Data transmission method and apparatus

Abstract

The application provides a data transmission method and device, relates to the field of communication, and helps the terminal device to perform early data transmission through multiple data streams, so that the efficiency of data transmission can be higher. The method is applied to a second communication device, and the method comprises the following steps: acquiring multipath information, wherein the multipath information is used for indicating multiple paths of data transmission; determining a first number of at least one first data stream supporting data transmission according to the multipath information; and sending at least one second data stream on a message 3 or a message A according to the first number, wherein the number of the at least one second data stream is a second number, the second number is less than or equal to the first number, the message 3 is used for requesting to establish a connection with a first communication device, the message A is used for requesting random access, and the second communication device is a terminal device or a chip, a chip system, a circuit, software and / or a hardware module in the terminal device, etc.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and particularly to data transmission methods and apparatus in the field of communications. Background Technology

[0002] Random access (RA) is a crucial process in wireless networks for establishing an initial connection between a terminal device and network devices. Random access can be implemented in two different ways: a four-step random access procedure and a two-step random access procedure. Regardless of whether it's a four-step or two-step random access procedure, to reduce latency, the terminal device can perform early data transmission. For example, in a four-step random access procedure, the terminal device can transmit data early using message 3 (Msg 3), and in a two-step random access procedure, the terminal device can transmit data early using message A (Msg A), and so on.

[0003] However, in some scenarios, early data transmission still suffers from low data transmission efficiency. Therefore, improving the data transmission efficiency of early data transmission is an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a data transmission method and apparatus that helps terminal devices to transmit data early through multiple data streams, thereby enabling higher efficiency in data transmission during early data transmission.

[0005] In a first aspect, a data transmission method is provided, the method comprising: acquiring multipath information, the multipath information being used to indicate multiple paths for data transmission; determining a first number of at least one first data stream supporting data transmission based on the multipath information; and sending at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A based on the first number, the number of the at least one second data stream being a second number, the second number being less than or equal to the first number, message 3 being used to request the establishment of a connection with a first communication device, and message A being used to request random access.

[0006] In one possible implementation, the method is performed by a second communication device. The second communication device can be understood as a device on the terminal device side. The second communication device can be the terminal device itself, or it can be a component applied to the terminal device (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, software and / or hardware module, etc.).

[0007] Multipath information, used to indicate multiple paths for data transmission, can also be understood as describing multiple paths. These multiple paths can be understood as transmission paths used for data transmission. The first quantity of at least one first data stream is the number of streams determined by the second communication device. The number of streams can be understood as the number of independent data streams supporting data transmission; the number of streams can also be replaced by rank, and rank can represent the layer number. In a four-step random access process, the number of streams can be, for example, called Msg 3-rank; in a two-step random access process, the number of streams can be, for example, called Msg A-rank, etc. The first quantity can be a positive integer.

[0008] It should be understood that the second communication device determining the first number of at least one first data stream means determining the number of streams supporting data transmission. The concept of at least one first data stream is shown for ease of describing the number of streams and does not limit the second communication device from determining at least one first data stream, nor does it limit the specific content of the at least one first data stream.

[0009] The second quantity can be understood as the actual number of streams used by the second communication device for early data transmission. The second quantity can be less than or equal to the first quantity. That is, in one case, the second communication device can perform early data transmission based on the first quantity; in another case, the second communication device can also determine the second quantity by combining other factors, which can be factors that can limit the number of streams, such as the number of data transmission streams indicated by the network device side.

[0010] The data transmission method of this application allows the terminal device to determine, based on multipath information, the number of streams supported for early data transmission during random access, referred to as a first quantity. The terminal device can then perform early data transmission based on a second quantity of data streams, which can be a value less than or equal to the first quantity. Thus, when the second quantity is greater than or equal to 2, the terminal device can perform early data transmission through multiple data streams, resulting in higher data transmission efficiency. This helps meet the data transmission requirements of multi-stream MIMO systems and / or the transmission requirements of latency-sensitive data; it also helps improve system capacity and meets the data transmission needs of multi-user scenarios.

[0011] Furthermore, when the second quantity is 1, the terminal device can determine that it is currently impossible to transmit data early through multiple data streams. In this case, the terminal device can transmit data early through a single data stream, which helps the network device to successfully receive the data transmitted early by the terminal device, thereby making the data transmission efficiency higher.

[0012] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the method further includes: obtaining a third quantity, the third quantity being the number of at least one third data streams supported by the first communication device for data transmission; and sending at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A according to the first quantity, including: sending at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A according to the first quantity and the third quantity.

[0013] The third quantity can be the number of data transmission streams supported by the network device.

[0014] This ensures that when the terminal device transmits data early based on the smaller of the first and third quantities, it aligns with the network device's capabilities, resulting in a higher data transmission success rate.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the second information can indicate the specific number of flows supported by the network device. For example, if the network device supports 2 flows, the second information can indicate 2, etc.

[0016] In this way, the terminal device can determine the specific number of streams supported by the network device.

[0017] In another possible implementation, the second information can also indicate whether the network device supports multi-stream data transmission or not. This indication method can also be called a binary indication. For example, 0 (or 1) indicates that the network device does not support multi-stream data transmission, and 1 (or 0) indicates that the network device supports multi-stream data transmission, etc.

[0018] Thus, if the second information-supporting network device does not support multi-stream data transmission, the terminal device can determine that the third quantity is 1; if the second information-supporting network device supports multi-stream data transmission, the terminal device can determine that the third quantity is an integer greater than 1. Therefore, the terminal device can determine that the network device supports any number of streams. It should be understood that "any number of streams" here is not an unlimited number; this number can be less than or equal to the maximum number of streams for data transmission in the current communication system. For example, since the protocol can be predefined or the network device can be configured through signaling, the maximum number of streams supported in the current communication system, for example, a maximum number of streams of 4, can be determined by the terminal device to be 4, etc.

[0019] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the method further includes: sending first information, the first information being used to indicate a first quantity.

[0020] In this way, the network device can determine the number of streams that the terminal device supports for early data transmission.

[0021] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first information includes a preamble, which is used to indicate a first quantity.

[0022] In this way, by indicating the first quantity through the preamble, the signaling overhead can be reduced.

[0023] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the preamble satisfies one or more of the following: the preamble is generated based on a first sequence, the first sequence being related to a first quantity; the preamble belongs to a first preamble group, and there is a first mapping relationship between the first preamble group and the first quantity; or, the preamble is transmitted through a first random access opportunity (RO) group, and there is a second mapping relationship between the first RO group and the first quantity.

[0024] This allows network devices to determine the initial quantity based on the preamble, resulting in lower signaling overhead.

[0025] In some embodiments of the first aspect, at least one second data stream is transmitted through at least one port, and there is a third mapping relationship between the second quantity and the at least one port, wherein the quantity of the at least one port is the second quantity.

[0026] It is understandable that a port can be used to transmit an independent data stream, so the number of at least one port is the same as the number of a second port.

[0027] Optionally, the third mapping relationship can be predefined by the protocol or configured by the network device through signaling.

[0028] In this way, the terminal device can determine at least one port based on the second quantity and the third mapping relationship, thereby facilitating the transmission of at least one second data stream through at least one port.

[0029] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the method further includes: determining a first precoding matrix based on multipath information and a second quantity, wherein at least one second data stream is precoded by the first precoding matrix.

[0030] This facilitates the determination of the first precoding matrix on the terminal device side. By precoding at least one second data stream using the first precoding matrix, at least one second data stream can be transmitted through a second number of independent data streams, and interference between data streams can be reduced, which helps to improve data transmission quality.

[0031] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving message 4 or message B, message 4 or message B being used to indicate that at least one second data stream was successfully received or that at least one second data stream was not successfully received.

[0032] It is understandable that during a four-step random access process, the network device can indicate via message 4 whether it has successfully received at least one second data stream or has failed to receive at least one second data stream. Similarly, during a two-step random access process, the network device can indicate via message B whether it has successfully received at least one second data stream or has failed to receive at least one second data stream.

[0033] Optionally, if the network device successfully receives all the second data streams in at least one second data stream, the network device can indicate successful reception of at least one second data stream via message 4 or message B. If the network device fails to successfully receive all the second data streams in at least one second data stream, the network device can indicate unsuccessful reception of at least one second data stream via message 4 or message B, so that the terminal device can retransmit at least one second data stream.

[0034] Alternatively, if the network device successfully receives e second data streams out of at least one second data stream, but fails to receive f second data streams, the network device can indicate to the terminal device via message 4 or message B that e second data streams were successfully received and / or f second data streams were not successfully received. This allows the terminal device to determine that the network device failed to receive f second data streams, and the terminal device can then retransmit the data carried in the f second data streams. Furthermore, if the network device fails to receive all second data streams out of at least one second data stream, the network device can indicate to the terminal device via message 4 or message B that at least one second data stream was not successfully received.

[0035] This allows the terminal device to determine whether the network device has successfully received at least one second data stream. Furthermore, it enables data retransmission if the network device fails to receive at least one second data stream.

[0036] Secondly, another data transmission method is provided, which includes: receiving at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A, wherein the number of the at least one second data stream is a second quantity, the second quantity is less than or equal to a first quantity, the first quantity is the number of at least one first data stream supporting data transmission, the first quantity is determined based on multipath information, message 3 is used to request the establishment of a connection with a first communication device, and message A is used to request random access.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the method is performed by a first communication device. The first communication device can be understood as a device on the network device side. The first communication device can be the network device itself, or it can be a component applied to the network device (e.g., a chip, chip system, circuit, software and / or hardware module, etc.).

[0038] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending second information, the second information being used to indicate a third quantity, the third quantity being the number of at least one third data stream supported by the first communication device for data transmission, the second quantity being less than or equal to the third quantity.

[0039] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the method further includes: receiving first information, the first information being used to indicate a first quantity.

[0040] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the first information includes a preamble, which is used to indicate a first quantity.

[0041] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the preamble satisfies one or more of the following: the preamble is generated based on a first sequence, the first sequence being related to a first quantity; the preamble belongs to a first preamble group, and there is a first mapping relationship between the first preamble group and the first quantity; or, the preamble is transmitted through a first random access opportunity (RO) group, and there is a second mapping relationship between the first RO group and the first quantity.

[0042] In some embodiments of the second aspect, at least one second data stream is transmitted through at least one port, and there is a third mapping relationship between the second quantity and the at least one port, wherein the quantity of the at least one port is the second quantity.

[0043] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the method further includes sending message 4 or message B, message 4 or message B being used to indicate that at least one second data stream was successfully received or that at least one second data stream was not successfully received.

[0044] Thirdly, a communication device is provided, which can be used in the second communication device of the first aspect or the first communication device of the second aspect. The communication device can be a terminal device or a network device, or it can be a device in the terminal device or network device (e.g., a chip, or a chip system, or a circuit, such as a circuit or chip in the terminal device that is responsible for communication functions (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core)), or a device that can be used in conjunction with the terminal device or network device, or it can be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the terminal device or network device.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the communication device may include modules or units that perform the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the first or second aspect. These modules or units may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the communication device is used as a second communication device in the first aspect. The communication device may include a processing unit and a transceiver unit. The processing unit is used to determine multipath information, which indicates multiple paths for data transmission; and based on the multipath information, to determine a first number of at least one first data stream supporting data transmission. The transceiver unit is used to send at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A according to the first number, wherein the number of the at least one second data stream is a second number, and the second number is less than or equal to the first number. Message 3 is used to request the establishment of a connection with the first communication device, and message A is used to request random access.

[0047] Alternatively, the communication device may be used in the first communication device of the second aspect, and the communication device may include a transceiver unit. The transceiver unit is used to receive at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A, the number of the at least one second data stream being a second quantity, the second quantity being less than or equal to a first quantity, the first quantity being the number of at least one first data streams supporting data transmission, the first quantity being determined based on multipath information, message 3 being used to request the establishment of a connection with the first communication device, and message A being used to request random access.

[0048] Fourthly, this application provides another communication device, including a processor coupled to a memory, which can be used to execute instructions in the memory to implement the method in any of the possible implementations of the first or second aspect described above. Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory. Optionally, the communication device further includes a communication interface, to which the processor is coupled.

[0049] In one implementation, the communication device is a terminal device or a network device. When the communication device is a terminal device or a network device, the communication interface can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface.

[0050] In another implementation, the communication device is a chip applicable to terminal devices or network devices. When the communication device is a chip applicable to terminal devices or network devices, the aforementioned communication interface can be an input / output interface.

[0051] Fifthly, a processor is provided, 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 method in any possible implementation of the first or second aspect described above.

[0052] In the specific implementation process, the processor can be a chip, the input circuit can be an input pin, the output circuit can be an output pin, and the processing circuit can be a transistor, gate circuit, flip-flop, 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 output to, for example, but not limited to, a transmitter and transmitted by the transmitter. Furthermore, the input circuit and the output circuit can be the same circuit, which is used as the input circuit and the output circuit at different times. This application does not limit the specific implementation of the processor and various circuits.

[0053] In a sixth aspect, a communication device is provided, including a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to read instructions stored in the memory, receive signals via a receiver, and transmit signals via a transmitter to execute the method in any possible implementation of the first or second aspect described above.

[0054] Optionally, the processor may be one or more, and the memory may be one or more.

[0055] Optionally, the memory may be integrated with the processor, or the memory may be separated from the processor.

[0056] In the specific implementation process, the memory can be a non-transitory memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), which can be integrated with the processor on the same chip or set on different chips. This application does not limit the type of memory or the way the memory and processor are set.

[0057] It should be understood that related data interaction processes, such as sending instruction information, can be a process of outputting instruction information from the processor, and receiving capability information can be a process of the processor receiving input capability information. Specifically, the data processed and output can be sent to the transmitter, and the input data received by the processor can come from the receiver. Here, the transmitter and receiver can be collectively referred to as a transceiver.

[0058] The communication device in the sixth aspect above can be a chip. The processor can be implemented in hardware or software. When implemented in hardware, the processor can be a logic circuit, integrated circuit, etc. When implemented in software, the processor can be a general-purpose processor that reads software code stored in memory. The memory can be integrated into the processor or located outside the processor and exist independently.

[0059] In a seventh aspect, a communication apparatus is provided, including a module for performing a method as described in any possible implementation of the first aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect.

[0060] Eighthly, this application provides a chip or chip system including at least one processor for supporting the implementation of the functions involved in the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect, or for supporting the implementation of the functions involved in the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, such as receiving or processing data involved in the above methods.

[0061] In one possible design, the chip or chip system further includes a memory for storing program instructions and data, which is located within or outside the processor.

[0062] The chip system can consist of chips or include chips and other discrete components.

[0063] Ninth aspect, a communication system is provided, the communication system including a first communication device and a second communication device; wherein the second communication device is used to perform the method in any possible implementation of the first aspect, and the first communication device is used to perform the method in any possible implementation of the second aspect.

[0064] In a tenth aspect, a computer program product is provided, the computer program product comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions), which, when the computer program is run, causes a computer to perform the method in any possible implementation of the first or second aspect described above.

[0065] Eleventhly, 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 method in any possible implementation of the first or second aspect described above. Attached Figure Description

[0066] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system to which the embodiments of this application apply;

[0067] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a four-step random access method.

[0068] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a two-step random access method.

[0069] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a data transmission method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 5 This application provides a schematic diagram of a process for determining multipath information in an embodiment of the present application.

[0071] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another process for determining multipath information provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating the data transmission method in the four-step random access process provided in this application embodiment;

[0073] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating the data transmission method in a two-step random access process provided in this application embodiment;

[0074] Figure 9 A schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 10 A schematic block diagram of another communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0076] Figure 11 A schematic block diagram of another communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0077] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a data early transmission process provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0078] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0079] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points are explained first:

[0080] First, in the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used to distinguish identical or similar items with essentially the same function and effect. For example, the first value and the second value are only used to distinguish different values ​​and do not limit their order. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" do not necessarily imply that they are different.

[0081] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the words "exemplarily" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design scheme described as "exemplarily" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design schemes. Specifically, the use of the words "exemplarily" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0082] In the embodiments of the present application, "at least one" means one or more, and "multiple" means two or more. "And / or" describes the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item)" or its similar expression refers to any combination of these items, including any combination of single item(s) or plural item(s). For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, a - b, a - c, b - c, or a - b - c, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0083] Second, in the embodiments of the present application, "send" and "receive" represent the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to the second device" can be understood as the destination of this information is the second device, which can include directly sending through the air interface, and also include indirectly sending through the air interface by other units or modules. "Receive configuration information from the charging" can be understood as the source of this configuration information is the second device, which can include directly receiving from the second device through the air interface, and can also include indirectly receiving from the second device through the air interface by other units or modules. "Send" can also be understood as "output" of the chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as "input" of the chip interface.

[0084] In other words, sending and receiving can be carried out between devices. For example, between the second device and the first device; it can also be carried out within a device. For example, sending or receiving between components, modules, chips, software modules or hardware modules within a device through a bus, trace or interface.

[0085] It can be understood that before the information is sent from the source end to the destination end, necessary processing may be performed, such as encoding, modulation, etc. After the destination end receives the information from the source end, corresponding processing can also be performed, such as decoding, demodulation, etc., so as to interpret the valid information from the source end. Similar expressions in the present application can be understood similarly and will not be elaborated.

[0086] Third, for the convenience of understanding, multiple examples of message structures are provided in this article, such as RRC messages, SIB 1, SSB, messages 1 to 4 in the four-step random access process, and messages A and B in the two-step random access process, etc. The names of the signaling shown in these examples, the positions and data types of each field, etc. are all examples and should not constitute any limitation to the present application. The present application does not limit the names of the signaling.

[0087] Fourth, in the embodiments of this application, "instruction" can include direct instruction and indirect instruction, as well as explicit instruction and implicit instruction. The information indicated by a certain piece of information (as described below, the instruction information) is called the information to be instructed. In the specific implementation process, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also indirectly indicate the information to be instructed by indicating other information, where there is a correlation between the other information and the information to be instructed; or it can only indicate a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts of the information to be indicated are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol predefined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing the instruction overhead to a certain extent. This application does not limit the specific method of instruction.

[0088] It is understandable that, for the sender of the instruction information, the instruction information can be used to indicate the information to be indicated, and for the receiver of the instruction information, the instruction information can be used to determine the information to be indicated.

[0089] Fifth, the tables in the embodiments of this application are merely examples. The values ​​of the information in each table are only examples and can be configured to other values; this application is not limited thereto. The tables do not limit the scope of protection of this application. For example, appropriate modifications and adjustments can be made based on the tables described above, such as splitting, merging, etc. Furthermore, the parameter names shown in the headings of each table can also use other names understandable to the communication device, and the values ​​or representations of the parameters can also be other values ​​or representations understandable to the communication device. Moreover, in the implementation of the above tables, other data structures can also be used, such as arrays, queues, containers, stacks, linear lists, pointers, linked lists, trees, graphs, structures, classes, heaps, hash tables, or hash tables, etc.

[0090] Sixth, in the embodiments of this application, descriptions such as "when," "under the circumstances," "if," and "if" all refer to the fact that the device (e.g., network device or terminal device) will make corresponding processing under certain objective circumstances. They are not time limits, nor do they require the device (e.g., network device or terminal device) to make a judgment action when implementing it, nor do they mean that there are other limitations.

[0091] Seventh, the predefined terms in this application can be understood as: definition, pre-defined, storage, pre-storage, pre-negotiation, pre-configuration, solidification, or pre-firing.

[0092] Eighth, the term "storage" in this application can refer to storage in one or more memory devices. These memory devices can be separate installations or integrated into an encoder, decoder, processor, or communication device. Alternatively, some memory devices can be separately installed, while others can be integrated into the decoder, processor, or communication device. The type of memory can be any form of storage medium, and this application does not limit this.

[0093] The technical solutions of this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as: Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems, 5th Generation (5G) systems, or New Radio (NR) systems, and future communication systems.

[0094] The terminal equipment in this application embodiment can also be referred to as: user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device, etc.

[0095] Terminal devices can be, for example, handheld devices or vehicle-mounted devices with wireless connectivity. Currently, examples of terminal devices include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), point-of-sale (POS) machines, customer-premises equipment (CPEs), light user equipment (UEs), reduced capability UEs (REDCAP UEs), wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving vehicles, wireless terminals in remote medical surgery, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, cellular phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). This application does not limit the scope to devices such as personal assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, terminal devices in 5G networks, or terminal devices in future evolved public land mobile networks (PLMNs).

[0096] By way of example and not limitation, in this application, the terminal device can be a terminal device in an Internet of Things (IoT) system. The Internet of Things is an important component of future information technology development. Its main technical characteristic is connecting objects to networks through communication technologies, thereby realizing an intelligent network of human-machine interconnection and object-to-object interconnection. Exemplarily, the terminal device in the embodiments of this application can be a wearable device. Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that apply wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Wearable devices are portable devices that can be worn directly on the body or integrated into a user's clothing or accessories. Wearable devices are not merely hardware devices; they can also achieve powerful functions through software support, data interaction, and cloud interaction. Broadly defined, wearable smart devices include those with comprehensive functions, large size, and the ability to achieve complete or partial functions without relying on a smartphone, such as smartwatches or smart glasses, as well as those focused on a specific application function and requiring the use of other devices such as smartphones, such as various smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0097] By way of example and not limitation, in the embodiments of this application, the terminal device can also be a terminal device in machine-type communication (MTC). Furthermore, the terminal device can also be an on-board module, on-board component, on-board chip, or on-board unit, etc., built into a vehicle as one or more components or units. The vehicle can implement the methods provided in this application through the built-in on-board module, on-board component, on-board chip, or on-board unit, etc. Therefore, the embodiments of this application can also be applied to vehicle networking, such as vehicle-to-everything (V2X), long-term evolution-vehicle (LTE-V) technology, and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) technology.

[0098] The network devices involved in this application may include access network devices.

[0099] Access network equipment, also known as radio access network (RAN) equipment, is a device that communicates with terminal devices and has wireless transceiver capabilities. RAN equipment provides wireless communication services, allowing terminals to access the wireless network. RAN equipment can be a node in the radio access network, often referred to as a RAN node.

[0100] In one possible scenario, a RAN node can be a base station (BS), an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), a transmission reception point (TRP), a home evolved NodeB (or home Node B, HNB), a Wi-Fi access point (AP), a mobile switching center, a next-generation NodeB (gNB) in a 5G mobile communication system, a next-generation base station in a future mobile communication system, or a base station in a future mobile communication system. A RAN node can also be a device that performs base station functions in device-to-device (D2D) communication systems, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication systems, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication systems, and internet-to-things (IoT) communication systems. A RAN node can also be a RAN node in a non-terrestrial network (NTN), meaning that a RAN node can be deployed on a high-altitude platform or a satellite. RAN nodes can be macro base stations, micro base stations, indoor stations, relay nodes, donor nodes, etc., or radio controllers in cloud radio access network (CRAN) scenarios, or nodes in open radio access network (O-RAN or ORAN) scenarios. Optionally, RAN nodes can also be servers, wearable devices, vehicles, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, in V2X technology, RAN nodes can be roadside units (RSUs). Of course, RAN nodes can also be nodes in the core network.

[0101] In another possible scenario, multiple RAN nodes collaborate to assist the terminal in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes each implementing a portion of the base station's functions. For example, RAN nodes can be central units (CUs), distributed units (DUs), CU-control plane (CPs), CU-user plane (UPs), or radio units (RUs), etc. CUs and DUs can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio frequency equipment or radio frequency units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs).

[0102] 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 the ORAN system, CU can also be called open CU (O-CU), DU can also be called open DU (O-DU), CU-CP can also be called open CU-CP (O-CU-CP), CU-UP can also be called open CU-UP (O-CU-UP), and RU can also be called open RU (O-RU).

[0103] Any one of the CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU units can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules. That is, the wireless access network device in this application can be a virtualized device, for example, implemented through general-purpose hardware and instantiated virtualization functions, or dedicated hardware and instantiated virtualization functions. The general-purpose hardware can be a server, such as a cloud server.

[0104] First, let's introduce some of the technical terms used in this application.

[0105] 1. Multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology

[0106] It is a wireless communication technology that can improve the performance of a communication system by using multiple antennas at both the transmitting and receiving ends.

[0107] 2. Layer mapping

[0108] This refers to the process of mapping transport blocks or channel-coded data blocks to different transmission layers. In MIMO systems, data blocks are typically transmitted on at least one transmission layer through spatial multiplexing. The data transmitted at each layer can be understood as an independent information channel or an independent data stream, and the number of at least one transmission layer can be understood as the layer number.

[0109] 3. Number of streams

[0110] Stream count refers to the number of independent data streams transmitted simultaneously in a MIMO system. An independent data stream can also be understood as data transmitted on at least one transport layer; in this case, the stream count can be the same as the number of layers in the layer mapping. Each data stream can be considered an independent information channel. By increasing the stream count, communication systems can improve data transmission rates and spectral efficiency.

[0111] 3. Multi-stream precoding

[0112] It is understandable that after layer mapping, the data streams (or data blocks) of each transport layer need to be precoded using a precoding matrix. Precoding is used to adapt to channel state information (CSI) and optimize data transmission quality.

[0113] The transmitting end can precode the data stream transmitted at each transport layer separately. Precoding can be implemented based on a precoding matrix or vector. Through precoding, the data stream at the transport layer can be converted into antenna port signals.

[0114] 4. Antenna ports

[0115] Also known as a port, it can be understood as a logical port or a virtual port. The transmitting end can precode the data stream of the transport layer to obtain antenna port signals. For example, for at least one data stream, at least one antenna port signal can be obtained after precoding. The transmitting end can map at least one antenna port signal onto at least one antenna port (or port). The number of at least one antenna port may differ from the actual number of physical antennas at the transmitting end.

[0116] The number of layers, the number of streams, and the number of antenna ports can all be the same.

[0117] 5. Multipath Information

[0118] During wireless signal propagation, due to phenomena such as reflection, refraction, and scattering, the signal may reach the receiver through multiple paths. In wireless communication, this phenomenon is called multipath propagation. Multipath information can be understood as information used to describe these multiple paths. Furthermore, multipath information can reflect the characteristics or states of the signal transmitted through these multiple paths.

[0119] 6. Random access channel (RACH) and physical random access channel (PRACH)

[0120] RACH is a logical channel used to implement random access procedures between terminal devices and the network. It is a higher-level concept involving how random access requests are handled within the protocol stack. RACH functions can include sending random access requests, receiving random access responses, and retransmitting when necessary.

[0121] PRACH is the physical layer implementation of RACH. It involves specific physical signal transmission, including the format of the preamble, the allocation of frequency domain resources, and time domain resources. PRACH defines how terminal devices send random access preambles (message 1 or message A) at the physical layer so that network devices can detect and respond to message 1 or message A.

[0122] In summary, RACH is a logical channel responsible for managing the overall logic of the random access procedure, while PRACH is the physical layer implementation of this procedure. PRACH provides the physical means for the UE and the base station to make initial contact.

[0123] 7. Synchronization signal / PBCH block (SSB)

[0124] It forms the foundation for cell search. The SSB includes synchronization signals and the physical broadcast channel (PBCH). Synchronization signals include the primary synchronization signal (PSS) and the secondary synchronization signal (SSS). The master information block (MIB) is transmitted on the PBCH, and terminal devices obtain the system information block (SIB) by reading the MIB information. The MIB carries scheduling information and other details related to the system information block.

[0125] 8. System Information Block 1 (SIB1)

[0126] SIB1 is used to carry cell selection information, access control information, initial access-related channel configuration information, and scheduling information for the remaining system information blocks, which contain specific data. System messages are carried on a set of radio frames and can be broadcast via the broadcast channel (BCH). The BCH is a one-way control channel that can broadcast common cell information and consists of a frequency correction channel (FCCH), a synchronization channel (SCH), and a broadcast control channel (BCCH).

[0127] 9. SSB beam direction

[0128] In communication systems, beamforming technology can be used to improve signal coverage and quality. Network devices can adjust the phase and amplitude of the antenna array to form multiple beams, each covering a different direction. The SSB beam direction refers to the direction in which the network device transmits the SSB. At different time periods, the network device can transmit SSBs in different directions to cover a wider area.

[0129] 10. Modulation and coding scheme (MCS)

[0130] MCS (Modulation Control System) is a key concept in wireless communication systems, used to define the modulation scheme and coding rate for data transmission. The choice of MCS directly affects the performance of the communication link, including data transmission rate, reliability, and coverage.

[0131] Modulation refers to the process of converting digital signals into analog signals suitable for transmission. Common modulation methods include, but are not limited to, binary phase shift keying (BPSK), quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), 16-quadrature amplitude modulation (16-QAM), 64-QAM, and 256-QAM.

[0132] The coding rate, also known as coding speed, code rate, or forward error correction (FEC) code rate, generally refers to the ratio of redundant data used for error correction to the actual data during data transmission. The coding rate is usually expressed as a fraction, indicating how much redundant information is added to the data for error detection and correction. Common coding rates include 1 / 2, 2 / 3, and 3 / 4. A lower coding rate (such as 1 / 2) means more redundant information, thus improving error resilience but reducing the effective data rate. A higher coding rate (such as 3 / 4) provides a higher data rate but places higher demands on channel conditions.

[0133] 11. Preamble group

[0134] Random access preambles are used to assist terminal devices in synchronizing and establishing connections with network devices. In communication systems, random access preambles can be divided into multiple groups according to different access requirements, such as group A and group B.

[0135] Among them, the Group A preamble is mainly used for regular random access requests and is suitable for most common access scenarios. The Group A preamble is typically used for shorter message transmissions and is suitable for requests involving small amounts of data.

[0136] Group B preambles are used in scenarios requiring higher transmission power or larger data volumes, such as in weak signal conditions or when a large amount of data needs to be transmitted. Group B preambles typically have higher power requirements to ensure successful access even under poor channel conditions.

[0137] It should be understood that the terms "shorter message" and "longer message" are relative. Alternatively, a shorter message can be understood as one whose length is less than threshold 1, and a longer message as one whose length is greater than threshold 2, and so on. Similarly, "small data volume" and "large data volume" are also relative. Alternatively, a small data volume can be understood as one whose data volume is less than threshold 3, and a large data volume as one whose data volume is greater than threshold 4, and so on. This application does not impose specific limitations in this regard.

[0138] 12. Random access opportunity (RO) group

[0139] During random access, the terminal device can send a random access preamble to the network device using certain time-frequency domain resources. Furthermore, the time-frequency domain resources used to send the random access preamble can be divided into multiple groups of time-frequency domain resources, each of which can be understood as a RO group.

[0140] Different RO groups may be configured for different types of access requests, or for different priorities and quality of service requirements.

[0141] In practice, the network communicates configuration information about RO groups to the UE via system information broadcast (such as SIB2). Based on this information, the UE selects an appropriate RO group and preamble for random access. In this way, the network can manage resources more effectively and optimize access performance.

[0142] 13. Zadoff-Chu (ZC) sequence

[0143] In random access procedures, ZC sequences are sequences that can be used to generate preambles. Furthermore, ZC sequences can be generated based on specific formulas or functions.

[0144] For example, ZC sequence x u (i) can satisfy the following formula:

[0145]

[0146] Where i is the index of the sequence (or value) in the ZC sequence, i∈{0,1,2,...,L} RA -1};L RA is the length of the ZC sequence; u is the root sequence index; j is the imaginary unit.

[0147] 14. Direction of departure (DOD)

[0148] It can refer to the direction in which the signal leaves the transmitting antenna. It describes the direction of signal propagation when leaving the transmitter.

[0149] 15. Direction of Arrival (DOA)

[0150] It can refer to the direction in which the signal reaches the receiving antenna. It describes the direction of incidence of the signal when it reaches the receiver.

[0151] 16. Environmental Map

[0152] It typically refers to a two-dimensional or three-dimensional graphical representation used to represent information about a specific area or environment. It can include various types of information, such as terrain, buildings, roads, vegetation, etc.

[0153] 17. 3D model of the environment

[0154] It can also be understood as a three-dimensional environment map. A 3D model of the environment is a detailed three-dimensional representation that can be used to simulate and analyze the environment within a physical space.

[0155] 18. Point cloud model of the environment

[0156] A point cloud model is a three-dimensional dataset composed of a large number of points, each with specific coordinates in space. An environmental point cloud model can include a large number of points used to simulate and analyze the environment within physical space.

[0157] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, firstly, in conjunction with Figure 1 The communication system applicable to the embodiments of this application will be described in detail.

[0158] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system 100 applicable to the methods provided in the embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the communication system 100 may include at least one network device (such as...) Figure 1 110a and 110b in the above), may also include at least one terminal device (such as Figure 1 (120a-120j in the middle).

[0159] Terminal devices can connect to network devices wirelessly. Furthermore, terminal devices and network devices can connect to each other via wired or wireless means.

[0160] It should be understood that device connectivity can also be interpreted as the ability for devices to communicate with each other. For example, the connection between a network device and a terminal device indicates that the network device and the terminal device can communicate with each other. Network devices and terminal devices can communicate via a wireless link. In one possible scenario, the network device can act as a transmitter, and the terminal device as a receiver, with the network device sending signals to the terminal device 120. In another possible scenario, the network device can act as a receiver, and the terminal device as a transmitter, with the terminal device sending signals to the network device.

[0161] Communication between network devices and terminal devices, between network devices, and between terminal devices can be conducted using licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or both simultaneously. Communication can be conducted using spectrum below 6 GHz, spectrum above 6 GHz, or both simultaneously. The embodiments of this application do not limit the spectrum resources used for wireless communication.

[0162] The network equipment can be a base station deployed in the air, such as a satellite base station 110a; or it can be a base station deployed indoors, such as a micro base station or an indoor station 110b.

[0163] The terminal device can be a terminal device deployed in the air, such as... Figure 1The 120i can be a helicopter or drone; it can also be a terminal device deployed on the ground, such as... Figure 1 The following are examples: mobile phones 120a, 120e, 120f, 120j, vehicle 120b, computer 110b, and printer 120h.

[0164] Network devices and terminal devices can be fixed in location or mobile. For example, network devices and terminal devices can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; they can also be deployed on water; and they can also be deployed in the air on airplanes, balloons, and artificial satellites.

[0165] The roles of network devices and terminal devices can be relative. For example, Figure 1 The helicopter or drone 100i can be configured as a mobile base station. For those 120j accessing the wireless access network 100 via 120i, 120i is a base station; however, for 110a, 120i is a terminal device, meaning that 110a and 120i communicate via a wireless air interface protocol. Of course, 110a and 120i can also communicate via a network device interface protocol; in this case, 120i is also a base station relative to 110a. Therefore, both network devices and terminal devices can be collectively referred to as communication devices. Figure 1 The 110a, 110b, and 120a-120j in the text can be referred to as communication devices with their respective corresponding functions, such as communication devices with base station functions or communication devices with terminal functions.

[0166] It should be understood that Figure 1 This is just an illustration; the communication system may also include other devices, such as wireless repeaters and wireless backhaul devices. Figure 1 Not shown in the figure. This application does not limit this aspect in its embodiments.

[0167] The aforementioned communication devices, such as Figure 1 Network devices or terminal devices in a network can be configured with multiple antennas. These multiple antennas may include at least one transmitting antenna for transmitting signals and at least one receiving antenna for receiving signals. Additionally, each communication device also includes a transmitter chain and a receiver chain, which, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, may include multiple components related to signal transmission and reception (e.g., processors, modulators, multiplexers, demodulators, demultiplexers, or antennas). Therefore, access network devices and terminal devices can communicate via multi-antenna technology.

[0168] Optionally, the communication system 100 may also include other network entities such as a network controller and a mobility management entity, but the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto.

[0169] It should also be understood that the method provided in the embodiments of this application can be applied to a variety of communication systems, including 5G new radio (NR) systems. Communication system 100 is only an example. This application does not limit the specific architecture of the applicable system, nor does it limit the number and form of various devices contained in each communication system.

[0170] As we understand it, the random access procedure, also known as the random access channel (RACH) procedure, is a crucial process in wireless communication systems. For example, in cellular networks, terminal devices can establish an initial connection with network devices through the random access procedure. The random access procedure allows terminal devices to communicate with network devices without pre-allocated resources.

[0171] Currently, random access procedures can be implemented in two ways: a four-step random access procedure and a two-step random access procedure. These will be discussed in detail below. Figure 2 and Figure 3 This paper provides a detailed explanation of the two random access processes from the perspective of device interaction.

[0172] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the four-step random access method 200. Method 200 can be applied to communication system 100. Figure 2 As shown, method 200 includes the following steps:

[0173] S201. The network device sends SIB 1, which may include parameters required by the terminal device during random access, such as RACH access parameters; correspondingly, the terminal device receives SIB 1 from the network device.

[0174] Network devices can transmit SIB 1 via broadcast, or SIB 1 can be understood as broadcast information. RACH access parameters may include, but are not limited to, PRACH configuration index, preamble format, frequency offset, or transmit power. The PRACH configuration index can be used to indicate the time-domain and / or frequency-domain resources for transmitting the random access preamble (or preamble).

[0175] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the random access preamble can also be called a preamble, preamble sequence, or random access preamble sequence, etc. The following description uses the preamble as an example, and for the sake of brevity, it will not be elaborated on further.

[0176] It should also be understood that the information carried by SIB 1 shown in the embodiments of this application is only an example. In actual application scenarios, SIB 1 may carry more or less information, and this application does not make any specific limitations on this.

[0177] S202. Based on the time-domain resources and / or frequency-domain resources indicated by the PRACH configuration index, the terminal device sends message 1 (Msg 1) to the network device. Message 1 includes a preamble. Correspondingly, the network device receives message 1 from the terminal device.

[0178] It should be understood that message 1 can be used to request random access, and message 1 can also be called a random access request, etc.; or since message 1 carries a preamble, message 1 can also be simply referred to as a random access preamble message or preamble message, etc. This application does not make a specific limitation on the name of message 1.

[0179] S203. In response to message 1, the network device sends message 2 (Msg 2) to the terminal device. Message 2 may include information indicating uplink (UP) resources and timing advance (TA). Correspondingly, the terminal device receives message 2 from the network device.

[0180] Uplink resources can be understood as time-domain and / or frequency-domain resources used for transmitting uplink information (e.g., message 3). TA (Timing Advance) can also be called timing advance, and it can be used to adjust the uplink transmission timing of terminal devices to compensate for signal propagation delays between terminal devices and network devices. By adjusting the TA, network devices can ensure that uplink signals from different terminal devices arrive at the network device synchronously, thereby reducing signal collisions.

[0181] It should be understood that message 2 can be understood as a response to message 1, and can also be called a random access response (RAR), random access preamble response, or preamble response, etc. This application does not specifically limit the name of message 2.

[0182] S204. Based on uplink resources and TA, the terminal device sends message 3 (Msg 3) to the network device. Message 3 may include: an RRC connection request and the identifier of the terminal device, etc. Correspondingly, the network device receives message 3 from the terminal device.

[0183] Here, the RRC connection request can be understood as an RRC message used to request the establishment of an RRC connection with a network device. Therefore, message 3 can be used to request the establishment of an RRC connection with a network device. Message 3 can also be called an uplink message, etc., and this application does not specifically limit the name of message 3.

[0184] S205, the network device sends message 4 (Msg 4) to the terminal device, which includes the identifier of the terminal device that is allowed to access. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives message 4 from the network device.

[0185] It should be noted that message 4 may include the connection result (contention resolution). That is, if the identifier of the allowed terminal device included in message 4 is the same as the identifier of the terminal device in message 3, it means that the terminal device has successfully connected; otherwise, it means that the terminal device has failed to connect.

[0186] It should be understood that in method 200, the four steps in the four-step random access can be understood as messages 1 to 4. The names of these four messages are merely examples, and the names of each message can be replaced with others. Furthermore, the information carried in each message is merely an example; in actual application scenarios, the information carried in each message can be more or less, and this application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0187] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the two-step random access method 300. Method 300 can be applied to communication system 100. Figure 3 As shown, method 300 includes:

[0188] S301. The network device sends SIB 1, which includes parameters required by the terminal device during random access, such as RACH access parameters; correspondingly, the terminal device receives SIB 1 from the network device.

[0189] It should be understood that the implementation of S301 is similar to that of S201, and can be referred to the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0190] S302. Based on the time-frequency resources and / or frequency domain resources indicated in SIB 1, the terminal device sends message A (Msg A) to the network device. Message A may include a preamble, an RRC connection request, and the identifier of the terminal device, etc. Correspondingly, the network device receives message A from the terminal device.

[0191] It should be understood that message A contains information similar to that included in messages 1 and 3 in method 200; that is, message A is similar to messages 1 and 3. Furthermore, message A can also be used to request random access, and can also be called a random access request, etc.; or, since message A carries a preamble, message A can also be simply referred to as a random access preamble message or preamble message, etc. Refer to the description in method 200; it will not be repeated here.

[0192] S202, the network device sends message B to the terminal device. Message B may include the identifier of the terminal device that is allowed to access and its TA, etc. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives message B.

[0193] It should be understood that message B can be understood as a response to message A, and can also be called a random access response, random access preamble response, or preamble response, etc. This application does not specifically limit the name of this message B.

[0194] It should be understood that the content of message B is similar to that of messages 2 and 4 in method 200; that is, message B is similar to messages 2 and 4. Please refer to the description in method 200, which will not be repeated here.

[0195] It should also be understood that in method 300, the two steps in the two-step random access can be understood as the two messages, message A and message B. The names of these two messages are merely examples, and the names of each message can be replaced with others. Furthermore, the information carried in each message is only an example; in actual application scenarios, the information carried in each message can be more or less. For example, message B may also carry a temporary cell radio network temporary identifier (C-RNTI), etc. This application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0196] Whether it is a four-step random access procedure or a two-step random access procedure, in order to reduce latency and improve access success rate, terminal devices can perform early data transmission.

[0197] It should be understood that data early transmission, also known as pre-transmission, can be understood as the process by which a terminal device transmits data to a network device through messages during the random access process. The data transmitted early by the terminal device can be understood as data transmitted through the Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH), and data transmitted through the PUSCH can also be called PUSCH or PUSCH data, etc. For the sake of brevity, the following description uses data as an example, where "data" can also be replaced with "PUSCH" or "PUSCH data," etc. For simplicity, this will not be elaborated further below.

[0198] During the four-step random access process, the terminal device can transmit data early via message 3; during the two-step random access process, the terminal device can transmit data early via message A.

[0199] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the data transmitted early via message 3 or message A (PUSCH) may include, but is not limited to, service data and / or other control information. For example, in some cases, especially in low-latency application scenarios, the terminal device may carry some service data in message 3 or message A, thereby reducing the transmission latency of service data. Other control information may include, for example, control information for optimizing network performance, such as quality of service (QoS) parameters or uplink power control information, etc., used to optimize network performance in a timely manner. For the sake of brevity, this will not be elaborated further below.

[0200] During the four-step random access process, the terminal device can carry data (or early transmission data) via message 3. Furthermore, the resource configuration related to the early transmission data during this process can be indicated, for example, via message 2. For instance, message 2 may include an uplink grant (UL grant), which can indicate the PUSCH resources available to the terminal device. PUSCH resources are time-frequency domain resources and / or MCS used for data transmission (PUSCH). This allows the terminal device to modulate and encode data based on the MSC and transmit the modulated and encoded data to the network device via these time-frequency domain resources.

[0201] During the two-step random access process, the terminal device can carry data (or early transmission data) through message A. Furthermore, during this process, the resource configuration related to the terminal device's early transmission data can be indicated through SIB 1. For example, SIB1 can indicate time-frequency domain resources and MCS, enabling the terminal device to modulate and encode data based on the MSC, and to transmit the modulated and encoded data to the network device through these time-frequency domain resources.

[0202] It should be understood that the above-mentioned time-frequency domain resources may include time-domain resources and / or frequency-domain resources, such as frequency-domain resource blocks. This application does not specifically limit this.

[0203] However, whether it's data early transmission in a four-step random access process or a two-step random access process, the data sent from the terminal device to the network device is transmitted via a single data stream. For example, currently, the terminal device may not be able to obtain multipath information, thus preventing it from optimizing for multi-stream transmission in data early transmission, causing it to transmit data via a single data stream. This results in low data transmission efficiency during data early transmission and may not meet the data transmission needs of multi-user scenarios, limiting the improvement of system capacity.

[0204] Therefore, there is an urgent need to provide a method to further improve the data transmission efficiency during the early data transmission process.

[0205] In view of this, this application provides a data transmission method in which the terminal device can acquire multipath information and determine the number of streams that can support data transmission based on the multipath information. This number of streams can be referred to as a first quantity. The terminal device can perform early data transmission based on the first quantity, and the number of streams actually used by the terminal device for early data transmission is a second quantity that is less than or equal to the first quantity. Thus, when the second quantity is greater than or equal to 2, the terminal device can perform early data transmission through multiple data streams, resulting in higher data transmission efficiency. This helps meet the data transmission requirements of multi-stream MIMO systems and also helps meet the transmission requirements of latency-sensitive data (such as one-shot transmissions). Furthermore, multi-stream data transmission also helps improve system capacity and meets the data transmission requirements in multi-user scenarios. The latency-sensitive data can be, for example, data transmitted using a one-shot transmission method. One-shot transmission is a data transmission method that does not require retransmission or multiple transmissions; this method is typically used in scenarios requiring low latency.

[0206] Furthermore, when the second quantity is 1, the terminal device side can determine that it may not currently support data early transmission through multiple data streams. In this case, the terminal device side can perform data early transmission through a single data stream, which helps the network device side to successfully receive the data transmitted by the terminal device side, thereby also making the data transmission efficiency higher.

[0207] Below, in conjunction with Figures 4 to 8 This application provides a detailed description of the data transmission method. The embodiments shown in this application illustrate the data transmission method provided by this application from the perspective of device interaction. The specific forms and numbers of the devices shown are merely examples and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation of the method provided in this application. Below, using terminal devices and network devices as examples, the data transmission method of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail.

[0208] It should be understood that the network device can also be replaced by the first communication device. The first communication device can be the network device itself, or a chip, chip system or processor that supports the data transmission method, or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the network device. The terminal device can also be replaced by the second communication device. The second communication device can be the terminal device itself, or a chip, chip system or processor that supports the data transmission method, or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the terminal device. This application does not make any specific limitations in this regard.

[0209] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of a data transmission method 400 provided in an embodiment of this application. Method 400 is applicable to a communication system 100 and includes the following steps:

[0210] S401. The terminal device obtains multipath information, which is used to indicate multiple paths for data transmission.

[0211] Multipath information, also known as multi-path transmission information, can be used to indicate multiple paths for data transmission. Data transmission can be understood as data or signal transmission between the sending and receiving ends. In scenarios where terminal devices transmit data early via message 3 or message A, the sending end can be the terminal device, and the receiving end can be the network device. Therefore, data transmission can also be understood as the transmission of signals (or data) between the terminal device and the network device, or the transmission of signals (or data) from the terminal device to the network device.

[0212] Multipath information, used to indicate multiple paths for data transmission, can be understood as including information or parameters describing these multiple paths. Furthermore, multipath information indicating multiple paths for data transmission can also be replaced with: multipath information describing multiple paths for data transmission, or multipath information describing the characteristics of signal (or data) transmission along multiple paths. In other words, multipath information can reflect the transmission status or characteristics of a signal (or data) along each of the multiple paths.

[0213] For example, multipath information may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: DOD, DOA, power, or delay of the signal (or data) transmitted along each path. The power, also referred to as path power, can be used to represent the power of the signal (or data) transmitted along each path, and the unit can be dB, etc., reflecting the attenuation of the signal (or data) during transmission due to path loss, reflection, scattering, and other factors.

[0214] S402. The terminal device determines a first number of at least one first data stream that supports data transmission based on multipath information.

[0215] Here, the first quantity can be understood as the number of streams supported by the terminal device for early data transmission, that is, the number of data streams that the terminal device can support for early data transmission. The number of streams can be understood as the number of data streams or the number of independent data streams. The first quantity can be a positive integer, such as 1, 2, 3, or 4.

[0216] Optionally, the first quantity can be a positive integer less than or equal to X, such as 4, and X can be an integer predefined by the protocol.

[0217] It should be understood that the "first data stream" in at least one first data stream does not specifically refer to any arbitrary data stream, but rather refers to any data stream in general. That is, the first quantity of at least one first data stream is the number of streams supported by the terminal device for data transmission from the terminal device to the network device, as determined by the terminal device. It is a quantity determined by the terminal device and is unrelated to the specific data carried by the data stream. The first data stream does not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application.

[0218] It should also be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the number of flows and the number of layers can be the same data, that is, the values ​​of the number of flows and the number of layers can be the same. Therefore, the number of flows can also be replaced by the number of layers, or the number of layers can also be replaced by the number of flows. For the sake of brevity, this will not be elaborated further below.

[0219] Optionally, the number of streams supported for data transmission can also be understood as the maximum number of streams (maximum number of layers) supported by the terminal device for data transmission. That is, the first quantity determined by the terminal device can be understood as the maximum number of streams supported by the terminal device for data transmission. In this way, the terminal device can support early data transmission based on the first quantity.

[0220] S403. The terminal device sends at least one second data stream to the network device in message 3 or message A according to a first quantity. The quantity of the at least one second data stream is a second quantity, which is less than or equal to the first quantity. Message 3 is used to request the establishment of a connection with the network device, and message A is used to request random access. Correspondingly, the network device receives message 3 or message A from the terminal device.

[0221] In this context, at least one second data stream can be understood as data transmitted earlier by the terminal device. Alternatively, it can be understood as data transmitted earlier by the terminal device being transmitted through at least one second data stream. Furthermore, in the four-step random access process, at least one second data stream can be sent on or through message 3. In the two-step random access process, at least one second data stream can be sent on or through message A.

[0222] It can be understood that the first quantity can be interpreted as the number of streams supported by the terminal device for early data transmission based on multipath information. The second quantity can be interpreted as the number of streams actually used by the terminal device for early data transmission. That is, before the terminal device performs early data transmission, the number of streams for early data transmission can be adjusted based on other factors to increase the probability that the network device will successfully receive at least one second data stream. Furthermore, since the first quantity is the number of streams determined based on multipath information and conforming to the environmental information between the terminal device and the network device, the second quantity actually used by the terminal device for early data transmission can be less than or equal to the first quantity.

[0223] That is, in one case, the terminal device can use the first quantity for early data transmission, and the second quantity is the same as the first quantity.

[0224] In another scenario, the terminal device can determine the maximum number of streams supported for early data transmission based on other factors, such as a third number. In this case, the second number is the smaller of the first and third numbers.

[0225] For example, other factors could include the number of data transmission streams that the network device supports.

[0226] It should be understood that the number of data streams supported by network devices may vary depending on their capabilities. Network device capabilities can include, but are not limited to, the performance of the network device's CPU or dedicated network processor (ASIC), i.e., the maximum number of streams the CPU or ASIC can handle; the network device's memory capacity; or interface bandwidth, etc. In other words, the network device's capabilities limit the number of data streams it can process in parallel. For example, if this number is a third quantity, then the number of data streams transmitted by the terminal device must be less than or equal to this third quantity.

[0227] Method 400 further includes: the terminal device acquiring a third quantity, the third quantity being the number of at least one third data stream supported by the network device for data transmission. Then S403 can be implemented as follows: the terminal device sends at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A according to the first quantity and the third quantity, and correspondingly, the network device receives message 3 or message A from the terminal device.

[0228] The number of at least one second data stream is the second quantity, which is the smaller of the first and third quantities. Thus, the second quantity can be either the number of streams appropriate to the environment between the terminal device and the network device, or the number of streams appropriate to the network device's capabilities, resulting in a higher success rate for early data transmission.

[0229] It should be understood that the "third data stream" in "at least one third data stream" does not specifically refer to any arbitrary data stream, but rather to any data stream in general. That is, the "third quantity" of "at least one third data stream" is the number of data transmission streams supported by the network device, as determined by the network device, and is unrelated to the specific data carried by the data stream. The third data stream does not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application.

[0230] Optionally, the third quantity can be obtained by the terminal device from the network device. Then, before S403, method 400 further includes: the network device sending second information to the terminal device, the second information indicating the third quantity. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second information from the network device.

[0231] In this way, the terminal device can determine the number of streams supported by the network device.

[0232] In one possible implementation, the second information can indicate the specific number of flows supported by the network device. For example, if the network device supports 2 flows, the second information can indicate 2, etc.

[0233] In this way, the terminal device can determine the specific number of streams supported by the network device.

[0234] In another possible implementation, the second information can also indicate whether the network device supports or does not support multi-stream data transmission. This indication method can also be called a binary indication. For example, 0 (or 1) indicates that the network device does not support multi-stream data transmission, and 1 (or 0) indicates that the network device supports multi-stream data transmission, etc.

[0235] Thus, if the second information-supporting network device does not support multi-stream data transmission, the terminal device can determine that the third quantity is 1; if the second information-supporting network device supports multi-stream data transmission, the terminal device can determine that the third quantity is an integer greater than 1. Therefore, the terminal device can determine that the network device supports any number of streams. It should be understood that "any number of streams" here is not an unlimited number; this number can be less than or equal to the maximum number of streams for data transmission in the current communication system. For example, since the protocol can be predefined or the network device can be configured through signaling, the maximum number of streams supported in the current communication system, for example, a maximum number of streams of 4, can be determined by the terminal device to be 4, etc.

[0236] Alternatively, when the second information indicates that the network device supports multi-stream data transmission, the terminal device can determine the second quantity as the first quantity, that is, data can be transmitted early using the first quantity.

[0237] The data transmission method of this application allows the terminal device to determine, based on multipath information, the number of streams it supports for early data transmission during random access, referred to as a first quantity. The terminal device can then perform early data transmission based on a second quantity of data streams, which can be a value less than or equal to the first quantity. Thus, when the second quantity is greater than or equal to 2, the terminal device can perform early data transmission through multiple data streams, resulting in higher data transmission efficiency. This helps meet the data transmission requirements of multi-stream MIMO systems and / or the transmission requirements of latency-sensitive data; it also helps improve system capacity and meets the data transmission needs of multi-user scenarios.

[0238] Furthermore, when the second quantity is 1, the terminal device can determine that it is currently impossible to transmit data early through multiple data streams. In this case, the terminal device can transmit data early through a single data stream, which helps the network device to successfully receive the data transmitted early by the terminal device, thereby making the data transmission efficiency higher.

[0239] It should be noted that after the terminal device determines the first quantity, the terminal device can report the first quantity and indicate the first quantity to the network device, so that the network device can determine the number of streams supported by the terminal device.

[0240] As an optional embodiment, after S402 and before S403, method 400 further includes: the terminal device sending first information to the network device, the first information indicating a first quantity; correspondingly, the network device receiving the first information from the terminal device.

[0241] The first piece of information can be any information that indicates a first quantity. For example, the first piece of information can also be called the rank, and the rank can represent the layer number. Different ranks can indicate different flow counts; for example, rank 1 indicates 1 flow, rank 2 indicates 2 flows, rank 4 indicates 4 flows, and so on. In a four-step random access process, the rank can also be called Msg3-rank; in a two-step random access process, the rank can also be called Msg A-rank, etc. Furthermore, the rank can be a positive integer less than or equal to X, where X can be, for example, 4, and X can be an integer predefined by the protocol.

[0242] In this way, based on the first piece of information, the network device can determine the first quantity.

[0243] It is understandable that in the four-step random access process, the terminal device can perform early data transmission through message 3. Therefore, in the four-step random access process, the first information can be carried in the message sent by the network device to the terminal device before message 3, such as message 1. In the two-step random access process, the terminal device can perform early data transmission through message A. Therefore, in the two-step random access process, the first information can be carried in message A, etc.

[0244] It should be noted that the terminal device can indicate the first quantity through explicit indication. For example, the first information could be an index, and this index could be used to indicate the first quantity. Alternatively, the terminal device can also indicate the first quantity through implicit indication. For example, the first information could be a preamble, which could be used to indicate the first quantity, meaning the network device could determine the first quantity based on the preamble. The following three possible implementations illustrate this.

[0245] Possible implementation method 1: The preamble is generated based on a first sequence, which is related to a first quantity.

[0246] Here, the first sequence can be understood as the sequence used to generate the preamble, such as the ZC sequence. The first sequence being related to the first quantity can also be understood as the first sequence being determined based on the first quantity.

[0247] For example, the function that generates the ZC sequence may include a first quantity (k).

[0248] In Example 1, the ZC sequence x u (i) can satisfy the following formula:

[0249]

[0250] Where i is the index of the sequence (or value) in the ZC sequence, i∈{0,1,2,...,L} RA -1};L RA is the length of the ZC sequence; u is the root sequence index; j is the imaginary unit.

[0251] As can be seen from Example 1, the ZC sequence may differ depending on the value of k. Therefore, after the network device receives the preamble, it can determine the first sequence based on the preamble, and then determine the sequence based on L in the above formula. RA The value of k is determined by parameters such as u.

[0252] In Example 2, the protocol can be predefined or the network device can indicate to the terminal device via signaling the mapping relationship between the first quantity and the second sequence. The second sequence can include the coefficients of each value in the first sequence, which can be 1 or -1, and the first sequence can be generated by the terminal device based on the second sequence.

[0253] That is, terminal devices can be based on An initial ZC sequence is determined, and then each value in the initial ZC sequence is adjusted sequentially based on the coefficients in the second sequence to obtain the first sequence.

[0254] For example, the protocol can be predefined, or network devices can indicate the mapping relationship shown in Table 1 to terminal devices via signaling. Here, sequence L is the sequence used to indicate the coefficients of each value in the ZC sequence. Table 1 is only an example; in actual applications, the sequence L and the length L of the ZC sequence will differ significantly. RA They can be the same.

[0255] When the flow number is 1, for example, all values ​​of L in the sequence are 1, then the first sequence is the same as the initial ZC sequence; when the flow number is 2, for example, all values ​​of L in the sequence are -1, then based on After determining the initial ZC sequence, each value in the initial ZC sequence is multiplied by -1 to obtain the first sequence; when the flux number is 4, the values ​​in sequence L can be distributed alternately with -1 and 1, then based on Once the initial ZC sequence is determined, the first value in the ZC sequence can be multiplied by -1, the second value by 2, the third value by -1, and the fourth value by 1, thus obtaining the first sequence.

[0256] Thus, when the first quantity is 1, the second sequence can be [1,1,1,1]; when the first quantity is 2, the second sequence can be [-1,-1,-1,-1]; and when the first quantity is 4, the second sequence can be [-1,1,-1,1]. As the first quantity changes, the second sequence used to generate the first sequence (ZC sequence) is different. Therefore, after receiving the preamble, the network device can determine the first sequence based on the preamble; and the network device can... An initial ZC sequence is determined; then, based on the first sequence and the initial ZC sequence, a second sequence is determined, where the j-th value in the second sequence is the ratio of the j-th value in the first sequence to the j-th value in the initial ZC sequence, where j is a positive integer; and the network device can determine the first quantity based on Table 1 and the second sequence.

[0257] Table 1

[0258] Number of streams Sequence L 1 [1,1,1,1] 2 [-1,-1,-1,-1] 4 [-1,1,-1,1] … …

[0259] It should be noted that Table 1 is only an example. In actual applications, Table 1 can include more mappings between stream numbers and the second sequence, such as the mapping between stream number 6 and [-1,-1,-1,1], or exclude the mapping between stream number 1 and [1,1,1,1]. Furthermore, in actual applications, the length of sequence L can be longer or shorter, and the length of sequence L can be the same as the length of the ZC sequence. The coefficients in each sequence L can also be replaced with others. For simplicity, they are not shown here individually.

[0260] It should be understood that the above two examples do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application, and the first quantity may also affect the generation of the first sequence in other ways. For the sake of brevity, they will not be shown one by one here.

[0261] Possible implementation 2: The preamble belongs to the first preamble group, and there is a first mapping relationship between the first preamble group and the first quantity.

[0262] The preamble group can be a group divided based on different demand levels. For example, the protocol can predefine or the network device can configure multiple preamble groups via signaling, such as group A and group B. The preamble in group A can be different from the preamble in group B. The first preamble group can belong to one of multiple preamble groups, and these multiple preamble groups can, for example, correspond to different stream numbers. In this way, the network device can determine the stream number (first quantity) based on the group to which the preamble sent by the terminal device belongs.

[0263] For example, the protocol can define or the network device can configure the mapping relationship as shown in Table 2 via signaling. Stream number 1 can correspond to (or map) group A, and stream number 2 can correspond to (or map) group B. When the first quantity is 1, the terminal device sends the preamble in group A to the network device, and the network device can determine that the first quantity is 1 based on the received preamble being the preamble of group A, that is, the first mapping relationship is the mapping relationship between stream number 1 and group A; when the first quantity is 2, the terminal device sends the preamble in group B to the network device, and the network device can determine that the first quantity is 2 based on the received preamble being the preamble of group B, that is, the first mapping relationship is the mapping relationship between stream number 2 and group B.

[0264] Table 2

[0265] Number of streams Preamble 1 Group A 2 Group B … …

[0266] It should be understood that Table 2 is merely an example, and the stream numbers can be replaced with others. For example, stream number 1 and stream number 2 can be swapped, then stream number 2 corresponds to group A, and stream number 1 corresponds to group B; or, stream number 1 can be replaced with stream number 2, and stream number 2 can be replaced with stream number 4, then stream number 2 corresponds to group A, stream number 4 corresponds to group B, and so on. Furthermore, preamble groups can be divided into more groups in other ways, such as group A, group B, and group C, etc. The protocol can predefine or the network device can configure more mapping relationships between stream numbers and more preamble groups. Examples include the mapping relationship between stream number 1 and group A, the mapping relationship between stream number 2 and group B, and the mapping relationship between stream number 4 and group C. This application does not specifically limit the number of streams and the division method and quantity of preamble groups shown in Table 2.

[0267] Possible implementation 3: The preamble is transmitted through the first RO group, and there is a second mapping relationship between the first RO group and the first quantity.

[0268] The RO group can be associated with the time-frequency domain resources for transmitting the preamble. Furthermore, to meet different transmission requirements, the protocol can predefine or the network device can configure multiple different RO groups via signaling. These multiple RO groups can include a first RO group. The protocol can also predefine or the network device can configure the mapping relationship between multiple RO groups and multiple streams via signaling. This mapping relationship includes a second mapping relationship.

[0269] For example, the protocol can define or the network device can configure the mapping relationship as shown in Table 3 via signaling. Stream number 1 can correspond to (or map) group 1, and stream number 2 can correspond to (or map) group 2. When the first quantity is 1, the terminal device can send a preamble to the network device through group 1. The network device can determine that the first quantity is 1 based on the received preamble being transmitted through group 1, that is, the second mapping relationship is the mapping relationship between stream number 1 and group 1. When the first quantity is 2, the terminal device can send a preamble to the network device through group 2. The network device can determine that the first quantity is 2 based on the received preamble being transmitted through group 2, that is, the second mapping relationship is the mapping relationship between stream number 2 and group 2.

[0270] Table 3

[0271] Number of streams RO group 1 Group 1 2 Group 2 … …

[0272] It should be understood that Table 3 is merely an example, and the flow numbers can be replaced with others. For example, flow number 1 and flow number 2 can be swapped, then flow number 2 corresponds to group 1, and flow number 1 corresponds to group 2; or, flow number 1 can be replaced with flow number 2, and flow number 2 can be replaced with flow number 4, then flow number 2 corresponds to group 1, and flow number 4 corresponds to group 2, and so on. Furthermore, RO groups can be divided into more groups in other ways, such as group 1, group 2, and group 3, etc. In this case, the protocol can predefine or the network device can configure more mapping relationships between flow numbers and more RO groups. Examples include the mapping relationship between flow number 1 and group 1, the mapping relationship between flow number 2 and group 2, and the mapping relationship between flow number 4 and group 3. This application does not specifically limit the flow numbers and the division methods and number of RO groups shown in Table 3.

[0273] Through the above methods, the network device can determine the first quantity. When the first quantity is indicated through the above three possible methods, the network device can determine the first quantity through the preamble, thus reducing signaling overhead.

[0274] Based on the above embodiments, in order to facilitate understanding of the solution of this application, the two methods of determining multipath information (S401) by the terminal device will be described in detail below.

[0275] Method 1: Determine the multipath information corresponding to the specific location of the terminal device.

[0276] Understandably, in this approach, the terminal device can first determine the multipath information based on method 1 or method 2.

[0277] Method 1: The terminal device is equipped with a first AI model. By inputting location information and environmental information into the first AI model, the first AI model can output multipath information.

[0278] The first AI model can also be called a radio map or an AI-based radio map, and it can be used to calculate multipath information based on location and environmental information. Location information includes, for example, information indicating the location of a terminal device and / or information indicating the location of a network device. Information indicating the location of a terminal device may include, for example, the coordinates of the terminal device, and information indicating the location of a network device may include, for example, the coordinates of the network device. Environmental information can be, but is not limited to, an environmental map, a 3D model of the environment, or a point cloud model of the environment; that is, information that can be used to describe the environment between the terminal device and the network device.

[0279] It is understandable that, taking location information as coordinates as an example, the coordinates of a network device can be determined based on the coordinates of a terminal device. For example, a network device may be located at the center of a cell, so the terminal device can determine the center of the cell as the location of the network device after determining its own cell location.

[0280] It should be noted that the first AI model can be set up on the terminal device based on user authorization. That is, after authorization, the first AI model can be deployed on the terminal device. Then, the terminal device can determine multipath information based on the first AI model.

[0281] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the terminal device can input environmental and location information into the radio map (first AI model). The environmental information can be an environmental map, and the location information includes, for example, the coordinates of the terminal device (point A) and the coordinates of the network device (point B). The radio map can then output multipath information.

[0282] It is understandable that the determination of multipath information depends on the first AI model. The first AI model can be trained by the terminal device, or it can be trained by other devices (such as third-party servers or network devices) and then sent to the terminal device. Furthermore, the first AI model can be trained using training data.

[0283] When the first AI model is trained by a terminal device, the training data can be determined by the terminal device or obtained by the terminal device from a third-party server or network device.

[0284] In cases where the first AI model is trained by other devices on a third-party server or network device, the training data can be determined by other devices on the third-party server or network device.

[0285] The training data can be, for example, data obtained using techniques such as ray tracing. Ray tracing and similar techniques can be used to simulate radio propagation processes. By simulating radio propagation processes in various environments, information such as DOD, DOA, power, and delay corresponding to each transmission path can be obtained to get the output data in the training data. The environmental and location information used to obtain this output data can be used as the input data in the training data.

[0286] Method 2: If the first device, such as a third-party server, has deployed a first AI model, the terminal device can indicate its location and environmental information to the first device. The first device can then input the location and environmental information into the first AI model to obtain multipath information and send the multipath information to the terminal device.

[0287] It should be understood that in Method 2, the first AI model may be trained by the first device, and the first device trains the first AI model in a manner similar to that shown in Method 1, as described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0288] Method 2: Determine the multipath information corresponding to the area (first area) where the terminal device is located.

[0289] Understandably, in this approach, the terminal device can determine multipath information based on method 3 or method 4.

[0290] Method 3: The terminal device is equipped with a second AI model. By inputting location information into the second AI model, the location information can indicate the location of the terminal device. The second AI model can output the multipath information corresponding to the first region, and the terminal device is located in the first region.

[0291] The second AI model can be understood as a model capable of determining the corresponding multipath information in the first region. This second AI model can be referred to as a correlation electro-optical map, etc. Location information can be information indicating the location of the terminal device, such as the coordinates of the terminal device. After inputting the location information into the second AI model, the second AI model can determine that the terminal device is in the first region and then output the multipath information corresponding to the first region.

[0292] It should be noted that the second AI model can be set up on the terminal device based on user authorization. That is, after authorization, the second AI model can be deployed on the terminal device. Then, the terminal device can determine the multipath information corresponding to the first region based on the second AI model.

[0293] Optionally, the second AI model can be understood as a model capable of recording or determining multiple multipath information corresponding to multiple regions. The multiple regions may include the first region, and the multiple multipath information includes the multipath information corresponding to the first region. The multiple regions can be obtained by dividing the coverage area (or cell) of the network device. Furthermore, the multiple regions can be divided based on the multipath information corresponding to each location within the coverage area (or cell). The multipath information corresponding to each location is similar to the output of the first AI model. That is, the second AI model can determine the multipath information corresponding to each location within the coverage area (or cell) according to the implementation method in Method 1. Alternatively, after the first AI model outputs the multipath information corresponding to each location within the coverage area (or cell), the multipath information corresponding to each location within the coverage area (or cell) can be input into the second AI model.

[0294] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, each location in the coverage area (or cell) can be understood as each of multiple locations in the coverage area (or cell). The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the number of these multiple locations.

[0295] Furthermore, the second AI model can divide the coverage area (or cell) into multiple regions based on the multipath information corresponding to each location in the coverage area (or cell), and obtain the multipath information corresponding to each region in the multiple regions.

[0296] For example, the second AI model can be based on clustering algorithms or other types of algorithms to divide multiple locations with similar multipath characteristics and geographical proximity into a region, thereby dividing the coverage area (or cell) into multiple regions. Multipath characteristics may include, but are not limited to, path number and / or power. Similarity can be understood as a difference less than a certain threshold, and geographical proximity can be understood as being located within a region with an area less than a certain threshold.

[0297] Furthermore, multipath information for each region can be determined based on the multipath information corresponding to each location within that region. For example, the multipath information for each region can be a statistical measure of the multipath information corresponding to each location within that region. This statistical measure can be, for example, but is not limited to, the mean, variance, maximum, or minimum value. That is, for each piece of information in the multipath information corresponding to each location, the corresponding statistical measure can be calculated, thereby obtaining the multipath information for that region.

[0298] In this way, the second AI model can determine the multipath information corresponding to each region in multiple regions.

[0299] For example, such as Figure 6As shown, the terminal device can input location information into the radio map. Location information can include the coordinates of the terminal device, such as the coordinates of point C. Assuming the terminal device is located in area 602, and area 602 belongs to the coverage area 601 of the network device, then the relevant radio map can output the multipath information corresponding to area 602.

[0300] It is understandable that the determination of multipath information depends on a second AI model. This second AI model can be trained by the terminal device, or it can be trained by other devices (such as third-party servers or network devices) and then sent to the terminal device. Furthermore, the second AI model can be trained using training data.

[0301] In the case where the second AI model is trained by the terminal device, the training data can be determined by the terminal device or obtained by the terminal device from a third-party server or network device.

[0302] In the case where the second AI model is trained by other devices on a third-party server or network device, the training data can be determined by other devices on the third-party server or network device.

[0303] It is understandable that the training data used to train the second AI model can be obtained in the same way as the training data used to train the first AI model, so that the second AI model can determine the multipath information corresponding to each position. Alternatively, the second AI model can also process the multipath information corresponding to each position based on the output of the first AI model to obtain multiple regions and the multipath information corresponding to multiple regions.

[0304] Method 4: If a second device, such as a third-party server, is deployed with a second AI model, the terminal device can indicate its location information to the second device. The second device can then input the location information into the second AI model to obtain the multipath information corresponding to the first region and send the multipath information corresponding to the first region to the terminal device.

[0305] Furthermore, the terminal device can determine a first quantity based on the acquired multipath information and perform early data transmission based on the first quantity. For example, the terminal device can determine the number of streams (first quantity) in the following way, that is, S402 can be implemented in the following way.

[0306] Optionally, the terminal device determines the first quantity of at least one first data stream supporting data transmission by: multipath information describing N transmission paths, determining the number M of transmission paths among the N transmission paths that meet the data transmission requirements, the first quantity being M, where M and N are positive integers, and M is less than or equal to N.

[0307] It is understandable that, in order for network devices to successfully receive data from terminal devices, a transmission path that meets data transmission requirements can be a transmission path with relatively high signal strength. Furthermore, to meet data transmission requirements in different scenarios, terminal devices can also determine the initial quantity by combining different information from multipath information in different scenarios.

[0308] For example, the terminal device may determine a first quantity (M) by combining power (or signal strength). The terminal device may determine that the number of transmission paths among N transmission paths whose power is greater than or equal to a second preset threshold is M; or, the number of transmission paths among N transmission paths whose power difference from the maximum power is less than or equal to a third preset threshold is M, where the difference can be understood as the absolute value of the difference, and the maximum power can be understood as the maximum power among the N transmission paths. The second and third preset thresholds may be values ​​predefined by the protocol or preset in the network device, etc.

[0309] It should be understood that the terminal device can also determine the first quantity by combining other information in the multipath information, which will not be shown here for the sake of brevity.

[0310] It should be noted that when the multipath information used to determine the first quantity is the multipath information corresponding to the location of the terminal device, such as the multipath information determined based on the first AI model, the first quantity can be understood as the number of flows corresponding to the location of the terminal device. That is, when the terminal device is in that location, early data transmission can be performed based on the first quantity. When the multipath information used to determine the first quantity is the multipath information corresponding to the area (first area) where the terminal device is located, such as the multipath information determined based on the second AI model, the first quantity can be understood as the number of flows corresponding to the first area. That is, when the terminal device is in the first area, early data transmission can be performed based on the first quantity.

[0311] In order for a terminal device to send at least one second data stream to a network device, the terminal device needs to precode the early transmitted data (at least one second data stream) based on a precoding matrix. This precoding matrix can be determined by the terminal device based on multipath information, as detailed below.

[0312] As an optional embodiment, method 400 further includes: the terminal device determining a first precoding matrix based on multipath information and a second quantity, the first precoding matrix being used to precode at least one second data stream.

[0313] The first precoding matrix can also be referred to as the first precoding vector, for example. The first precoding matrix can be used to precode at least one second data stream, enabling the terminal device to map at least one second data stream to an antenna port for transmission, allowing at least one second data stream to be transmitted through a second number of independent data streams. Furthermore, precoding reduces interference between the independent data streams and allows at least one second data stream to adapt to CSI, thereby increasing the efficiency and reliability of data transmission.

[0314] Since the first precoding matrix is ​​used to precode each data stream in at least one second data stream, it is related to a second quantity, such as the dimension of the first precoding matrix being related to the second quantity. The terminal device needs to determine the first precoding matrix based on the second quantity. Furthermore, the first precoding matrix can be used to enhance signal strength along the transmission path and suppress interference between transmission paths. To better achieve these effects, multipath information can be combined to determine a first precoding matrix that better matches the transmission path transmitting at least one second data stream. Therefore, the terminal device can determine the first precoding matrix based on multipath information and the second quantity.

[0315] For example, the network device determining the first precoding matrix based on multipath information and the second quantity may include: obtaining an estimate of the current channel based on multipath information and a randomly selected phase and time-frequency domain conversion module, where the estimate may be, for example, a channel matrix; and performing singular value decomposition (SVD) on the estimate to obtain multiple eigenvalues ​​and multiple eigenvectors, with each eigenvalue corresponding to a different eigenvector. The first precoding matrix is ​​formed by selecting the eigenvectors corresponding to the W eigenvalues, where the W eigenvalues ​​are the W largest eigenvalues ​​among the multiple eigenvalues, where W is a positive integer and may be equal to the second quantity. For example, the network device may sort the multiple eigenvalues ​​in descending order, then the W eigenvalues ​​are the first W eigenvalues ​​after sorting.

[0316] The time-frequency domain conversion module can convert multipath information into channel state information (CSI). For example, the time-frequency domain conversion module can convert multipath information into CSI through mathematical models, simulation models, or AI models.

[0317] It should be noted that the above method for determining the first precoding matrix is ​​merely an example. When the number of at least one second data stream is a first quantity, the terminal device can determine the first precoding matrix based on the first quantity and multipath information. Furthermore, the method by which the terminal device determines the first precoding matrix based on the first quantity and multipath information is similar to the method by which the terminal device determines the first precoding matrix based on the second quantity and multipath information; please refer to the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0318] It is understood that the above description uses the example of a terminal device determining multipath information based on a first AI model or a second AI model, and then determining a first quantity and a first precoding matrix based on the multipath information. In some possible implementations, the process of determining the first quantity and the first precoding matrix based on multipath information can also be implemented using either the first AI model or the second AI model. The first AI model can then output the first quantity and the first precoding matrix corresponding to the location of the terminal device; the second AI model can output the first quantity and the first precoding matrix corresponding to the first region. The method of determining the first quantity and the first precoding matrix based on multipath information is similar to the method described above for the terminal device to determine the first quantity and the first precoding matrix, and will not be repeated here.

[0319] Furthermore, if the second AI model can output the first quantity and the first precoding matrix corresponding to the first region, the second AI model can be understood, for example, as a model that records the flow count and precoding matrix corresponding to each of multiple regions. Based on the input location information, the second AI model can output the flow count and precoding matrix corresponding to the region to which that location belongs. At this point, the second AI model can perform region division based on the flow count and / or precoding matrix corresponding to each location output by the first AI model. For example, multiple locations with similar flow counts and / or precoding matrices, and geographically close, can be grouped into one region, thereby dividing the coverage area (or cell) into multiple regions. The flow count corresponding to each region can, for example, be the minimum value of the flow count corresponding to each location within that region. The precoding matrix corresponding to each region can, for example, be determined based on the multipath information and flow count corresponding to each region.

[0320] It should be understood that the above description is based on the example of dividing the coverage area (or cell) into multiple areas, and the coverage area (or cell) can also be replaced with other areas. This application does not specifically limit this.

[0321] It should be noted that the above description of determining the first precoding matrix can also be replaced by determining precoding information, which is used to indicate the first precoding matrix. The precoding information can also be called multi-stream precoding information or transmitted matrix precoding indicator (TPMI), etc. The TPMI can be, for example, an index, and can be called a TPMI index, etc.

[0322] For example, the protocol can predefine the mapping relationship between precoding information and the first precoding matrix. In this way, the terminal device can determine the first precoding matrix based on the precoding information.

[0323] Based on the above embodiments, the terminal device can determine a first precoding matrix for precoding at least one second data stream. Using the first precoding matrix, at least one second data stream can be mapped to at least one port, enabling the terminal device to send at least one second data stream through at least one port.

[0324] The number of at least one port is the second quantity. And the port in the at least one port can also be called an antenna port. Each port in the at least one port can be used to transmit a second data stream.

[0325] Optionally, at least one port may be determined based on a third mapping relationship and a second quantity, wherein there is a third mapping relationship between the second quantity and at least one port.

[0326] The third mapping relationship can be predefined by the protocol or configured by the network device through signaling. Since each port can be identified by a unique port identifier, the third mapping relationship can also be understood as a mapping relationship between the second number of ports and the port identifiers of at least one port. A port identifier can be understood as information used to indicate a port, such as a port index or port number. Furthermore, the third mapping relationship can also be represented in the form of a table, for example.

[0327] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the data transmitted through at least one port (at least one second data stream) is a PUSCH, therefore the port in the embodiments of this application can also be called a PUSCH port, etc. This application does not make specific limitations in this regard.

[0328] For example, as shown in Table 4, different stream numbers can correspond to (or map) different ports. The PUSCH port number can be understood as an identifier used to indicate a port. Each PUSCH port number can be used to indicate one port. Stream number 1 corresponds to PUSCH port number 6000, meaning stream number 1 corresponds to the port indicated by PUSCH port number 6000. It can be seen that when the stream number is 1, the number of ports is also 1. Stream number 2 corresponds to PUSCH port numbers 6000 and 6001, meaning stream number 2 corresponds to the ports indicated by PUSCH port number 6000 and PUSCH port number 6001. It can be seen that when the stream number is 2, the number of ports is also 2. The number of streams 4 corresponds to PUSCH port numbers 6000 to 6003, namely 6000, 6001, 6002 and 6003. That is, the number of streams 4 corresponds to the port indicated by PUSCH port number 6000, the port indicated by PUSCH port number 6001, the port indicated by PUSCH port number 1002 and the port indicated by PUSCH port number 6003. It can be seen that when the number of streams is 4, the number of ports is also 4.

[0329] Table 4

[0330] Number of streams PUSCH port number 1 6000 2 6000-6001 4 6000-6003 … …

[0331] Thus, by combining the second quantity indicated by the first information and the third mapping relationship, the terminal device can determine at least one port. At least one second data stream can then be transmitted through at least one port. For example, when the second quantity is 2, the third mapping relationship can be a mapping relationship between the stream number 2 and the ports indicated by PUSCH port numbers 6000 and 6001. Then the terminal device can determine that at least one port is the port indicated by PUSCH port number 6000 and the port indicated by PUSCH port number 6001.

[0332] It should be understood that Table 4 is merely an example, and the PUSCH port numbers shown therein can be replaced with others. Furthermore, the number of mappings between flow number and PUSCH port number included in Table 4 can be more or less. For example, it could include the mapping between flow number 6 and PUSCH port numbers 6000-6005, or Table 4 could exclude the mapping between flow number 1 and 6000. This application does not impose any specific limitations on this.

[0333] It is understandable that, in order to improve the reliability of data transmission, the data transmitted from the terminal device to the network device can be modulated and encoded. As the number of streams varies, the modulation and coding scheme (MCS) for the transmitted data can also differ. Therefore, the terminal device can determine the MCS in the following ways.

[0334] In one possible implementation, there is a fourth mapping relationship between the second quantity and the first MCS, and at least one second data stream is modulated and encoded by the first MCS.

[0335] In this way, the terminal device can determine the first MCS based on the fourth mapping relationship and the second quantity, and then modulate and encode early transmission data through the first MCS.

[0336] The fourth mapping relationship can be predefined by the protocol or configured by the network device through signaling. Furthermore, the fourth mapping relationship can also be represented in the form of a table, for example.

[0337] For example, as shown in Table 5, stream number 1 corresponds to (or maps to) MCS1, that is, when the number of streams is 1, modulation and coding can be performed through MCS1; stream number 2 corresponds to (or maps to) MCS2, that is, when the number of streams is 2, modulation and coding can be performed through MCS2; stream number 4 corresponds to (or maps to) MCS 4, that is, when the number of streams is 4, modulation and coding can be performed through MCS 3.

[0338] Table 5

[0339] Number of streams MCS 1 MCS1 2 MCS2 4 MCS 3 … …

[0340] In this way, the terminal device can determine the first MCS based on the second quantity and the fourth mapping relationship. For example, the second quantity can be 2, and the fourth mapping relationship can be the mapping relationship between 2 and MCS2. Then the terminal device can determine MCS2 based on 2 and the fourth mapping relationship, and use MCS2 to modulate and precode at least one second data stream.

[0341] It should be understood that Table 5 is merely an example, and MCS1 to MCS3 can be replaced with other MCSs. Furthermore, in practical applications, the protocol can be predefined or the network device can be configured with more or fewer mappings between flows and MCSs, for example, including the mapping between flow 6 and MCS4, or excluding the mapping between flow 1 and MCS1, etc. This application does not impose specific limitations in this regard.

[0342] It should also be understood that the information shown in the tables of this application embodiments is merely an example, and the number of flows can be replaced by the number of layers, etc., and the MCS can be replaced by the MCS level or other identifiers indicating the MCS, etc. This application does not make any specific limitations in this regard.

[0343] Furthermore, in the mapping relationship between flow counts and MCS shown above, one flow count can correspond to (or map) one MCS. In some possible implementations, multiple flow counts can also correspond to (or map) one MCS.

[0344] For example, as shown in Table 6, both stream number 1 and stream number 2 can correspond to MCS1. That is, when the second quantity is 1 or 2, the first MCS is always MCS1, and the terminal device can modulate and encode at least one second data stream using MCS1. Stream number 4 can correspond to MCS2. That is, when the second quantity is 4, the first MCS is always MCS2, and the terminal device can modulate and encode at least one second data stream using MCS2.

[0345] Table 6

[0346]

[0347] It should be understood that Table 6 is merely an example, and the number of streams and / or MCS can be replaced with others. For example, both stream number 2 and stream number 4 can correspond to MCS 3. That is, when the second quantity is 2 or 4, the first MCS is always MCS 3, and the terminal device can modulate and encode at least one second data stream through MCS 3. For the sake of simplicity, they will not be shown one by one here.

[0348] Through the above embodiments, the terminal device can determine the number of data streams transmitted early (second quantity), and can determine a first precoding matrix for precoding the data (at least one second data stream), and a first MCS for modulating and encoding the data (at least one second data stream).

[0349] Based on the above, it can be determined that in both the four-step and two-step random access procedures, the terminal device can perform early data transmission, and the terminal device can transmit data early through different signaling methods. Furthermore, in both the four-step and two-step random access procedures, the terminal device can indicate a first quantity (i.e., first information) to the network device through different signaling methods, and the network device can also indicate a third quantity (i.e., second information) to the terminal device through different signaling methods. The data transmission methods in the four-step and two-step random access procedures are described below.

[0350] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a data transmission method 700 in a four-step random access process provided in an embodiment of this application. Method 700 is applicable to a communication system 100. Method 700 includes the following steps:

[0351] S701, The network device sends an SSB to the terminal device; correspondingly, the terminal device receives the SSB from the network device.

[0352] In this context, SSB includes PBCH, therefore, the SSB in S701 can also be replaced with PBCH. Since MIB can be transmitted on PBCH, and MIB can be used to carry SIB scheduling information, the network device can send PBCH to enable the terminal device to receive or listen to the SIB. This allows the terminal device to obtain the MIB from the PBCH and then listen to the SIB based on the scheduling information in the MIB.

[0353] It can be understood that SSB (or PBCH) can be understood as a message sent by a network device via broadcast. Furthermore, a network device can broadcast an SSB in one or more SSB beam directions.

[0354] S702, The network device sends SIB 1 to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives SIB 1 from the network device.

[0355] Among them, the terminal device can listen to SIB 1 based on the scheduling information obtained through SSB in S701.

[0356] S703, network devices acquire multipath information.

[0357] It should be understood that the implementation of S703 is similar to that of S401, and can be referred to the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0358] S704. The network device determines the first quantity based on the multipath information.

[0359] It should be understood that the implementation methods of S703 to S704 are similar to those of S401 to S402, and can be referred to the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0360] S705, the terminal device sends message 1 to the network device. Message 1 includes a preamble, and the preamble is used to indicate a first quantity. Correspondingly, the network device receives message 1 from the terminal device.

[0361] It should be understood that the way the preamble indicates the first quantity can be similar to the possible implementations 1 to 3 above, as described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0362] Alternatively, message 1 may also carry first information, which is information other than the preamble, and the first information is used to indicate the first quantity.

[0363] S706, the network device sends message 2 to the terminal device. Message 2 includes second information indicating a third quantity, which is the number of at least one third data stream supported by the network device for data transmission. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives message 2 from the network device.

[0364] It is understandable that the terminal device can determine the third number supported by the network device. Combining the first and third numbers, the terminal device can determine the second number, which is the minimum of the first and third numbers.

[0365] Furthermore, the terminal device can determine the first precoding matrix based on the second quantity and multipath information. It can also determine the first MCS based on the second quantity.

[0366] It should be understood that the method for determining the first precoding matrix and the first MCS in the terminal device 400 is similar to that described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0367] In one possible implementation, if the network device determines that the third quantity is greater than or equal to the first quantity, the network device may not indicate the third quantity to the terminal device. This allows the terminal device to perform early data transmission based on the first quantity, meaning the second quantity equals the first quantity. Alternatively, message 2 may carry information 1, such as '1', to indicate to the network device that early data transmission can be performed using the first quantity. This reduces signaling overhead.

[0368] Furthermore, if the network device determines that the third quantity is less than or equal to the first quantity, the network device can indicate the third quantity to the terminal device. This allows the terminal device to perform data transmission based on the third quantity, meaning the second quantity equals the third quantity.

[0369] In another possible implementation, the second information described above, used to indicate the third quantity, can also be replaced by the second information used to indicate whether the network device supports multi-stream data transmission or not. In this case, the implementation of this embodiment is similar to another possible implementation in S403, as described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0370] S707, The terminal device precodes at least one second data stream based on the first precoding matrix.

[0371] In addition, the terminal device can also modulate and encode at least one second data stream based on the first MCS.

[0372] It should also be noted that the terminal device can determine at least one port corresponding to the second quantity based on the first quantity and the third mapping relationship. Furthermore, it can precode at least one second data stream using the first precoding matrix, mapping the at least one second data stream to at least one port, thereby transmitting at least one second data stream on at least one port.

[0373] S708, the terminal device sends message 3 to the network device, message 3 including at least one second data stream. Correspondingly, the network device receives message 3 from the terminal device.

[0374] It is understood that the number of at least one second data stream in message 3 is a second quantity, and it is modulated and encoded by the first MCS, and precoded by the first precoding matrix. Furthermore, at least one second data stream is transmitted through at least one port.

[0375] S709. The network device sends message 4 to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives message 4 from the network device.

[0376] It is understandable that since message 3 carries at least one second data stream, the network device can decode message 3 after receiving it from the terminal device. The network device may be able to successfully decode message 3 to successfully acquire (or successfully receive) at least one second data stream, or the network device may fail to successfully decode all the data in message 3, resulting in the network device failing to acquire (or successfully receive) some or all of at least one second data stream.

[0377] Based on this, the network device can also indicate to the terminal device via message 4 whether at least one second data stream was successfully received or at least one second data stream was not successfully received.

[0378] For example, in one scenario, if one of the at least one second data stream fails to be received, the network device can indicate to the terminal device via message 4 that at least one second data stream has failed to be received. The terminal device can then retransmit at least one second data stream.

[0379] In another scenario, if some second data streams are successfully received and others are not, for example, *e* second data streams are successfully received and *f* second data streams are not, where *e* and *f* are positive integers, the network device can indicate to the terminal device via message 4 that *e* second data streams were successfully received and / or *f* second data streams were not successfully received. This allows the terminal device to determine that the network device did not successfully receive *f* second data streams, and the terminal device can then retransmit the data carried in those *f* second data streams. This allows the terminal device to reselect a smaller amount of data, resulting in lower signaling overhead.

[0380] In another scenario, if all second data streams in at least one second data stream are successfully received, the network device can indicate to the terminal device via message 4 that at least one second data stream has been successfully received. This allows the terminal device to determine that the network device has successfully received at least one second data stream, eliminating the need for reselecting at least one second data stream and enabling the deletion of at least one second data stream.

[0381] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, successful reception can also be interpreted as successful decoding, correct decoding, etc., indicating that the network device can obtain the correct information. For example, the network device correctly parsing at least one second data stream can also be understood as at least one second data stream passing various checks, such as cyclic redundancy check (CRC), indicating that the network device has obtained the correct information. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit this.

[0382] It should be understood that the SIB 1 and messages 1 to 4 shown in method 700 may also carry other information, such as the information carried in each message shown in method 200. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the other information that may be carried in each message.

[0383] Based on the above embodiments, SIB 1 may optionally include information indicating that the network device supports multi-stream data transmission. In this way, the terminal device can execute S703 to S709 when the network device supports multi-stream data transmission, so as to facilitate the transmission of data via multiple streams.

[0384] Furthermore, the network device indicating a third quantity (second information) to the terminal device via message 2 in method 700 is merely an example. In some possible implementations, the network device may also indicate a third quantity (second information) to the terminal device via SIB 1. The method of indicating a third quantity to the terminal device via SIB 1 is similar to the method of indicating a third quantity to the terminal device via message 2, as described in section S706 of method 700, and will not be repeated here.

[0385] It should be noted that when indicating a third quantity to the terminal device via SIB 1, if the terminal device determines a first quantity and that the first quantity is greater than the third quantity, message 1 may not be used to indicate the first quantity; alternatively, message 1 may carry information 2, such as 1, to instruct the terminal device to determine whether to use the third quantity for early data transmission. This results in relatively low signaling overhead.

[0386] Furthermore, if the terminal device determines that the first quantity is greater than the third quantity, it indicates the first quantity to the network device via message 1.

[0387] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a data transmission method 800 in a two-step random access process provided in an embodiment of this application. Method 800 is applicable to a communication system 100. Method 800 includes the following steps:

[0388] S801, The network device sends an SSB to the terminal device; correspondingly, the terminal device receives the SSB from the network device.

[0389] It should be understood that the implementation of S801 is similar to that of S703, and can be referred to the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0390] S802, the network device sends SIB 1 to the terminal device. SIB 1 includes second information, which indicates a third quantity. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives SIB 1 from the network device.

[0391] The difference from method 700 is that, during the two-step random access process, since the terminal device transmits data early via message A, the network device indicates the third quantity to the terminal device before the terminal device sends message A. Therefore, the second information can be carried in SIB 1.

[0392] It should be understood that the implementation of S802 is similar to the way the network device indicates the second information to the terminal device in method 400, as described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0393] S803, network devices obtain multipath information.

[0394] S804. The network device determines the first quantity based on the multipath information.

[0395] It should be understood that the implementation methods of S803 to S804 are similar to those of S401 to S402, and can be referred to the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0396] It should be noted that S803 and S804 can be executed by the terminal device when it determines that the third quantity is greater than 1, or after it determines that the network device supports multi-stream data transmission. Furthermore, after S804, the terminal device can determine a second quantity, which is the minimum of the third and first quantities.

[0397] Furthermore, the terminal device can determine the first precoding matrix based on the first quantity and multipath information; it can also determine the first MCS based on the first quantity.

[0398] It should be understood that the method for determining the first precoding matrix and the first MCS in the terminal device 400 is similar to that described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0399] S805, the terminal device precodes at least one second data stream based on the first precoding matrix. Furthermore, the terminal device can also modulate and encode at least one second data stream based on the first MCS.

[0400] It should also be noted that the terminal device can determine at least one port corresponding to the first quantity based on the first quantity and the third mapping relationship. Furthermore, it can pre-encode at least one second data stream using the first precoding matrix, mapping the at least one second data stream to at least one port, thereby transmitting at least one second data stream on at least one port.

[0401] S806, the terminal device sends message A to the network device. Message A includes a preamble, which can be used to indicate a first quantity; and message A includes at least one second data stream. Correspondingly, the network device receives message A from the terminal device.

[0402] It should be understood that message A may include a preamble and at least one second data stream. And the network device may, for example, receive the preamble first, and then receive at least one second data stream.

[0403] Optionally, if the first quantity is greater than or equal to the third quantity, the terminal device may not indicate the first quantity to the network device, so that the network device determines that the data to be transmitted early is the third quantity. Alternatively, if the first quantity is greater than or equal to the third quantity, message A may carry information 2, such as 1, to instruct the terminal device to determine that the data to be transmitted early is the third quantity. This makes the signaling overhead relatively small. Furthermore, if the terminal device determines that the first quantity is less than the third quantity, it can indicate the first quantity (or the second quantity) to the network device through message A (preamble). The method of indicating the first quantity (or the second quantity) can be referred to the description in method 400.

[0404] S807. The network device sends message B to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives message B from the network device.

[0405] It is understandable that since message A carries at least one second data stream, the network device can decode message A after receiving it from the terminal device. The network device may be able to successfully decode message A to successfully acquire (or successfully receive) at least one second data stream, or the network device may fail to successfully decode all the data in message A, resulting in the network device failing to acquire (or successfully receive) some or all of at least one second data stream.

[0406] Optionally, the network device may indicate to the terminal device via message B that at least one second data stream has been successfully received or that at least one second data stream has not been successfully received. The manner in which message B indicates successful or unsuccessful reception of at least one second data stream is similar to the manner in which message 4 in method 700 indicates successful or unsuccessful reception of at least one second data stream, as described above.

[0407] It should be understood that the messages shown in method 800, such as SIB 1, message A, and message B, may also carry other information, such as the information carried in the messages shown in method 300. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the other information that may be carried in each message.

[0408] It should also be noted that the order of the methods listed above does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

[0409] The above text combined Figures 4 to 8 The data transmission method of the embodiments of this application is described in detail below, in conjunction with Figures 9 to 11 This application describes in detail the communication apparatus according to embodiments of the present application. The communication apparatus includes modules or units for performing each part of the above embodiments. The modules or units may be software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The following is only a brief illustrative example of the communication apparatus; for details of the implementation, please refer to the description of the foregoing method embodiments, which will not be repeated below.

[0410] Figure 9 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 900 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 9 As shown, the communication device 900 includes a processing module 901 and a transceiver module 902.

[0411] In one possible implementation, the communication device 700 is used to implement the steps corresponding to the terminal device in the above-described methods 400, 700 or 800.

[0412] The processing module 901 is used to acquire multipath information, which indicates multiple paths for data transmission; and to determine a first number of at least one first data stream supporting data transmission based on the multipath information; the transceiver module 902 is used to send at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A based on the first number, wherein the number of at least one second data stream is a second number, and the second number is less than or equal to the first number; message 3 is used to request to establish a connection with the first communication device, and message A is used to request random access.

[0413] Optionally, the transceiver module 902 is further configured to obtain a third quantity, which is the number of at least one third data stream supported by the first communication device for data transmission; and to send at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A according to the first quantity and the third quantity.

[0414] Optionally, the transceiver module 902 is also used to send first information, which indicates a first quantity.

[0415] Optionally, the first information includes a preamble, which is used to indicate a first quantity.

[0416] Optionally, the preamble satisfies one or more of the following: the preamble is generated based on a first sequence, which is related to a first quantity; the preamble belongs to a first preamble group, and there is a first mapping relationship between the first preamble group and the first quantity; or, the preamble is transmitted through a first random access opportunity (RO) group, and there is a second mapping relationship between the first RO group and the first quantity.

[0417] Optionally, at least one second data stream is transmitted through at least one port, and there is a third mapping relationship between the second quantity and the at least one port, wherein the quantity of the at least one port is the second quantity.

[0418] Optionally, the processing module 901 is further configured to determine a first precoding matrix based on multipath information and a second quantity, wherein at least one second data stream is precoded by the first precoding matrix.

[0419] Optionally, the transceiver module 902 is also used to receive message 4 or message B, which indicates whether at least one second data stream has been successfully received or whether at least one second data stream has not been successfully received.

[0420] In another possible implementation, the communication device 900 is used to implement the steps corresponding to the network device in the above-described methods 400, 700 or 800.

[0421] The transceiver module 902 is used to receive at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A. The number of the at least one second data stream is a second quantity, which is less than or equal to a first quantity. The first quantity is the number of at least one first data stream that supports data transmission. The first quantity is determined based on multipath information. Message 3 is used to request to establish a connection with device 900, and message A is used to request random access.

[0422] Optionally, the transceiver module 902 is also configured to send a second message, the second message indicating a third quantity, the third quantity being the number of at least one third data stream supported by the device 900 for data transmission, the second quantity being less than or equal to the third quantity.

[0423] Optionally, the transceiver module 902 is also configured to receive first information, which indicates a first quantity.

[0424] Optionally, the first information includes a preamble, which is used to indicate a first quantity.

[0425] Optionally, the preamble satisfies one or more of the following: the preamble is generated based on a first sequence, which is related to a first quantity; the preamble belongs to a first preamble group, and there is a first mapping relationship between the first preamble group and the first quantity; or, the preamble is transmitted through a first random access opportunity (RO) group, and there is a second mapping relationship between the first RO group and the first quantity.

[0426] Optionally, at least one second data stream is transmitted through at least one port, and there is a third mapping relationship between the second quantity and the at least one port, wherein the quantity of the at least one port is the second quantity.

[0427] Optionally, the transceiver module 902 is also used to send message 4 or message B, which indicates whether at least one second data stream has been successfully received or whether at least one second data stream has not been successfully received.

[0428] It should be understood that the communication device 900 here is embodied in the form of a functional module. The term "module" here can refer to application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), electronic circuits, processors (e.g., shared processors, proprietary processors, or group processors, etc.) and memories for executing one or more software or firmware programs, combined logic circuits, and / or other suitable components supporting the described functions. In an alternative example, those skilled in the art will understand that the communication device 900 can specifically be a terminal device or network device as described in the above embodiments. The communication device 900 can be used to execute the various processes and / or steps corresponding to the terminal device or network device in the above method embodiments; to avoid repetition, these will not be described again here.

[0429] The aforementioned communication device 900 has the function of implementing the corresponding steps performed by the terminal device or network device in the above method; the above functions can be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions. In the embodiments of this application, Figure 9 The communication device 900 in the middle can also be a chip, such as a SOC.

[0430] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device 1000 provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. The communication device 1000 includes a processor 1001, a transceiver 1002, and a memory 1003. The processor 1001, transceiver 1002, and memory 1003 communicate with each other via internal interconnection paths. The memory 1003 stores instructions, such as computer-defined code. The processor 1001 executes the instructions stored in the memory 1003 to control the transceiver 1002 to send and / or receive signals.

[0431] Alternatively, the communication device 1000 can be implemented using a bus architecture, typically represented by a bus. The bus can include any number of interconnect buses and bridges, depending on the specific application and overall design constraints of the communication device 1000. The bus can couple various circuits together, for example, it can couple processor 1001 and memory 1003 together. The bus can also link various other circuits, such as timing sources, peripherals, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further.

[0432] It should be understood that the communication device 1000 may specifically be a terminal device or a network device as described in the above embodiments, and may be used to execute the various steps and / or processes corresponding to the terminal device or network device in the above method embodiments. Optionally, the memory 1003 may include a read-only memory and a random access memory, and provide instructions and data to the processor. A portion of the memory may also include non-volatile random access memory. For example, the memory may also store device type information. The processor 1001 may be used to execute instructions stored in the memory, and when the processor 1001 executes instructions stored in the memory, the processor 1001 is used to execute the various steps and / or processes of the above method embodiments. The transceiver 1002 may include a transmitter 10021, a receiver 10022, and an antenna 10023. The transmitter 10021 may be used to implement the various steps and / or processes corresponding to the transceiver for performing transmission actions. For example, the transmitter 10021 may be used to transmit information to another device via the antenna 10023. Receiver 10022 can be used to implement the various steps and / or processes corresponding to the transceiver described above for performing the receiving action. For example, receiver 10022 can be used to receive information from another device via antenna 10023.

[0433] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the processor may be a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor unit (MPU), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or other 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, etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0434] In implementation, each step of the above method can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software. The steps of the method disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly manifested as execution by a hardware processor, or as a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor. The software modules can reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. This storage medium can be located in memory or can be disposed outside of memory. The processor executes instructions in memory, combining them with its hardware to complete the steps of the above method. To avoid repetition, detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0435] In addition, processors, memories, and storage media can perform one or more of the following functions: encoding, decoding, rate matching, rate dematching, scrambling, descrambling, modulation, demodulation, layer mapping, fast fourier transform (FFT), inverse fast fourier transform (IFFT), inverse discrete fourier transform (IDFT), precoding, resource element (RE) mapping, channel equalization, RE demapping, digital beamforming (BF), adding cyclic prefix (CP), removing CP, AI inference, and so on.

[0436] Figure 11A schematic diagram of another communication device 1100 provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. This communication device 1100 can be a chip system, or it can be an apparatus configured with a chip system to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments. In this embodiment, the chip system can be composed of chips, or it can include chips and other discrete devices.

[0437] like Figure 11 As shown, the communication device 1100 may include a processor 1110, which can be used to execute computer programs or instructions in memory to perform various steps and / or processes corresponding to the terminal device or network device in the above method embodiments.

[0438] In one possible implementation, the communication device 1100 further includes a communication interface 1120. The communication interface 1120 can be used to communicate with other devices via a transmission medium, thereby enabling the communication device 1100 to communicate with other devices. The communication interface 1120 may be, for example, a transceiver, an input / output interface, pins, a bus, a transceiver circuit, or a device capable of transmitting and receiving functions. The processor 1110 can utilize the communication interface 1120 to input and output data for executing the various steps and / or processes corresponding to the terminal device or network device in the above method embodiments.

[0439] In one possible implementation, the communication device 1100 further includes at least one memory 1130 for storing program instructions and / or data. The memory 1130 is coupled to the processor 1110. The coupling in this embodiment is an indirect coupling or communication connection between devices, units, or modules, and can be electrical, mechanical, or other forms, used for information exchange between devices, units, or modules. The processor 1110 may operate in conjunction with the memory 1130. The processor 1110 may execute program instructions stored in the memory 1130.

[0440] Optionally, the memory 1130 may be a memory disposed in the device 1100. Exemplarily, the memory 1130 may be integrated with the processor 1110; or, the memory 1130 may be disposed separately from the processor 1110.

[0441] Optionally, memory 1130 may be memory outside of device 1100. It may also be memory outside of communication devices.

[0442] Optionally, the processor 1110 may include processing circuitry and encoding / modulation circuitry (also referred to as communication circuitry). The encoding / modulation circuitry may include one or more hardware components that provide a physical structure for performing various processes related to wireless communication (e.g., signal reception and / or signal transmission). The encoding / modulation circuitry may, for example, include two or more transmit / receive chains. The functions implemented by the encoding / modulation circuitry can also be processed on a computer-readable medium.

[0443] The processing circuit can be used to perform data processing. Furthermore, the functions of the processing circuit can be implemented, for example, on a computer-readable medium.

[0444] In one possible implementation, the device 1100 is used to implement the various steps and / or processes corresponding to the terminal device in the above method embodiments. The processing circuit can then be used to implement... Figure 12 The process is shown in the diagram. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the processing circuit can acquire environmental and location information; it can perform information processing 1 on the environmental and location information to determine multipath information; it can perform information processing 2 on the multipath information to determine a first quantity and a first precoding matrix. The processing circuit can also determine the preamble through implicit indication, that is, report the first quantity through the preamble. Then, the processing circuit can perform information processing 3 based on the first quantity to determine the preamble, which indicates the first quantity. Furthermore, the modulation and coding circuit can encode and modulate message 1 or message A, thereby enabling the transmission of message 1 or message A to the network device side. Message 1 or message A carries a preamble, allowing the network device side to determine the first quantity based on the preamble.

[0445] In addition, the processing circuit can perform information processing 4 on at least one second data stream based on the first precoding matrix to obtain precoded data, i.e., at least one precoded second data stream. Furthermore, the modulation and coding circuit can encode and modulate message 3 or message A, and send message 3 or message A to the network device side for early data transmission.

[0446] It should be understood that Figure 12 The implementation of the process shown is similar to the implementation of the terminal device execution steps in method 400, method 700 or method 800, and can be referred to the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0447] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program for implementing the methods shown in the above-described method embodiments.

[0448] This application also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when run on a computer, allows the computer to perform the methods shown in the above-described method embodiments.

[0449] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the modules 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.

[0450] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and modules described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0451] 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 modules is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple modules 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 modules may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0452] The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules. Some or all of the modules can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0453] In addition, the functional modules in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing module, or each module can exist physically separately, or two or more modules can be integrated into one module.

[0454] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional modules and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, essentially, or the part that contributes to existing technology, or a portion of the technical solution, 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 (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0455] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the protection scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the embodiments of this application should be included within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of the embodiments of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An information transmission method, characterized in that, include: Obtain multipath information, which is used to indicate multiple paths for data transmission; Based on the multipath information, determine a first number of at least one first data stream supporting data transmission; Based on the first quantity, at least one second data stream is sent on message 3Msg 3 or message AMsg A, wherein the number of the at least one second data stream is a second quantity, the second quantity being less than or equal to the first quantity, message 3 being used to request the establishment of a connection with the first communication device, and message A being used to request random access.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain a third quantity, wherein the third quantity is the number of at least one third data stream that the first communication device supports for data transmission; Sending at least one second data stream on message 3 or message A according to the first quantity includes: Based on the first quantity and the third quantity, the at least one second data stream is sent on message 3 or message A.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a first message, which indicates the first quantity.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first information includes a preamble, which is used to indicate the first quantity.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The preamble satisfies one or more of the following: The preamble is generated based on a first sequence, which is related to the first quantity; The preamble belongs to the first preamble group, and there is a first mapping relationship between the first preamble group and the first quantity; or, The preamble is transmitted through a first random access opportunity (RO) group, and there is a second mapping relationship between the first RO group and the first quantity.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The at least one second data stream is transmitted through at least one port, and there is a third mapping relationship between the second quantity and the at least one port, wherein the quantity of the at least one port is the second quantity.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the multipath information and the second quantity, a first precoding matrix is ​​determined, wherein the at least one second data stream is precoded using the first precoding matrix.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive message 4 or message B, which indicates whether the at least one second data stream was successfully received or not.

9. An information transmission method, characterized in that, include: At least one second data stream is received on message 3 or message A, the number of the at least one second data stream is a second quantity, the second quantity is less than or equal to a first quantity, the first quantity is the number of at least one first data stream supporting data transmission, the first quantity is determined based on multipath information, message 3 is used to request to establish a connection with the first communication device, and message A is used to request random access.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second information sent is used to indicate a third quantity, which is the number of at least one third data stream supported by the first communication device for data transmission, and the second quantity is less than or equal to the third quantity.

11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive first information, which indicates the first quantity.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first information includes a preamble, which is used to indicate the first quantity.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The preamble satisfies one or more of the following: The preamble is generated based on a first sequence, which is related to the first quantity; The preamble belongs to the first preamble group, and there is a first mapping relationship between the first preamble group and the first quantity; or, The preamble is transmitted through a first random access opportunity (RO) group, and there is a second mapping relationship between the first RO group and the first quantity.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized in that, The at least one second data stream is transmitted through at least one port, and there is a third mapping relationship between the second quantity and the at least one port, wherein the quantity of the at least one port is the second quantity.

15. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send message 4 or message B, which indicates whether the at least one second data stream was successfully received or not.

16. A communication device, characterized in that, include: Includes modules for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, or the method as described in any one of claims 9 to 15.

17. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor coupled to a memory for storing a computer program, which, when invoked by the processor, causes the apparatus to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 8, or the method of any one of claims 9 to 15.

18. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, Used to store computer programs, the computer programs including instructions for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, or the method as described in any one of claims 9 to 15.

19. A computer program product, the computer program product comprising instructions, characterized in that, When the instructions are executed on a computer, the computer causes the computer to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, or the method as described in any one of claims 9 to 15.

Images