Communication method and communication apparatus

Abstract

A communication method and a communication device, comprising: a first communication device reporting a first measurement result for positioning after measuring a synchronization signal. In the communication method, the first communication device can report the measurement result of the synchronization signal, so that a first network element can position the first communication device based on the measurement result of the synchronization signal, thereby positioning the first communication device without the need for the first communication device to support measuring a specific positioning signal, and realizing positioning of an Internet of Things terminal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to a communication method and a communication device. Background Technology

[0002] With the fifth generation (5 th With the evolution and development of generation (5G) communication technology, the demand for supporting lower power consumption terminals in 5G networks is increasing. Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) communication technology can support microwatt-level power consumption, meeting the demand of 5G networks for lower power consumption terminals.

[0003] In 5G networks, 5G terminals can achieve location by measuring specific positioning signals. However, for IoT terminals, due to their low complexity and low power consumption, adopting the same positioning process as 5G terminals might increase power consumption during the measurement of specific positioning signals, further affecting the IoT terminal's ability to perform other services, such as inventory management or data transmission. Therefore, the current positioning process for 5G terminals in 5G networks may not be suitable for IoT communication networks. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method for locating IoT terminals.

[0005] Firstly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first communication device. Unless otherwise specified, the "first communication device" in this application can refer to the first communication device itself (e.g., a terminal device), or a component of the first communication device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as the circuit or chip responsible for communication functions in the terminal device (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core, or a system-in-package (SIP) chip), or it can be a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the first communication device. For ease of description, the following explanation uses execution by the first communication device as an example.

[0006] The communication method includes: receiving a synchronization signal from a second communication device; measuring the synchronization signal to obtain a first measurement result; and reporting the first measurement result, which is used by a first network element to locate the first communication device.

[0007] Based on the above technical solution, the first communication device can report the measurement results of the synchronization signal, so that the first network element can locate the first communication device based on the measurement results of the synchronization signal. Thus, even if the first communication device is an IoT terminal and there is no need to measure a specific positioning signal, the first communication device can still be located, thereby realizing the positioning of the IoT terminal.

[0008] Furthermore, the first communication device no longer needs to measure and report the results of specific positioning signals, which reduces the complexity of the IoT terminal positioning process. Also, the first communication device does not need to listen for specific positioning signals, thus reducing its power consumption.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving a service request, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a location service.

[0010] Based on the above technical solution, a service request can trigger the first communication device to report the measurement results of the synchronization signal. By using the existing signaling in the positioning process, the positioning can be achieved by triggering the first communication device to report the measurement results of the synchronization signal, thus improving the backward compatibility of this solution. Furthermore, no additional instructions are required, which can reduce signaling overhead to some extent.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving first indication information, the first indication information being used to instruct the first communication device to report the first measurement result of the synchronization signal.

[0012] Based on the above technical solution, the first communication device can be instructed to report the measurement result of the synchronization signal through the first indication information, so that the first communication device can clearly know that it can report the measurement result of the synchronization signal based on the first indication information.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, reporting the first measurement result includes: reporting the first measurement result when the first communication device is in a connected state or a data transmission state.

[0014] Based on the above technical solution, after the first communication device obtains the first measurement result, it reports the first measurement result when the first communication device is in connection state or data transmission state, so as to ensure that the first measurement result can be successfully reported to the first network element.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first measurement result is the measurement result when the first communication device is in an idle state or a non-data transmission state.

[0016] Based on the above technical solution, the first measurement result of the first communication device measuring the communication signal can be the measurement result when the first communication device is in an idle state or a non-data transmission state, so that the first measurement result of the first communication device can include the measurement result of the cell that the first communication device is not currently connected to, so that the positioning accuracy can be improved when the first network element locates the first communication device based on the first measurement result.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, receiving a service request includes: receiving the service request while the first communication device is in a connected state or a data transmission state, before obtaining the first measurement result by measuring the synchronization signal.

[0018] Based on the above technical solution, when the first communication device is in a connected state or a data transmission state, it receives service requests and ensures that the service requests can be successfully sent to the first communication device.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, where the first communication device does not support a positioning protocol, the method further includes: receiving the identifier of the first network element; and reporting the identifier of the first network element associated with the first measurement result.

[0020] Based on the above technical solution, in the case that the first communication device does not support the positioning protocol, in order to ensure that the first measurement result reported by the first communication device can be correctly transmitted to the first network element, the network side instructs the first communication device to provide the first network element's identifier during the process of reporting the synchronization signal measurement result. Thus, the first communication device can report the first network element's identifier during the process of reporting the first measurement result, and the second communication device can forward the first measurement result to the corresponding first network element based on the first network element's identifier.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the identifier of the first network element and the first indication information are included in the first message, and the first indication information is used to indicate that the first communication device reports the measurement results of the synchronization signal.

[0022] Based on the above technical solution, the network side can send the first instruction information and the identifier of the first network element to the first communication device through a single message, which can reduce signaling overhead to a certain extent and reduce the complexity of the first communication device in parsing the message.

[0023] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first message is a radio resource control release (RRC release) message or a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE).

[0024] Based on the above technical solution, the first message carrying the first indication information and the identifier of the first network element can be an RRC release message or a MAC CE. Sending the first indication information and the identifier of the first network element through the existing interactive signaling between the first communication device and the network side can improve the backward compatibility of this solution. In addition, the first message being an RRC release message can be understood as a static indication, while the first message being a MAC CE can be understood as a dynamic indication, thereby improving the flexibility of the indication method.

[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the identifier of the first network element and the first measurement result are included in the second message.

[0026] Based on the above technical solution, the first communication device can report the first measurement result and the identifier of the first network element to the network side through a single message, which can reduce signaling overhead and the complexity of parsing messages on the network side to a certain extent.

[0027] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the second message is a radio resource control (RRC) message, an electronic product code (EPC) message, or message 3 during the process of the first communication device accessing the second communication device.

[0028] Based on the above technical solution, the second message carrying the first measurement result and the identifier of the first network element can be an RRC message, an EPC message, or message 3, etc. The first measurement result and the identifier of the first network element can be reported through the existing interactive signaling between the first communication device and the network side, which can improve the backward compatibility of this solution.

[0029] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate measurement time and / or measurement area, wherein the measurement time indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement time, and the measurement area indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement area.

[0030] Based on the above technical solution, the network side can use the second instruction information to constrain the first communication device to perform synchronous signal measurement to obtain the measurement time and / or measurement area of ​​the first measurement result, thereby enabling flexible improvement of positioning accuracy according to positioning accuracy requirements.

[0031] For example, the measurement time is constrained because, due to the mobility of the first communication device, measurement results that take too long may not be accurate for positioning. Therefore, by constraining the measurement time for the first communication device to perform synchronization signal measurements to obtain the aforementioned first measurement result, positioning accuracy can be improved. Additionally, the measurement area is constrained because measuring the synchronization signal measurement results of multiple cells can improve positioning accuracy.

[0032] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first measurement result is also used for cell selection or cell reselection.

[0033] Based on the above technical solution, the first measurement result reported by the first communication device can also be used for cell selection or cell reselection. That is, in addition to positioning, the application scenario of the first measurement result can also be cell selection, which expands the scope of use of the first measurement result. For the first communication device that supports cell selection or reselection function, there is no need to re-measure other synchronization signals and report the results, which can reduce the power consumption of the first communication device.

[0034] Secondly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a second communication device. Unless otherwise specified, the "second communication device" in this application can refer to the second communication device itself (e.g., a network device), or a component of the second communication device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as a circuit or chip in a network device responsible for communication functions (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or it can be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the second communication device. For ease of description, the following description uses the execution by a second communication device as an example.

[0035] The communication method includes: sending a service request to a first communication device, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a location service; sending a synchronization signal to the first communication device; receiving a first measurement result from the first communication device, the first measurement result being the measurement result of the synchronization signal; and sending the first measurement result to a first network element, the first measurement result being used by the first network element to locate the first communication device.

[0036] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending a service request to a first communication device, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a location service.

[0037] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending first indication information to a first communication device, the first indication information being used to instruct the first communication device to report the first measurement result of the synchronization signal.

[0038] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first measurement result is the measurement result when the first communication device is in an idle state or a non-data transmission state.

[0039] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: receiving an identifier of the first network element from the first network element; sending the identifier of the first network element to the first communication device; and receiving an identifier of the first network element associated with the first measurement result from the first communication device.

[0040] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the identifier of the first network element and the first indication information are included in the first message, and the first indication information is used to indicate that the first communication device reports the measurement results of the synchronization signal.

[0041] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first message is a Radio Resource Release (RRCrelease) message or a Media Access Control (MAC) CE.

[0042] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the identifier of the first network element and the first measurement result are included in the second message.

[0043] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the second message is a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, an Electronic Product Code (EPC) message, or message 3 during the process of the first communication device accessing the second communication device.

[0044] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: receiving second indication information from the first network element, the second indication information being used to indicate measurement time and / or measurement area, and sending the second indication information to the first communication device, wherein the measurement time indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement time, and the measurement area indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement area.

[0045] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first measurement result is also used for cell selection or cell reselection.

[0046] The technical effects of the methods shown in the second aspect above can be referenced in the first aspect and its possible designs.

[0047] Thirdly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first network element. Unless otherwise specified, the "first network element" in this application can refer to the first network element itself (e.g., a positioning function network element), or a component of the first network element (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as a circuit or chip in a network device responsible for communication functions (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or it can be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first network element. For ease of description, the following description uses the execution by a second communication device as an example.

[0048] The communication method includes: sending a service request when the first communication device supports a positioning protocol, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a positioning service; or, when the first communication device does not support a positioning protocol, sending a third message, the third message being used to trigger downlink positioning, the third message including the identifier of the first network element; receiving a first measurement result, the first measurement result being the measurement result of the first communication device measuring the synchronization signal; and locating the first communication device based on the first measurement result.

[0049] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the method further includes: when the first communication device supports a positioning protocol, sending a service request, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a positioning service.

[0050] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the method further includes: when the first communication device supports a positioning protocol, sending first indication information, the first indication information being used to instruct the first communication device to report the measurement results of the synchronization signal.

[0051] In conjunction with the third aspect, in certain implementations of the third aspect, the first indication information instructs the first communication device to report the measurement result of the synchronization signal, including: the first indication information instructs the first communication device to measure the first measurement result when the first communication device is in an idle state or a non-data transmission state; and / or, the first indication information instructs the first communication device to report the first measurement result when the first communication device is in a connected state or a data transmission state.

[0052] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the method further includes: sending a third message when the first communication device does not support a positioning protocol, the third message being used to trigger downlink positioning, the third message including the identifier of the first network element.

[0053] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the third message further includes second indication information, which is used to indicate the measurement time and / or measurement area for measuring the first measurement result, wherein the measurement time indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement time, and the measurement area indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement area.

[0054] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the first measurement result is also used for cell selection or cell reselection.

[0055] The technical effects of the methods shown in the third aspect above can be referenced in the first aspect and its possible designs.

[0056] Fourthly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first communication device. Unless otherwise specified, the "first communication device" in this application can refer to the first communication device itself (e.g., a network device), or a component of the first communication device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as a circuit or chip in a network device responsible for communication functions (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or it can be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first communication device. For ease of description, the following description uses the execution by the first communication device as an example.

[0057] The communication method includes: receiving third indication information from a second communication device, the third indication information being used to indicate that a positioning sequence is carried in one uplink data signal of a first service, or that a positioning sequence is carried in all uplink data signals of the first service, the positioning sequence being used for positioning; if the third indication information indicates that a positioning sequence is carried in one uplink data signal of the first service, transmitting the one uplink data signal; or, if the third indication information indicates that a positioning sequence is carried in all uplink data signals of the first service, transmitting all uplink data signals.

[0058] Based on the above technical solution, the network side can instruct the first communication device to carry a positioning sequence in one or all uplink data signals of the first service during the process of sending uplink data signals through the third indication information. This allows the network side to locate the first communication device based on the positioning sequence, so that even if the first communication device is an IoT terminal and does not need to measure specific positioning signals, the network side can still locate the first communication device and realize the positioning of the IoT terminal.

[0059] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes: receiving a trigger message from a second communication device, the trigger message being used to trigger the first communication device to send a positioning signal, the positioning signal being used for positioning.

[0060] Based on the above technical solution, the network side can also trigger the first communication device to send a positioning signal through a trigger message, thereby enabling uplink positioning based on the positioning signal. That is, when the positioning accuracy requirement cannot be met during the positioning process based on the above positioning sequence, uplink positioning based on the positioning signal can be triggered through a trigger message to improve the positioning accuracy.

[0061] Fifthly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a second communication device. Unless otherwise specified, the "second communication device" in this application can refer to the second communication device itself (e.g., a network device), or a component of the second communication device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as a circuit or chip in a network device responsible for communication functions (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or it can be a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second communication device. For ease of description, the following explanation uses execution by a second communication device as an example.

[0062] The communication method includes: sending third indication information to a first communication device, the third indication information being used to indicate that a positioning sequence is carried in one uplink data signal of the first service, or that a positioning sequence is carried in all uplink data signals of the first service, the positioning sequence being used for positioning; receiving the one uplink data signal when the third indication information indicates that a positioning sequence is carried in one uplink data signal of the first service; or receiving all uplink data signals when the third indication information indicates that a positioning sequence is carried in all uplink data signals of the first service.

[0063] In conjunction with the fifth aspect, in some implementations of the fifth aspect, the method further includes: receiving a fourth message from the first network element, the fourth message being used to trigger uplink positioning.

[0064] In conjunction with the fifth aspect, in some implementations of the fifth aspect, the fourth message includes fourth indication information, which is used to indicate positioning accuracy. The method further includes: determining whether the positioning accuracy is met based on one or all received uplink data signals; if the positioning accuracy is not met, sending a trigger message to the second communication device, which is used to trigger the first communication device to send a positioning signal, which is used for positioning.

[0065] The technical effects of the methods shown in the fifth aspect above can be referenced in the fourth aspect and its possible designs.

[0066] In a sixth aspect, a communication device is provided, which may be a first communication device, or a device or module for performing the functions of the first communication device.

[0067] One possible implementation is that the communication device may include modules or units corresponding to the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the first or fourth aspect. These modules or units may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0068] In one design, the device may include a processing module and a communication module. The communication module is used to perform the sending and receiving actions performed by the first communication device in the methods described in the first or fourth aspect above, while the processing module is used to perform processing-related actions performed by the first communication device in the methods described in the first or fourth aspect above.

[0069] In one design, the device can be a terminal device, or a device, module, circuit, or chip configured in the terminal device, or a device that can be used in conjunction with the terminal device.

[0070] In a seventh aspect, a communication device is provided, which may be a second communication device, or a device or module for performing the functions of a second communication device.

[0071] One possible implementation is that the communication device may include modules or units corresponding to the methods / operations / steps / actions described in either the second or fifth aspect. These modules or units may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0072] In one design, the device may include a processing module and a communication module. The communication module is used to perform the sending and receiving actions performed by the second communication device in the methods described in the second or fifth aspects above, while the processing module is used to perform processing-related actions performed by the second communication device in the methods described in the second or fifth aspects above.

[0073] In one design, the device can be a network device, or a device, module, circuit, or chip configured in the network device, or a device that can be used in conjunction with the network device, such as an intelligent network element with a deployed radio intelligent controller (RIC).

[0074] Eighthly, a communication device is provided, which may be a first network element, or a device or module for performing the functions of the first network element.

[0075] One possible implementation is that the communication device may include modules or units corresponding to the methods / operations / steps / actions described in any of the third aspects, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0076] In one design, the device may include a processing module and a communication module. The communication module is used to perform the sending and receiving actions performed by the second communication device in the method described in the third aspect above, while the processing module is used to perform processing-related actions performed by the second device in the method described in the third aspect above.

[0077] In one design, the device can be a positioning management network element, or a device, module, circuit, or chip configured in the positioning management network element, or a device that can be used in conjunction with the positioning management network element.

[0078] A ninth aspect provides a communication apparatus, the apparatus comprising: at least one processor for executing a computer program or instructions to perform the methods of the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof. Optionally, the apparatus further comprises a memory for storing the computer program or instructions. Optionally, the apparatus further comprises a communication interface through which the processor reads the computer program or instructions.

[0079] In one implementation, the device is a communication device (such as a terminal device, a network device, or a location management network element).

[0080] In another implementation, the device is a chip, chip system, or circuit for communication equipment (such as terminal equipment, network equipment, or location management network elements).

[0081] In a tenth aspect, a processor is provided for performing the methods provided in the first to fifth aspects described above.

[0082] Unless otherwise specified, or if it does not contradict its actual function or internal logic in the relevant description, the transmission and acquisition / reception operations involved in the processor can be understood as processor output and reception, input and other operations, or as transmission and reception operations performed by radio frequency circuits and antennas. This application does not limit them in this regard.

[0083] Optionally, the device further includes: a memory for storing a program; correspondingly, at least one processor for executing the computer program or instructions in the memory.

[0084] Optionally, the device also includes a communication interface. The communication interface is coupled to the processor and can be used to input information to the processor or output information from the processor.

[0085] Eleventhly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores program code for execution by a device, the program code including methods for performing any of the possible implementations of the first to fifth aspects described above.

[0086] In a twelfth aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method in any of the possible implementations of the first to fifth aspects described above.

[0087] In a thirteenth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip including a processing circuit and a communication interface, the processing circuit reading instructions from a memory through the communication interface and executing the method provided by any of the implementations of the first to fifth aspects described above.

[0088] Optionally, the processing circuit is one or more processors, or all or part of the control or processing circuitry included in one or more processors.

[0089] Optionally, as one implementation, the chip also includes a memory storing computer programs or instructions, and a processor for executing the computer programs or instructions in the memory. When the computer programs or instructions are executed, the processor is used to perform the method provided by any of the implementations of the first to fifth aspects described above.

[0090] In a fourteenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including a second communication device and a first network element. The second communication device is used to implement the method provided in any possible implementation of the second or fifth aspect, and the first network element is used to implement the method provided in any possible implementation of the third aspect.

[0091] Optionally, the communication system further includes a first communication device for implementing the method provided by any possible implementation of the first aspect or the fourth aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0092] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) system architecture.

[0093] Figure 2 This is an architecture diagram of a communication system used in an embodiment of this application.

[0094] Figure 3 This is another architecture diagram of the communication system used in the embodiments of this application.

[0095] Figure 4 This is another architecture diagram of the communication system used in the embodiments of this application.

[0096] Figure 5 This is another architecture diagram of the communication system used in the embodiments of this application.

[0097] Figure 6 This is an architecture diagram for 5G positioning.

[0098] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of an NR positioning process.

[0099] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of an A-IoT system.

[0100] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a random access process for a tag.

[0101] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in this application.

[0102] Figure 11 This is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in this application.

[0103] Figure 12 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0104] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0105] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a chip system provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0106] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points will be explained first.

[0107] First, in this application, "for indicating" can include both direct and indirect indication. When describing an indication message as indicating A, it can include whether the indication message directly indicates A or indirectly indicates A, but does not necessarily mean that the indication message carries A.

[0108] The information indicated by the instruction 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 be indirectly indicated by indicating other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be instructed. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be indicated, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing instruction overhead to some extent. At the same time, common parts of various pieces of information can be identified and indicated uniformly to reduce the instruction overhead caused by individually indicating the same information.

[0109] Second, in this application, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more (including two). Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, "first," "second," and various numerical designations (e.g., "#1," "#2," etc.) are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The sequence numbers of the processes below do not imply an order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the objects described in this way can be interchanged where appropriate to describe solutions other than those in the embodiments of this application. Moreover, in the embodiments of this application, terms such as "S1010" are merely identifiers for descriptive convenience and do not limit the order of execution steps.

[0110] Third, in the embodiments of this application, the words "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that they are examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design options. Specifically, the use of the words "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0111] Fourth, the term "storage" in the embodiments of this application can refer to storage in one or more memories. These memories can be separate installations or integrated into an encoder, decoder, processor, or communication device. Alternatively, some memories 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.

[0112] Fifth, in the implementation of this application, "protocol" may refer to standard protocols in the field of communications, such as the NR protocol and related protocols applied in future communication systems, and this application does not limit it.

[0113] Sixth, in the embodiments of this application, the terms "of", "corresponding (relevant)", "corresponding", and "associate" can sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when their differences are not emphasized, their intended meanings are consistent.

[0114] Seventh, in the embodiments of this application, "under the circumstances", "when", and "if" can sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when the distinction is not emphasized, their intended meanings are consistent.

[0115] Eighth, the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0116] Ninth, the terms "message", "information", or "information element (IE)" can be used interchangeably in this article. There are no restrictions on the names of messages, information, or frames, as long as they can achieve the corresponding functions.

[0117] Tenth, in this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, and "send information" can include direct transmission or indirect transmission through other units or modules. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, and "receive information" can include direct reception from YY or indirect reception from YY through other units or modules. Besides air interface transmission or reception signals implemented at the system level, such as network devices or terminal devices, "send" can also be understood as the "output" of a chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of a chip interface. For example, a modem or system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip transmits or receives signals. "Send" or "receive" can also be performed through device components, for example, by using buses, traces, or interfaces to transmit or receive signals through several parts, modules, or chips of a device.

[0118] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0119] 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, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), 5th Generation (5G) systems or New Radio (NR) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, non-terrestrial network (NTN) satellite communication systems, or other evolved communication systems.

[0120] The technical solution provided in this application can also be applied to future communication systems, such as sixth-generation mobile communication systems. This application does not limit this application.

[0121] The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to machine-type communication (MTC), long-term evolution-machine (LTE-M) technology, device-to-device (D2D) networks, machine-to-machine (M2M) networks, Internet of Things (IoT) networks, or other networks. Among these, IoT networks may include, for example, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) networks. The communication methods in V2X systems are collectively referred to as vehicle-to-X (V2X), where X can represent anything. For example, V2X may include vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication, vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P) communication, or vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication, etc.

[0122] For ease of understanding, the following describes the equipment (or network elements, nodes, etc.) that may be involved in this application.

[0123] Terminal equipment: can be called user equipment (UE), 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.

[0124] Terminal devices can be devices that provide voice / data connectivity to users, such as handheld devices with wireless connectivity, in-vehicle devices, etc. Currently, examples of terminals include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving, 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 phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to wireless modems, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, terminal devices in 5G networks, or terminal devices in future evolved public land mobile networks (PLMNs), etc., and the embodiments of this application are not limited to these.

[0125] By way of example and not limitation, in this embodiment, the terminal device can also be a wearable device. Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that utilize wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Wearable devices are portable devices that are worn directly on the body or integrated into the user's clothing or accessories. Wearable devices are not merely hardware devices, but also achieve powerful functions through software support, data interaction, and cloud interaction. Broadly speaking, wearable smart devices include those that are feature-rich, large in size, and can achieve complete or partial functions without relying on a smartphone, such as smartwatches or smart glasses, as well as those that focus on a specific type of application function and require the use of other devices such as smartphones, such as various smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0126] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the terminal device can also be a terminal device in an IoT system. IoT is an important component of the future development of information technology. Its main technical feature is to connect objects to the network through communication technology, thereby realizing an intelligent network of human-machine interconnection and object-to-object interconnection.

[0127] Access network equipment: Provides network access functionality for terminal devices and can use transmission tunnels of different qualities depending on the user's level and service requirements. Access networks can employ different access technologies. Currently, there are two types of wireless access technologies: 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) access technologies (such as those used in 3G, 4G, or 5G systems) and non-3GPP access technologies. 3GPP access technologies refer to those that conform to 3GPP standards and specifications; for example, access network equipment in a 5G system is called a next-generation node base station (gNB). Non-3GPP access technologies refer to those that do not conform to 3GPP standards and specifications; for example, air interface technologies represented by access points (APs) in Wireless Fidelity (WiFi).

[0128] An access network that uses wireless communication technology to implement access network functions can be called a radio access network (RAN). The RAN manages radio resources, provides access services to terminal devices, and forwards control signals and user data between the terminal and the core network. The RAN can also be an open RAN (O-RAN).

[0129] RAN nodes, also known as radio access network devices, RAN entities, or access nodes, are used to help terminals access communication systems wirelessly. In one application scenario, an RAN node can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB) in a 5G mobile communication system, a next-generation base station in a future mobile communication system, a base station in a future mobile communication system, or an access node in a WiFi system. RAN nodes can be macro base stations, micro base stations, indoor stations, relay nodes, or donor nodes.

[0130] In another application scenario, multiple RAN nodes can collaborate to help terminals achieve wireless access, with different RAN nodes implementing different functions of the base station. For example, a RAN node can be a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), or a radio unit (RU). The CU performs the functions of the base station's radio resource control (RRC) protocol and packet data convergence protocol (PDCP), and can also perform the functions of the service data adaptation protocol (SDAP). The DU performs the functions of the base station's radio link control (RLC) layer and medium access control (MAC) layer, and can also perform some or all of the physical layer (PHY) functions. For specific descriptions of these protocol layers, refer to the relevant 3GPP technical specifications. The RU can be used to implement radio frequency signal transmission and reception. The CU and DU can be two independent RAN nodes, or they can be integrated into the same RAN node, such as within a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio frequency equipment, such as remote radio units (RRUs) or active antenna units (AAUs). CUs can be further divided into two types of RAN nodes: CU-control plane and CU-user plane.

[0131] In different systems, RAN nodes can have different names. For example, in an Open RAN (O-RAN) system, a CU can also be called an Open CU (O-CU), a DU can also be called an Open DU (O-DU), and a RU can be called an Open RU (O-RU).

[0132] Figure 1 An exemplary schematic diagram of an ORAN system architecture provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. The ORAN system in this embodiment may include... Figure 2 Other components besides those shown. For example... Figure 1As shown, access network devices can communicate with the core network (CN) via a backhaul link and with terminals via an air interface. For example, a BBU in an access network device communicates with the core network via a backhaul link, and an RU in the access network device communicates with at least one terminal via an air interface. A BBU communicates with at least one RU via a fronthaul link; the BBU and RU may or may not be co-located. A BBU includes at least one CU and at least one DU, which can communicate via at least one midhaul link.

[0133] In this application, the RAN node can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules. For example, the RAN node can be a server loaded with the corresponding software module. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the RAN node.

[0134] It should be understood that the access network can provide services to the cell. Terminal devices can communicate with the cell through the transmission resources (e.g., frequency domain resources, or spectrum resources) allocated by the access network devices.

[0135] Core network equipment: A collective term for various functional entities on the network side used to manage users, data transmission, and access network equipment configuration. These entities provide core network services to terminal devices accessing the access network equipment. Core network equipment can correspond to different devices in different systems. For example, in 4G, core network equipment can correspond to a Mobility Management Entity (MME) and / or a Serving Gateway (S-GW). In 5G, core network equipment can correspond to an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) entity, an Ambient IoT Management Function (A-IoTMF) entity, a Session Management Function (SMF) entity, or a User Plane Function (UPF) entity. The A-IoTMF is a core network element used to provide A-IoT services.

[0136] Read / write device (or reader): refers to a device with reading and writing capabilities. It can be understood as a device that communicates with tags. For example, a read / write device can be a terminal device, an access network device (such as a base station), a relay node (such as an integrated access and backhaul (IAB)), or any device with read and write capabilities.

[0137] A tag refers to a terminal capable of responding to paging messages such as instructions or commands. This terminal primarily refers to terminal devices in ambient IoT (A-IoT) systems, and can also be called an IoT terminal. For example, an IoT terminal can be a type of terminal represented by an A-IoT terminal. In the following text, IoT terminals and A-IoT terminals can be described interchangeably. Electronic IoT terminals are radio frequency identification (RFID) IoT terminals. RFID technology can be further divided into active, passive, and semi-active types. Passive IoT terminals can also be called passive IoT, i.e., passive IoT devices. Therefore, they can also be considered a type of terminal.

[0138] For example, the tag can be an (electronic) tag, that is, a tag-like or card-like chip containing information is attached to a person or object and read and identified by radio waves. Tags can be divided into three types: active tags, passive tags, and semi-active tags. Passive tags, also known as passive IoT devices, can be considered a type of terminal.

[0139] The excitation source (helper) can be a terminal, a base station, or a small station. This device only has downlink communication with the IoT terminal, but has uplink and downlink data transmission with the reader / writer. This may be done through an air interface or through a wired connection.

[0140] It should be understood that the above is merely an example to briefly describe the devices that may be involved in this application, and does not constitute any limitation on the scope of protection of this application. Other devices may also be involved in the following embodiments, which will not be described one by one here.

[0141] As can be seen from the above, this application can be applied to NR systems or other communication systems (such as future communication systems). Exemplarily, in the application system of this application embodiment, the UE can also be located within the coverage area provided by the reader / writer. When the reader / writer is a terminal, the communication between it and the UE can be considered as transmission between terminals; when the reader / writer is a base station, the communication between it and the UE is via the UU interface, i.e., air interface communication. For ease of understanding, the following is combined with... Figures 2 to 5 This diagram illustrates the architecture of a communication system to which embodiments of this application can be applied.

[0142] like Figure 2 As shown, architecture 101 includes network devices and A-IoT terminals, where the network devices can be macro base stations and the A-IoT terminals can be tags. In architecture 101, the A-IoT terminals and network devices can communicate directly and bidirectionally. Communication between the network devices and A-IoT terminals includes environmental IoT data and / or signaling. For example, in architecture 101, the network devices send environmental IoT data and / or signaling to the A-IoT terminals, or the network devices receive environmental IoT data and / or signaling from the A-IoT terminals; that is, there is uplink and downlink data and / or signaling between the network devices and the A-IoT terminals.

[0143] like Figure 3 As shown, architecture 102 includes network devices, intermediate nodes, and A-IoT terminals. The network devices can be macro base stations, the intermediate nodes can be micro base stations, and the A-IoT terminals can be tags. In architecture 102, the A-IoT terminals communicate bidirectionally with the network devices through the intermediate nodes. In architecture 102, the intermediate nodes can be repeaters, IAB nodes, UEs, etc., enabling the implementation of environmental IoT. The intermediate nodes transmit environmental IoT data and / or signaling between the network devices and the A-IoT terminals. For example, the intermediate node sends downlink transmission signals to the A-IoT terminals. Another example is that the intermediate node sends downlink excitation signals to the A-IoT terminals, and the A-IoT terminals reflect the signals they need to send to the intermediate nodes back to the intermediate nodes, carrying the signals they receive on the downlink excitation signals.

[0144] like Figure 4 As shown, architecture 103 includes network devices, auxiliary nodes, and A-IoT terminals. The network devices can be macro base stations, the auxiliary nodes can be micro base stations, and the A-IoT terminals can be tags. In architecture 103, the A-IoT terminal sends data and / or signaling to the network devices and receives data and / or signaling from the auxiliary nodes; or the A-IoT terminal receives data and / or signaling from the network devices and sends data and / or signaling to the auxiliary nodes. In architecture 103, the auxiliary nodes can be repeaters, IABs, UEs, etc., enabling the implementation of environmental IoT.

[0145] like Figure 5 As shown, architecture 103 includes a terminal device and an A-IoT terminal, wherein the A-IoT terminal may be a tag. The A-IoT terminal communicates bidirectionally with the terminal device. The communication between the terminal device and the A-IoT terminal includes environmental IoT data and / or signaling.

[0146] For example, Figures 2 to 5 The network equipment in this context can be a gNB, and intermediate and / or auxiliary nodes can be Pico base stations; or, Figures 2 to 5The network devices in the network can be gNBs, and intermediate nodes and / or auxiliary nodes can be IAB nodes.

[0147] It is understandable that the above Figures 2 to 5 This is merely an illustrative example and does not constitute a limitation on this application. For example, this application can also be applied to other communication scenarios that enable reflective communication.

[0148] The communication systems and service scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new service scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0149] It should be understood that the above device names are defined solely for the purpose of distinguishing different functions and should not constitute any limitation on this application. This application does not preclude the possibility of using other names in 5G networks and other future networks. For example, in future networks, some or all of the above-mentioned devices may use the terminology from 5G, or they may use other names, etc.

[0150] It should be understood that Figures 2 to 5 Taking network equipment and communication as an example, this explanation briefly illustrates one communication scenario in which this application can be applied, and does not limit other scenarios in which this application can be applied. It should also be understood that... Figures 2 to 5 This is a simplified diagram for ease of understanding only. The communication system may also include other network devices or other terminal devices not shown.

[0151] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, some basic concepts involved in this application will be briefly explained.

[0152] 1. Location: This is a technology in which mobile communication networks determine the geographical location information of a user unit (UE) by measuring wireless signals. In daily life, more than 80% of information is related to spatial location. Location information is closely related to people's production and life. Whether in indoor or outdoor environments, the need to quickly and accurately obtain the location information of the terminal and provide location services is becoming increasingly urgent.

[0153] 2. 5G Positioning: This is a technology used by 5G mobile communication networks to determine the geographical location of 5G terminals by measuring wireless signals. Positioning services allow users to obtain geographic information services based on location information anytime, anywhere, meeting the requirements of determining the location of "who, what, when, and where" in the wireless world.

[0154] 5G positioning is based on the 3GPP protocol, using multiple distributed low-power base stations to measure the signal of the same user. In conjunction with terminals, the core network, and applications (APPs), it can achieve positioning accuracy down to sub-meter level. Since user location information is considered personal privacy data, higher positioning accuracy increases the potential for user security and privacy risks. Therefore, the use of user location information must strictly comply with the laws, regulations, and policies of each region. Furthermore, the security and privacy of location data can be guaranteed through two aspects: controlling the authorized groups for positioning and protecting the security of air interface positioning data.

[0155] For example, the positioning protocol involved in the 5G positioning system is as follows:

[0156] NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa): This is a positioning protocol between access network devices (gNodeB) and location management function (LMF) network elements. Access network devices and LMFs exchange positioning information based on the NRPPa positioning protocol.

[0157] LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP): Adopting the LTE positioning protocol, this is the positioning protocol between the UE and the LMF (Local Management Frame). The LMF and UE exchange positioning information based on the LPP. The LMF and UE interact using non-access stratum (NAS) messages, which are transparent to the access network equipment.

[0158] For ease of understanding, combined with Figure 6 A brief introduction to 5G positioning structure and network elements.

[0159] For example, Figure 6 The functions of the network elements (or devices, nodes, etc.) involved are described in Table 1 below:

[0160] Table 1

[0161]

[0162]

[0163] 3. Positioning Types: Positioning reference signals include downlink positioning reference signals and uplink positioning reference signals. The downlink positioning reference signal (DL-PRS) is a reference signal defined in the protocol for NR positioning. The uplink positioning reference signal can be derived from the channel sounding reference signal (SRS). This SRS is used for NR positioning and can be called positioning-based SRS (SRS forpositioning).

[0164] For example, by measuring the DL-PRS, the UE can obtain information such as the reference signal received power (RSRP) and reference signal time difference (RSTD) of the DL-PRS, and then use this information to calculate the UE's location, or report this information to the network so that the network can calculate the UE's location.

[0165] For example, a base station can obtain information such as the RSRP of the SRS for positioning, the reference signal time of arrival (RTOA), the angle of arrival (AoA), and the relative time of arrival (ZoA) by measuring the SRS for positioning, and then use this information to calculate the UE location.

[0166] The aforementioned time information such as RSRP, RSTD, and RTOA, as well as angle information such as AoA and ZoA, are derived from the measurement of the positioning reference signal, and this information is used to calculate the UE's position.

[0167] As one possible implementation, NR positioning can be divided into downlink-based (DL-based) NR positioning, uplink-based (UL-based) NR positioning, and uplink and downlink (UL and DL) NR positioning, depending on the uplink and downlink of the reference signal.

[0168] Among them, DL-based NR positioning refers to a method that relies on the UE to measure DL-PRS to achieve positioning; UL-based NR positioning refers to a method that relies on the base station to measure SRS for positioning to achieve positioning; ULand DL NR positioning refers to the use of both uplink and downlink positioning reference signals.

[0169] As another possible implementation, based on the level of participation of the UE and the network, NR positioning can be divided into UE-based NR positioning, UE-assisted NR positioning, and network-based (NW-based) NR positioning.

[0170] Among them, UE-based NR positioning means that the UE is responsible for measuring DL-PRS and calculating the UE's location; UE-assisted NR positioning means that the UE is responsible for measuring DL-PRS, reporting the measurement results, and the LMF calculates the location; NW-based NR positioning means that the UE is responsible for sending SRS for positioning, which is measured by the network equipment and the LMF calculates the location.

[0171] 4. Location Process: Taking UL and DL NR location as an example, the location process is introduced. UL and DL NR location includes both DL-based NR location and UL-based NR location. The processes of DL-based NR location and UL-based NR location can be considered as several steps within the UL and DL NR location process.

[0172] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 The solid line portion in the image represents UL-based NR positioning; Figure 7 The dashed part in the figure represents DL-based NR positioning.

[0173] For example, the NR positioning process of UL and DL includes the following steps:

[0174] S710, LPP capability transfer.

[0175] Specifically, the LMF can request UE positioning-related capabilities from the UE, and then the UE reports its capability information. The capabilities involved may differ depending on the positioning method used, and the LMF can query the UE's capabilities based on the positioning method employed.

[0176] Optionally, if multiple positioning methods are used simultaneously, the LMF may request the UE's capabilities related to multiple positioning methods at the same time.

[0177] S720, LMF sends a location information request message to the serving cell base station.

[0178] For example, the LMF requests SRS for positioning configuration information from the serving cell base station.

[0179] S730, the serving cell base station determines the available SRS resources and configurations.

[0180] S731, the serving cell base station configures the SRS for the UE via an RRC reconfiguration message.

[0181] S740, the serving cell base station sends a location information response message to the LMF.

[0182] For example, the serving cell base station informs the LMF of the SRS for positioning resources and configurations via a positioning information response message.

[0183] S750, LMF sends measurement request messages to the serving cell base station and several neighboring cell base stations (such as at least one neighboring cell base station).

[0184] For example, the LMF identifies at least one neighboring cell and notifies the identified at least one neighboring cell of the serving cell's configuration for SRS for positioning.

[0185] As described above regarding 5G positioning, locating a UE can be achieved through multiple cells. Therefore, the LMF can identify at least one neighboring cell to assist the serving cell in positioning. For example, after the LMF notifies at least one neighboring cell of the SRS configuration via a measurement request, it is equivalent to requesting the neighboring cell's base station to measure the SRS sent by the UE.

[0186] S760, LMF sends assistance data to UE.

[0187] For example, the LMF provides auxiliary information to the UE. This auxiliary information includes information needed by the UE to measure the DL-PRS and calculate its position during the positioning process. For example, the auxiliary information includes the configuration of the DL-PRS, the position information of each TRP, the transmission angle (also known as the line-of-sight direction) of each PRS, or the measurement gap required to measure the PRS, etc.

[0188] As mentioned above, auxiliary information may include various types of data, and different data may correspond to different acquisition processes. As an example, and not a limitation, auxiliary information includes the DL-PRS configuration. The LMF configuration for acquiring DL-PRS includes:

[0189] First, the LMF has the ability to request PRS from the serving base station, and the serving base station has the ability to report the serving base station's PRS to the LMF;

[0190] Then, after determining the specific configuration of the PRS, the LMF requests the serving cell and neighboring cells to configure the PRS. This process can be understood as the process of RRC Reconfiguration and RRC Reconfig Complete.

[0191] Additionally, if the LMF sends the aforementioned auxiliary information via the positioning system information block (PosSIB), the auxiliary information sent by the LMF to the UE can be as follows:

[0192] First, the LMF prepares the PosSIB content and informs the base station;

[0193] Then, the base station broadcasts the PosSIB.

[0194] S770, LMF sends a location information request message to UE.

[0195] Specifically, the Location Information Request message is used to request location information. It should be understood that the information requested in the Location Information Request message will differ depending on the positioning method; it may be RSRP, RSTD, etc.

[0196] In the S780, the LMF will request the serving cell base station to activate or deactivate the SRS.

[0197] For example, for semi-persistent and aperiodic SRS, the LMF requests the serving cell base station to activate or deactivate the SRS.

[0198] S781, activate or deactivate SRS for the serving cell base station.

[0199] Optionally, the serving cell base station activates or deactivates the SRS via a downlink (DL) MAC control element (CE).

[0200] It should be noted that if the SRS is periodic, steps S780 and S781 above are not performed.

[0201] S790, SRS measurement is performed on the UE, serving cell base station, and neighboring cell base stations.

[0202] Specifically, the UE measures the DL-PRS, and the serving cell base station and neighboring cell base stations measure the uplink (UL) SRS.

[0203] It should be understood that the content measured by SRS differs depending on the positioning method. For example, it may measure RSRP, RSTD, RTOA, or AoA and ZoA.

[0204] S791, the UE sends location information to the LMF.

[0205] For example, the content of the location information reported by the UE to the LMF may differ depending on the location method. For instance, the location information may include the following two possibilities:

[0206] If it is UE-based positioning, the UE will inform the LMF of the calculated location information;

[0207] If it is UE-assisted positioning, the UE will report the DL-PRS measurement results to the LMF.

[0208] S792, the serving cell base station and neighboring cell base stations send measurement response messages to the LMF.

[0209] Specifically, the serving cell base station and neighboring cell base stations report the SRS measurement results to the LMF through measurement response messages.

[0210] Optionally, similar to the location information reported by the UE mentioned above, the content of the measurement response messages sent by the serving cell base station and neighboring cell base stations to the LMF also differs for different location methods.

[0211] S793, LMF determines the UE location.

[0212] LMF can determine the UE's location based on the acquired measurement results.

[0213] Alternatively, LMF has different methods to determine the UE's location for different positioning methods.

[0214] For example, using the uplink time difference of arrival (UL-TDOA) positioning method, the LMF can determine the UE's location based on the time difference between the arrival of the SRS sent by the UE to different base stations;

[0215] For example, using the uplink angle of arrival (UL-AoA) positioning method, the LMF can determine the UE location based on the SRS arrival angle measured by different base stations;

[0216] For example, using the downlink direction of arrival (DL-AoD) positioning method, the UE's location is determined based on the RSRP values ​​of the PRS on different beams reported by the UE; and so on.

[0217] 5. A-IoT tag inventory: For example, Figure 8 A schematic diagram of an A-IoT system is shown, such as Figure 8 As shown, the A-IoT system comprises three parts: a reader, electronic tags, and a data management system. Its working principle is as follows: the reader emits radio waves of a specific frequency to drive the circuitry, thereby sending out internal data. The reader can then sequentially receive and interpret the data, sending it to the application for corresponding processing.

[0218] Reader / writer: This device can wirelessly communicate with the electronic tag via an antenna, enabling it to read or write the tag's identification code and memory data. For example... Figure 8 As shown in the left figure, a typical reader / writer includes a high-frequency module (e.g., a transmitter or receiver), a control unit, and a reader / writer antenna. A reader / writer can also be understood as a device that communicates with tags; it can take the form of a terminal, a base station, or a device with read / write capabilities.

[0219] Electronic tags: consist of a tag antenna and a dedicated tag chip, such as... Figure 8 As shown in the right figure. Generally, based on their power supply method, electronic tags can be divided into active tags, passive tags, and semi-passive tags. Active tags contain a battery, passive tags do not, and semi-passive tags partially rely on batteries for operation. Based on frequency, electronic tags can be divided into low-frequency tags, high-frequency tags, ultra-high-frequency tags, and microwave tags. Of course, they can also be classified according to their packaging, which will not be discussed in detail here. Passive electronic tags can also be referred to as passive A-IoT devices.

[0220] The device in this application can also be one of the two device types proposed in the 3GPP R19 Ambient IoT project: 1. Microwatt-level power consumption label: with energy storage; initial sampling frequency deviation 10. X The power of X is usually understood as X = 4 or 5; there is no uplink or downlink amplifier, and uplink transmission is based on reflection transmission using an externally provided carrier. 2. Labels for power consumption in the hundreds of microwatts: energy storage is present; initial sampling frequency deviation 10. XThe power is usually understood as X = 4 or 5; there may be an uplink amplifier, a downlink amplifier, or both. Uplink transmission can be initiated by the terminal or transmitted via backscatter based on an external carrier.

[0221] To facilitate understanding, the following will be combined with... Figure 9 A brief description of the communication process between the reader and the tag is provided.

[0222] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a random access process using tags. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the random access process may include the following steps.

[0223] S901, the reader sends a Select command to the tag. Correspondingly, the tag receives the Select command from the reader.

[0224] For example, when the reader receives an inventory instruction from the requesting party, the reader generates a Select command and sends the Select command to the tag. The command may carry information about a certain range of the tag's memory (e.g., carrying a specific range of electronic product codes (EPCs)).

[0225] S902, the reader sends a query command to the tag. Correspondingly, the tag receives the query command from the reader.

[0226] For example, after listening to the Select command, the tag determines whether it belongs to the tag range carried in the Select command. If it does, it returns the tag's identification information after listening to the Query or QueryRep command.

[0227] The Query command can include a numerical value (denoted as Q). The tag can generate a random number based on the Q value, for example, a random number between 0 and 2 raised to the power of Q. Subsequently, the tag can decrement this random number by 1 after each Query or QueryRep command is sent by the reader. When the random number reaches zero, the tag initiates random access.

[0228] S903, the tag sends a random number to the reader. Correspondingly, the reader receives the random number from the tag.

[0229] For example, when a tag finds itself to belong to the tag range carried in the Select command, it can send a random number, such as RN16, to the reader when the random number in S302 decreases to zero. RN16 can be understood as a random number of 16 bits in length. RN16 can be used to identify the tag and to resolve conflicts in subsequent tag access.

[0230] S904, the reader sends an acknowledgment (ACK) command to the tag. Correspondingly, the tag receives the ACK command from the reader.

[0231] After the reader receives a random number from the tag, it sends an ACK command to the tag, which includes the random number (RN16) received from the tag.

[0232] S905, the tag sends its identification information to the reader. Correspondingly, the reader receives the identification information from the tag.

[0233] Once the tag receives the ACK command from the reader and verifies that the random number is correct, it can send the tag's identification information back to the reader, such as EPC.

[0234] In addition, the reader can also randomly connect tags to the reader via paging commands.

[0235] The foregoing briefly introduced the scenarios in which the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application can be applied, and introduced the basic concepts that may be involved in the embodiments of this application, and combined these basic concepts with... Figure 7 Here's a brief overview of the current 5G positioning process. As mentioned above, 5G positioning can be achieved by measuring specific positioning signals (e.g., PRS) and supporting the LPP protocol. However, this positioning process may not be suitable for A-IoT communication networks because:

[0236] 1) For terminals in A-IoT communication networks, due to their low complexity and low power consumption, the accuracy requirements for positioning are not high, and it may not be necessary to support the measurement of specific positioning signals (e.g., PRS).

[0237] 2) Terminals in the A-IoT communication network may not have an LPP layer.

[0238] Therefore, the current positioning process is not applicable to the positioning of terminals in A-IoT communication networks.

[0239] This application provides a communication method and designs a positioning method for terminals in A-IoT communication networks.

[0240] The communication method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to A-IoT communication networks, for example... Figures 2 to 5 The communication system shown herein may include at least one network device and at least one terminal device. Alternatively, it may also be applied to other communication systems that include the communication devices described in the embodiments below; this application does not limit the application scenario.

[0241] The embodiments shown below do not specifically limit the structure of the execution subject of the method provided in the embodiments of this application. As long as it is possible to communicate according to the method provided in the embodiments of this application by running a program that records the code of the method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0242] For example, the method provided in this application embodiment can be executed by a first communication device. Unless otherwise specified, the "first communication device" in this application can refer to the first communication device itself (e.g., a terminal device), or a component of the first communication device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as a circuit or chip in a terminal device responsible for communication functions (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or it can be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first communication device. For example, the first communication device may be a terminal device in an A-IoT system, or a terminal device in a 5G communication network or a future communication network. It should be understood that this application does not limit the specific form of the first communication device, as long as it can achieve the corresponding functions.

[0243] For example, the method provided in the embodiments of this application can be executed by a second communication device. Unless otherwise specified, the "second communication device" in this application can refer to the second communication device itself (e.g., a network device), or a component of the second communication device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as a circuit or chip in a network device responsible for communication functions (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or it can be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the second communication device. For example, the second communication device may be a reader / writer in an A-IoT system, or a network device in a 5G communication network or a future communication network. It should be understood that this application does not limit the specific form of the second communication device, as long as it can achieve the corresponding functions.

[0244] For example, the method provided in this application embodiment can be executed by a first network element. Unless otherwise specified, the "first network element" in this application can refer to the first network element itself (e.g., a positioning management network element), or a component of the first network element (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as a circuit or chip responsible for communication functions in a positioning management network element (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or it can be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first network element. For example, the first network element is a network element used for positioning (LMF or other network elements capable of positioning). It should be understood that this application does not limit the specific form of the first network element, as long as it can achieve the corresponding function.

[0245] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application, including the following steps:

[0246] S1020, the second communication device sends a synchronization signal to the first communication device, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the synchronization signal from the second communication device.

[0247] Specifically, the synchronization signal involved in this application can be a synchronization signal used for cell selection and reselection, such as a synchronization signal block (SSB). This application does not limit the specific form of the synchronization signal, and it can be a signal measured by the first communication device during the cell selection process.

[0248] S1030, the first communication device measures the synchronization signal and obtains the first measurement result.

[0249] Specifically, in this application, the first measurement result obtained by the first communication device from measuring the synchronization signal is used to locate the first communication device.

[0250] Furthermore, the first measurement result obtained by the first communication device in this application from measuring the synchronization signal can also be used for cell selection or cell reselection. In scenarios where the first communication device supports cell selection or cell reselection, there is no need to remeasure other synchronization signals, which can reduce the power consumption of the first communication device.

[0251] It should be understood that this application does not limit the specific method of measuring the synchronization signal by the first communication device. You can refer to the description of synchronization signal measurement in the current related technology, which will not be described in detail here.

[0252] For example, the first measurement result may be the reference signal received power (RSRP), reference signal received quality (RSRQ), or signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) of the synchronization signal.

[0253] Optionally, the first communication device measures the synchronization signal to obtain the first measurement result, which may be: the first communication device measures the measurement result when the first communication device is in an idle state or a non-data transmission state.

[0254] As an example and not a limitation, the network side may trigger the first communication device to measure and store a synchronization signal to obtain a first measurement result for locating the first communication device in the following manner:

[0255] As one possible implementation, the network side can send a service request to the first communication device to perform a positioning service. The first communication device responds to the service request and measures the synchronization signal to obtain a first measurement result.

[0256] In this implementation, before the first communication device obtains the first measurement result by measuring the synchronization signal, Figure 10 The method flow shown also includes:

[0257] S1010, the first communication device receives a service request.

[0258] Specifically, the service request is used to request the first communication device to perform a location service. This application does not impose any limitations on the specific form of the service request, as long as it can be used to instruct the first communication device to perform a location service.

[0259] For example, in this application, the first communication device receives a service request through the second communication device, including the following two possible implementations:

[0260] As one possible implementation, the first communication device supports a positioning protocol. The first communication device receives a service request from the first network element through the second communication device, which can be achieved by the second communication device receiving the service request from the first network element and then passing the service request through the first communication device.

[0261] As another possible implementation, the first communication device does not support the positioning protocol. The first communication device can receive the service request from the first network element through the second communication device in the following way: the second communication device receives a third message carrying the service request from the first network element, parses the third message, and forwards the service request to the first communication device.

[0262] As another possible implementation, the network side can send a first instruction message to the first communication device to report the measurement result of the synchronization signal. In response to the first instruction message, the first communication device measures the synchronization signal to obtain the first measurement result.

[0263] In this implementation, before the first communication device obtains the first measurement result by measuring the synchronization signal, Figure 10 The method flow shown also includes:

[0264] S1001, the first communication device receives the first instruction information.

[0265] Specifically, the first indication information is used to instruct the first communication device to report the measurement result of the synchronization signal. For example, the first indication information instructs the first communication device to report the aforementioned first measurement result.

[0266] Optionally, the first indication information may instruct the first communication device to measure and store the measurement results of the synchronization signal when the first communication device is in an idle state or a non-data transmission state, and instruct the first communication device to report the first measurement results when it is in a connected state or a data transmission state.

[0267] Optionally, the first instruction information may be carried in the aforementioned service request or in other messages, and this application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0268] For example, the first communication device in this application receives the first instruction information, including the following two possible implementations:

[0269] Method 1: The first communication device supports a positioning protocol, such as LPP or a positioning protocol in a future communication system.

[0270] In the scenario shown in Method 1, the first communication device and the first network element can interact via NAS messages, and the interaction messages between the first communication device and the first network element are transparent to the second communication device. Therefore, in the scenario shown in Method 1, the first communication device receiving the first indication information from the first network element through the second communication device can be: the second communication device receives the first indication information from the first network element and then transparently transmits the first indication information to the first communication device.

[0271] For example, in the scenario shown in Method 1, the first network element sends a NAS message to the first communication device. This NAS message includes first indication information. After receiving the NAS message, the second communication device forwards the NAS message to the first communication device. Alternatively, the first network element sends auxiliary information to the first communication device. This auxiliary information assists the first communication device in positioning, and it includes the first indication information. Optionally, the auxiliary information can be called positioning auxiliary information.

[0272] Method 2: The first communication device does not support the positioning protocol.

[0273] In the scenario described in Method 2, the first communication device and the first network element cannot interact via NAS messages; instead, they need to interact via the second communication device. Therefore, in the scenario described in Method 1, the first communication device receiving the first indication information from the first network element via the second communication device can be achieved by the second communication device receiving the message carrying the first indication information from the first network element, parsing the message, and then forwarding the first indication information to the first communication device.

[0274] For example, in the case shown in Method 2, the first network element sends a third message to the second communication device. The third message includes first indication information. After receiving the third message, the second communication device parses the third message to know that the first indication information is information sent to the first communication device, and forwards the first indication information to the first communication device.

[0275] Optionally, in the case shown in mode 2, after the second communication device receives the third message from the first network element triggering the start of the downlink positioning service, it can send the first instruction information to the first communication device.

[0276] In summary, under the circumstances described in Method 2, the first indication information received by the first communication device can be the first indication information of the first network element forwarded by the second communication device, or it can be the first indication information sent by the second communication device to the first communication device in response to the third message of the first network element (e.g., a downlink location service trigger message).

[0277] It should be noted that the above-mentioned methods 1 and 2 are merely examples illustrating possible forms in which the first communication device receives the first instruction information, and do not constitute any limitation on the scope of protection of this application. The first communication device may also receive the above-mentioned first instruction information in other ways, such as receiving the first instruction information from a management device (e.g., operation administration and maintenance (OAM)). Examples will not be given here.

[0278] It should be understood that the above-mentioned network side triggering the first communication device to measure the synchronization signal to obtain the first measurement result through service request and / or first indication information is only an example and does not constitute any limitation on the scope of protection of this application. The first communication device may also actively report the first measurement result for positioning, which will not be elaborated here.

[0279] In addition, to improve positioning accuracy, the measurement time and / or measurement area for the first communication device to obtain the first measurement result by measuring the synchronization signal can be constrained. For example, Figure 10 The method flow shown also includes:

[0280] S1040, the first communication device receives the second instruction information from the first network element, and correspondingly, the first network element sends the second instruction information to the first communication device.

[0281] Specifically, the second indication information is used to indicate the measurement time and / or the measurement area, wherein the measurement time indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement time, and the measurement area indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement area.

[0282] For example, the specific method by which the first communication device receives the second indication information from the first network element can be referred to the description above of the first communication device receiving the first indication information from the first network element, and will not be repeated here.

[0283] For example, the first network element sends a second instruction message to the first communication device through the second communication device, and the second communication device transmits the second instruction message back to the first communication device. Alternatively, the first and second instruction messages can be included in the same NAS message and sent to the first communication device.

[0284] For example, the second communication device receives a third message from the first network element, which carries second indication information. After parsing the third message, the second communication device can forward the second indication information to the first communication device.

[0285] For example, if the second indication information indicates a first time period, then the first communication device can store the measurement results of the synchronization signal obtained during the first time period based on the second indication information.

[0286] As an example and not a limitation, the second instruction information may indicate the first time period in at least one of the following ways:

[0287] Indicates the start and end times of the first time period, such as T1 and T2, where the first time period is the time period from T1 to T2; or,

[0288] Indicates the start time and duration of the first time period, for example, indicating T1 and T, where the first time period is from T1 to T1+T; or,

[0289] Indicates the end time and duration of the first time period, for example, indicating T2 and T, where the first time period is the period from T2-T to T2; or,

[0290] The duration of the first time period is indicated. The end time or start time of the first time period can be a default value, such as T. The first time period can be a time period of T before the first communication device enters the connected state. That is, the end time of the first time period is the time when the first communication device enters the connected state by default.

[0291] For example, if the second indication information indicates at least one measurement area, then the first communication device can store the measurement results of the synchronization signal obtained in at least one measurement area based on the second indication information.

[0292] By way of example and not limitation, the second indication information may indicate at least one measurement area in at least one of the following ways:

[0293] Indicates a cell list, such as a cell ID list indicating at least one cell, signifying that at least one measurement area is that at least one cell; or,

[0294] Indicates at least one geographical region, such as indicating the latitude and longitude of at least one geographical region; or indicating the wave position of at least one geographical region, etc.

[0295] Optionally, if the first communication device receives the aforementioned second indication information, and the second indication information indicates a first time period, then step S1030, in which the first communication device measures the synchronization signal to obtain a first measurement result, includes: the first communication device measuring the measurement result of the synchronization signal within the first time period. For example, the first communication device measuring the measurement result of the idle state or non-data transmission state within the first time period.

[0296] Optionally, if the first communication device receives the second indication information mentioned above, and the second indication information indicates at least one measurement area, then the above step S1030, in which the first communication device measures the synchronization signal to obtain a first measurement result, includes: the first communication device measuring the measurement result of the synchronization signal in at least one measurement area.

[0297] Furthermore, after obtaining the first measurement result, the first communication device can report the first measurement result to the first network element. Figure 10 The method flow shown may also include:

[0298] S1050, the first communication device reports the first measurement result to the first network element, and correspondingly, the first network element receives the first measurement result from the first communication device.

[0299] Specifically, the first measurement result is used by the first network element to locate the first communication device.

[0300] In this application, the first measurement result reported by the first communication device can be: the first communication device sends the first measurement result to the network side.

[0301] For example, the first communication device reporting the first measurement result to the first network element may be: when the first communication device is in a connected state or a data transmission state, the first communication device reports the first measurement result to the first network element.

[0302] As can be seen from the above, the first communication device may or may not support the positioning protocol. For example, in this application, the first communication device reports the first measurement result to the first network element, including the following two possible implementations:

[0303] Method 3: Corresponding to Method 1 above, the first communication device supports the positioning protocol.

[0304] In the scenario described in Method 3, the first communication device can report the first measurement result to the first network element via a NAS message. For example, the first communication device sends location information (such as...) to the first network element through a second communication device. Figure 7 In step S791), the positioning information includes the first measurement result.

[0305] This can be understood as follows: In the case shown in Method 3, the first communication device reports the first measurement result to the first network element, including:

[0306] The first communication device sends a NAS message carrying the first measurement result to the second communication device, and the second communication device transmits the NAS message to the first network element.

[0307] Method 4: Corresponding to Method 2 above, the first communication device does not support the positioning protocol.

[0308] In the scenario described in Method 4, the first communication device reports the first measurement result to the first network element through the second communication device. For example, the first communication device sends the first measurement result to the second communication device, and the second communication device forwards the first measurement result to the first network element.

[0309] It should be understood that, in the case shown in Method 4, in order for the second communication device to forward the first measurement result to the first network element, the first communication device also reports the identifier of the first network element associated with the first measurement result to the second communication device.

[0310] For example, in the case shown in method 4, during the process of initiating downlink positioning triggered by the first network element through the third message, the identifier of the first network element can be carried in the third message, so that the second communication device can send the identifier of the first network element to the first communication device, i.e. Figure 10 The method flow shown also includes:

[0311] S1011, the first communication device receives the identifier of the first network element from the second communication device.

[0312] Specifically, the identifier of the first network element is used to identify the first network element. For example, the identifier of the first network element can be its own identifier (ID), or it can be its system architecture evolution temporary mobile station identifier (S-TMSI). This application does not limit the specific form of the identifier of the first network element; all information that can be used to identify the first network element is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0313] When the first communication device receives the identifier of the first network element, it can determine, based on the identifier of the first network element, that the first measurement result should be reported to the first network element identified by the identifier of the first network element.

[0314] For example, the first communication device receiving the first instruction information and the identifier of the first network element from the second communication device can be achieved by sending the first instruction information and the identifier of the first network element to the first communication device via a single message. For instance, the first instruction information and the identifier of the first network element can be included in a first message.

[0315] Optionally, if the first communication device does not support a positioning protocol, the first communication device receiving the identifier and first indication information of the first network element from the second communication device can be as follows: the first communication device receives a first message from the second communication device, which includes the identifier and first indication information of the first network element. The first message can be a Radio Resource Release (RRC) message or a Media Access Control (MAC) CE message. Alternatively, the first message can be other messages; or the identifier and first indication information of the first network element can be transmitted through different messages. This application does not limit the method by which the second communication device sends the identifier and first indication information of the first network element to the first communication device.

[0316] Furthermore, in order for the second communication device to forward the first measurement result to the first network element after receiving it from the first communication device, the first communication device can provide the identifier of the first network element to the second communication device during the reporting of the first measurement result. Therefore, in the case shown in Method 4, Figure 10 The method flow shown also includes:

[0317] S1012, the first communication device reports the identifier of the first network element associated with the first measurement result to the second communication device.

[0318] Specifically, the identifier of the first network element associated with the first measurement result can indicate that the second communication device will subsequently forward the first measurement result to the first network element identified by the identifier of the first network element.

[0319] For example, the first communication device reporting the first measurement result and the identifier of the first network element to the second communication device can be achieved by: the first measurement result and the identifier of the first network element being reported to the second communication device via a single message. For example, the first indication information and the identifier of the first network element are included in the first message. For example, the identifier of the first network element and the first measurement result are included in the second message.

[0320] Optionally, if the first communication device does not support a positioning protocol, the first communication device reporting the first measurement result and the identifier of the first network element to the second communication device can be done by the first communication device sending a second message to the second communication device, which includes the first measurement result and the identifier of the first network element. The second message can be an RRC message, an Electronic Product Code (EPC) message, or message 3 from the process of the first communication device accessing the second communication device.

[0321] Message 3 during the process of the first communication device accessing the second communication device can be a message including RN16, such as the second message being as described above. Figure 9 The RN16 shown.

[0322] The aforementioned second message, an RRC message, can be understood as follows: the second message is an RRC message sent by the first communication device to the second communication device after the first communication device enters the connected state or data transmission state.

[0323] The second message mentioned above, the EPC message, can be understood as follows: the second message is the EPC message sent by the first communication device to the second communication device after the first communication device enters the connection state or data transmission state, as described above. Figure 9 The EPC message shown.

[0324] Furthermore, if the first communication device does not support the positioning protocol, after the second communication device receives the first measurement result and the identifier of the first network element from the first communication device, it can determine to forward the first measurement result to the first network element based on the identifier of the first network element. In the case shown in Method 4, Figure 10 The method flow shown also includes:

[0325] S1013, the second communication device sends the first measurement result to the first network element.

[0326] Specifically, the second communication device can identify the first network element based on the received identifier of the first network element and transmit the first measurement result to the first network element.

[0327] After receiving the first measurement result, the first network element can locate the first communication device based on the first measurement result. Figure 10 The method flow shown also includes:

[0328] S1060, the first network element locates the first communication device based on the first measurement result.

[0329] It should be understood that this application does not provide a detailed description of how the first network element locates the first communication device based on the first measurement result. You can refer to the description of the current positioning process in which the positioning network element locates the terminal based on the measurement result of the positioning signal. The difference is that in this application, the first measurement result is not the measurement result of the positioning signal but the measurement result of the synchronization signal.

[0330] Figure 10 In the communication method shown, the first communication device can report the measurement results of the synchronization signal, so that the first network element can locate the first communication device based on the measurement results of the synchronization signal. This allows for location tracking of the first communication device even when it is an IoT terminal and does not require support for measuring specific location signals, thus achieving IoT terminal location tracking. Furthermore, in... Figure 10 In the communication method shown, the first communication device no longer needs to measure and report the results of specific positioning signals, which reduces the complexity of the IoT terminal positioning process. Furthermore, the first communication device does not need to listen for specific positioning signals, thus reducing its power consumption.

[0331] The above Figure 10 The diagram illustrates the downlink positioning process. This application also provides a communication method that can achieve uplink positioning, which will be described below in conjunction with... Figure 11 This article provides a detailed introduction to the uplink positioning scheme.

[0332] Figure 11 This is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application, including the following steps:

[0333] S1110, the first communication device receives the third instruction information from the second communication device, and correspondingly, the second communication device sends the third instruction information to the first communication device.

[0334] Specifically, the third indication information is used to instruct the first communication device to carry a positioning sequence in one uplink data signal of the first service, or to instruct the first communication device to carry a positioning sequence in all uplink data signals of the first service. The positioning sequence is used for positioning.

[0335] This application does not impose any limitations on the specific form of the positioning sequence, as long as it can be used for positioning. For example, the positioning sequence in this application can be the same as the one described above, which can be used for positioning. Figure 7The specific sequence that differs from the sequence information of the SRS described above. For example, the positioning sequence in this application may be a sequence capable of being used for positioning that is different from the one described above. Figure 7 The specific sequences with different time-frequency resources occupied by SRS, as described in the text, will not be elaborated upon here.

[0336] For example, the second communication device sends message #1 to the first communication device, the message #1 carrying third indication information. Optionally, message #1 can be at least one of the following messages:

[0337] Paging messages, select messages, query messages, and ACK messages, etc. For descriptions of select, query, and ACK messages, please refer to the above text. Figure 9 The description in the text will not be repeated here.

[0338] Optionally, in this application, after receiving the fourth message from the first network element triggering the second communication device to perform uplink positioning service, the second communication device may send a third indication message to the second communication device. Figure 11 The method flow shown may also include:

[0339] S1111, the first network element sends a fourth message to the second communication device, and correspondingly, the second communication device receives the fourth message from the first network element.

[0340] Specifically, this fourth message is used to trigger uplink positioning.

[0341] Optionally, the fourth message includes fourth indication information, which is used to indicate positioning accuracy. For example, the fourth indication information indicates the number of times the uplink data signal needs to be measured, indicating how many uplink data signal measurements are required to meet the positioning requirements.

[0342] Furthermore, after receiving the aforementioned third indication information, the first communication device, in response to the third indication information indicating that it can report an uplink data signal carrying a positioning sequence, then... Figure 11 The method flow shown also includes:

[0343] S1120, the first communication device sends an uplink data signal carrying a positioning sequence to the second communication device.

[0344] For example, if the third indication information indicates that an uplink data signal in the first service carries a location sequence, the first communication device sends an uplink data signal carrying the location sequence to the second communication device; or,

[0345] When the third indication information indicates that the location sequence is carried in all uplink data signals of the first service, the first communication device sends the location sequence in all uplink data signals of the first service to the second communication device.

[0346] S1130, the second communication device determines whether the positioning accuracy is met based on one or all of the received uplink data signals.

[0347] For example, the fourth indication information mentioned above indicates that the number of times the uplink data signal is measured is N, and the number of uplink data signals carrying the positioning sequence sent by the first communication device to the second communication device is M, where M and N are positive integers; if M is less than N, it is determined that the positioning accuracy is not met, and if M is greater than or equal to N, it is determined that the positioning accuracy is met.

[0348] If the positioning accuracy is not met, the second communication device can trigger the first communication device to send a positioning signal for positioning via a trigger message. Figure 11 The method flow shown may also include:

[0349] S1140, the first communication device receives a trigger message from the second communication device, and correspondingly, the second communication device sends a trigger message to the first communication device.

[0350] Specifically, the trigger message is used to trigger the first communication device to send a positioning signal, which is used for positioning. Optionally, the trigger message can be an RRC message or a MAC CE message, etc. The positioning signal can be as described above. Figure 7 The SRS or other signals used for positioning shown are illustrated.

[0351] Optionally, the trigger message includes period information and / or count information, whereby the period information indicates the period during which the first communication device sends the positioning signal, and the count information indicates the number of times the first communication device sends the positioning signal.

[0352] Figure 11 In the communication method shown, the network side can instruct the first communication device to carry a positioning sequence in one or all uplink data signals of the first service during the process of sending uplink data signals through the third indication information. This allows the network side to locate the first communication device based on the positioning sequence. Thus, even if the first communication device is an IoT terminal and does not need to support the measurement of specific positioning signals, the network side can still locate the first communication device and realize the positioning of the IoT terminal.

[0353] It should be understood that the sequence number of each process does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0354] It should also be understood that, in the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced mutually. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships. For example, the above... Figure 10 and Figure 11 The illustrated embodiments can be combined to achieve downlink positioning and uplink positioning.

[0355] It should also be understood that in some of the above embodiments, the examples are mainly based on devices in existing network architectures (such as the first communication device, the second communication device, and the first network element, etc.). It should be understood that the specific form of the device is not limited in the embodiments of this application. For example, any device that can achieve the same function in the future is applicable to the embodiments of this application.

[0356] It is understood that in the above-described method embodiments, the methods and operations implemented by devices (such as the first communication device, the second communication device, and the first network element) can also be implemented by components of the devices (such as chips or circuits).

[0357] The above, combined with Figure 10 and Figure 11 The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application is described in detail. The above-described communication method is mainly introduced from the perspective of the interaction between, for example, a first communication device, a second communication device, and a first network element. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the first communication device, the second communication device, and the first network element include hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function.

[0358] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, based on the units and algorithm steps described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is implemented in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0359] The following combination Figures 12 to 14 The communication device provided in this application is described in detail. It should be understood that the description of the device embodiments corresponds to the description of the method embodiments. Therefore, for details not described in detail, please refer to the method embodiments above; for brevity, some details are omitted.

[0360] This application embodiment can divide the transmitting or receiving device into functional modules according to the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. The following description uses the division of functional modules according to each function as an example.

[0361] Figure 12 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 10 provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 10 includes a transceiver module 11 and a processing module 12. The transceiver module 11 can implement corresponding communication functions, and the processing module 12 is used for data processing. In other words, the transceiver module 11 is used to perform operations related to receiving and sending, while the processing module 12 is used to perform other operations besides receiving and sending. The transceiver module 11 can also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication unit.

[0362] In one possible implementation, the device 10 may further include a storage module 13, which can be used to store instructions and / or data. The processing module 12 can read the instructions and / or data in the storage module to enable the device to perform the actions of the device in the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0363] In one design, the device 10 may correspond to the first communication device in the above method embodiments, or to a component of the first communication device (such as a chip).

[0364] The device 10 can implement the steps or processes corresponding to those performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiments. The transceiver module 11 can be used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the first communication device in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 12 can be used to perform the processing-related operations of the first communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0365] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to receive a synchronization signal from the second communication device. The processing module 12 is configured to measure the synchronization signal to obtain a first measurement result. The transceiver module 11 is further configured to report the first measurement result, which is used by the first network element to locate the first communication device.

[0366] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to receive a service request, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a location service.

[0367] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to receive first indication information, which indicates that the first communication device reports the measurement results of the synchronization signal.

[0368] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is used to report the first measurement result, including: when the first communication device is in a connected state or a data transmission state, the transceiver module 11 is used to report the first measurement result.

[0369] Optionally, if the first communication device does not support the positioning protocol, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to receive the identifier of the first network element; the transceiver module 11 is further configured to report the identifier of the first network element associated with the first measurement result.

[0370] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to receive second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate measurement time and / or measurement area, wherein the measurement time indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement time, and the measurement area indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement area.

[0371] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module 11 is configured to receive third indication information from the second communication device, the third indication information indicating that a positioning sequence is carried in one uplink data signal of the first service, or that a positioning sequence is carried in all uplink data signals of the first service, the positioning sequence being used for positioning. If the third indication information indicates that a positioning sequence is carried in one uplink data signal of the first service, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to transmit the one uplink data signal; or, if the third indication information indicates that a positioning sequence is carried in all uplink data signals of the first service, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to transmit all uplink data signals.

[0372] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to receive a trigger message from a second communication device, the trigger message being used to trigger the first communication device to send a positioning signal, the positioning signal being used for positioning.

[0373] When the device 10 is used to perform Figure 10 When the method is in use, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as steps S1010, S1001, S1020, S1040, S1050, S1011 and S1012; the processing module 12 can be used to execute the processing steps in the method, such as step S1030.

[0374] When the device 10 is used to perform Figure 11When the method is in use, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as steps S1110, S1120 and S1040; the processing module 12 can be used to execute the processing steps in the method.

[0375] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit performing the above-mentioned corresponding steps has been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0376] In another design, the device 10 may correspond to the second communication device in the above method embodiment, or to a component of the second communication device (such as a chip).

[0377] The device 10 can implement the steps or processes corresponding to those performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiments. The transceiver module 11 can be used to perform transceiver-related operations of the second communication device in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 12 can be used to perform processing-related operations of the second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0378] In one possible implementation, a synchronization signal is sent to the first communication device. The transceiver module 11 is configured to receive a first measurement result from the first communication device, the first measurement result being the measurement result of the synchronization signal. The transceiver module 11 is also configured to send the first measurement result to the first network element, the first measurement result being used by the first network element to locate the first communication device.

[0379] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to send a service request to the first communication device, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a location service.

[0380] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to send first indication information to the first communication device, the first indication information being used to instruct the first communication device to report the measurement results of the synchronization signal.

[0381] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to receive the identifier of the first network element from the first network element; the transceiver module 11 is further configured to send the identifier of the first network element to the first communication device; the transceiver module 11 is further configured to receive the identifier of the first network element associated with the first measurement result from the first communication device.

[0382] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to receive second indication information from the first network element, the second indication information being used to indicate the measurement time and / or measurement area. Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to send the second indication information to the first communication device, wherein the measurement time indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement time, and the measurement area indicates that the first measurement result is a measurement result within the measurement area.

[0383] In another possible implementation, the transceiver module 11 is configured to send third indication information to the first communication device. This third indication information indicates that a positioning sequence is carried in one uplink data signal of the first service, or that a positioning sequence is carried in all uplink data signals of the first service, the positioning sequence being used for positioning. If the third indication information indicates that a positioning sequence is carried in one uplink data signal of the first service, the transceiver module 11 is configured to receive the one uplink data signal; or, if the third indication information indicates that a positioning sequence is carried in all uplink data signals of the first service, the transceiver module 11 is configured to receive all uplink data signals.

[0384] Optionally, the transceiver module 11 is also configured to receive a fourth message from the first network element, the fourth message being used to trigger uplink positioning.

[0385] Optionally, the fourth message includes fourth indication information, which indicates the positioning accuracy. The processing module 12 is configured to determine whether the positioning accuracy is met based on one or all received uplink data signals. If the positioning accuracy is not met, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to send a trigger message to the second communication device, which triggers the first communication device to send a positioning signal for positioning.

[0386] When the device 10 is used to perform Figure 10 When the method is in use, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as steps S1010, S1001, S1020, S1040, S1011 and S1012; the processing module 12 can be used to execute the processing steps in the method.

[0387] When the device 10 is used to perform Figure 11 When the method is in use, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as steps S1111, S1110, S1120 and S1040; the processing module 12 can be used to execute the processing steps in the method, such as step S1130.

[0388] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit performing the above-mentioned corresponding steps has been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0389] In another design, the device 10 may correspond to the first network element in the above method embodiment, or a component of the first network element (such as a chip).

[0390] The device 10 can implement the steps or processes corresponding to the first network element in the above method embodiment. The transceiver module 11 can be used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the first network element in the above method embodiment, and the processing module 12 can be used to perform the processing-related operations of the first network element in the above method embodiment.

[0391] In one possible implementation, transceiver module 11 is used to receive a first measurement result, which is the measurement result of the synchronization signal measured by the first communication device. Processing module 12 is used to locate the first communication device based on the first measurement result.

[0392] Optionally, if the first communication device supports a positioning protocol, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to send a service request, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a positioning service.

[0393] Optionally, if the first communication device supports a positioning protocol, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to send first indication information, which is used to instruct the first communication device to report the measurement results of the synchronization signal.

[0394] Optionally, if the first communication device does not support the positioning protocol, the transceiver module 11 is further configured to send a third message, which is used to trigger downlink positioning, and the third message includes the identifier of the first network element.

[0395] When the device 10 is used to perform Figure 10 When the method is in use, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as steps S1010, S1001, S1040, S1011 and S1013; the processing module 12 can be used to execute the processing steps in the method, such as step S1060.

[0396] When the device 10 is used to perform Figure 11 When the method is in use, the transceiver module 11 can be used to execute the steps of sending and receiving information in the method, such as step S1111; the processing module 12 can be used to execute the processing steps in the method.

[0397] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit performing the above-mentioned corresponding steps has been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0398] It should also be understood that the device 10 here is embodied in the form of a functional module. The term "module" here can refer to an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), electronic circuitry, a processor (e.g., a shared processor, a proprietary processor, or a group processor, etc.) and memory for executing one or more software or firmware programs, integrated logic circuitry, and / or other suitable components supporting the described functions. In an alternative example, those skilled in the art will understand that device 10 may specifically be a first communication device in the above embodiments, used to execute the various processes and / or steps corresponding to the first communication device in the above method embodiments; or, device 10 may specifically be a second communication device in the above embodiments, used to execute the various processes and / or steps corresponding to the second communication device in the above method embodiments; or, device 10 may specifically be a first network element in the above embodiments, used to execute the various processes and / or steps corresponding to the first network element in the above method embodiments. To avoid repetition, further details are omitted here.

[0399] The apparatus 10 of each of the above-described schemes has the function of implementing the corresponding steps performed by the devices (such as the first communication device, the second communication device, and the first network element, etc.) in the above-described methods. This function can be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above-described functions; for example, the transceiver module can be replaced by a transceiver (for example, the transmitting unit in the transceiver module can be replaced by a transmitter, and the receiving unit in the transceiver module can be replaced by a receiver), and other units, such as processing modules, can be replaced by processors, which respectively execute the transceiver operations and related processing operations in each method embodiment.

[0400] In addition, the transceiver module 11 can also be a transceiver circuit (for example, it may include a receiving circuit and a transmitting circuit), and the processing module can be a processing circuit.

[0401] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device 20 provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 20 includes a processor 21, which is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in a memory 22, or to read data / signaling stored in the memory 22, to perform the methods in the above-described method embodiments. In one possible implementation, the processor 21 may be one or more.

[0402] One possible implementation is, such as Figure 13 As shown, the device 20 also includes a memory 22 for storing computer programs or instructions and / or data. The memory 22 may be integrated with the processor 21 or it may be disposed separately. In one possible implementation, there may be one or more memories 22.

[0403] One possible implementation is, such as Figure 13 As shown, the device 20 also includes a transceiver 23 for receiving and / or transmitting signals. For example, the processor 21 controls the transceiver 23 to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0404] As one option, the device 20 is used to implement the operations performed by the first communication device, the second communication device, or the first network element in the various method embodiments described above.

[0405] It should be understood that the processor mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a central processing unit (CPU), 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. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0406] It should also be understood that the memory mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM). For example, RAM can be used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, RAM includes the following forms: static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0407] It should be noted that when the processor is a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic device, or discrete hardware component, the memory (storage module) can be integrated into the processor.

[0408] It should also be noted that the memory described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0409] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a chip system 30 provided in an embodiment of this application. The chip system 30 (or processing system) includes logic circuitry 31 and an input / output interface 32.

[0410] The logic circuit 31 can be a processing circuit in the chip system 30. The logic circuit 31 can be coupled to a memory unit, calling instructions from the memory unit, enabling the chip system 30 to implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application. The input / output interface 32 can be an input / output circuit in the chip system 30, outputting processed information from the chip system 30, or inputting data or signaling information to be processed into the chip system 30 for processing.

[0411] As one approach, the chip system 30 is used to implement the operations performed by the first communication device, the second communication device, or the first network element in the various method embodiments described above.

[0412] For example, logic circuit 31 is used to implement processing-related operations performed by the first communication device, the second communication device, or the first network element in the above method embodiments; input / output interface 32 is used to implement sending and / or receiving-related operations performed by the first communication device, the second communication device, or the first network element in the above method embodiments.

[0413] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for implementing the methods executed by the first communication device, the second communication device, or the first network element in the above-described method embodiments.

[0414] For example, when the computer program is executed by a computer, it enables the computer to implement the methods executed by the first communication device, the second communication device, or the first network element in the various embodiments of the above methods.

[0415] This application also provides a computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, implement the methods performed by the first communication device, the second communication device, or the first network element in the above-described method embodiments.

[0416] This application also provides a communication system, including the aforementioned second communication device and first network element.

[0417] This application also provides a communication system, including the aforementioned first communication device, second communication device, and first network element.

[0418] The explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant contents in any of the devices provided above can be found in the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0419] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0420] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0421] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0422] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0423] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0424] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units 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, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, 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.

[0425] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a first communication device, the method includes: Receive a synchronization signal from a second communication device, and measure the synchronization signal to obtain a first measurement result; The first measurement result is reported, and the first measurement result is used by the first network element to locate the first communication device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a service request, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a location service.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive first indication information, the first indication information being used to instruct the first communication device to report the first measurement result of the synchronization signal.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The reporting of the first measurement result includes: When the first communication device is in connected or data transmission mode, the first measurement result is reported.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first measurement result is the measurement result when the first communication device is in an idle state or a non-data transmission state.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, Before obtaining the first measurement result by measuring the synchronization signal, receiving the service request includes: The service request is received when the first communication device is in a connected state or a data transmission state.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, If the first communication device does not support a positioning protocol, the method further includes: Receive the identifier of the first network element; Report the identifier of the first network element associated with the first measurement result.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The identifier of the first network element and the first indication information are included in the first message. The first indication information is used to instruct the first communication device to report the measurement results of the synchronization signal.

9. The method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The identifier of the first network element and the first measurement result are included in the second message.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second message is a Radio Resource Control (RRC) message, an Electronic Product Code (EPC) message, or message 3 during the process of the first communication device accessing the second communication device.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate the measurement time and / or measurement area. Wherein, the measurement time indicates that the first measurement result is the measurement result within the measurement time, and the measurement area indicates that the first measurement result is the measurement result within the measurement area.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The first measurement result is also used for cell selection or cell reselection.

13. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a second communication device, the method includes: Send a synchronization signal to the first communication device; Receive a first measurement result from the first communication device, wherein the first measurement result is the measurement result of the synchronization signal; The first measurement result is sent to the first network element, and the first measurement result is used by the first network element to locate the first communication device.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: A service request is sent to a first communication device, the service request being used to request the first communication device to perform a location service.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a first indication message to a first communication device, the first indication message being used to instruct the first communication device to report the first measurement result of the synchronization signal.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the identifier of the first network element from the first network element; Send the identifier of the first network element to the first communication device; Receive the identifier of the first network element associated with the first measurement result from the first communication device.

17. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 16, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second indication information from the first network element, the second indication information being used to indicate the measurement time and / or measurement area. Send the second instruction information to the first communication device. Wherein, the measurement time indicates that the first measurement result is the measurement result within the measurement time, and the measurement area indicates that the first measurement result is the measurement result within the measurement area.

18. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to the first network element, the method includes: Receive a first measurement result, wherein the first measurement result is the measurement result of the synchronization signal measured by the first communication device; The first communication device is located based on the first measurement result.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the first communication device supports a location protocol, a service request is sent, which requests the first communication device to perform a location service.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the first communication device supports the positioning protocol, a first indication message is sent, which is used to instruct the first communication device to report the measurement results of the synchronization signal.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The first indication information indicates that the first communication device reports the measurement results of the synchronization signal, including: The first indication information instructs the first communication device to measure the first measurement result when the first communication device is in an idle state or a non-data transmission state; and / or, The first indication information instructs the first communication device to report the first measurement result when the first communication device is in a connected state or a data transmission state.

22. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the first communication device does not support the positioning protocol, a third message is sent to trigger downlink positioning. The third message includes the identifier of the first network element.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The third message also includes second indication information, which is used to indicate the measurement time and / or measurement area for measuring the first measurement result. Wherein, the measurement time indicates that the first measurement result is the measurement result within the measurement time, and the measurement area indicates that the first measurement result is the measurement result within the measurement area.

24. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor for executing a computer program stored in a memory to cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

25. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor for executing a computer program stored in a memory to cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 17.

26. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor for executing a computer program stored in a memory to cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 18 to 23.

27. A communication system, characterized in that, Including the second communication equipment and the first network element, Wherein, the second communication device is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 17, and the first network element is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 18 to 23.

28. The communication system according to claim 27, characterized in that, The communication system further includes a first communication device, which is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

29. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program or instructions stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program or instructions are executed by the processor, the method described in any one of claims 1 to 23 is performed.

30. A computer program product containing instructions, characterized in that, When it is run on a computer, it causes the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 23 to be performed.

Images