A communication method and a communication device

Abstract

The application provides a communication method and a communication device. A network device indicates the positions of N sleep symbols to a terminal device, so that the terminal device can learn the positions of the N sleep symbols and the terminal behavior corresponding to the sleep symbols, and the terminal device receives or transmits signals or buffers data on demand, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the terminal side and saving energy for the network side and the terminal side.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] To meet the ever-increasing demand for data traffic, wireless networks have been rapidly deployed. As wireless networks grow larger, their energy consumption also increases. To reduce energy consumption, many energy-saving technologies are employed, including device-level, site-level, and network-level energy saving. Furthermore, in addition to network-side energy consumption, research on reducing terminal-side energy consumption is also ongoing in the evolution of New Radio (NR) systems.

[0003] Although NR already supports flexible frame structures, terminals still need to monitor the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) to determine whether data is being transmitted or received and to identify the type of slot and symbol. Furthermore, even when the network is off or terminal data buffering is not required, the terminal continues to transmit, receive, or buffer data, leading to increased power consumption on the terminal side. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Based on this, this application provides a communication method that can reduce power consumption on the terminal side, thereby saving energy on both the network side and the terminal side.

[0005] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided. The scheme described in the first aspect can be executed by a device on the terminal device side. The device on the terminal device side can be a terminal device, a module within the terminal device (such as a chip system or integrated circuit), or a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the terminal device. For ease of description, the following description uses a terminal device as an example.

[0006] The method includes: receiving first information, the first information indicating the positions of N sleep symbols, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 1; determining the positions of the N sleep symbols based on the first information; wherein each sleep symbol corresponds to at least one terminal behavior.

[0007] In the technical solution of this application, the network device indicates the location of N sleep symbols to the terminal device, which enables the terminal device to know the location of the N sleep symbols and the terminal behavior corresponding to the sleep symbols, so that the terminal device can receive or send signals or buffer data as needed, thereby reducing the power consumption on the terminal side and saving energy on both the network side and the terminal side.

[0008] In conjunction with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, the terminal behavior includes any one of the following: not monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH); not receiving dynamically scheduled Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH); not transmitting dynamically scheduled Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH); not receiving aperiodic Channel State Information-Reference Signal (CSI-RS); not transmitting aperiodic Channel Sounding Reference Signal (SRS); not transmitting aperiodic Channel State Information (CSI) feedback; not receiving semi-static or static PDSCH; not transmitting semi-static or static PUSCH; not receiving periodic or semi-static CSI measurements; not transmitting periodic or semi-static CSI feedback; not transmitting periodic or semi-static SRS transmissions; not performing Random Access Channel (RACH); not receiving downlink signals; and not transmitting uplink signals. Based on the above technical solution, the terminal device learns the terminal behavior of each sleep symbol, so that the terminal device can receive or transmit signals or buffer data as needed, thereby reducing terminal-side power consumption and enabling energy saving on both the network and terminal sides.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving second information, the second information indicating the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, wherein different sleep types correspond to different terminal behaviors. Based on the above technical solution, the network device indicates the sleep type of each sleep symbol to the terminal device, and different sleep types correspond to different terminal behaviors. After learning the terminal behavior of each sleep symbol, the terminal device can receive or send signals or buffer data as needed, thereby reducing terminal-side power consumption and enabling energy saving on both the network and terminal sides.

[0010] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the second information may be sent before the first information. That is, before the network device sends the first information to the terminal device, the method further includes: the network device determining the supported sleep types, and the network device sending the second information to the terminal device, the second information indicating the sleep types supported by the network device. In this implementation, enabling the terminal device to know the sleep types supported by the network device facilitates on-demand energy saving.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, before receiving the first information, the method further includes: receiving third information, the third information indicating a first value, the first value indicating that a first type of symbol is allowed to sleep, the N sleeping symbols including symbols of the first type, the first type of symbol including at least one of the following: uplink symbols, downlink symbols, or flexible symbols. Based on the above technical solution, the network device indicates to the terminal device the type of symbols that are allowed to sleep, and the network device indicates that some symbols are not allowed to sleep, which can reduce power consumption on the terminal side while ensuring user experience. Furthermore, network devices can coordinate symbols that are not allowed to sleep to reduce interference. Under this solution, the network device can also reduce indication overhead.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: obtaining a correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type, wherein the at least one numerical value includes the first numerical value.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the correspondence between the at least one numerical value and the symbol of the first type is as shown in the table below.

[0014] numerical values First type of symbols 1 Downward symbol 2 upline symbol 3 Downward symbols, upward symbols 4 Flexible Symbols 5 Downward symbols, flexible symbols 6 Ascending symbol, flexible symbol 7 Downward symbols, upward symbols, flexible symbols

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first information indicating the position of N sleep symbols includes: receiving time slot format indication information, wherein the time slot format indication information indicates a first time slot format, and the first time slot format indicates the N sleep symbols. Based on the above technical solution, the network device indicates the position of N sleep symbols to the terminal device through the time slot format indication information, which reduces terminal-side power consumption and indication overhead.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first time slot format further indicates the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, and the first time slot format includes at least one row from the following table:

[0017]

[0018] The value of M ranges from [56, 255], and it should be understood that the value of M is an integer. F represents a flexible symbol, D and D0 both represent downlink symbols that do not hibernate, and S, D1, and U1 all represent hibernation symbols of different hibernation types. The terminal behavior corresponding to hibernation symbols of different hibernation types is different.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, the first information and the second information are carried in one of the following signals: the Master Information Block (MIB) signal and the System Message Block 1 (SIB1) signal. Based on the above technical solution, carrying the first information and the second information in the MIB signal or the SIB1 signal can reduce indication overhead.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving fourth information, the fourth information indicating the unit of the time-domain resource where the N sleep symbols are located. Based on the above technical solution, it is possible to reduce indication overhead, reduce sleep fragmentation, and avoid frequent hardware switching.

[0021] Secondly, a communication method is provided. The scheme described in this second aspect can be executed by a device on the network device side. The device on the network device side can be a network device, a module within the network device (such as a chip system or integrated circuit), or a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the network device. For ease of description, the following description uses a network device as an example.

[0022] The method includes: determining the positions of N sleep symbols; sending first information, the first information indicating the positions of the N sleep symbols; wherein N is an integer greater than or equal to 1, and each sleep symbol corresponds to at least one terminal behavior.

[0023] In conjunction with the second aspect, in certain implementations of the second aspect, the terminal behavior includes any one of the following: not monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH); not receiving the dynamically scheduled Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH); not transmitting the dynamically scheduled Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH); not receiving aperiodic Channel State Information-Reference Signal (CSI-RS); not transmitting aperiodic Channel Sounding Reference Signal (SRS); not transmitting aperiodic Channel State Information (CSI) feedback; not receiving semi-static or static PDSCH; not transmitting semi-static or static PUSCH; not receiving periodic or semi-static CSI measurements; not transmitting periodic or semi-static CSI feedback; not transmitting periodic or semi-static SRS transmissions; not performing Random Access Channel (RACH); not receiving downlink signals; and not transmitting uplink signals.

[0024] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending second information, the second information indicating the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, and the terminal behavior corresponding to sleep symbols of different sleep types is different.

[0025] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, before sending the first information, the method further includes: sending a third information, the third information indicating a first value, the first value indicating that a first type of symbol is allowed to sleep, the N sleep symbols including symbols of the first type, the first type of symbol including at least one of the following: uplink symbol, downlink symbol, or flexible symbol.

[0026] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending a correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type, wherein the at least one numerical value includes the first numerical value.

[0027] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the correspondence between the at least one numerical value and the symbol of the first type is as shown in the table below.

[0028] numerical values First type of symbols 1 Downward symbol 2 upline symbol 3 Downward symbols, upward symbols 4 Flexible Symbols 5 Downlink symbols, flexible symbols 6 Ascending symbol, flexible symbol 7 Downward symbols, upward symbols, flexible symbols

[0029] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first information indicating the position of N sleep symbols includes: sending time slot format indication information, the time slot format indication information indicating a first time slot format, and the first time slot format indicating the N sleep symbols.

[0030] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first time slot format further indicates the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, and the first time slot format includes at least one row from the following table:

[0031]

[0032] Where M takes values ​​in the range of [56, 255], F represents a flexible symbol, D and D0 both represent downlink symbols that do not hibernate, and S, D1 and U1 both represent hibernation symbols of different hibernation types. The different hibernation symbols of different hibernation types correspond to different terminal behaviors.

[0033] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first information and the second information are carried on one of the following signals: the main information block (MIB) signal and the system message block 1 (SIB1) signal.

[0034] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending a fourth message indicating the unit of the time-domain resource where the N dormant symbols are located.

[0035] Thirdly, a communication device is provided, comprising: a transceiver unit for receiving first information, the first information indicating the positions of N sleep symbols, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 1; and a processing unit for determining the positions of the N sleep symbols based on the first information; wherein each sleep symbol corresponds to at least one terminal behavior.

[0036] In conjunction with the third aspect, in certain implementations of the third aspect, the terminal behavior includes any one of the following: not monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH); not receiving the dynamically scheduled Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH); not transmitting the dynamically scheduled Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH); not receiving aperiodic Channel State Information-Reference Signal (CSI-RS); not transmitting aperiodic Channel Sounding Reference Signal (SRS); not transmitting aperiodic Channel State Information (CSI) feedback; not receiving semi-static or static PDSCH; not transmitting semi-static or static PUSCH; not receiving periodic or semi-static CSI measurements; not transmitting periodic or semi-static CSI feedback; not transmitting periodic or semi-static SRS transmissions; not performing the Random Access Channel (RACH); not receiving downlink signals; and not transmitting uplink signals.

[0037] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the transceiver unit is further configured to: receive second information, the second information indicating the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, and the terminal behavior corresponding to sleep symbols of different sleep types is different.

[0038] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, before receiving the first information, the transceiver unit is further configured to: receive third information, the third information indicating a first value, the first value indicating that a first type of symbol is allowed to sleep, the N sleep symbols including symbols of the first type, the first type of symbol including at least one of the following: uplink symbol, downlink symbol, or flexible symbol.

[0039] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the transceiver unit is further configured to: obtain a correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type, wherein the at least one numerical value includes the first numerical value.

[0040] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the correspondence between the at least one numerical value and the symbol of the first type is as shown in the table below.

[0041] numerical values First type of symbols 1 Downward symbol 2 upline symbol 3 Downward symbols, upward symbols 4 Flexible Symbols 5 Downward symbols, flexible symbols 6 Ascending symbol, flexible symbol 7 Downward symbols, upward symbols, flexible symbols

[0042] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the transceiver unit is specifically used to: receive time slot format indication information, the time slot format indication information indicating a first time slot format, and the first time slot format indicating the N sleep symbols.

[0043] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the first time slot format further indicates the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, and the first time slot format includes at least one row from the following table:

[0044]

[0045] Where M takes values ​​in the range of [56, 255], F represents a flexible symbol, D and D0 both represent downlink symbols that do not hibernate, and S, D1 and U1 both represent hibernation symbols of different hibernation types. The different hibernation symbols of different hibernation types correspond to different terminal behaviors.

[0046] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the first information and the second information are carried on one of the following signals: the main information block (MIB) signal and the system message block 1 (SIB1) signal.

[0047] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the transceiver unit is further configured to: receive fourth information, the fourth information indicating the unit of the time-domain resource where the N dormant symbols are located.

[0048] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processing unit for determining the positions of N dormant symbols; and a transceiver unit for transmitting first information, the first information indicating the positions of the N dormant symbols; wherein N is an integer greater than or equal to 1, and each dormant symbol corresponds to at least one terminal behavior.

[0049] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the terminal behavior includes any one of the following: not monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH); not receiving dynamically scheduled Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH); not transmitting dynamically scheduled Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH); not receiving aperiodic Channel State Information-Reference Signal (CSI-RS); not transmitting aperiodic Channel Sounding Reference Signal (SRS); not transmitting aperiodic Channel State Information (CSI) feedback; not receiving semi-static or static PDSCH; not transmitting semi-static or static PUSCH; not receiving periodic or semi-static CSI measurements; not transmitting periodic or semi-static CSI feedback; not transmitting periodic or semi-static SRS transmissions; not performing Random Access Channel (RACH); not receiving downlink signals; and not transmitting uplink signals.

[0050] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the transceiver unit is further configured to: send second information, the second information indicating the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, and the terminal behavior corresponding to sleep symbols of different sleep types is different.

[0051] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, before sending the first information, the transceiver unit is further configured to: send a third information, the third information indicating a first value, the first value indicating that a first type of symbol is allowed to sleep, the N sleep symbols including symbols of the first type, the first type of symbol including at least one of the following: uplink symbol, downlink symbol, or flexible symbol.

[0052] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the transceiver unit is further configured to: transmit a correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type, wherein the at least one numerical value includes the first numerical value.

[0053] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the correspondence between the at least one numerical value and the symbol of the first type is shown in the following table.

[0054] numerical values First type of symbols 1 Downward symbol 2 upline symbol 3 Downward symbols, upward symbols 4 Flexible Symbols 5 Downward symbols, flexible symbols 6 Ascending symbol, flexible symbol 7 Downward symbols, upward symbols, flexible symbols

[0055] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the transceiver unit is specifically used to: send time slot format indication information, the time slot format indication information indicating a first time slot format, and the first time slot format indicating the N sleep symbols.

[0056] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the first time slot format further indicates the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, and the first time slot format includes at least one row from the following table:

[0057]

[0058] Where M takes values ​​in the range of [56, 255], F represents a flexible symbol, D and D0 both represent downlink symbols that do not hibernate, and S, D1 and U1 both represent hibernation symbols of different hibernation types. The different hibernation symbols of different hibernation types correspond to different terminal behaviors.

[0059] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the first information and the second information are carried on one of the following signals: the main information block (MIB) signal and the system message block (SIB1) signal.

[0060] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the transceiver unit is further configured to: send fourth information, the fourth information indicating the unit of the time-domain resource where the N dormant symbols are located.

[0061] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, including a processor configured to, by executing a computer program or instructions or by logic circuitry, cause the communication device to perform the method described in the first aspect and any possible method described in the first aspect, or cause the communication device to perform the method described in the second aspect and any possible method described in the second aspect.

[0062] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a memory for storing the computer program or instructions.

[0063] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a communication interface for inputting and / or outputting signals.

[0064] A sixth aspect provides a communication device including logic circuitry and an input / output interface for inputting and / or outputting signals, the logic circuitry being configured to perform the method described in the first aspect and any possible embodiment of the first aspect or to perform the method described in the second aspect and any possible embodiment of the second aspect.

[0065] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program or instructions are stored, which, when executed on a computer, cause the method described in the first aspect and any possible method described in the first aspect to be performed, or cause the method described in the second aspect and any possible method described in the second aspect to be performed.

[0066] Eighthly, a computer program product is provided, comprising instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the method described in the first aspect and any possible embodiment of the first aspect to be performed, or cause the method described in the second aspect and any possible embodiment of the second aspect to be performed.

[0067] A ninth aspect provides a communication system comprising the aforementioned network device and / or the aforementioned terminal device, the terminal device being configured to perform the method described in the first aspect and any possible embodiment of the first aspect, and the network device being configured to perform the method described in the second aspect and any possible embodiment of the second aspect.

[0068] For explanations of aspects two through nine and descriptions of beneficial effects, please refer to the description of aspect one. Attached Figure Description

[0069] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the communication system 100 to which this application embodiment applies.

[0070] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of application scenario 200 of this application embodiment.

[0071] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the frame 300 of the terminal device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0072] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 400 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0073] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 400 provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0074] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 600 provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0075] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 700 provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0076] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the time-domain location of a first low-power signal provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0077] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the time-domain location of the first low-power signal provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0078] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the low-power signal configuration provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0079] Figure 11 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 1100 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0080] Figure 12 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 1200 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0081] Figure 13 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 1300 according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0082] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0083] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points will be explained first.

[0084] I. Unless otherwise stated, “at least one” means one or more, and “multiple” means two or more.

[0085] 2. Unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions in different embodiments of this application are consistent and can be referenced in each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

[0086] III. The various numerical designations used in this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. The magnitude of the serial numbers used in this application does not imply a sequential order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic. For example, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and other various terminology (if present) in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. Such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in a sequence other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0087] Furthermore, any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner for ease of understanding.

[0088] IV. The terms “comprising” and “having” and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, for example, a process, method, system, product or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are expressly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not expressly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product or device.

[0089] V. In this application, "for indicating" or "instruction" can be understood as "enabling," and "enabling" includes direct enabling and indirect enabling. When describing information for enabling A, it may include whether the information directly enables A or indirectly enables A, but it does not necessarily mean that the information carries A.

[0090] The information that enables the information is called the information to be enabled. In the specific implementation process, there are many ways to enable the information to be enabled, such as, but not limited to, directly enabling the information to be enabled, such as the information to be enabled itself or its index. It can also be indirectly enabled by enabling other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be enabled. It can also enable only a part of the information to be enabled, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, enabling specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing enabling overhead to some extent. Simultaneously, common parts of various pieces of information can be identified and enabled uniformly to reduce the enabling overhead caused by individually enabling the same information.

[0091] In addition, "instruction" can include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, and implicit instruction. When describing a certain instruction information to indicate A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, directly indicates A, or indirectly indicates A.

[0092] In this application, the information indicated by the instruction information is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementations, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also indirectly indicate the information to be instructed by indicating other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be instructed. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be instructed, 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. Furthermore, the information to be instructed can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information pieces, and the sending period and / or timing of these sub-information pieces can be the same or different.

[0093] VI. In this application, "pre-configuration" may include pre-defined terms, such as protocol definitions. These "pre-defined terms" can be implemented by pre-storing corresponding codes, tables, or other means of indicating relevant information in the device (e.g., including various network elements). This application does not limit the specific implementation method.

[0094] VII. The term "storage" or "preservation" in this application can refer to storage in one or more memory devices. These memory devices can be separately configured or integrated into an encoder, decoder, processor, or communication device. Alternatively, some memory devices can be separately configured, while others can be integrated into a decoder, processor, or communication device. The type of memory can be any form of storage medium, and this is not limited.

[0095] 8. The “protocol” used in this application may refer to standard protocols in the field of communications, such as fourth-generation (4G) network protocols, fifth-generation (5G) network protocols, NR protocols, 5.5G network protocols, and related protocols applied in future communication networks. This application does not limit the scope of the term.

[0096] 9. The arrows or boxes indicated by dashed lines in the schematic diagrams in the accompanying drawings of this application represent optional steps or optional modules.

[0097] 10. Unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can mean A or B. In this application, "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between the related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. A and B can be singular or plural.

[0098] XI. 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, which may include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission by other units or modules via the air interface. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which may include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY by other units or modules via the air interface. "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. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between network devices and terminal devices, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, wiring, or interface.

[0099] First, the communication system to which the embodiments of this application are applicable will be described.

[0100] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the communication system 100 to which embodiments of this application apply. For example... Figure 1As shown, the communication system 100 includes a radio access network (RAN) 100 and a core network (CN) 200. RAN 100 includes at least one RAN node (such as 110a and 110b, collectively referred to as 110) and at least one terminal device (such as 120a-120j, collectively referred to as 120). RAN 100 may also include other RAN nodes, such as wireless relay devices and / or wireless backhaul devices. Figure 1 (Not shown). Terminal device 120 is connected to RAN node 110 wirelessly. RAN node 110 is connected to CN200 wirelessly or via wired connection. The core network equipment in CN200 and RAN node 110 in RAN 100 can be different physical devices, or they can be the same physical device integrating CN logical functions and RAN logical functions.

[0101] RAN 100 can be a cellular system related to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as 4G, 5G communication systems, or future-oriented evolution systems. RAN 100 can also be an open radio access network (O-RAN or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (C-RAN or CRAN), or a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) system. RAN 100 can also be a communication system that integrates two or more of the above systems.

[0102] RAN node 110, also known as access network equipment, RAN entity, or access node, is used to help terminal devices achieve wireless access. Multiple RAN nodes 110 in communication system 100 can be of the same type or different types. In some scenarios, the roles of RAN node 110 and terminal device 120 are relative. For example, network element 120i can be a helicopter or drone, which can be configured as a mobile base station. For terminal devices 120j accessing RAN 100 through network element 120i, network element 120i is a base station; however, for base station 110a, network element 120i is a terminal device. RAN node 110 and terminal 120 are sometimes referred to as communication devices. For example, network elements 110a and 110b can be understood as communication devices with base station functions, and network elements 120a-120j can be understood as communication devices with terminal functions.

[0103] In one possible scenario, a RAN node can be a base station (BS), an evolved NodeB (eNB), an access point (AP), a transmission point (TP), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB), a next-generation base station in a future communication network, or an access node in a Wi-Fi system. A RAN node can also be a macro base station (such as...). Figure 1 110a), micro base stations or indoor stations (such as Figure 1 (110b) in the context of relay nodes or donor nodes, or wireless controllers in CRAN scenarios.

[0104] RAN nodes can also be servers, wearable devices, vehicles, or in-vehicle equipment, etc. All or part of the functionality of the RAN node in this application can also be implemented through software functions running on hardware, or through virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). The RAN node in this application can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the RAN node's functionality.

[0105] In another possible scenario, multiple RAN nodes collaborate to assist terminal devices in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes each implementing some of the base station's functions. For example, RAN nodes can be central units (CUs), distributed units (DUs), CU-control plane (CPs), CU-user plane (UPs), or radio units (RUs). CUs and DUs can be separate entities or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio frequency equipment or radio frequency units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs).

[0106] In different communication systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0107] The number of devices in the communication system described above is for illustrative purposes only and is not limited to this. In actual applications, the communication system may include more terminal devices, more RAN devices, and other devices.

[0108] In this application embodiment, the terminal device is a device with wireless transceiver function, which may refer to user equipment (UE), access terminal, subscriber unit, user station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, wireless communication device, user agent, or user equipment.

[0109] In this application embodiment, the terminal device can also be a satellite phone, cellular phone, smartphone, wireless data card, wireless modem, machine-type communication device, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), customer-premises equipment (CPE), point of sale (POS) machine, handheld device with wireless communication function, computing device or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, vehicle-mounted device, communication device mounted on a high-altitude aircraft, wearable device, drone, robot, terminal in device-to-device (D2D) communication, terminal in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal in industrial control, or self-driving vehicle. Wireless terminals in applications such as driving, telemedicine or telehealth services, smart grids, transportation safety, smart cities, smart homes, or terminal devices in communication networks that evolve after 5G are not subject to any restrictions.

[0110] In this embodiment of the application, the terminal device may also be a device with communication function in a future communication network, and the form or type of the terminal device in the future communication network is not limited.

[0111] In this application embodiment, the communication device used to implement the functions of the terminal device can be the terminal device itself, or it can be a device capable of supporting the terminal device in implementing the functions, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the terminal device or used in conjunction with the terminal device. In this application, the chip system can be composed of chips, or it can include chips and other discrete components.

[0112] In this embodiment, the network device is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities used to communicate with terminal devices. The network device can be a node in the RAN, also known as a base station or RAN node. It can be an eNB in ​​Long Term Evolution (LTE); a base station in a 5G network such as a gNB; a base station in a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) evolving after 5G; a Broadband Network Gateway (BNG); an aggregation switch; or a network device in 3GPP, etc.

[0113] Network equipment can also include various forms of base stations, such as macro base stations, micro base stations (also known as small stations), relay stations, TRPs, transmission points (TPs), mobile switching centers, and equipment that performs base station functions in D2D, V2X, and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications, as well as network equipment in non-terrestrial networks (NTNs), etc., without specific limitations.

[0114] In this embodiment, the communication device used to implement the functions of the network device can be the network device itself, or it can be a device that supports the network device in implementing those functions, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the network device or used in conjunction with the network device. The chip system in this embodiment can be composed of chips, or it can include chips and other discrete components.

[0115] The network architecture and service scenarios described in 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 this application. Those skilled in the art will understand that, with the evolution of communication network architectures and the emergence of new service scenarios, the technical solutions provided in this application are also applicable to similar technical problems. For example, this application can be applied to V2X scenarios.

[0116] Based on the communication system 100, this application embodiment also provides an application scenario, which can be found in [reference needed]. Figure 2 .

[0117] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of application scenario 200 according to an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 2As shown, the network device includes a first network device and a second network device, wherein the second network device communicates with at least one first network device, and the first network device serves at least one terminal device (taking the first terminal device as an example). Alternatively, there is communication between the first network device, the first terminal device, and the second network device. Or, the first network device is within the coverage area of ​​the second network device, and the first terminal device is within the coverage area of ​​the corresponding first network device, with the second network device providing communication services to the first terminal device through the first network device. The first network device can be used to connect the second network device and the first terminal device. Furthermore, direct communication can also exist between the first terminal device and the second network device.

[0118] In one possible scenario, a network device can be a super site (BS), for example, both the first network device and the second network device can be super sites (BS).

[0119] Alternatively, in one possible scenario, the network device can be a TRP node; for example, both the first and second network devices can be TRP nodes.

[0120] Alternatively, in one possible scenario, the network device (e.g., the first network device) can be various forms of base stations, such as macro base stations, micro base stations (also known as small stations), relay stations, TRPs, etc., and the network device (e.g., the second network device) can be a satellite, an aerial balloon station (e.g., a hot air balloon station), a drone station, an aerial platform station, a high-power high-tower (HPMT), a medium-power medium-tower (MPMT), etc.

[0121] Alternatively, in one possible scenario, the network devices (e.g., the first network device and the second network device) could be satellites, air balloon stations (e.g., hot air balloon stations), drone stations, high-altitude platform stations, HPMTs, MPMTs, etc.

[0122] It should be understood that the above scenarios are merely illustrative examples. That is to say, the embodiments of this application can also be applied to scenarios composed of network devices of different forms in future communication system networks, and this application does not limit them.

[0123] As described in the background section, although NR already supports flexible frame structures, terminals still need to monitor the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH). Furthermore, even when the network side is off or does not require terminal data buffering, the terminal continues to send and receive data or buffer data, leading to increased terminal-side power consumption. Therefore, this application aims to provide a communication method in which the network device notifies the terminal device of the location of the sleep symbol and the corresponding terminal behavior, thereby reducing terminal-side power consumption and enabling energy saving on both the network and terminal sides.

[0124] Based on application scenario 200, in order to effectively reduce the energy consumption of terminal devices, this application supports a new design of the terminal device structure, which can be found in [reference 200]. Figure 3 .

[0125] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the frame 300 of the terminal device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 As shown, the terminal device may include a first module and a second module. It is understood that the names "first module" and "second module" are merely for distinction and do not limit the scope of protection of this application. For example, the second module may also be a fourth circuit, a power-on circuit, a wake-up circuit, a low-power circuit, or a low-power module (low-power radio, LP-R module), etc., and the first module may also be a third circuit, a main circuit, a main module (main radio, MR module), a high-power circuit, or a high-power module, etc. For ease of description, it will be uniformly referred to as the first module and the second module below.

[0126] The second module can have the following functions: maintaining the connection with network devices, small packet transmission (measurement + data transmission), and enabling or disabling the first module. The first module can have the following functions: data transmission with network devices. Enabling the first module can also be understood as waking it up, and disabling the first module can also be understood as putting it into sleep mode.

[0127] It should be noted that if the terminal device does not send low-power signals, the terminal device in this embodiment may also be without a low-power module (LP-R module).

[0128] Network devices may also include a third module and a fourth module. It is understood that the terms "third module" and "fourth module" are merely used for differentiation and do not limit the scope of protection of this application. For example, the third module may also be a first circuit, a power-on circuit, a wake-up circuit, a low-power circuit, or a low-power module (low-power radio, LP-R module), etc., and the fourth module may also be a second circuit, a main circuit, a high-power circuit, a main module (main radio, MR module), or a high-power module, etc. It should be understood that an LP-R module can also be abbreviated as an LR module.

[0129] The low-power module can also be referred to as a low-power radio, wake-up receiver (WUR), low-power wake-up receiver (LP-WUR), wake-up circuit, communication auxiliary module, or auxiliary circuit, etc. The main module can also be referred to as the main radio, main receiver, communication main module, or main circuit, etc. It should be understood that this application does not impose any limitations on these terms.

[0130] The low-power module is used to receive or transmit low-power signals (such as low-power wake-up signals, low-power synchronization signals, low-power measurement signals, etc.), or to notify the main module of its wake-up or sleep state. The main module can be used to receive or transmit signaling, data, measurement signals, etc. Furthermore, the operating power consumption of the low-power module is significantly lower than that of the main module.

[0131] For ease of description, the following text will refer to them as Module 3 and Module 4.

[0132] The third module has the following functions: maintaining connections with terminal devices or other network devices, small packet transmission (measurement, data transmission, etc.), and enabling or disabling the fourth module. The fourth module has the following functions: data transmission between terminal devices or other network devices. Enabling the fourth module can also be understood as waking it up, and disabling it can be understood as putting it into hibernation.

[0133] Before introducing the embodiments of this application, the technical terms involved in this application will be briefly introduced first.

[0134] 1. Low-power signals: Low-power signals can include low-power wake-up signals (WUS), linear frequency modulated chirp signals, on-off keying (OOK) signals (such as OOK-1, OOK-2, OOK-3, OOK-4, etc.), low-power sequence signals (such as Gold sequence signals, M sequence signals, ZC sequence signals, chirp sequence signals, Walsh sequence signals, Golay sequence signals, Kasami sequence signals, low-density sequence signals, discrete fourier transform (DFT) / fast fourier transform (FFT) sequence signals, quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) symbol-based sequence signals, amplitude shift keying (ASK) signals, frequency shift keying (FSK) signals, and orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (FDM) signals. The signal may be one or more of the division multiplexing (OFDM) signal, or the low-power signal may be a signal obtained by optimizing the above signals, etc., which is not limited in this application.

[0135] Optionally, the aforementioned low-power signal can be a digital signal or an analog signal, and this application does not limit it in this regard.

[0136] 2. Types of Time Slots: In the NR system, the basic frame structure uses time slots as the basic granularity. To better adapt to service characteristics, NR divides slots into three types:

[0137] • Downlink: Represented by the letter D, used for downlink transmission;

[0138] • Uplink: Represented by the letter U, used for uplink transmission;

[0139] • Flexible: Represented by the letter F, it can be used for both uplink and downlink transmission, and can also be used as a guard period (GP) or reserved resources.

[0140] At the same time, three types of OFDM symbols are defined: Downlink, Uplink, and Flexible. Each slot can be freely combined from these three types of symbols to form various slot formats. For the aforementioned Flexible slot, it can be configured entirely with Downlink symbols, or Uplink symbols, or a combination of Downlink symbols, Flexible symbols, and Uplink symbols.

[0141] 3. Multi-level nesting: For time-division duplex (TDD) systems, to better adapt to service requirements and achieve UE-level configuration for different uplink and downlink needs of different UEs, NR supports multi-level nesting configuration for the aforementioned slot / symbol types. In multi-level nested configuration, each lower layer can only further configure the part of the upper layer that is configured as the F attribute. The configuration schemes for each layer are as follows:

[0142] The first layer: Cell-specific SIB1 messages, broadcast via SIB1 messages, applicable to all users within the cell, with the highest priority for resource configuration, meaning the Cell-specific part is determined to be D or U, and the configuration of other layers cannot be modified.

[0143] The second layer: UE-specific RRC signaling, configured through UE-level dedicated RRC signaling, has a higher priority in resource configuration. That is, the part determined as F in the cell-specific configuration can be further configured, but the part determined as D or U in this layer configuration cannot be modified in the third and fourth layers.

[0144] Layer 3: UE-group SFI; notification is made by using group DCI scrambled by SFI, which can be at the UE level or UE-group level. The resource configuration priority is low, that is, the part determined as F in the first or second layer configuration can be further configured, but the part determined as D or U in the configuration of this layer cannot be modified in the fourth layer configuration.

[0145] Layer 4: UE-specific DCI, which uses DCI format / data type (uplink or downlink) to send notifications. Resource configuration priority: low, meaning that only the parts determined as F in the Layer 1, Layer 2 or Layer 3 configurations can be further configured.

[0146] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0147] Figure 4 A schematic flowchart of a communication method 400 provided in an embodiment of this application is shown below. Figure 4 As shown, the method includes at least the following steps.

[0148] S410, the network device sends first information to the terminal device, and the terminal device receives the first information accordingly.

[0149] Specifically, the first information indicates the positions of N dormant symbols, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 1, and each of the N dormant symbols corresponds to at least one terminal behavior. In the embodiments of this application, the terminal behavior includes any one of the following:

[0150] Terminal behavior 1: Does not monitor the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH);

[0151] Terminal behavior 2: Does not receive dynamically scheduled Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH);

[0152] Terminal behavior 3: Do not send dynamically scheduled Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH);

[0153] Terminal behavior 4: Does not receive aperiodic Channel State Information - Reference Signal (CSI-RS);

[0154] Terminal behavior 5: Does not transmit aperiodic Channel Sound Reference Signal (SRS);

[0155] Terminal behavior 6: Does not send aperiodic Channel State Information (CSI) feedback;

[0156] Terminal behavior 7: Do not receive semi-static or static PDSCH;

[0157] Terminal behavior 8: Do not send semi-static or static PUSCH;

[0158] Terminal behavior 9: Does not accept periodic or semi-static CSI measurements;

[0159] Terminal behavior 10: Do not send periodic or semi-static CSI feedback;

[0160] Terminal behavior 11: Do not send periodic or semi-static SRS transmissions;

[0161] Terminal behavior 12: Do not execute the random access channel RACH;

[0162] Terminal behavior 13: Not receiving downlink signals;

[0163] Terminal behavior 14: Do not send uplink signals.

[0164] It should be noted that the above-mentioned terminal behaviors may be predefined by the protocol or preconfigured by the network device, and the above-mentioned terminal behaviors are only examples. It should be understood that this application does not impose any restrictions on them.

[0165] It should also be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, each sleep symbol corresponds to one or more terminal behaviors, and the terminal behaviors corresponding to different sleep symbols can be the same, or the terminal behaviors corresponding to different sleep symbols can be different. It should be understood that "sleep symbol" can be replaced by "sleep symbol" and "shutdown symbol", etc., and terminal behavior can be replaced by "sleep behavior" or "terminal device behavior", etc., and this application does not limit this.

[0166] S420, the terminal device determines the positions of N sleep symbols based on the first information.

[0167] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first information includes bitmap information used to indicate the positions of symbols that are allowed to sleep; that is, in this implementation, the bitmap information indicates the positions of N sleeping symbols. Optionally, the bitmap information may also indicate the positions of symbols that are not allowed to sleep.

[0168] For example, the bitmap information could be 11111110000000, which corresponds to one slot (one slot contains 14 symbols). This can also be understood as each bit in the bitmap information corresponding to one symbol. Assume the protocol predefines that a bit value of 1 in the bitmap information represents a symbol (Y) that is allowed to sleep, and a bit value of 0 represents a symbol (N) that is not allowed to sleep. Based on the indication of the bitmap information, the terminal device can know that symbols 0 to 6 are symbols that are allowed to sleep, that is, symbols 0 to 6 are sleep symbols, and the position of the sleep symbol is the position of symbols 0 to 6 in a slot. Furthermore, based on the bitmap information, the terminal device can also know that symbols 7 to 13 are symbols that are not allowed to sleep.

[0169] For example, the bitmap information could be 11111110000000, which corresponds to 14 downlink symbols. It can also be understood that each bit in the bitmap information corresponds to one downlink symbol.

[0170] Another example is the bitmap information, which could be 1100000. This bitmap information corresponds to one slot (one slot contains 14 symbols), or each bit in the bitmap information corresponds to 2 symbols. Assume a bit value of 1 indicates a symbol (Y) that is allowed to sleep, and a bit value of 0 indicates a symbol (N) that is not allowed to sleep. Based on the bitmap information, the terminal device can know that bits 0-3 are symbols that are allowed to sleep, i.e., symbols 0-3 are sleep symbols, and the position of the sleep symbol is the position of symbols 0-3 in one slot. Furthermore, based on the bitmap information, the terminal device can also know that bits 4-13 are symbols that are not allowed to sleep.

[0171] It should be understood that the above examples are merely illustrative and this application does not impose any limitations on them.

[0172] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first information includes coded value information (hereinafter referred to as codewordvalue), which indicates the positions of symbols that are allowed to be dormant; that is, the codeword value indicates the positions of N dormant symbols. Optionally, the codeword value may also indicate the positions of symbols that are not allowed to be dormant.

[0173] In this implementation, the terminal device obtains in advance the correspondence between at least one codeword value and the position of a symbol that is allowed to hibernate (i.e., a hibernation symbol). For example, the correspondence is shown in Table 1.

[0174] Table 1

[0175]

[0176] As shown in Table 1, a codeword value of "0" indicates that no symbol can sleep; a codeword value of "1" indicates that all symbols can sleep; and a codeword value of "2" indicates that symbols in the first half of the frame can sleep, while symbols in the second half of the frame cannot sleep.

[0177] In one possible implementation, the above correspondence can be predefined by the protocol.

[0178] In one possible implementation, the above correspondence can be sent from the network device to the terminal device, for example, the network device broadcasts the above correspondence.

[0179] It should be understood that Table 1 is for illustrative purposes only and this application does not impose any limitations on it.

[0180] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, Figure 5 Another embodiment of this application provides a schematic flowchart of a communication method 400, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown, before step S410, the method may further include: S401, the network device sends third information to the terminal device, and the terminal device receives the third information accordingly.

[0181] The third information indicates a first value that allows a first type of symbol to be dormant, the first type of symbol including at least one of the following: an uplink symbol (U symbol), a downlink symbol (D symbol), or a flexible symbol (F symbol).

[0182] Specifically, after the terminal device receives the third information indicated by the network device, the terminal device determines that the hibernation of the first type of symbols is permitted. Subsequently, the terminal device receives first information indicating the positions of N hibernating symbols, that is, the N hibernating symbols include symbols of the first type. Here, "N hibernating symbols including symbols of the first type" can be understood as the N hibernating symbols being of the first type of symbols.

[0183] For example, suppose the third information indicates a first value (e.g., value 1), where value 1 indicates that U symbols are allowed to sleep. That is, the terminal device determines that all U symbols are allowed to sleep based on the third information. Subsequently, the terminal device determines that N symbols among the U symbols are allowed to sleep based on the first information, and determines the positions of the N sleep symbols based on the first information. In this example, the symbol type of the N sleep symbols is all U symbols.

[0184] For example, suppose the third information indicates a first value (e.g., value 2), where value 2 indicates that U symbols and D symbols are allowed to hibernate. That is, the terminal device determines, based on the third information, that all U symbols and D symbols are allowed to hibernate. Subsequently, the terminal device determines, based on the first information, that N symbols among the U symbols and D symbols are allowed to hibernate, and determines the positions of the N hibernating symbols based on the first information. In this example, the symbol types of the N hibernating symbols are U symbols and D symbols.

[0185] Optionally, prior to step S401 above, the method may further include: S402, whereby the terminal device obtains a correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type, wherein the at least one numerical value includes the first numerical value. For example, the correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type may be as shown in Table 2.

[0186] Table 2

[0187]

[0188] As shown in Table 2, a value of 1 indicates that the D symbol is allowed to hibernate; a value of 2 indicates that the U symbol is allowed to hibernate; a value of 3 indicates that both the D and U symbols are allowed to hibernate; a value of 4 indicates that the F symbol is allowed to hibernate; a value of 5 indicates that both the D and F symbols are allowed to hibernate; a value of 6 indicates that both the U and F symbols are allowed to hibernate; and a value of 7 indicates that all three symbols are allowed to hibernate. It should be understood that Table 2 is merely an example and is not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0189] Optionally, in one possible implementation, when the value is 0, it indicates that no symbol is instructed to sleep. That is, when the first value of the third information received by the terminal device is 0, it indicates that no symbol is instructed to sleep; in other words, when the first value is 0, it indicates that all symbols are not in sleep mode.

[0190] It should be noted that Table 2 above can also be replaced by Table 3 below. It should be understood that Table 2 and Table 3 express the exact same meaning.

[0191] Table 3

[0192]

[0193] It should be noted that the above-mentioned correspondence can be predefined by the protocol, that is, the correspondence obtained by the terminal device through the predefined method of the protocol; or, the above-mentioned correspondence can also be sent or pre-configured by the network device to the terminal device; it should be understood that this application does not limit this.

[0194] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, the positions of the N sleep symbols can also be predefined by the protocol. For example, the protocol predefines the positions of symbols that are allowed to sleep (i.e., sleep symbols), meaning that the terminal device can obtain the positions of the N sleep symbols in a protocol-predefined manner.

[0195] Alternatively, the location of symbols that are not allowed to sleep can also be predefined by the protocol.

[0196] Optionally, the sleep types corresponding to the N sleep symbols can also be predefined by the protocol, meaning the terminal device can obtain the sleep types corresponding to the N sleep symbols through protocol predefinition. In one possible implementation, the sleep types corresponding to different sleep symbols are different, and the terminal behaviors corresponding to different sleep types are different. In another possible implementation, the sleep types corresponding to different sleep symbols are the same.

[0197] Optionally, in one possible implementation, before step S410, the method may further include: the network device sending indication information #1 to the terminal device, and the terminal device receiving the indication information #1, which indicates the time domain location of a common signal or a reference signal.

[0198] For example, in one possible scenario, the protocol defines that symbols at the time-domain positions of the aforementioned common signal or reference signal are not allowed to sleep. That is, the terminal device, based on indication information #1, determines that all symbols at the time-domain positions of the common signal or reference signal are not allowed to sleep. In other words, the terminal device, based on indication information #1, determines that symbols other than those at the time-domain positions of the common signal or reference signal are allowed to sleep. Further, the terminal device, based on the first information, determines N sleep symbols among those symbols other than those at the time-domain positions of the aforementioned common signal or reference signal.

[0199] Optionally, in one possible implementation, after step S410, the method may further include: S430, the network device sends second information to the terminal device, and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second information.

[0200] Specifically, the second information indicates the hibernation type corresponding to each of the N hibernation symbols, and the terminal behavior corresponding to different hibernation types is different. Table 4 shows the different hibernation types and the corresponding terminal behaviors.

[0201] Optionally, in one possible implementation, step S430 can be performed before step S410. That is, before the network device sends the first information to the terminal device, the network device can also send second information to the terminal device, which indicates the hibernation type supported by the network side. This allows the terminal device to know the hibernation type supported by the network device and achieve power saving on demand.

[0202] Optionally, before the network device sends the second information to the terminal device, the method may further include: the network device determining the supported sleep types.

[0203] It should be noted that the terminal behaviors corresponding to the indices shown in the table include one or more of the terminal behaviors 1 to 14 described above. The terminal behaviors described in the table (e.g., no data transmission, etc.) are general descriptions. For example, the terminal behavior of "completely shut down" shown in Table 4 corresponds to terminal behaviors 13 to 14 described above. Another example is the terminal behavior of "no data transmission," which corresponds to terminal behaviors 1, 2, 3, 7, and 8 described above. Yet another example is the terminal behavior of "no measurement," which corresponds to terminal behaviors 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, and 11 described above.

[0204] Table 4

[0205] index hibernation type Terminal behavior 000 S (sleep) Complete shutdown symbol 001 <![CDATA[U0]]> Data transmission + measurement 010 <![CDATA[U1]]> Not passed down 011 <![CDATA[U2]]> No measurement …… …… …… X+1 <![CDATA[D0]]> Data transmission + measurement X+2 <![CDATA[D1]]> Not passed down X+3 <![CDATA[D2]]> No measurement …… …… ……

[0206] For example, when the second information indicates the index value "010", the second information indicates that the hibernation type of the U symbol among the N hibernation symbols is U1, and the terminal behavior corresponding to the U symbol is no data transmission.

[0207] For example, in the case where the second information indicates the index value "X+3", the second information indicates that the sleep type of the D symbol among the N sleep symbols is D2, and the terminal behavior corresponding to the D symbol is no measurement.

[0208] For example, when the second information indicates index values ​​"011" and "X+2", the second information indicates that the sleep type of the U symbol among the N sleep symbols is U2, and the terminal behavior corresponding to the U symbol is no measurement; and the second information indicates that the sleep type of the D symbol among the N sleep symbols is D1, and the terminal behavior corresponding to the D symbol is no data transmission.

[0209] It should be understood that the above are merely examples and this application does not impose any limitations on them.

[0210] It should also be understood that the letters corresponding to the hibernation types shown in Table 4, such as the letters S, D1, and U, are... 1、 D2, U2, etc. are merely examples, and this application does not limit them.

[0211] It should be noted that the second information can be carried in any of the following messages: broadcast message, configuration message, or cell-specific instruction message. For example, the second information can be RRC, DCI, or MAC CE. It should be understood that this application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0212] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, the network device sends a DCI message to the terminal device, and the terminal device receives the DCI message accordingly.

[0213] Specifically, within the configuration period, the DCI only indicates the hibernation type. For example, a DCI value of "011", according to Table 4, indicates that within the configuration period, the hibernation type of the hibernation symbol is U2; that is, the DCI message implicitly indicates that the U symbol is hibernating. The configuration period can be one or more slots.

[0214] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, the network device sends a DCI message to the terminal device, and the terminal device receives the DCI message accordingly.

[0215] Specifically, within the configuration period, the DCI message indicates that symbols are allowed to hibernate. Furthermore, the DCI message also indicates the type of symbols to be hibernated, or in other words, the type of symbols allowed to hibernate. For example, the DCI message indicates that N symbols are allowed to hibernate, and further indicates that all N symbols are of type U symbols. That is, the DCI message indicates that N U symbols are hibernating. The configuration period can be one or more slots.

[0216] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the network device sends a DCI message or an RRC message to the terminal device, and the terminal device receives the DCI message or RRC message accordingly.

[0217] Specifically, the RRC or DCI message indicates the sleep type and time-domain location of the sleep symbol, where the time-domain location can be a frame number, slot number, or symbol position. For example, the RRC or DCI message indicates that the time-domain location of the sleep symbol is the last three slots, and also indicates that the sleep type of the sleep symbol is U2. That is, in this example, the RRC or DCI message indicates that the terminal behavior corresponding to the sleep U symbol is not measured in the next three slots.

[0218] Furthermore, Table 5 shows a typical cyclic prefix (CP) time slot format. As shown in Table 5, the terminal device can further determine the time slot format of one or more time slots based on RRC signaling and DCI messages, combined with higher-layer configuration. It should be noted that D0 in Table 5 has the same meaning as D in existing protocols, representing a non-sleep downlink symbol; U0 has the same meaning as U in existing protocols, representing a non-sleep uplink symbol; and F is a flexible symbol.

[0219] Table 5. Slot formats for normal cyclic prefix (CP)

[0220]

[0221]

[0222] In this embodiment of the application, Table 5 may also include one or more types from Table 6 below, which will be described in conjunction with specific implementation methods:

[0223] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first information can be carried in the time slot format indication information. That is, when the network device sends the first information to the terminal device, it is equivalent to the network device sending the time slot format indication information to the terminal device, and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the time slot format indication information.

[0224] Specifically, the time slot format indication information indicates a first time slot format, which indicates N sleep symbols, and the first time slot format also indicates the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols.

[0225] In this embodiment, the first time slot format includes at least one row from Table 6 below, meaning the first time slot format includes one or more rows from Table 6. It should be noted that the value range of M in Table 6 is [56, 255], where M is an integer. It should also be noted that M can also be an integer greater than 255, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this. Wherein, F represents a flexible symbol, D and D0 both represent downlink symbols that do not hibernate, and S, D1, and U1 all represent hibernation symbols of different hibernation types. It should be understood that different hibernation types correspond to different terminal behaviors. The terminal behaviors corresponding to hibernation types can be referred to the preceding text, and will not be repeated here. The 8 rows of the first time slot format shown in Table 6 can be part of a table containing a larger number of first time slot formats.

[0226] Table 6. Slot formats for normal cyclic prefix (CP)

[0227]

[0228] For example, in one possible implementation, the first time slot format includes the first row in Table 6, that is, the first time slot format indicates that the 0th to 13th symbols in the time slot are sleep symbols. Furthermore, the first time slot format also indicates that the sleep type corresponding to these 14 sleep symbols is D1, that is, the terminal behavior corresponding to these 14 sleep symbols is no data transmission.

[0229] For example, in one possible implementation, the first time slot format includes the second row in Table 6, that is, the first time slot format indicates that the 0th to 13th symbols in the time slot are sleep symbols. Furthermore, the first time slot format also indicates that the sleep type corresponding to these 14 sleep symbols is U1, that is, the terminal behavior corresponding to these 14 sleep symbols is no data transmission.

[0230] For example, in one possible implementation, the first time slot format includes the third row in Table 6, that is, the first time slot format indicates that the 0th to 13th symbols in the time slot are sleep symbols. Furthermore, the first time slot format also indicates that the sleep type corresponding to these 14 sleep symbols is S, that is, the terminal behavior corresponding to these 14 sleep symbols is completely shut down.

[0231] For example, in one possible implementation, the first time slot format includes the last row of Table 6, indicating that symbols 0 to 13 in the time slot are sleep symbols. Further, the first time slot format also indicates the sleep type of each of these 14 sleep symbols. As can be seen from the last row of Table 4: the sleep type of symbols 0, 1, 7, and 8 is D1, corresponding to no data transmission at the terminal; the sleep type of symbols 2 to 5, and symbols 9 to 12 is S, corresponding to complete shutdown at the terminal; and the sleep type of symbol 13 is U1, corresponding to no data transmission at the terminal.

[0232] For example, in one possible implementation, the first time slot format includes the first row and the second-to-last row in Table 6, that is, the first time slot format indicates time slot 1 (slot1 corresponding to the first row) and time slot 2 (slot2 corresponding to the second-to-last row), respectively. The first time slot format indicates that the 0th to 13th symbols in time slot 1 are dormant symbols. Further, the first time slot format also indicates that the dormant type corresponding to these 14 dormant symbols is D1. The first time slot format also indicates that the 0th to 7th symbols in time slot 2 are dormant symbols. Further, the first time slot format also indicates the dormant type corresponding to each of these 8 dormant symbols. For example, as shown in Table 6, the dormant type of the 0th and 1st symbols is D1, the dormant type corresponding to the 2nd to 4th symbols is S, and the dormant type corresponding to the 5th to 7th symbols is U1.

[0233] For example, in one possible implementation, the first time slot format includes at least one sleep symbol.

[0234] It should be understood that the above are merely examples and this application does not impose any limitations on them.

[0235] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, the first time slot format indication information is carried in the group DCI.

[0236] For example, in one possible implementation, the group DCI is decoupled from the frame structure indication; for instance, the group DCI uses special RNTI scrambling.

[0237] For example, in one possible implementation, group DCI uses SFI-RNTI scrambling.

[0238] It should be noted that in this application, the following priority relationships are predefined in the protocol:

[0239] 1. The terminal device determines the frame structure; wherein, determining the frame structure includes indicating the symbol type and / or whether to sleep.

[0240] 2. The terminal device determines whether symbol hibernation is allowed.

[0241] 3. The terminal device determines whether the hibernation symbol corresponds to multiple hibernation types.

[0242] 4. The terminal device determines the hibernation symbol and the hibernation type corresponding to the hibernation symbol.

[0243] It should be understood that the above 1-4 are listed in descending order of priority.

[0244] It should also be noted that, under the above priority relationship, the following predefined protocol requirements must also be met:

[0245] For example, existing U symbols can only be converted to S, U0, U1, U2, ... For the terminal behavior corresponding to sleep types such as S, U0, U1, U2, etc., please refer to the full text. It should be understood that the above rules can also be interpreted as disallowing conversion from U symbols to downlink symbols such as D0, D1, ... or F symbols.

[0246] For example, existing D symbols can only be converted to S, D0, D1, D2, ... The terminal behaviors corresponding to sleep types such as S, D0, D1, D2, etc., can be found in the full text. It should be understood that the above rules can also be interpreted as disallowing conversion from D symbols to uplink symbols such as U0, U1, ..., or F symbols.

[0247] For example, in one possible implementation, the configuration period for symbol sleep is allowed to be shorter than the configuration period for the frame structure.

[0248] In another possible implementation, the protocol predefines the above priority relationship (from top to bottom, indicating priority from high to low): it can also be: 2, 3, 1, 4. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit the specific priority order.

[0249] For example, in another possible implementation, the configuration period for symbol sleep is allowed to be longer than the configuration period for the frame structure.

[0250] It should also be noted that in this application, the method for determining lower priority follows the method for determining higher priority.

[0251] According to the above technical solution, the network device indicates the location of N sleep symbols to the terminal device, which enables the terminal device to know the location of the N sleep symbols and the terminal behavior corresponding to the sleep symbols, so that the terminal device can receive or send signals or buffer data as needed, thereby reducing the power consumption on the terminal side and saving energy on both the network side and the terminal side.

[0252] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 600 provided in another embodiment of this application. It should be noted that... Figure 6 The communication method 600 shown is an indication method decoupled from the frame structure.

[0253] like Figure 6 As shown, the method may include at least the following steps; for simplicity, only the following description is provided. Figure 6 The differences between the communication method 600 shown and the communication method 400 shown in the previous figure are as follows.

[0254] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first and second information are carried on one of the following signals: master information block (MIB) signal, system information block 1 (SIB1) signal, synchronization signal, and PBCH block (synchronization signal and PBCH block, SS / PBCH block).

[0255] For example, a network device sends a MIB signal to a terminal device. This MIB signal includes first information indicating whether one or more subsequent symbols should be dormant. For instance, the first information indicates that one or more subsequent symbols should be dormant; that is, the first information carried in the MIB signal indicates that one or more symbols should be dormant. For example, the first information indicates that a symbol between the MIB signal and the SIB1 signal should be dormant.

[0256] Optionally, the MIB signal also includes second information, that is, the MIB signal also carries indication information indicating the hibernation type corresponding to the hibernation symbol.

[0257] For example, a network device sends an SIB1 signal to a terminal device. This SIB1 signal includes first information indicating whether one or more subsequent symbols should be dormant. For instance, the first information indicates that one or more subsequent symbols should be dormant; that is, the first information carried in the SIB1 signal indicates one or more dormant symbols. For example, the first information indicates that a symbol between the MIB signal and the SIB1 signal should be dormant.

[0258] Optionally, the SIB1 signal also includes second information, that is, the SIB1 signal also carries indication information indicating the hibernation type corresponding to the hibernation symbol.

[0259] Optionally, after step S610, the method may further include: S611, the network device sends fourth information to the terminal device, and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the fourth information.

[0260] Specifically, the fourth information indicates the unit of the time-domain resources where the N sleep symbols are located. After receiving the fourth information, the terminal device determines the unit of the time-domain resources where the N sleep symbols are located. In the embodiments of this application, the unit of the time-domain resources can be any of the following: mini-slot, slot, half-frame, frame, or absolute time. It should be understood that the unit of the time-domain resources can be configured by the network device, and this application does not limit it.

[0261] The fourth piece of information can be high-level configuration information, such as RRC signaling, while the first piece of information can be DCI.

[0262] For example, in one possible implementation, the RRC signaling indicates the number of symbols corresponding to 1 bit in the bitmap information, and the DCI includes the bitmap information, the value of which indicates the position of N dormant symbols.

[0263] For example, the DCI includes bitmap information, and the RRC signaling indicates that one bit in the bitmap information corresponds to seven symbols. For instance, the bitmap information included in the DCI is "01", where "0" indicates that the symbol is asleep and "1" indicates that the symbol is not asleep. Combined with the RRC signaling, the bitmap information "01" indicates that symbols 0-6 are asleep and symbols 7-13 are not asleep.

[0264] For example, DCI includes bitmap information, and RRC signaling indicates that one bit in the bitmap information corresponds to four symbols. For instance, the bitmap information included in DCI is "1000", where "0" indicates that the symbol is asleep and "1" indicates that the symbol is not asleep. Combined with RRC signaling, the bitmap information "1000" indicates that symbols 0-3 are not asleep and symbols 4-13 are asleep.

[0265] For example, in one possible implementation, RRC signaling indicates the unit of duration, and DCI indicates the start position and duration of the dormant symbol.

[0266] For example, a network device indicates that the starting position of N sleep symbols is the 0th symbol through DCI, and at the same time, DCI also indicates a duration of 3. Combined with RRC indicating that the duration is in symbols, it can be determined that the network device indicates that the 0th to 2nd symbols are sleep through DCI and RRC signaling.

[0267] It should be noted that the information mentioned above (such as the first information, the second information, etc.) can be exchanged not only between network devices and terminal devices, but also between different network devices, such as between the first network device and the second network device. This can assist in the configuration, measurement, and scheduling of neighboring cells, and can also reduce interference between the first network device and the second network device.

[0268] According to the above technical solution, the network device indicates the location of N sleep symbols to the terminal device, which enables the terminal device to know the location of the N sleep symbols and the terminal behavior corresponding to the sleep symbols, so that the terminal device can receive or send signals or buffer data as needed, thereby reducing the power consumption on the terminal side and saving energy on both the network side and the terminal side.

[0269] Figure 7 A schematic flowchart of a communication method 700 provided in another embodiment of this application is shown below. Figure 7 As shown, the method includes at least the following steps.

[0270] S710, the network device sends a first low-power signal to the terminal device, and the terminal device receives the first low-power signal accordingly.

[0271] Specifically, the network device configures the terminal behavior of symbols in sleep mode and the state transition configuration for sleep mode periods, and sends a first low-power signal to the terminal device. This first low-power signal indicates the state transition during the sleep mode period and the terminal behavior of symbols in sleep mode. For example, this first low-power signal can be an LP-WUS1 signal. For ease of description, the first low-power signal will be used to refer to the LP-WUS1 signal in the following text.

[0272] Here, the symbol in sleep mode can be understood as a sleep symbol. The first low-power signal indicating the terminal behavior of a symbol in sleep mode can be understood as indicating the sleep type corresponding to the sleep symbol. Different sleep types correspond to different terminal behaviors. In other words, the first low-power signal also indicates the terminal behavior corresponding to the sleep symbol. For a detailed description of sleep types and terminal behaviors, please refer to the previous text; it will not be repeated here.

[0273] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first low-power signal includes two fields, such as field 1 and field 2, wherein field 1 indicates the termination behavior of the sleep symbol, for example, the termination behavior of the sleep symbol indicated by field 1 is shown in Table 7.

[0274] Table 7

[0275] Field 1 Terminal behavior of hibernation symbols 00 Do not send uplink signals, do not receive downlink signals 01 No data transmission is performed, but measurements are taken. 10 No data transmission, no measurement …… ……

[0276] As shown in Table 7, a value of "00" for field 1 indicates that the terminal behavior of the sleep symbol is to neither send uplink signals nor receive downlink signals; a value of "01" for field 1 indicates that the terminal behavior of the sleep symbol is to not transmit data but to perform measurements; and a value of "10" for field 1 indicates that the terminal behavior of the sleep symbol is to not transmit data but to perform no measurements. It should be understood that the above examples are merely illustrative and this application does not impose any limitations on them.

[0277] In one possible implementation, field 2 indicates the active hibernation period, which can be understood as indicating that the symbol is hibernating during that period.

[0278] In one possible implementation, field 2 indicates the active dormancy period, which can be understood as indicating that the symbol is dormant during that period.

[0279] In one possible implementation, field 2 indicates the deactivation period for the hibernation period, which can be understood as indicating that symbols during that period are not allowed to hibernate.

[0280] In one possible implementation, field 2 indicates the conversion of the dormant time period, which can be understood as indicating the conversion of the dormant time period configuration. For example, field 2 indicates a conversion from a dormant time period to a non-dormant time period, meaning field 2 indicates that the symbol on that dormant time period changes from dormant to non-dormant. In another example, field 2 indicates a conversion from a non-dormant time period to a dormant time period, meaning field 2 indicates that the symbol on that dormant time period changes from non-dormant to dormant.

[0281] In one possible implementation, the network device configures multiple sleep time period configurations for the terminal device. As shown in Table 8, field 2 indicates one of these multiple sleep time period configurations.

[0282] Table 8

[0283] Field 2 Sleep time period configuration 00 Configuration 1 01 Configuration 2 10 Configuration 3 11 Configuration 4

[0284] As shown in Table 8, a value of "00" in field 2 indicates that the sleep time period is configured as configuration 1; a value of "01" in field 2 indicates that the sleep time period is configured as configuration 2; a value of "10" in field 2 indicates that the sleep time period is configured as configuration 3; and a value of "11" in field 2 indicates that the sleep time period is configured as configuration 4. It should be understood that the above table is only for illustrative purposes and this application does not impose any limitations on it.

[0285] The hibernation time period configuration mentioned above includes at least one of the following: configuration period, position of hibernation symbol, and hibernation length.

[0286] It should be noted that the above-mentioned sleep time period configuration can be predefined by the protocol or configured by the network device for the terminal device. It should be understood that this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0287] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the first low-power signal includes an LP-WUS1-1 signal and an LP-WUS1-2 signal, wherein the LP-WUS1-1 signal indicates any of the following: activating a sleep period, deactivating a sleep period, or transitioning to a sleep period. The indications for activating, deactivating, and transitioning to a sleep period are described above and will not be repeated here.

[0288] For example, when a sleep symbol is present during the sleep period, LP-WUS1-1 can also implicitly indicate the activation of the LP-WUS1-2 signal, which further indicates the terminal behavior of the sleep symbol.

[0289] In this embodiment of the application, the network device can also configure the time-domain location for the LP-WUS1-1 signal and the LP-WUS1-2 signal respectively. The following details... Figure 8 and Figure 9 For example:

[0290] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, such as Figure 8 As shown, the time domain position of the LP-WUS1-1 signal is before the sleep period, and the time domain position of the LP-WUS1-2 is also before the sleep period.

[0291] Alternatively, in one possible implementation, such as Figure 9 As shown, the time domain position of the LP-WUS1-1 signal is before the sleep period, and the time domain position of the LP-WUS1-2 signal is during the sleep period. For example, the time domain position of the LP-WUS1-2 signal can be 1 to 2 symbols before the sleep symbol.

[0292] Optionally, in one possible implementation, the time-domain position of the LP-WUS1-1 signal is before the sleep period, and the time-domain position of the LP-WUS1-2 signal is at position 1 within the sleep period, where position 1 is a fixed position pre-configured by the network device. It should be understood that the configuration position of the LP-WUS1-2 signal at the sleep period (e.g., position 1) can be configured on a slot-by-slot basis or on a frame-by-frame basis.

[0293] It should be noted that when a network device needs to transmit a large amount of data rapidly, it can send a second low-power signal to the terminal device to indicate that the sleep period should be terminated.

[0294] See also Figure 7Optionally, in one possible implementation, the method may further include: S720, the network device sends a second low-power signal to the terminal device, and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second low-power signal, wherein the second low-power signal may be an LP-WUS2 signal. For ease of description, the second low-power signal will be used in place of the LP-WUS2 signal below.

[0295] For example, in one possible implementation, the second low-power signal indicates that the sleep period is terminated early, such as... Figure 10 As shown, after receiving a second low-power signal indicating the early termination of the sleep period, the LR module in the terminal device sends a second low-power signal to the MR module. Further, the terminal device terminates the sleep period, which can be understood as the terminal device indicating that the symbols during that sleep period will not sleep.

[0296] For example, in one possible implementation, a second low-power signal triggers a timer, which in turn disables symbol sleep during timer operation. That is, symbols are not allowed to sleep during timer operation.

[0297] It should be noted that the second low-power signal can trigger different types of timers, and in this embodiment, the different types of timers differ in at least one of the following aspects: different duration, different units, and different time intervals with the second low-power signal. It should be understood that this embodiment does not impose any limitations on these aspects.

[0298] For example, the second low-power signal includes field 3, as shown in Table 9, which indicates the timer configuration. It should be understood that Table 9 is an example using a timer configuration of duration, and this application does not limit this scope.

[0299] Table 9

[0300] Field 3 Timer configuration 00 The duration is 5 sleep symbols. 01 The time length is 5 slots 10 The duration is 1 frame. 11 The duration is one hibernation configuration cycle.

[0301] As shown in Table 9, a value of "00" for field 3 indicates that the time length in the timer configuration is 5 sleep symbols; a value of "01" for field 3 indicates that the time length in the timer configuration is 5 slots; a value of "10" for field 3 indicates that the time length in the timer configuration is 1 frame; and a value of "00" for field 3 indicates that the time length in the timer configuration is 1 sleep configuration cycle.

[0302] It should be understood that Table 9 is merely an example and this application does not impose any limitations on it.

[0303] In the above technical solution, the low-power signal wake-up period includes multiple non-continuous sleep symbols, enabling end-to-end energy saving.

[0304] Finally, the device embodiments of this application will be described.

[0305] To implement the functions of the methods provided in this application, network devices and terminal devices may include hardware structures and / or software modules, implementing the above functions in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules. Whether a particular function is implemented in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0306] Figure 11 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 1100 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1100 includes a processor 1110 and a communication interface 1120. Optionally, the processor 1110 and the communication interface 1120 can be interconnected via a bus 1130. The communication device 1100 can be a network device or a terminal device.

[0307] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may also include a memory 1140. The memory 1140 includes, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), which is used to store related instructions and data.

[0308] Processor 1110 can be one or more central processing units (CPUs). When processor 1110 is a CPU, the CPU can be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU.

[0309] When the communication device 1100 is a terminal device, exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: receive first information; determine the positions of the N dormant symbols based on the first information. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: receive second information. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: receive third information. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: obtain a correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: receive time slot format indication information. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: receive fourth information.

[0310] When the communication device 1100 is a network device, exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: determine the positions of N dormant symbols; and send first information. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: send second information. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: send third information. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: send at least one numerical value corresponding to a symbol of the first type. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: send time slot format indication information. Also exemplarily, the communication device 1100 is configured to perform the following operations: send fourth information.

[0311] The above description is for illustrative purposes only. When the communication device 1100 is a network device or a terminal device, it will be responsible for executing the methods or steps related to the network device or terminal device in the foregoing method embodiments.

[0312] The above description is merely exemplary. For details, please refer to the content shown in the above method embodiments. Figure 11 The implementation of each operation can also be found by referring to... Figures 4 to 10 The corresponding description of the method embodiments shown.

[0313] Figure 12 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 1200 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1200 can be a network device, a terminal device, or a chip or module in a network device or terminal device, used to implement the methods involved in the above embodiments. The communication device 1200 includes a transceiver unit 1210 and a processing unit 1220. The transceiver unit 1210 and the processing unit 1220 will be described exemplarily below.

[0314] The transceiver unit 1210 may include a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The transmitting unit is used to perform the transmitting action of the communication device 1200, and the receiving unit is used to perform the receiving action of the communication device 1200. For ease of description, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit are combined into one transceiver unit in this embodiment. This will be explained uniformly here and will not be repeated later.

[0315] When the communication device 1200 is a terminal device, exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to receive first information; the processing unit is used to determine the positions of the N dormant symbols based on the first information. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: receive second information. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: receive third information. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: obtain a correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: receive time slot format indication information. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: receive fourth information.

[0316] When the communication device 1200 is a network device, exemplarily, the processing unit 1210 is used to determine the positions of N dormant symbols; the transceiver unit 1210 is used to send first information. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: send second information. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: send third information. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: send at least one numerical value corresponding to a symbol of the first type. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: send time slot format indication information. Also exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1210 is used to perform the following operations: send fourth information.

[0317] The above description is for illustrative purposes only. When the communication device 1200 is a network device or a terminal device, it will be responsible for executing the methods or steps related to the network device or terminal device in the foregoing method embodiments.

[0318] Optionally, the communication device 1200 further includes a storage unit 1230 for storing programs or code for performing the aforementioned methods.

[0319] Figure 11 and Figure 12 The illustrated device embodiment is used to implement Figures 2 to 11 The content described. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The specific execution steps and methods of the device shown can be found in the content described in the foregoing method embodiments.

[0320] Figure 13 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 1300 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1300 is used to implement the functions of a network device and a terminal device. The communication device 1300 may be a chip in a network device or a terminal device.

[0321] The communication device 1300 includes an input / output interface 1320 and a processor 1310. The input / output interface 1320 may be an input / output circuit. The processor 1310 may be a signal processor, a chip, or other integrated circuit capable of implementing the method of this application. The input / output interface 1320 is used for inputting or outputting signals or data.

[0322] For example, when the communication device 1300 is a terminal device, the input / output interface 1320 is exemplarily used to receive first information; the processor 1310 is used to determine the positions of the N sleep symbols based on the first information. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: receive second information. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: receive third information. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: obtain a correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: receive time slot format indication information. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: receive fourth information.

[0323] For example, when the communication device 1300 is a network device, exemplarily, the processor 1310 is used to determine the positions of N dormant symbols; the input / output interface 1320 is used to send first information. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: send second information. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: send third information. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: send at least one numerical value corresponding to a symbol of the first type. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: send time slot format indication information. Also exemplarily, the input / output interface 1320 is used to perform the following operations: send fourth information.

[0324] In one possible implementation, the processor 1310 executes instructions stored in memory to implement the functions of the network device and the terminal device.

[0325] Optionally, the communication device 1300 may also include a memory.

[0326] Optionally, the processor and memory are integrated together.

[0327] Optionally, the memory is located outside the communication device 1300.

[0328] In one possible implementation, the processor 1310 can be a logic circuit, which inputs / outputs messages or signaling through the input / output interface 1320. The logic circuit can be a signal processor, a chip, or other integrated circuit that can implement the methods of the embodiments of this application.

[0329] The above description of the communication device 1300 is merely an exemplary description. The communication device 1300 can be used to execute the methods described in the foregoing embodiments. For details, please refer to the description of the foregoing method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0330] This application also provides a chip, including a processor, for calling and executing instructions stored in a memory, causing a communication device on which the chip is installed to perform the methods in the examples above.

[0331] This application also provides a chip, including: an input interface, an output interface, and a processor. The input interface, the output interface, and the processor are connected via an internal connection path. The processor is used to execute code in a memory. When the code is executed, the processor is used to perform the methods described in the examples above. Optionally, the chip further includes a memory for storing computer programs or code.

[0332] This application also provides a processor for coupling with a memory for performing the methods and functions of network devices and terminal devices involved in any of the above embodiments.

[0333] This application provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, implement the methods of the aforementioned embodiments.

[0334] This application also provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, enables the implementation of the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0335] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a computer, implements the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0336] 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.

[0337] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0338] 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.

[0339] 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.

[0340] 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.

[0341] 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.

[0342] 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, include: Receive first information, which indicates the positions of N dormant symbols, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 1; The positions of the N dormant symbols are determined based on the first information; Each sleep symbol corresponds to at least one terminal behavior.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The terminal behavior includes any one of the following: The Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) is not monitored. It does not receive dynamically scheduled Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH); Do not send dynamically scheduled Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH); It does not receive aperiodic channel state information - reference signal CSI-RS; It does not transmit aperiodic channel sounding reference signals (SRS); It does not send aperiodic Channel State Information (CSI) feedback; Semi-static or static PDSCH is not accepted; Do not send semi-static or static PUSCH; We do not accept periodic or semi-static CSI measurements. Do not send periodic or semi-static CSI feedback; Do not send periodic or semi-static SRS transmissions; Random Access Channel (RACH) is not executed. Do not receive downlink signals; No uplink signal is sent.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second information, which indicates the sleep type of each of the N sleep symbols, and the terminal behavior corresponding to sleep symbols of different sleep types is different.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Before receiving the first information, the method further includes: Receive a third message indicating a first value, the first value indicating that a first type of symbol is allowed to remain dormant, the N dormant symbols including symbols of the first type. The symbols of the first type include at least one of the following: up-line symbols, down-line symbols, or flexible symbols.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain a correspondence between at least one numerical value and a symbol of the first type, wherein the at least one numerical value includes the first numerical value.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The correspondence between the at least one numerical value and the symbol of the first type is as follows: 。 7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The first information indicates the positions of N dormant symbols, including: Receive time slot format indication information, the time slot format indication information indicating a first time slot format, the first time slot format indicating the N sleep symbols.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first time slot format also indicates the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, and the first time slot format includes at least one row from the following table: Where M takes values ​​in the range of [56, 255], F represents a flexible symbol, D and D0 both represent downlink symbols that do not hibernate, and S, D1 and U1 both represent hibernation symbols of different hibernation types. The different hibernation symbols of different hibernation types correspond to different terminal behaviors.

9. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first information and the second information are carried in one of the following signals: Main Information Block (MIB) signal, System Message Block 1 (SIB1) signal.

10. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the fourth information, which indicates the unit of the time-domain resource where the N dormant symbols are located.

11. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Determine the positions of N dormant symbols; Send a first message, which indicates the position of the N dormant symbols; Where N is an integer greater than or equal to 1, and each sleep symbol corresponds to at least one terminal behavior.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The terminal behavior includes any one of the following: The Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) is not monitored. It does not receive dynamically scheduled Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH); Do not send dynamically scheduled Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH); It does not receive aperiodic channel state information - reference signal CSI-RS; It does not transmit aperiodic channel sounding reference signals (SRS); It does not send aperiodic Channel State Information (CSI) feedback; Semi-static or static PDSCH is not accepted; Do not send semi-static or static PUSCH; We do not accept periodic or semi-static CSI measurements. Do not send periodic or semi-static CSI feedback; Do not send periodic or semi-static SRS transmissions; Random Access Channel (RACH) is not executed. Do not receive downlink signals; No uplink signal is sent.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second message, which indicates the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols. Different sleep types correspond to different terminal behaviors.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, Before sending the first information, the method further includes: A third message is sent, indicating a first value that indicates that a first type of symbol is allowed to hibernate, wherein the N hibernating symbols include symbols of the first type. The symbols of the first type include at least one of the following: up-line symbols, down-line symbols, or flexible symbols.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send at least one numerical value corresponding to a symbol of the first type, wherein the at least one numerical value includes the first numerical value.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The correspondence between the at least one numerical value and the symbol of the first type is as follows: 。 17. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that, The first information indicates the positions of N dormant symbols, including: Send time slot format indication information, the time slot format indication information indicating a first time slot format, the first time slot format indicating the N sleep symbols.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The first time slot format also indicates the sleep type corresponding to each of the N sleep symbols, and the first time slot format includes at least one row from the following table: Where M takes values ​​in the range of [56, 255], F represents a flexible symbol, D and D0 both represent downlink symbols that do not hibernate, and S, D1 and U1 both represent hibernation symbols of different hibernation types. The different hibernation symbols of different hibernation types correspond to different terminal behaviors.

19. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first information and the second information are carried in one of the following signals: Main Information Block (MIB) signal, System Message Block 1 (SIB1) signal.

20. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a fourth message, which indicates the unit of the time-domain resource where the N dormant symbols are located.

21. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a processor, the processor being configured to cause the communication device to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 20 by executing a computer program or instructions, or by using logic circuitry.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes logic circuitry and input / output interfaces, the input / output interfaces being used to input and / or output signals, and the logic circuitry being used to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 20.

23. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 20 to be performed.

24. A computer program product, characterized in that, It includes instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 20 to be performed.

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