Communication method, communication device, communication system, chip system, program product and storage medium

Abstract

The application provides a communication method, a communication device, a communication system, a chip system, a program product and a storage medium, relates to the technical field of communication, and is beneficial to saving communication resources. In the method, the second communication device determines and transmits first indication information, the first indication information is used for indicating target synchronization signal and physical broadcast channel blocks (SSBs) associated with physical random access channel (PRACH) resources, the at least one SSB is an SSB that can be received by the first communication device, there is an SSB without associated PRACH resources in the at least one SSB, and in the case where the number of target SSBs is multiple, all or part of the target SSBs cover different areas; and the first communication device receives the first indication information and selects the PRACH resources based on the first indication information to perform initial access or random access.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to a communication method, communication device, communication system, chip system, program product, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] In wireless communication networks, initial access / random access is a crucial step in establishing communication between a terminal device and access network equipment. During initial access / random access, the network needs to allocate necessary resources to the terminal device so that it can initiate access and establish a reliable communication link, thereby enabling subsequent data transmission and service access.

[0003] During the initial access / random access process, the terminal device first needs to scan the synchronization signal and physical broadcast channel block (SSB) sent by the access network device to obtain cell synchronization information. Based on the SSB, it further obtains uplink resources for access. In related technologies, each SSB sent by the access network device is associated with related resources. However, in some high-density coverage scenarios, such as user-centric cell-free (UCCF) networks, when there are different SSBs sent by multiple access network devices covering the same area, associating each SSB with corresponding resources will cause a certain amount of resource waste. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method, communication device, communication system, chip system, program product, and storage medium, with the aim of saving communication resources.

[0005] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided, which can be applied to a first communication device. The method includes: receiving first indication information, the first indication information being used to indicate at least one synchronization signal and a target SSB associated with a Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) resource in a Physical Broadcast Channel Block (SSB), wherein the at least one SSB is an SSB that the first communication device can receive, and among the at least one SSB there is an SSB that is not associated with a PRACH resource, and when there are multiple target SSBs, all or some of the target SSBs cover different areas; and selecting a PRACH resource for initial access or random access based on the first indication information.

[0006] In this embodiment, at least one SSB covering the first communication device contains an SSB that is not associated with PRACH resources, while all or part of the target SSBs associated with PRACH resources cover different areas. That is, if the first communication device is in a scenario where multiple SSBs are repeatedly covered, the target SSBs associated with PRACH resources are not covered repeatedly or are only partially covered repeatedly. Compared with the related technology, which also associates PRACH resources with each SSB in this scenario, the method provided by this embodiment is beneficial to reducing resource waste.

[0007] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, at least one SSB includes a first SSB and a second SSB, and one or more of the transmit power, target receive power, or beamforming gain of the first SSB and the second SSB are different.

[0008] It should be understood that if the first SSB and the second SSB differ in one or more of their transmit power, target receive power, or beamforming gain, it can be understood that the first SSB and the second SSB originate from different communication devices, or that at least one SSB may include SSBs originating from different communication devices. This application does not specifically limit the number of first SSBs and second SSBs in its embodiments.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB and the index of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB.

[0010] In this embodiment of the application, the first indication information can directly indicate the index of the target SSB associated with the PRACH resource and the index of the corresponding PRACH resource. In this way, the first communication device can obtain the PRACH resource location by decoding the first indication information, which is beneficial for the first communication device to quickly obtain resources and improve the efficiency of initial access or random access.

[0011] In some implementations, the first indication information also includes the index of the preamble corresponding to the index of the PRACH resource, which is used for random access.

[0012] It should be understood that during random access, the first communication device can achieve random access by sending a preamble on the PRACH. In this embodiment, the first indication information may also include the index of the preamble corresponding to the index of the PRACH resource. In this way, the first communication device can obtain the preamble or the range of preambles it can use by decoding the first indication information, and select a suitable preamble for transmission, which is beneficial to the resolution of contention during the random access process.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, the first time-frequency range of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB, and the mapping method of the target SSB on the PRACH resource.

[0014] The first time-frequency range can be understood as the time-frequency range of all PRACH resources corresponding to the target SSB.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first indication information includes an index of the target SSB, and the method further includes: receiving second indication information, the second indication information including a second time-frequency range of the PRACH resource and a mapping method of at least one SSB on the PRACH resource.

[0016] The second time-frequency range can be understood as the time-frequency range of all PRACH resources corresponding to at least one SSB. The second time-frequency range can be greater than or equal to the first time-frequency range.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, at least one of the SSBs includes third indication information, which is used to indicate whether any SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. If any SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, the target SSB includes any SSB.

[0018] In this embodiment, any one of the at least one SSBs may include third indication information. The third indication information is used to indicate whether the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. In this way, if the first communication device decodes that the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, it can further determine whether to use the PRACH resource corresponding to the current SSB for access. This helps to avoid invalid attempts on SSBs that are not associated with PRACH resources and improves access efficiency. If the SSB is decoded to be not associated with a PRACH resource, the subsequent signals of the SSB do not need to be scanned, which helps to save the energy consumption of the first communication device.

[0019] In some implementations, the third indication information is indicated by the primary synchronization signal PSS, the secondary synchronization signal SSS, the main information block MIB in the physical broadcast signal PBCH, or the demodulation reference signal DMRS in the physical broadcast signal PBCH.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the index of the target SSB is indicated by any of the following methods: list, enumeration, or bitmap.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first instruction information is included in System Information Block 1 (SIB1).

[0022] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided, applied to a second communication device, the communication method comprising: determining first indication information, the first indication information being used to indicate at least one synchronization signal and a target SSB associated with a Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) resource in a Physical Broadcast Channel Block (SSB), wherein at least one SSB is an SSB that the first communication device can receive, and among the at least one SSB there is an SSB that is not associated with a PRACH resource, and when there are multiple target SSBs, all or some of the target SSBs cover different areas; and transmitting the first indication information.

[0023] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, at least one SSB includes a first SSB and a second SSB, and one or more of the transmit power, target receive power, or beamforming gain of the first SSB and the second SSB are different.

[0024] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB and the index of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB.

[0025] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first indication information also includes the index of the preamble corresponding to the index of the PRACH resource, the preamble being used for random access.

[0026] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, the first time-frequency range of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB, and the mapping method of the target SSB on the PRACH resource.

[0027] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, and the method further includes: sending second indication information, the second indication information including the second time-frequency range of the PRACH resource and the mapping method of the SSB on the PRACH resource.

[0028] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, at least one of the SSBs includes third indication information, which is used to indicate whether any SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. If any SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, the target SSB includes any SSB.

[0029] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the third indication information is indicated by the main synchronization signal PSS, the auxiliary synchronization signal SSS, the main information block MIB in the physical broadcast signal PBCH, or the demodulation reference signal DMRS in the physical broadcast signal PBCH.

[0030] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the index of the target SSB is indicated by any of the following methods: list, enumeration, or bitmap.

[0031] Thirdly, a communication device is provided. In one design, the device may include modules that perform the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the first aspect or any of the embodiments of the first aspect. The modules may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0032] Fourthly, a communication device is provided. In one design, the device may include modules that perform the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the second aspect or any of the embodiments of the second aspect. The modules may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0033] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, including a processor. The processor can implement the methods of the first aspect, the second aspect, and any possible implementation of the first and second aspects described above. Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory, and the processor is coupled to the memory and can be used to execute instructions in the memory to implement the methods of the first aspect, the second aspect, and any possible implementation of the first and second aspects described above. Optionally, the communication device further includes a communication interface, and the processor is coupled to the communication interface. In the embodiments of this application, the communication interface can be a transceiver, a pin, a circuit, a bus, a module, or other types of communication interface, and is not limited thereto.

[0034] In one implementation, the communication device is a communication equipment (such as a first communication device or a second communication device). When the communication device is a communication equipment, the communication interface can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface.

[0035] In another implementation, the communication device is a chip configured within a communication device. When the communication device is a chip configured within a communication device, the communication interface can be an input / output interface.

[0036] Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0037] A sixth aspect provides a processor, comprising: an input circuit, an output circuit, and a processing circuit. The processing circuit is configured to receive signals through the input circuit and transmit signals through the output circuit, causing the processor to execute the methods described in the first aspect, the second aspect, and any possible implementation thereof.

[0038] In specific implementation, the processor can be one or more chips, the input circuit can be input pins, the output circuit can be output pins, and the processing circuit can be transistors, gate circuits, flip-flops, and various logic circuits. The input signal received by the input circuit can be received and input by, for example, but not limited to, a receiver, and the signal output by the output circuit can be, for example, but not limited to, output to and transmitted by a transmitter. Furthermore, the input circuit and the output circuit can be the same circuit, which is used as both the input circuit and the output circuit at different times. This application does not limit the specific implementation of the processor and various circuits.

[0039] In a seventh aspect, a computer program product is provided, comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when executed, causes a computer to perform the methods described in the first aspect, the second aspect, and any possible implementation thereof.

[0040] Eighthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods of the first aspect, the second aspect, and any possible implementation thereof.

[0041] Ninth aspect, a chip system is provided, the chip system being applied to an electronic device, the chip system including one or more processors, the one or more processors being configured to invoke computer instructions to cause the electronic device to perform the methods of the first aspect, the second aspect, and any possible implementation thereof.

[0042] In a tenth aspect, a communication system is provided, comprising at least one first communication device and at least one second communication device as described above.

[0043] It should be understood that the beneficial effects of the features corresponding to the first aspect in the second to tenth aspects can be referred to the relevant description of the first aspect above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This application provides a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system.

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 3 A schematic flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 4A schematic diagram illustrating a mapping method between SSB and PRACH resources provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating another mapping method between SSB and PRACH resources provided in this application embodiment;

[0049] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0052] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points will be explained first:

[0053] In this application, "instruction" can include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, and implicit instruction. When describing a certain instruction information for the purpose of instructing A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, directly instructs A, or indirectly instructs A.

[0054] In this application, " / " can indicate that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can mean A or B. "And / or" can be used to describe three relationships between the related objects. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. A and B can be singular or plural.

[0055] In this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more, such as three, four, or more. Similar expressions (such as at least one, at least one, etc.) are used in the same way. "At least one of the following," "one or more of the following," or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, which may include only a single item or a combination of multiple items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can mean: a, or b, or c; a and b; or a and c; or b and c; or a, b, and c. Where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0056] In this application, for the convenience of describing the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" may be used to distinguish them. The terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" are not necessarily different.

[0057] In this application, the words "exemplary," "example," or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary," "example," or "for example" should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. The use of the words "exemplary," "example," or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner to facilitate understanding.

[0058] In this application, "sending information / data" only indicates the direction of information / data transmission, including direct transmission via the device's communication interface (such as an air interface, or simply air interface). "Sending" can also be understood as the "output" of a module interface. "Sending" can include indirect transmission by the processing unit through the communication interface, meaning that after the processing unit outputs information / data through the module interface, it is transmitted to the device's communication interface and then sent out. "Receiving information / data" only indicates the direction of information / data transmission, including direct reception via the communication interface. "Receiving" can also be understood as the "input" of a module interface. "Receiving information / data" can include indirect reception by the processing unit through the communication interface, meaning that after the communication interface receives information / data, it is transmitted to the processing unit's module interface and then input to the processing unit. "Sending information / data to… (e.g., a terminal)" can be understood as the destination of the information being the terminal. It can include sending information / data directly or indirectly to the terminal. "Receiving information / data from… (e.g., a terminal)" can be understood as the source of the information being the terminal, and can include receiving information / data directly or indirectly from the terminal. Information / data may undergo necessary processing, such as format changes, between the source and destination, but the destination can understand the valid information / data from the source. Similar statements in this application can be understood in a similar way, and will not be repeated here.

[0059] The technical solutions of this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as: Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, 5th Generation (5G) communication systems, satellite communication systems, Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) systems, and the solutions provided in this application can also be applied to future communication systems or other communication systems. This application does not limit these applications.

[0060] Figure 1 An exemplary schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system 100 applicable to this application is shown. Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a possible, non-limiting system architecture is shown. (e.g.) Figure 1As shown, the communication system 100 may include a transmission reception point (TRP) 1, TRP 2 and TRP 3, as well as user equipment (UE) 1 and UE 2, etc. This application does not specifically limit the number of TRPs and the number of terminal devices in the communication system 100.

[0061] In this communication system 100, multiple TRPs in the network dynamically cooperate to form user-centric coverage, which can be called a user-centric virtual cell. When a UE moves, its virtual cell can move with it. Some current TRPs may move out of their virtual cell, while some new TRPs will be added. During this process, the system can dynamically update the TRPs serving the UE based on real-time signal measurements or simple predictions of the UE's movement.

[0062] When a UE performs initial access / random access, it can scan the SSBs sent by the TRP serving its virtual cell to obtain basic network information, and further send uplink requests based on the channel resources associated with the SSBs to access the network.

[0063] Optionally, the TRP in the communication system 100 may include anchor TRP and capacity TRP. In some implementations, the anchor TRP serves as the primary transmission receiving point, playing a role in stable coverage, control, and management, while the capacity TRP serves as an auxiliary transmission receiving point, used to improve the user's data transmission rate and capacity.

[0064] For example, TRP 1 can be called anchor TRP, and TRP 2 and TRP 3 can both be called capacity TRP, but this application does not specifically limit them.

[0065] Alternatively, the communication system 100 may be referred to as a user-centric cell-free (UCCF) system.

[0066] Optionally, the communication system 100 may also include one or more central processing units (CPUs), which are connected to one or more TRPs in the communication system via optical fiber or radio resources. Furthermore, the CPUs may be used to perform computing and communication functions with the core network.

[0067] In some implementations, the TRP in the aforementioned communication system 100 can be an entity or access node in a cellular system related to the 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP), such as a 4G, 5G mobile communication system, or a future-oriented evolution system. It can also be an entity or access node in an open RAN (O-RAN or ORAN), cloud radio access network (CRAN), or wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) system. Alternatively, it can be an entity or access node in a communication system that integrates two or more of the above systems.

[0068] The multiple TRP nodes in the communication system 100 can be nodes of the same type or nodes of different types.

[0069] In one possible scenario, the TRP in the aforementioned communication system 100 can be a base station (BS), an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), an access point (AP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB), a next-generation base station in a 6G mobile communication system, a base station in a future mobile communication system, or an access node in a WiFi system. It can also be a macro base station, micro base station, indoor station, relay node, master node, or a radio controller in a CRAN scenario. Furthermore, it can be a server, wearable device, vehicle, or in-vehicle equipment, such as access network equipment in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology, or a roadside unit (RSU).

[0070] In another possible scenario, the TRP in the aforementioned communication system 100 can include a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU), etc. The CU and DU can be set up separately, or they can be 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 a remote radio unit (RRU), an active antenna unit (AAU), or a remote radio head (RRH).

[0071] 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 modules and hardware modules.

[0072] In one possible implementation, such as in an ORAN architecture, the TRP in the aforementioned communication system 100 may also include a Radio Access Network Intelligent Controller (RIC). Figure 2 An example of a possible TRP structure 200 under the ORAN architecture is shown.

[0073] Optionally, RIC may also include near-real-time RIC (near-RT RIC) and non-real-time RIC (non-RT RIC).

[0074] In some implementations, near real-time RICs can be used for model training and inference. For example, they can be used to train artificial intelligence (AI) models and then used for inference. A near real-time RIC can obtain network-side and / or terminal-side information from access network nodes (e.g., CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and / or RU) and / or terminal devices. This information can be used as training data or inference data. Optionally, the near real-time RIC can also deliver inference results to access network nodes and / or terminals. Furthermore, inference results can be exchanged between CUs and DUs, and / or between DUs and RUs. For example, the near real-time RIC delivers inference results to the DU, and the DU sends them to the RU.

[0075] In other implementations, non-real-time RICs can also be used for model training and inference. For example, they can be used to train AI models and then used for inference. Non-real-time RICs can also obtain network-side and / or terminal-side information from access network nodes (e.g., CUs, CU-CPs, CU-UPs, DUs, and / or RUs) and / or terminals. This information can be used as training data or inference data, and the inference results can be delivered to the access network nodes and / or terminals. Inference results can be exchanged between CUs and DUs, and / or between DUs and RUs; for example, a non-real-time RIC delivers inference results to a DU, which then forwards them to an RU.

[0076] Optionally, near real-time RIC and non-real-time RIC can be set up separately as a network element, or they can be part of other devices. For example, near real-time RIC can be set up in access network nodes (e.g., in CU and / or DU), while non-real-time RIC can be set up in Operation Administration and Maintenance (OAM) network elements, cloud servers, core network devices, or other network devices.

[0077] The user equipment (UE) in the aforementioned communication system 100 can also be referred to as terminal equipment, mobile station, mobile terminal, etc. Terminals can be widely used in various scenarios, such as device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, augmented reality, industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, smart cities, etc. Terminals can be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, wearable devices, vehicles, drones, helicopters, airplanes, ships, robots, robotic arms, smart home devices, etc.

[0078] The communication devices involved in the embodiments of this application can be hardware devices, software functions running on dedicated hardware, or software functions running on general-purpose hardware. For example, they can be virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). Alternatively, they can be entities that include dedicated or general-purpose hardware devices and software functions. This application does not limit the specific form of each device.

[0079] To better understand the methods provided in the embodiments of this application, the terms involved in this application will be briefly explained below.

[0080] 1. Synchronization signal and physical broadcast channel block (SSB)

[0081] For example, in 5G NR, the UE can obtain the physical cell ID and achieve downlink synchronization in the time and frequency domains by detecting the SSB. The SSB mainly includes: Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS), Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), and Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH).

[0082] The PSS (Pre-Synchronization Sequence) is used for initial synchronization in the 5G network, helping the User Equipment (UE) identify and synchronize with a specific 5G base station. The SSS (Synchronization Sequence) provides additional synchronization information and assists the UE in obtaining key information such as cell group identity. The PBCH (Public Branch Module) carries system broadcast information, such as the Master Information Block (MIB), which is crucial for the UE to access the network and obtain network configuration. In addition, the PBCH also includes a DeModulation Reference Signal (DMRS) for related demodulation of the PBCH channel.

[0083] Furthermore, the MIB may also contain the location information of System Information Block Type 1 (SIB 1).

[0084] 2. Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH)

[0085] PRACH is a physical channel used to carry the random access preamble. It is the access channel used by a user equipment (UE) when initiating a call or uplink transmission. The main function of PRACH is to process random access requests, ensuring that the UE can successfully establish a connection with the base station and conduct subsequent data communication. For example, during random access, the UE sends an access request to the base station by transmitting a preamble signal on PRACH, and the base station responds with an access response based on the received preamble signal.

[0086] 3. Initial access procedure / Random access procedure

[0087] Initial access refers to the function and process by which a UE initially finds a cell and establishes a connection when entering a network coverage area. This usually occurs when the device is powered on for the first time or re-enters the network after a long period of inactivity.

[0088] Random access is a process in which a UE requests a connection or resource based on an existing connection in order to meet specific communication needs, such as radio resource control (RRC) connection establishment (UE transitioning from idle to connected state), RRC reconnection when radio link fails, cell handover, and uplink / downlink data arrival.

[0089] It should be understood that both the initial access procedure and the random access procedure require the UE to scan and receive SSBs to obtain uplink resources and initiate a connection request. The main difference lies in their applicable scenarios. The following uses the random access procedure as an example to illustrate its main steps.

[0090] The random access process mainly includes the following steps:

[0091] 1) UE scans and receives SSBs: The UE first obtains basic base station information by scanning the SSBs in the network, including frequency, timing synchronization, and system information carried in the Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH). The SSB provides the UE with basic information for synchronization with the base station, which is a prerequisite for random access.

[0092] 2) UE transmits preamble based on PRACH: Based on SSB, the UE selects the appropriate access timing and PRACH resources associated with SSB, generates a preamble signal and sends it to the access network equipment through the PRACH channel.

[0093] Optionally, the preamble signal is a short-term Zadoff-Chu sequence with good autocorrelation and cross-correlation properties, which helps access network devices accurately detect access requests.

[0094] 3) Access network device sends random access response (RAR): After receiving the preamble signal sent by the UE, the access network device sends a random access response message (RAR) to the UE to inform the UE whether the preamble was successfully sent and allocate the corresponding uplink resources.

[0095] Random access can be divided into contention-based random access (CBRA) and contention-free random access (CFRA). In the contention-based random access process, since multiple UEs may use the same preamble sequence, a conflict may occur. Therefore, the access network equipment needs to resolve the conflict before sending the random access response.

[0096] 4) RRC Connection Establishment: After successfully receiving the RAR, the UE sends an RRC connection request message according to the allocated resources. The base station confirms the request and completes the RRC connection establishment. At this point, the UE successfully accesses the network and can proceed with subsequent communication and data transmission.

[0097] In related technologies, each SSB received by the terminal device is associated with a different PRACH resource. For example, in conjunction with... Figure 1In the illustrated communication system 100, within a virtual cell centered on UE 1, UE 1 can receive multiple SSBs from TRP 2 and TRP 1. Similarly, within a virtual cell centered on UE 2, UE 2 can receive multiple SSBs from TRP 1 and TRP 3. If multiple SSBs are associated with PRACH resources, taking UE 1 as an example, UE 1 is located in an area covered by both TRP 2's and TRP 1's SSBs. However, if the SSBs from TRP 1 and TRP 2 are associated with different PRACH resources, this is unnecessary for UE 1 and would result in resource waste to some extent. The same applies to UE 2.

[0098] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, a communication device, a communication system, a chip system, a program product, and a storage medium. A first communication device receives first indication information, which is used to indicate at least one target SSB associated with PRACH resources. The at least one SSB is an SSB that can be received by the first communication device (which can also be understood as UE 1 or UE 2 in the communication system 100), and there are SSBs that are not associated with PRACH resources among the at least one SSB. When there are multiple target SSBs, all or part of the SSBs in the target SSBs cover different areas, so that the first communication device can use the PRACH resources associated with the SSB indicated by the first indication information for initial access or random access. In this way, at least one SSB covering the first communication device contains an SSB that is not associated with PRACH resources, while all or part of the target SSBs associated with PRACH resources cover different areas. That is, if the first communication device is in a scenario where multiple SSBs are repeatedly covered, the target SSBs associated with PRACH resources are not covered repeatedly or are only partially covered repeatedly. Compared with the related technology, which also associates PRACH resources with each SSB in this scenario, the method provided by the embodiments of this application is beneficial to reducing the waste of resources.

[0099] The following is combined with Figures 3 to 5 This application provides a detailed description of the communication method provided. The embodiments shown in this application illustrate the communication method from the perspective of device interaction. The specific form and number of devices shown are merely examples and should not be construed as limiting the implementation of the method provided in this application.

[0100] It should be understood that the first and second communication devices involved in this application can be the device itself, or a chip, chip system or processor that supports the communication device in implementing the communication method provided in this application, or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the communication method. This application does not make any specific limitations in this regard.

[0101] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a communication method 300 provided in an embodiment of this application. This method 300 can be applied to... Figure 1 The communication system 100 shown. Method 300 specifically includes the following steps:

[0102] S301. The second communication device determines first indication information. The first indication information is used to indicate at least one target SSB in a synchronization signal and physical broadcast channel block (SSB) that is associated with physical random access channel (PRACH) resources. At least one SSB is an SSB that the first communication device can receive. Among the at least one SSB, there is an SSB that is not associated with PRACH resources. When there are multiple target SSBs, all or some of the target SSBs cover different areas.

[0103] S302, the second communication device sends the first instruction information; correspondingly, the first communication device receives the first instruction information.

[0104] S303, The first communication device selects PRACH resources for initial access or random access based on the first indication information.

[0105] It should be understood that when there are multiple target SSBs, there are also multiple at least one SSB, and the number of at least one SSB is greater than or equal to the number of target SSBs. "When there are multiple target SSBs, all or some of the target SSBs cover different areas" can be understood as all the target SSBs covering different areas, or some of the target SSBs covering different areas while others cover the same area; this application does not specifically limit this.

[0106] Optionally, the first communication device may be UE 1 or UE 2 in the communication system 100, and the second communication device may be TRP 1, TRP 2 or TRP 3 in the communication system 100. This application does not make specific limitations on this.

[0107] In this embodiment, a first communication device receives first indication information, which indicates at least one target SSB associated with PRACH resources. The at least one SSB is one that the first communication device can receive, and some of these SSBs are not associated with PRACH resources. When there are multiple target SSBs, all or some of these target SSBs cover different areas, allowing the first communication device to utilize the PRACH resources associated with the SSBs indicated by the first indication information for initial or random access. Thus, among the at least one SSB covering the first communication device, there are SSBs not associated with PRACH resources, while all or some of the target SSBs associated with PRACH resources cover different areas. In other words, if the first communication device is in a scenario where multiple SSBs overlap, the target SSBs associated with PRACH resources do not overlap completely or only partially overlap. Compared to related technologies where each SSB is associated with PRACH resources in this scenario, the method provided in this embodiment helps reduce resource waste.

[0108] As an optional embodiment, at least one SSB includes a first SSB and a second SSB, and the first SSB and the second SSB differ in one or more of their transmit power, target receive power, or beamforming gain.

[0109] It should be understood that if the first SSB and the second SSB differ in one or more of their transmit power, target receive power, or beamforming gain, it can be interpreted as the first SSB and the second SSB originating from different communication devices. Alternatively, it can be understood that at least one SSB may include SSBs originating from different communication devices. This application does not specifically limit the number of first SSBs and second SSBs in its embodiments.

[0110] Optionally, at least one SSB may also include a third SSB, a fourth SSB, etc., which means that at least one SSB may include SSBs from multiple different communication devices. This application does not make any specific limitation in this regard.

[0111] For example, at least one SSB may come from a second communication device and at least one third communication device, the third communication device having a similar function to the second communication device. Taking the first communication device as UE 1 in the communication system 100, the second communication device may be, for example, TRP 1, and one of the at least one third communication device may be, for example, TRP 2.

[0112] It should also be understood that the embodiments of this application do not specifically limit which communication device the SSB that is not associated with PRACH resources in at least one SSB comes from. The method in which some SSBs in at least one SSB are associated with PRACH resources while some SSBs are not associated with PRACH resources is also beneficial to the load of each communication device that sends SSBs in the communication system. Furthermore, the fact that all or some of the SSBs in the target SSB associated with PRACH resources cover different areas is also beneficial to saving energy consumption of each communication device.

[0113] The following details the specific indication methods for the first indication information, which may include the following four types.

[0114] Method 1: The first indication information includes the index of the target SSB and the index of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB.

[0115] Optionally, PRACH resources can be described as PRACH Occasions (PO) or Random Access Channel Occasions (RO), and this application does not specifically limit them.

[0116] In this embodiment of the application, the first indication information can directly indicate the index of the target SSB associated with the PRACH resource and the index of the corresponding PRACH resource. In this way, the first communication device can obtain the PRACH resource location by decoding the first indication information, which is beneficial for the first communication device to quickly obtain resources and improve the efficiency of initial access or random access.

[0117] Optionally, the index of the target SSB can be indicated by a list, an enumeration, or a bitmap.

[0118] Optionally, the index of the PRACH resource can be the time-frequency index (or time-frequency location) of one or more POs (or ROs) corresponding to each SSB in the target SSB, for example... Figure 4 As shown, the first indication information can directly indicate the location of the PRACH resources corresponding to SSB 0, SSB 1 and SSB 2 that are associated with PRACH resources.

[0119] Based on Method 1, the first indication information may also include the index of the preamble corresponding to the index of the PRACH resource, and the preamble is used for random access.

[0120] It should be understood that during random access, the first communication device can achieve random access by sending a preamble on the PRACH. In this embodiment, the first indication information may also include the index of the preamble corresponding to the index of the PRACH resource. In this way, the first communication device can obtain the preamble or the range of preambles it can use by decoding the first indication information, and select a suitable preamble for transmission, which is beneficial to the resolution of contention during the random access process.

[0121] Method 2: The first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, the first time-frequency range of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB, and the mapping method of the target SSB on the PRACH resource.

[0122] The first time-frequency range can be understood as the time-frequency range of all PRACH resources corresponding to the target SSB.

[0123] In some implementations, the mapping method of the target SSB on PRACH resources may include the number of ROs corresponding to each SSB, and the mapping method of the target SSB on PRACH resources in the first time-frequency range. This mapping method may be an implicit indication, such as one that is agreed upon by the protocol and does not need to be indicated in the communication signaling, or it may be an explicit indication, such as one included in the first indication information.

[0124] Optionally, the first indication information may include the parameter b-PerRACH-OccasionAndCB-PreamblesPerSSB to indicate how many ROs / POs correspond to one SSB. The mapping order of the target SSB on the PRACH resource may be, for example: ① When PRACH FDM is configured (i.e., multiple PRACH Occasions in the frequency domain), the frequency domain index is incremented; ② When multiple PRACH Occasions are configured within a PRACH time slot, the index within the PRACH time slot is incremented; ③ When multiple PRACH time slots are configured, the PRACH time slot index is incremented.

[0125] For example, b-PerRACH-OccasionAndCB-PreamblesPerSSB=1 / 8, meaning one SSB is mapped to 8 ROs. The index of the target SSB associated with the PRACH resource is 0, 1, indicating that there are 2 target SSBs. If PRACHFDM=4 is configured, then according to the above mapping method, the correspondence between the target SSB and the PRACH resource can be as follows: Figure 5 As shown in the diagram.

[0126] Method 3: The first indication information includes the index of the target SSB.

[0127] Optionally, the first communication device also receives second indication information, which includes a second time-frequency range of the PRACH resource and a mapping method of at least one SSB on the PRACH resource. Alternatively, the content of the second indication information may be agreed upon by the protocol.

[0128] The second time-frequency range can be understood as the time-frequency range of all PRACH resources corresponding to at least one SSB. The second time-frequency range can be greater than or equal to the first time-frequency range. The mapping method of at least one SSB on PRACH resources can be similar to the mapping method of the target SSB on PRACH resources, and will not be elaborated here.

[0129] In some implementations, the related technologies already have second indication information. In the embodiments of this application, the index of the target SSB can be indicated by the first indication information, so that the first communication device can determine the resource corresponding to the target SSB based on the second time-frequency range of the PRACH resource indicated in the related technologies and the mapping method of at least one SSB on the PRACH resource. This method is beneficial to save the signaling overhead of the first communication device and the second communication device.

[0130] Method 4: Based on the first indication information indicated by any one of the methods 1 to 3 above, any one of the at least one SSB may include the third indication information. The third indication information is used to indicate whether the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. If the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, the target SSB includes the SSB.

[0131] In one possible implementation, the first indication information may be included in System Information Block Type 1 (SIB 1). For example, a parameter ssbRachMappingList or a parameter ssbRachIndicator may be added to SIB1 to indicate the association between the SSB index and the Rach Occasion, and the location of SIB 1 may be contained within the SSB. Therefore, the first communication device can obtain the location of SIB 1 and receive SIB 1 at that location after decoding at least one SSB.

[0132] In this embodiment, any one of the at least one SSBs may include third indication information. The third indication information is used to indicate whether the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. In this way, if the first communication device decodes that the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, it can further determine whether to use the current SSB for access. This helps to avoid invalid attempts on SSBs that are not associated with PRACH resources and improves access efficiency. If the SSB is decoded to be not associated with a PRACH resource, the subsequent signals of the SSB are not scanned, which helps to save the energy consumption of the first communication device.

[0133] Optionally, if the first communication device decodes that the SSB is not associated with PRACH resources, the SSB can be used for beam management, target detection, etc., and this application does not make specific limitations in this regard.

[0134] In some implementations, the indication methods for third-party indication information can include the following four types.

[0135] Method 1: Indicated by the preset flag bit in the Master Information Block (MIB) of the Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH).

[0136] In one implementation, existing flag bits in the MIB can be used to indicate whether the SSB is associated with PRACH resources. For example, in some scenarios (such as the UCCF scenario), the concept of a cell may not exist, and cell-related parameters such as cellBarred can be redefined to indicate whether the SSB is associated with PRACH resources. In this way, it is not necessary to add new flag bits to indicate the third indication information, which helps to save bits occupied by the MIB and also saves signaling overhead of the first communication device and / or the second communication device.

[0137] In other implementations, a new flag can be added to the MIB to indicate whether the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. This method of adding a flag to represent third-party information avoids modifying the existing data structure, thus maintaining the meaning of the existing data structure and helping to maintain communication stability.

[0138] Optionally, the length of the preset flag bit can be 1 bit, but this application does not specifically limit this.

[0139] For example, the newly added flag can be represented as `rachAssociated`, and the MIB data structure can be:

[0140] MIB::=SEQUENCE{

[0141] SystemFrameNumber BIT STRING (SIZE(6)) / / Represents the frame number of the current system frame, occupying 6 bits in length;

[0142] subCarrierSpacingCommon ENUMERATED{scs15or16,scs30or120} / / This represents the subcarrier spacing used in the system. There are two possible values: scs15or60 and scs30or120.

[0143] ssb-SubcarrierOffset INTEGER(0..15) / / Represents the subcarrier offset of the SSB in the frequency domain, ranging from 0 to 15;

[0144] dmrs-TypeA-Position ENUMERATED{pos2,pos3} / / Defines the position of DeModulation Reference Signal (DMRS) Type A in the time domain, with two possible values: pos2 and pos3;

[0145] pdcch-ConfigSIB1 PDCCH-ConfigSIB1 / / Defines the configuration information of PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel) when transmitting System Information Block 1 (SIB1);

[0146] cellBarred ENUMERATED{barred,notbarred} / / Indicates whether the cell is blocked from access, with two possible values: barred and notbarred;

[0147] intraFreqReselection ENUMERATED{allowed,notAlllowed} / / Indicates whether the user equipment is allowed to perform cell reselection within the same frequency to find a better serving cell. It has two possible values: allowed and notAllowed.

[0148] `rachAssociated ENUMERATED{associated,notAssociated}` / / Indicates whether the SSB is associated with the Physical Random Access Channel (PRACH) resource, with two possible values: associated and notAssociated.

[0149] }

[0150] Optionally, when rachAssociated is set to associated, it can indicate that the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, and when rachAssociated is set to associated, it can indicate that the SSB is not associated with a PRACH resource, but this application does not make specific limitations on this.

[0151] Method 2: Indicated by the DeModulation Reference Signal (DMRS) in the Physical Broadcast Signal PBCH, or by the preset flag bit in the DMRS.

[0152] Method 3: Sequence indication via the Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS).

[0153] For example, it can be defined that if the sequence number included in the PSS is 0, it means that the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, and it can be defined that if the sequence number included in the PSS is 1, it means that the SSB is not associated with a PRACH resource. However, this application does not specifically limit which sequence number corresponds to which meaning.

[0154] Method 4: Sequence indication via Secondary Synchronization (SSS) signal.

[0155] For example, it can be defined that if the sequence number included in the SSS is any one or more from 0 to 49, it means that the SSS is associated with a PRACH resource. It can be defined that if the sequence number included in the SSS is any one or more from 50 to 99, it means that the SSS is not associated with a PRACH resource. However, this application does not specifically limit which sequence number corresponds to which meaning.

[0156] The above, combined with Figures 1 to 5 The methods provided in the embodiments of this application have been described in detail. The following, in conjunction with... Figures 6 to 8 The apparatus provided in the embodiments of this application will be described.

[0157] Figure 6 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 600 provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 600 includes a transceiver module 610 and a processing module 620.

[0158] In one possible implementation, device 600 is used to implement the above. Figure 3 The method embodiment shown illustrates the function of the first communication device.

[0159] The transceiver module 610 is used to receive first indication information, which indicates at least one target SSB in a synchronization signal and physical broadcast channel block (SSB) that is associated with physical random access channel (PRACH) resources. The at least one SSB is an SSB that the first communication device can receive. Among the at least one SSB, there are SSBs that are not associated with PRACH resources. When there are multiple target SSBs, all or some of the target SSBs cover different areas. The processing module 620 is used to select PRACH resources for initial access or random access based on the first indication information.

[0160] Optionally, at least one SSB includes a first SSB and a second SSB, and the first SSB and the second SSB differ in one or more of their transmit power, target receive power, or beamforming gain.

[0161] Optionally, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB and the index of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB.

[0162] Optionally, the first indication information may also include the index of the preamble corresponding to the index of the PRACH resource, the preamble being used for random access.

[0163] Optionally, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, the first time-frequency range of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB, and the mapping method of the target SSB on the PRACH resource.

[0164] Optionally, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, and the transceiver module 610 is also used to receive the second indication information, which includes the second time-frequency range of the PRACH resource and the mapping method of at least one SSB on the PRACH resource.

[0165] Optionally, any one of the at least one SSBs includes third indication information, which is used to indicate whether any one SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. If any one SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, the target SSB includes any one SSB.

[0166] Optionally, the third indication information is indicated by the primary synchronization signal PSS, the secondary synchronization signal SSS, the main information block MIB in the physical broadcast signal PBCH, or the demodulation reference signal DMRS in the physical broadcast signal PBCH.

[0167] Optionally, the index of the target SSB can be indicated by a list, an enumeration, or a bitmap.

[0168] Optionally, the first indication information is included in System Information Block 1 (SIB1).

[0169] In another possible implementation, device 600 is used to implement the above. Figure 3 The function of the second communication device in the method embodiment shown.

[0170] The transceiver module 610 is used to determine first indication information, which indicates at least one target SSB in a synchronization signal and physical broadcast channel block (SSB) that is associated with physical random access channel (PRACH) resources, at least one SSB is an SSB that the first communication device can receive, at least one SSB contains an SSB that is not associated with PRACH resources, and when there are multiple target SSBs, all or some of the target SSBs cover different areas; and to send the first indication information.

[0171] Optionally, at least one SSB includes a first SSB and a second SSB, and the first SSB and the second SSB differ in one or more of their transmit power, target receive power, or beamforming gain.

[0172] Optionally, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB and the index of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB.

[0173] Optionally, the first indication information may also include the index of the preamble corresponding to the index of the PRACH resource, the preamble being used for random access.

[0174] Optionally, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, the first time-frequency range of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB, and the mapping method of the target SSB on the PRACH resource.

[0175] Optionally, the first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, and the transceiver module 610 is also used to send second indication information, which includes the second time-frequency range of the PRACH resource and the mapping method of at least one SSB on the PRACH resource.

[0176] Optionally, any one of the at least one SSBs includes third indication information, which is used to indicate whether any one SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. If any one SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, the target SSB includes any one SSB.

[0177] Optionally, the third indication information is indicated by the primary synchronization signal PSS, the secondary synchronization signal SSS, the main information block MIB in the physical broadcast signal PBCH, or the demodulation reference signal DMRS in the physical broadcast signal PBCH.

[0178] Optionally, the index of the target SSB can be indicated by a list, an enumeration, or a bitmap.

[0179] Optionally, the first indication information is included in System Information Block 1 (SIB1).

[0180] It is understood that the module division in the above-described device is merely a logical functional division. Each function can correspond to a functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one functional module. In actual implementation, all or some modules can be integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be distributed across different physical entities. Furthermore, the aforementioned functional modules can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both. Whether a function is executed in hardware or software 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.

[0181] Figure 7 A schematic block diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. (See diagram below.) Figure 7 As shown, device 700 includes one or more processors 710. The processor 710 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the central processing unit can be used to control the device (e.g., a vehicle or a chip), execute software programs, and process data from the software programs.

[0182] Optionally, in one design, processor 710 may include a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that can be executed on processor 710, causing device 700 to perform the methods performed by the first or second communication device in the above method embodiments. In yet another possible design, device 700 includes circuitry (…). Figure 7 (Not shown), this circuit is used to implement the functions of the first or second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0183] For example, processor 710 can be used to execute a computer program in memory to achieve Figure 3 or Figure 5 The steps performed by the first or second communication device in the illustrated method embodiment.

[0184] Optionally, the device 700 may include one or more memories 720 storing computer programs (sometimes referred to as code or instructions) that can be run on the processor 710, causing the device 700 to perform the methods performed by the first or second communication device in the above embodiments.

[0185] Optionally, the processor 710 and / or memory 720 may also store data. The processor and memory may be configured separately or integrated together.

[0186] Optionally, the device 700 may further include a communication interface 730. The processor 710, sometimes referred to as a processing unit, controls the device (e.g., the first communication device or the second communication device). The communication interface 730, sometimes referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, or transceiver, is used to implement the transceiver function of the device; for example, the communication interface 730 can be used to receive first configuration information.

[0187] Optionally, the device 700 also includes a communication interface 730. The processor 710 and the communication interface 730 are coupled to each other. It is understood that the communication interface 730 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface.

[0188] When device 700 is used to achieve Figure 3 In the method shown, the processor 710 can be used to execute the functions of the processing unit 620, and the communication interface 730 can be used to execute the functions of the transceiver unit 610. Whether the communication interface 730 is used for sending or receiving depends on whether the device 700 is used to perform a sending or receiving operation in the execution scheme.

[0189] When the aforementioned device 700 is a chip applied to the first communication device, the chip implements the functions of the first communication device in the above method embodiments. The chip of the first communication device receives signals from other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the first communication device, and these signals may be sent to the first communication device by the second communication device; or, the chip of the first communication device sends signals to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the first communication device, and these signals may be sent to the second communication device by the first communication device.

[0190] When the aforementioned device 700 is a chip applied to a second communication device, the chip implements the functions of the second communication device in the above method embodiments. The chip of the second communication device receives signals from other modules in the second communication device, which may be signals sent from the first communication device to the second communication device; or, the chip of the second communication device sends signals to other modules in the second communication device, which may be signals sent from the second communication device to the first communication device.

[0191] It is understood that when the device 700 is a first communication device or a second communication device, the communication interface 730 can be a transceiver, specifically including a transmitter and a receiver, with the transmitter used to send signals and the receiver used to receive signals. When the device 700 is a chip applied to the first communication device or the second communication device, the communication interface 730 can be an input / output circuit, wherein the input circuit can be used for receiving and the output interface can be used for sending.

[0192] Optionally, the device 700 also includes a power supply circuit for supplying power to the device 700.

[0193] In the case where the communication device 700 described above is the first communication device, the processor 710 may further include communication and processing circuitry. The communication and processing circuitry may include one or more hardware components that provide a physical structure that performs various processes related to wireless communication (e.g., signal reception and / or signal transmission). The communication and processing circuitry may include two or more transmit / receive chains. The functions implemented by the communication and processing circuitry may also be processed on a computer-readable medium.

[0194] The processor also includes demapping circuitry configured to demap data in resource elements (REs) and acquire data from the PBCH, Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), and Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH). In other words, the processor can be used to map REs (time slots, subframes, or transport blocks carrying PBCH and PDSCH) in downlink transport resources to the information bit streams of the PBCH and PDSCH.

[0195] The processor also includes a decoding circuit for decoding SSB and SIB1 from the decoders corresponding to PBCH and PDSCH, then obtaining whether the current SSB is associated with the PRACH resource from the SSB, and obtaining the association relationship between the SSB and the PRACH resource from the SIB1. The function of the decoding circuit can also be processed on a computer-readable medium.

[0196] It should be understood that when the communication device 700 is the second communication device, its mapping circuit and decoding circuit are similar to those of the first communication device, and will not be described again.

[0197] Figure 8 This is a schematic block diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application; for example, it may be a structural schematic diagram of a second communication device. This communication device 800 can be applied to, for example... Figure 1 In the system shown, the following is executed: Figure 3The network device in the illustrated method embodiment has the following functions. As shown, the communication device 800 may include one or more of the following: one or more (DU+RU) 810s and one or more CUs 820s. The CU 820 can communicate with the next-generation core (NGcore). The DU may include at least one antenna 811, at least one radio frequency unit 812, at least one processor 813, and at least one memory 814. The DU is mainly used for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals, converting radio frequency signals to baseband signals, and performing some baseband processing. The CU 820 may include at least one processor 822 and at least one memory 821. The CU 820 and the DU can communicate through an interface. The control plane (CP) interface can be Fs-C, such as F1-C, and the user plane (UP) interface can be Fs-U, such as F1-U. The DU and RU can cooperate to implement the functions of the physical (PHY) layer. One DU can be connected to one or more RUs. The functions of the DU and RU can be configured in various ways according to the design. For example, a DU is configured to implement baseband functions, and an RU is configured to implement mid-RF functions. As another example, a DU may be configured to implement higher-level functions in the PHY layer, and an RU may be configured to implement lower-level and RF functions in the PHY layer. Higher-level functions in the PHY layer may include a portion of the PHY layer's functionality closer to the medium access control (MAC) layer, while lower-level functions in the PHY layer may include another portion of the PHY layer's functionality closer to the mid-RF side.

[0198] The CU 820 is mainly used for baseband processing and controlling the communication device. The DU and CU 820 can be physically installed together or physically separate, i.e., a distributed communication device. The CU 820 is the control center of the communication device, mainly used to complete baseband processing functions. For example, the CU 820 can be used to control the communication device to execute the operation flow of the network device in the above method embodiments.

[0199] Specifically, baseband processing on the CU and DU can be divided according to the protocol layers of the wireless network. For example, the functions of the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer and above are set in the CU, while the functions of protocol layers below PDCP, such as the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer and the MAC layer, are set in the DU. Alternatively, the CU may implement the functions of the RRC and PDCP layers, while the DU may implement the functions of the RLC, MAC, and PHY layers.

[0200] Alternatively, the communication device 800 may include one or more radio frequency units (RU), one or more DUs, and one or more CUs. A DU may include at least one processor 813 and at least one memory 814, an RU may include at least one antenna 811 and at least one radio frequency unit 812, and a CU may include at least one processor 822 and at least one memory 821.

[0201] In one example, the CU 820 can be composed of one or more boards. These boards can collectively support a single access-indicating radio access network (such as a 5G network), or they can each support radio access networks with different access standards (such as LTE, 5G, or other networks). The memory 821 and processor 822 can serve one or more boards. That is, each board can have its own memory and processor, or multiple boards can share the same memory and processor. Furthermore, each board can also have necessary circuitry. Similarly, the DU can be composed of one or more boards. These boards can collectively support a single access-indicating radio access network (such as a 5G network), or they can each support radio access networks with different access standards (such as LTE, 5G, or other networks). The memory 814 and processor 813 can serve one or more boards. That is, each board can have its own memory and processor, or multiple boards can share the same memory and processor. Furthermore, each board can also have necessary circuitry.

[0202] Optionally, the communication device 800 may also include a RIC for model inference and training.

[0203] It should be understood that Figure 8 The communication device 800 shown can achieve Figure 3 The illustrated method embodiments involve various processes of the second communication device. The operation and / or function of each module in the communication device 800 are respectively for implementing the corresponding processes in the above method embodiments. For example, the RIC can send specific SSB and SIB1 configurations to the DU or CU via the E2 interface, which may include the aforementioned first indication information; or, the DU or CU can broadcast SSB and SIB1 to the first communication device, wherein the SSB includes third indication information and the SIB1 includes first indication information, or the first indication information and the second indication information; the CU or DU receives MSG1 sent by the first communication device on the PRACH resource corresponding to the SSB associated with the RACH resource, MSG1 includes a preamble, and after receiving MSG1, the CU or DU can report the access information of the first communication device to the RIC. For details, please refer to the description in the above method embodiments.

[0204] It should be understood that Figure 8 The communication device 800 shown is merely one possible architecture and should not be construed as limiting this application. The method provided in this application can be applied to devices with other architectures, such as devices including CU, DU, and AAU. This application does not limit the specific architecture of the communication device.

[0205] It should be understood that Figure 8 This is merely an example and not a limitation; the second communication device may not rely on... Figure 8 The structure shown is as described. For example, the second communication device may also include an AAU, a CU, and / or a DU, or it may include a BBU and an adaptive radio unit (ARU). This application does not limit this.

[0206] The aforementioned CU and / or DU can be used to perform the actions implemented internally by the second communication device as described in the preceding method embodiments, while the AAU can be used to perform the actions described in the preceding method embodiments, whereby the second communication device sends data to the first communication device or the first communication device receives data from the second communication device. For details, please refer to the descriptions in the preceding method embodiments; they will not be repeated here.

[0207] The above-described method embodiments can be applied to a processor, or implemented by a processor. A processor may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. During implementation, each step of the above method embodiments can be completed through integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or through software instructions.

[0208] The processors mentioned above can be general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. General-purpose processors can be microprocessors or any conventional processor, etc.

[0209] The steps of the method disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules can reside in mature storage media in the art, such as random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, or registers. This storage medium is located in memory, and the processor reads information from the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0210] The memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDRSDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0211] This application also provides a chip system including at least one processor for supporting the implementation of the functions of the first or second communication device involved in any of the above method embodiments, such as sending, receiving, or processing information involved in the above methods.

[0212] In one possible design, the chip system also includes a memory for storing computer program instructions and data, which may be located inside or outside the processor.

[0213] The chip system can consist of chips or include chips and other discrete components.

[0214] This application also provides a computer program product comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions), which, when executed, Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the method executed by the first communication device is executed, or the method executed by the second communication device is executed.

[0215] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions). When the computer program is run, Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the method executed by the first communication device is executed, or the method executed by the second communication device is executed.

[0216] This application also provides a communication system, which includes the aforementioned first communication device and second communication device.

[0217] The methods provided in the above embodiments can be implemented, in whole or in part, by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, they can be implemented, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. This computer program product may include one or more computer instructions. When these computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer may be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions may be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium may be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic disk), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., solid-state disk (SSD)).

[0218] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software 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.

[0219] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0220] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of 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 system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0221] The unit described as a separate component may or may not be physically separate. The component shown as a unit may or may not be a physical unit; that is, it may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0222] In addition, 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.

[0223] If this function is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, or part of it, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory, random access memory, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0224] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a first communication device, the method includes: Receive first indication information, the first indication information is used to indicate at least one target SSB in a synchronization signal and physical broadcast channel block SSB that is associated with physical random access channel (PRACH) resources, the at least one SSB is an SSB that the first communication device can receive, the at least one SSB includes an SSB that is not associated with PRACH resources, and when there are multiple target SSBs, all or some of the target SSBs cover different areas. Based on the first indication information, select PRACH resources for initial access or random access.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one SSB includes a first SSB and a second SSB, wherein the first SSB and the second SSB differ in one or more of their transmit power, target receive power, or beamforming gain.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the index of the target SSB and the index of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first indication information also includes the index of the preamble corresponding to the index of the PRACH resource, the preamble being used for random access.

5. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, the first time-frequency range of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB, and the mapping method of the target SSB on the PRACH resource.

6. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, and the method further includes: Receive second indication information, the second indication information including a second time-frequency range of the PRACH resource and the mapping method of the at least one SSB on the PRACH resource.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, Each of the at least one SSB includes third indication information, which indicates whether the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. If the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, the target SSB includes the SSB.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The third indication information is indicated by the main synchronization signal PSS, the auxiliary synchronization signal SSS, the main information block MIB in the physical broadcast signal PBCH, or the demodulation reference signal DMRS in the physical broadcast signal PBCH.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The index of the target SSB can be indicated by any of the following methods: list, enumeration, or bitmap.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The first indication information is included in System Information Block 1 (SIB 1).

11. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a second communication device, the method includes: First indication information is determined, which is used to indicate at least one target SSB in a synchronization signal and physical broadcast channel block (SSB) that is associated with physical random access channel (PRACH) resources. The at least one SSB is an SSB that can be received by the first communication device. Among the at least one SSB, there are SSBs that are not associated with PRACH resources. When there are multiple target SSBs, all or some of the target SSBs cover different areas. Send the first instruction information.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The at least one SSB includes a first SSB and a second SSB, wherein the first SSB and the second SSB differ in one or more of their transmit power, target receive power, or beamforming gain.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the index of the target SSB and the index of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first indication information also includes the index of the preamble corresponding to the index of the PRACH resource, the preamble being used for random access.

15. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, the first time-frequency range of the PRACH resource corresponding to the target SSB, and the mapping method of the target SSB on the PRACH resource.

16. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the index of the target SSB, and the method further includes: Send a second instruction message, which includes the second time-frequency range of the PRACH resource and the mapping method of the SSB on the PRACH resource.

17. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that, Each of the at least one SSB includes third indication information, which indicates whether the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource. If the SSB is associated with a PRACH resource, the target SSB includes the SSB.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The third indication information is indicated by the main synchronization signal PSS, the auxiliary synchronization signal SSS, the main information block MIB in the physical broadcast signal PBCH, or the demodulation reference signal DMRS in the physical broadcast signal PBCH.

19. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 18, characterized in that, The index of the target SSB can be indicated by any of the following methods: list, enumeration, or bitmap.

20. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 19, characterized in that, The first indication information is included in System Information Block 1 (SIB 1).

21. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a processor coupled to a memory for storing a computer program, the processor executing the computer program stored in the memory to cause the communication device to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, or to cause the communication device to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 20.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes a processor and a communication interface, the processor being configured to control the communication interface to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, or to implement the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 20.

23. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer stores instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, or cause the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 20.

24. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes: a computer program that, when run, causes a computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 10, or causes a computer to perform the method of any one of claims 11 to 20.

25. A chip system, characterized in that, The chip system is applied to an electronic device, the chip system including one or more processors, the one or more processors being configured to invoke computer instructions to cause the electronic device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, or to cause the electronic device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 20.

26. A communication system, characterized in that, It includes a first communication device and at least one second communication device, wherein the first communication device is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, and the at least one second communication device is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 20.

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