can refer to updating the fixed frequency hopping table currently used by the first and second devices to the second frequency hopping table. Optionally, the second signaling is also used to instruct the effective time of the second frequency hopping table, that is, the time when the first and second devices update the fixed frequency hopping table to the second frequency hopping table, or the time when the first and second devices enable the second frequency hopping table, or the time when the second frequency hopping table becomes effective.

[0090] In one possible embodiment, after the second device receives the second signaling, the second device can send a response message to the first device. The response message can be used to indicate that the second signaling was successfully received. The second device receives the response message, and the first and second devices will update the fixed frequency hopping table to the second frequency hopping table. Thus, after the effective time of the second frequency hopping table, both the first and second devices will use the same second frequency hopping table.

[0091] Optionally, in other embodiments, the first device and the second device communicate using a fixed frequency table. Specifically, this may further include: the first device using the fixed frequency table to send data to the second device, and the second device using the fixed frequency table to receive data from the first device; or, the second device using the fixed frequency table to send data to the first device, and the first device using the fixed frequency table to receive data from the second device. That is, the first device and the second device can use the fixed frequency table for data transmission.

[0092] In practical applications, when the first device and the second device communicate using the fixed frequency table, the fixed frequency table can be used for control information transmission, data transmission, or both control information and data transmission. This application embodiment does not impose specific limitations on these aspects.

[0093] Furthermore, such as Figure 7 As shown, after S202b, the method further includes the following steps.

[0094] S203: If the second frequency hopping table is successfully updated, the first device and the second device communicate using the second frequency hopping table.

[0095] In this context, "successful update of the second frequency hopping table" can mean that both the first and second devices update their currently used frequency hopping tables to the second frequency hopping table. That is, after the effective time of the second frequency hopping table, both the first and second devices use the second frequency hopping table, meaning their frequency hopping tables are consistent. Therefore, the first and second devices perform frequency hopping based on the second frequency hopping table, thereby enabling communication between them.

[0096] In one possible embodiment, when the second frequency hopping point table is successfully updated, during the communication process between the first device and the second device using the second frequency hopping point table, the first device can generate a random number based on the synchronization sequence and time slot count, and remap the random number (for example, perform a modulo operation on the random number, specifically using the number of available frequency points included in the second frequency hopping point table to perform the modulo operation on the random number). Then, the remapping result is mapped to one of the multiple available frequency points included in the second frequency hopping point table to obtain the frequency hopping point (for example, if the modulo result is 3, then the third frequency point among the multiple available frequency points is the frequency hopping point). The first device can then use this frequency hopping point to transmit data with the second device. Similarly, the second device can also obtain the frequency hopping point according to the above process and use this frequency hopping point to transmit data with the first device. Since the first device and the second device use the same synchronization sequence and time slot count, the corresponding generated random numbers are the same, and the result of remapping the random numbers is the same. At the same time, the first device and the second device use the same second frequency hopping point table, so the mapped frequency hopping points are also the same. In this way, the first device and the second device can communicate on the frequency hopping point.

[0097] This example illustrates how the first and second devices communicate using a second frequency hopping table, determining the frequency hopping point and communicating on that frequency hopping point. The specific process of communication between the first and second devices using other frequency hopping tables is similar to the above description and will not be repeated here.

[0098] For ease of understanding, the following example uses a star-flash communication system, a G-node as the first device, and a T-node as the second device. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The technical solution of this application is illustrated with examples. Figure 8 Taking multiple available frequencies in the fixed frequency table as non-broadcast frequencies as an example Figure 9 Taking multiple available frequencies in the fixed frequency table as broadcast frequencies as an example.

[0099] In one example, such as Figure 8As shown, the method includes: node T sending a broadcast message to node G, the broadcast message carrying an agreed frequency hopping point, which can be an available non-broadcast frequency point; node G sending a scan access request to node T; node T sending a scan access response to node G; node G sending a first signaling instruction to node T indicating an update to a first frequency hopping point table, where node T does not provide a response, or node G does not receive a response from node T; in the event that the first frequency hopping point table update fails or the second duration timeout occurs, node G and node T update to the agreed frequency hopping point; node G sending a second signaling instruction to node T updating to a second frequency hopping point table; node G receiving a response from node T; and after the effective time of the second frequency hopping point table arrives, node G and node T communicating using the second frequency hopping point table.

[0100] In another example, such as Figure 9 As shown, the method includes: node T sending a broadcast message to node G, the broadcast message not carrying a fixed frequency point table, the fixed frequency point table being the broadcast frequency point; node G sending a scan access request to node T; node T sending a scan access response to node G; node G sending a first signaling to node T to update to the first hop frequency point table, node T not responding or node G not receiving a response from node T; in the event that the first hop frequency point table update fails or the second duration timeout occurs, node G and node T update to the broadcast frequency point; node G sending a second signaling to node T to update to the second hop frequency point table; node G receiving a response from node T; after the effective time of the second hop frequency point table arrives, node G and node T communicate using the second hop frequency point table.

[0101] In this embodiment, if the frequency hopping table update between the first device and the second device fails, the first device and the second device communicate using a fixed frequency table. This fixed frequency table includes multiple available frequencies and is pre-agreed upon. Thus, in the event of a frequency hopping table update failure, the first device and the second device can revert to the pre-agreed fixed frequency table, ensuring that they communicate using the same frequency table. This avoids link interruptions between the first and second devices, reduces system latency, enhances anti-interference capabilities, and improves system reliability and robustness. Furthermore, during communication using the fixed frequency table, the first device and the second device can continue updating the frequency hopping table through an update process, thereby avoiding prolonged communication using the fixed frequency table.

[0102] The above primarily describes the solutions provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of the interaction between the first device and the second device. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the first device and the second device include corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules for executing each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and algorithm steps 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 in 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.

[0103] This application embodiment can divide the first device and the second device into functional modules according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. The following description uses the division of functional modules according to each function as an example.

[0104] When using integrated units, Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a first communication device involved in the above embodiments is shown. The device can be a first device or a chip applied to a first device. The device includes a processing unit 301 and a communication unit 302. In one possible embodiment, the processing unit 301 can be used to support the device in generating one or more steps in the above method embodiments, such as generating a first signaling, a second signaling, or parsing indication information. The communication unit 302 can be used to support the device in executing one or more steps in the above method embodiments, such as S201a, S202, S202a, S230, or S200b. Optionally, the communication unit 302 may include a sending unit 3021 and a receiving unit 3022. The sending unit 3021 is used to support the device in performing a sending action, and the receiving unit 3022 is used to support the device in performing a receiving action. All related content of each step involved in the above method embodiments can be referred to in the functional description of the corresponding functional module, and will not be repeated here.

[0105] Based on hardware implementation, the processing unit 301 in this application embodiment can be the processor of the device, the sending unit 3021 can be the transmitter of the device, and the receiving unit 3022 can be the receiver of the device. The transmitter can usually be integrated with the receiver as a transceiver. The specific transceiver can also be called a communication interface or interface circuit.

[0106] like Figure 11 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of another first communication device involved in the above embodiments provided in this application. The device can be used as a first device or a chip applied to a first device. The device includes: a processor 312, a memory 311, a communication interface 313 and a bus 314. The processor 312, the memory 311 and the communication interface 313 are connected through the bus 314.

[0107] The processor 312 is used to control and manage the operation of the device. In one possible embodiment, the processor 312 can be used to support the device in generating one or more steps in the above method embodiments, such as generating the first signaling, the second signaling, or parsing indication information. The communication interface 313 is used to support the device in communication, such as supporting the device to communicate with a second device.

[0108] In this embodiment, processor 312 may be a central processing unit, a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. It can implement or execute various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. The processor may also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as a combination of one or more microprocessors, a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, etc. The bus 314 may include an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc.

[0109] When using integrated units, Figure 12A schematic diagram of a second communication device involved in the above embodiments is shown. This device can be a second device or a chip applied to a second device. The device includes a processing unit 401 and a communication unit 402. In one possible embodiment, the processing unit 401 can be used to support the device in parsing one or more steps in the above method embodiments, such as parsing the first or second signaling, or generating indication information. The communication unit 402 can be used to support the device in executing one or more steps in the above method embodiments, such as S201b, S202, S202b, S230, or S200a. Optionally, the communication unit 402 may include a receiving unit 4021 and a sending unit 4022. The receiving unit 4021 is used to support the device in performing a receiving action, and the sending unit 4022 is used to support the device in performing a sending action. All relevant content of each step involved in the above method embodiments can be referred to in the functional description of the corresponding functional module, and will not be repeated here.

[0110] Based on hardware implementation, the processing unit 401 in this application embodiment can be the processor of the device, the sending unit 4021 can be the transmitter of the device, and the receiving unit 4022 can be the receiver of the device. The transmitter can usually be integrated with the receiver as a transceiver. The specific transceiver can also be called a communication interface or interface circuit.

[0111] like Figure 13 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of another second communication device involved in the above embodiments provided in this application. The device can be used as a second device or a chip applied to a second device. The device includes: a processor 412, a memory 411, a communication interface 413 and a bus 414. The processor 412, the memory 411 and the communication interface 413 are connected through the bus 414.

[0112] The processor 412 is used to control and manage the operation of the device. In one possible embodiment, the processor 412 can be used to support the device in one or more steps such as parsing the first or second signaling in the above method embodiments, or generating indication information. The communication interface 413 is used to support the device in communication, such as supporting the device to communicate with a first device.

[0113] In this embodiment, processor 412 may be a central processing unit, a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. It can implement or execute various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. The processor may also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as a combination of one or more microprocessors, a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, etc. The bus 414 may include an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc.

[0114] In another embodiment of this application, a communication system is provided, which includes a first device and a second device; wherein the first device may be or include the aforementioned Figure 10 or Figure 11 The provided apparatus is used to perform the steps of the first device in the method embodiments described above; the second device may be or include the steps described above. Figure 12 or Figure 13 The provided apparatus is used to perform the steps of the second device in the method embodiments provided above.

[0115] It is understood that all relevant content of each step involved in the above method embodiments can be referenced in the embodiments of the communication device and the embodiments of the communication system, and will not be repeated here.

[0116] 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 merely 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 apparatus, or some features may be ignored or not executed.

[0117] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. A component shown as a unit can be one or more physical units; that is, it can be located in one place or distributed in multiple different locations. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0118] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium. This readable storage medium may include various media capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, external hard drive, read-only memory, random access memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the embodiments of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product.

[0119] In another embodiment of this application, a readable storage medium is also provided, which stores computer-executable instructions that are executed by a device (which may be a microcontroller, chip, etc.) or a processor when executing the steps of the first device in the above method embodiment.

[0120] In another embodiment of this application, a readable storage medium is also provided, which stores computer-executable instructions when a device (which may be a microcontroller, chip, etc.) or processor executes the steps of the second device in the above method embodiment.

[0121] In another embodiment of this application, a computer program product is also provided, the computer program product including computer instructions that, when executed by at least one processor of a device, cause the device to perform the steps of the first device in the above method embodiment.

[0122] In another embodiment of this application, a computer program product is also provided, the computer program product including computer instructions that, when executed by at least one processor of a device, cause the device to perform the steps of the second device in the above method embodiment.

[0123] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations 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: The first device sends a first signaling message to the second device, the first signaling message being used to instruct the frequency hopping point table between the first device and the second device to be updated to the first frequency hopping point table; If the first frequency hopping table update fails, the first device uses a fixed frequency table to communicate with the second device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first device receives a broadcast message from the second device, the broadcast message being used to indicate the fixed frequency point table.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The fixed frequency table includes broadcast frequencies.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The fixed frequency point table includes the frequency points at both ends of the communication channel between the first device and the second device.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The first device communicates with the second device using a fixed frequency point table, including: The first device sends a second signaling message to the second device using the fixed frequency point table. The second signaling message is used to instruct the frequency hopping table between the first device and the second device to be updated to a second frequency hopping table.

6. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: The second device receives a first signaling from the first device, the first signaling being used to instruct the frequency hopping point table between the first device and the second device to be updated to the first frequency hopping point table; If the first frequency hopping table update fails, the second device uses a fixed frequency table to communicate with the first device.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second device sends a broadcast message, which is used to indicate the fixed frequency point table.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The fixed frequency table includes broadcast frequencies.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6-8, characterized in that, The fixed frequency point table includes the frequency points at both ends of the communication channel between the first device and the second device.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6-9, characterized in that, The second device communicates with the first device using a fixed frequency list, including: The second device uses the fixed frequency point table to receive a second signaling from the first device, the second signaling being used to instruct the frequency hopping table between the first device and the second device to be updated to a second frequency hopping table.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes: A communication unit is configured to send a first signaling message to a second device, the first signaling message being configured to instruct the frequency hopping point table between the first device and the second device to be updated to a first frequency hopping point table; The processing unit is used to determine that the first frequency hopping table update has failed; The communication unit is further configured to communicate with the second device using a fixed frequency table if the first frequency hopping table update fails.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The communication unit is also used for: Receive a broadcast message from the second device, the broadcast message being used to indicate the fixed frequency point table.

13. The apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The fixed frequency table includes broadcast frequencies.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The fixed frequency point table includes the frequency points at both ends of the communication channel between the first device and the second device.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 11-14, characterized in that, The communication unit is also used for: The fixed frequency point table is used to send a second signaling to the second device, the second signaling being used to instruct the frequency hopping table between the first device and the second device to be updated to a second frequency hopping table.

16. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes: The communication unit is configured to receive a first signaling from a first device, the first signaling being configured to instruct the frequency hopping point table between the first device and the second device to be updated to the first frequency hopping point table; The processing unit is used to determine that the first frequency hopping table update has failed; The communication unit is further configured to allow the second device to communicate with the first device using a fixed frequency table if the first frequency hopping table update fails.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that, The communication unit is also used for: Send a broadcast message, which is used to indicate the fixed frequency point table.

18. The apparatus according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The fixed frequency table includes broadcast frequencies.

19. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16-18, characterized in that, The fixed frequency point table includes the frequency points at both ends of the communication channel between the first device and the second device.

20. The apparatus according to any one of claims 16-19, characterized in that, The communication unit is also used for: The fixed frequency point table is used to receive a second signaling from the first device, the second signaling being used to instruct the frequency hopping table between the first device and the second device to be updated to a second frequency hopping table.

21. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a processor and a memory, the memory storing instructions that, when the processor executes the instructions in the memory, cause the device to perform the communication method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

22. A readable storage medium, characterized in that, The readable storage medium stores instructions that, when executed on the device, cause the device to perform the communication method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

23. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes a computer program that, when executed by a device, causes the device to perform the communication method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

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