A communication method and related apparatus based on store-and-forward

Abstract

This application provides a store-and-forward-based communication method and related apparatus, relating to the field of communication technology. In this method, a user equipment (UE) receives first information indicating a first time; the UE enters a power-saving mode within a first time range; the first time range is the time interval between the time the first information is received and the first time; the UE exits the power-saving mode within a second time range; the second time range includes the first time; and the UE receives downlink data from a first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range following the first time. Thus, by entering power-saving mode within the first time range, the UE does not need to perform operations such as residing on a second non-terrestrial network device or listening to paging information from the second non-terrestrial network device, thereby reducing the UE's power consumption. Furthermore, by exiting power-saving mode within the second time range, the UE can avoid missing downlink data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and related apparatus based on store-and-forward. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of communication technology, satellites and other non-terrestrial network devices provide reliable communication services for areas that are difficult to cover by terrestrial networks. The communication modes provided by non-terrestrial network devices include store-and-forward modes. For example, if a terrestrial network device needs to send downlink data to a user equipment (UE), but the terrestrial network device cannot communicate directly with the UE, it can first send the UE's downlink data to the satellite. The satellite stores the UE's downlink data first, and then, after the satellite and UE establish a communication connection, the satellite forwards the UE's downlink data to the UE.

[0003] To prevent missing downlink data, once a satellite cell covers the UE, the UE will access that satellite, for example, by camping on that satellite's cell and listening for paging information. If the satellite stores the UE's downlink data, it may send downlink data to the UE. However, in a multi-satellite deployment, the satellite the UE accesses may not store the UE's downlink data, causing the UE to waste unnecessary power and resulting in power loss. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a store-and-forward-based communication method and related apparatus, with the aim of reducing power consumption loss in the UE.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a store-and-forward-based communication method applied to a user equipment. In this method, the user equipment receives first information, which may indicate a first time; within a first time range, the user equipment enters a power-saving mode; wherein the first time range is the time range between the time of receiving the first information and the first time, and does not include the first time; the cell of a second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power-saving mode within the first time range, and the user equipment in power-saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power-saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device but is not listening to paging information from the second non-terrestrial network device; subsequently, within a second time range, the user equipment exits the power-saving mode; the second time range includes the first time; finally, within a third time range after the first time, downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device is received.

[0006] Thus, based on the first time indicated by the first information, the user equipment (UE) can enter a power-saving mode within a first time range. Within this first time range, the UE in the cell covered by the second non-terrestrial network device can also enter a power-saving mode without needing to camp on the second non-terrestrial network device or listen for its paging information. Compared to related technologies where the UE in the cell covered by the non-terrestrial network device camps on the non-terrestrial network device and listens for its paging information, this reduces the UE's power consumption and power loss. Furthermore, within a second time range, the UE can exit the power-saving mode to ensure timely receipt of downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time, preventing the UE from missing downlink data and ensuring stable communication between the UE and other devices to meet service requirements promptly. In one possible implementation, the first information may include information about the first time, for example, information carrying the first time. This allows the UE to directly obtain the first time, further reducing its power consumption.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the first information may include the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device. The method may further include: the user equipment acquiring first data of the first non-terrestrial network device based on the device identifier, the first data being used to indicate the movement trajectory of the first non-terrestrial network device; and then the user equipment determining the first time based on the first data. Thus, considering the changes in the movement trajectory of the first non-terrestrial network device, the user equipment can calculate a more real-time first time of the first non-terrestrial network device based on the first information, which is beneficial for the user equipment to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device in a timely manner.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the first non-terrestrial network device can provide coverage time for the user equipment within its cell. This ensures that when the user equipment exits power-saving mode, the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device already covers the user equipment, allowing the user equipment to directly establish a communication connection without waiting, thus further reducing the user equipment's power consumption.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the "first time" is earlier than the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment. This allows the user equipment to exit power-saving mode before the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers it, enabling the user equipment to prepare in advance for establishing a communication connection with the first non-terrestrial network device. This improves the speed of the communication connection and allows the user equipment to receive downlink data more promptly.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the store-and-forward-based communication method may further include: the user equipment starting a timer based on a first time; the timer's duration being the time difference between the first time and the current time; exemplarily, the user equipment starts the timer and enters a power-saving mode based on the first time, for example, the user equipment can be in power-saving mode while the timer is running; correspondingly, the method may further include: the user equipment determining that the timer has timed out; exemplarily, the user equipment can exit the power-saving mode upon determining that the timer has timed out, for example, the user equipment can exit the power-saving mode when the timer stops running. Thus, based on the timer's start and timeout, the user equipment can more clearly determine the time to exit the power-saving mode, avoiding missing downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the user equipment receiving the first information may include: the user equipment receiving first information from a third non-terrestrial network device. Thus, the user equipment can obtain the first information through a third non-terrestrial network device covering its own cell. Since the third non-terrestrial network device is mobile, the user equipment can obtain more real-time first information, which helps the user equipment to more accurately enter and exit power-saving mode.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the user equipment receiving first information from a third non-terrestrial network device may include: the user equipment receiving a system information block from the third non-terrestrial network device; the system information block includes the first information. Thus, by carrying the first information within the existing signaling of the system information block, there is no need for the third non-terrestrial network device to send signaling separately to the user equipment, thereby saving signaling overhead.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the user equipment receiving first information from a third non-terrestrial network device may include receiving second information from the third non-terrestrial network device; the second information includes the first information, and the second information is used to instruct the third non-terrestrial network device to terminate the communication connection with the user equipment. Thus, by carrying the first information within the existing signaling of the second information, there is no need for the third non-terrestrial network device to send separate signaling to the user equipment, saving signaling overhead.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the store-and-forward-based communication method may further include: the user equipment sending uplink data to a fourth non-terrestrial network device; and the downlink data being response data to the uplink data.

[0015] Secondly, this application provides a store-and-forward-based communication method applied to a third non-terrestrial network device. In this method, the third non-terrestrial network device sends first information to a user equipment (UE); wherein the first information indicates a first time; the UE is configured to enter a power-saving mode within a first time range; the UE is configured to exit the power-saving mode within a second time range; the UE is configured to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time; the first time range is the time range between the time the UE receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the UE in power-saving mode within the first time range, and the UE in power-saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the UE in power-saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device but is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0016] In this way, the third non-terrestrial network device can send the first information to the user equipment. The fact that the third non-terrestrial network device is mobile indicates that it can obtain more real-time first information and send it to the user equipment in a timely manner. This helps the user equipment to enter and exit power-saving mode more accurately. On the one hand, it can reduce the power consumption of the user equipment and reduce its power loss. On the other hand, it can prevent the user equipment from missing downlink data, thereby ensuring stable communication between the UE and other devices and meeting service needs in a timely manner.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the first information includes information from the first moment.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the first information includes the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device, which the user equipment uses to determine the first time based on the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the first time is the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the first time is the time earlier than the time when the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in the cell.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the store-and-forward-based communication method may further include: a third non-terrestrial network device receiving first information from a first ground station. In this way, the third non-terrestrial network device directly obtains the first information, reducing its power consumption.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the store-and-forward-based communication method may further include: a third non-terrestrial network device receiving third information from a first ground station; the third information including device identifiers of multiple non-terrestrial network devices; the multiple non-terrestrial network devices including a first non-terrestrial network device; the third non-terrestrial network device acquiring second data of the multiple non-terrestrial network devices based on the device identifiers; the second data indicating the movement trajectory of the multiple non-terrestrial network devices; and the third non-terrestrial network device determining first information based on the second data. Thus, considering the changes in the movement trajectory of the non-terrestrial network devices, the third non-terrestrial network device can calculate more real-time and accurate first information based on the third information, which is beneficial for user equipment to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device in a timely manner.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the third non-terrestrial network device sends first information to the user equipment, including: the third non-terrestrial network device sending a system information block to the user equipment; the system information block includes the first information.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the third non-terrestrial network device sends first information to the user equipment, including: the third non-terrestrial network device sending second information to the user equipment; the second information includes the first information, and the second information is used to instruct the third non-terrestrial network device to terminate the communication connection with the user equipment.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the store-and-forward-based communication method may further include: a third non-terrestrial network device receiving uplink data from a user equipment; downlink data being response data to the uplink data; and the third non-terrestrial network device and the fourth non-terrestrial network device being identical.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first non-terrestrial network device and the third non-terrestrial network device are identical.

[0027] It should be noted that the possible implementation methods of the second aspect can be found in the introduction of the corresponding implementation methods of the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0028] Thirdly, this application provides a store-and-forward-based communication method applied to a first ground station. In this method, the first ground station sends first information to a third non-terrestrial network device, or sends third information to the third non-terrestrial network device; wherein the third non-terrestrial network device determines the first information based on the third information; the third information includes device identifiers of multiple non-terrestrial network devices; the multiple non-terrestrial network devices include the first non-terrestrial network device; a user equipment (UE) receives the first information from the third non-terrestrial network device, the first information indicating a first time; the UE enters a power-saving mode within a first time range; the UE exits the power-saving mode within a second time range; the UE receives downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time; the first time range is the time range between the time the UE receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the UE in power-saving mode within the first time range, the UE in power-saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the UE in power-saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device but is not listening to paging information from the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0029] In this way, the first ground station can send the first information or the third information to the third non-terrestrial network device. By utilizing the mobility of the third non-terrestrial network device, the first information can be sent to the user equipment in a timely manner, which helps the user equipment to enter and exit the power saving mode more accurately. On the one hand, it can reduce the power consumption of the user equipment and reduce its power loss. On the other hand, it can prevent the user equipment from missing downlink data, thereby ensuring stable communication between the UE and other devices and meeting service needs in a timely manner.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the first information includes information from the first moment.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the first information includes the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device, which the user equipment uses to determine the first time based on the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the first time is the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the first time is the time earlier than the time when the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in the cell.

[0034] It should be noted that for the various possible implementation methods of the third aspect, please refer to the introduction of the corresponding implementation methods of the first aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0035] Fourthly, this application provides a store-and-forward-based communication method applied to a first non-terrestrial network device. In this method, downlink data is sent to a user equipment (UE) within a third time range following a first time. The UE receives first information from the third non-terrestrial network device, the first information indicating the first time. The UE enters a power-saving mode within the first time range and exits the power-saving mode within a second time range. The first time range is the time range between the time the UE receives the first information and the first time, but does not include the first time. The second time range includes the first time. The cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the UE in power-saving mode within the first time range. The UE in power-saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the UE in power-saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device but is not listening to paging information from the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0036] In this way, when the first non-terrestrial network device sends downlink data to the user equipment, the user equipment has already exited the power saving mode. This reduces the power consumption of the user equipment and minimizes its power loss, while also preventing the user equipment from missing downlink data. This ensures stable communication between the UE and other devices and timely meets service requirements.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the first information includes information from the first moment.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the first information includes the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device, which the user equipment uses to determine the first time based on the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the first time is the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the first time is the time earlier than the time when the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in the cell.

[0041] It should be noted that the possible implementation methods for the fourth aspect can be found in the introduction of the corresponding implementation methods for the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0042] Fifthly, this application provides a communication device, which includes a processing module and a transceiver module.

[0043] In one possible design, the communication device corresponds to a user equipment (UE) or is a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured within the UE. The transceiver module of the communication device receives first information indicating a first time. The processing module of the communication device enters a power-saving mode within a first time range; wherein the first time range is the time range between the time of receiving the first information and the first time, and does not include the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the UE in power-saving mode within the first time range, and the UE in power-saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the UE in power-saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device but is not listening for paging information from the second non-terrestrial network device; the processing module of the communication device exits the power-saving mode within a second time range; the second time range includes the first time; the transceiver module of the communication device receives downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the first information may include information from the first time, for example, the first information is information carrying the information from the first time.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the first information may include the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device. Accordingly, the processing module of the communication device is used to obtain first data of the first non-terrestrial network device based on the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device. The first data may be used to indicate the movement trajectory of the first non-terrestrial network device. The processing module of the communication device is used to determine the first time based on the first data.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the first time can be the time for the cell to cover the user equipment of the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the first time is the time earlier than the time when the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in the cell.

[0048] In one possible implementation, the processing module of the communication device is used to start a timer based on a first time; the duration of the timer is the time difference between the first time and the current time; the processing module of the communication device is used to determine when the timer times out.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the processing module of the communication device is used to receive first information from a third non-terrestrial network device.

[0050] In one possible implementation, the processing module of the communication device is used to receive a system information block from a third non-terrestrial network device; the system information block includes first information.

[0051] In one possible implementation, the processing module of the communication device is used to receive second information from a third non-terrestrial network device; the second information includes the first information and is used to instruct the third non-terrestrial network device to disconnect from the user equipment.

[0052] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module of the communication device is used to send uplink data to a fourth non-terrestrial network device; the downlink data is the response data of the uplink data.

[0053] In one possible design, the communication device corresponds to a third non-terrestrial network device, or is a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the third non-terrestrial network device. The processing module of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to acquire first information, and the transceiver module of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to send the first information to a user equipment; wherein, the first information indicates a first time; the user equipment is used to enter a power-saving mode within a first time range; the user equipment is used to exit the power-saving mode within a second time range; the user equipment is used to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time; the first time range is the time range between the time the user equipment receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power-saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power-saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power-saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device but is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0054] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to receive first information from the first ground station.

[0055] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to receive third information from the first ground station; the third information includes device identifiers of multiple non-terrestrial network devices; the multiple non-terrestrial network devices include the first non-terrestrial network device; the processing module of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to obtain second data of the multiple non-terrestrial network devices based on the device identifiers of the multiple non-terrestrial network devices; the second data is used to indicate the movement trajectory of the multiple non-terrestrial network devices; the processing module of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to determine first information based on the second data.

[0056] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to send a system information block to the user equipment; the system information block includes first information.

[0057] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to send second information to the user equipment; the second information includes the first information and is used to instruct the third non-terrestrial network device to disconnect from the user equipment.

[0058] In one possible implementation, the transceiver module of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to receive uplink data from the user equipment; the downlink data is the response data of the uplink data; the third non-terrestrial network device and the fourth non-terrestrial network device are the same.

[0059] In one possible implementation, the first non-terrestrial network device and the third non-terrestrial network device are identical.

[0060] In one possible design, the communication device corresponds to the first ground station, or is a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the first ground station. The processing module of the communication device is used to acquire first information, and the transceiver module of the communication device is used to send the first information to a third non-terrestrial network device, or to send third information to the third non-terrestrial network device; wherein, the third non-terrestrial network device is used to determine the first information based on the third information; the third information includes device identifiers of multiple non-terrestrial network devices; the multiple non-terrestrial network devices include a first non-terrestrial network device; the user equipment is used to receive the first information from the third non-terrestrial network device, the first information indicating a first time; the user equipment is used to enter a power-saving mode within a first time range; the user equipment is used to exit the power-saving mode within a second time range; the user equipment is used to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time; the first time range is the time range between the time when the user equipment receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power-saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power-saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power-saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device and is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0061] In one possible design, the communication device corresponds to a first non-terrestrial network device, or is a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the first non-terrestrial network device. The processing module of the communication device is used to acquire downlink data, and the transceiver module of the communication device is used to send downlink data to a user equipment within a third time range after a first time. The user equipment is used to receive first information from the third non-terrestrial network device, the first information indicating the first time. The user equipment is used to enter a power-saving mode within the first time range; the user equipment is used to exit the power-saving mode within a second time range. The first time range is the time range between the time the user equipment receives the first information and the first time, and does not include the first time. The second time range includes the first time. The cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power-saving mode within the first time range. The user equipment in power-saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power-saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device but is not listening for paging information from the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0062] It should be noted that the possible implementation methods of the fifth aspect can be found in the description of the corresponding implementation methods of the communication methods introduced in the first to fourth aspects above, and will not be repeated here.

[0063] In a sixth aspect, a communication device is provided, including a processor. The processor is coupled to a memory and can be used to execute instructions or data in the memory to implement the method in any possible implementation of the first aspect described above. Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory. Optionally, the communication device further includes a communication interface, and the processor is coupled to the communication interface.

[0064] In one implementation, the communication interface may be a transceiver, or an input / output interface.

[0065] In another implementation, the communication device is a chip configured in a user equipment. When the communication device is a chip configured in a user equipment, the communication interface can be an input / output interface.

[0066] A seventh aspect provides a communication device including a processor. The processor is coupled to a memory and can be used to execute instructions or data in the memory to implement the methods in any possible implementation of the second or fourth aspect described above. Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory. Optionally, the communication device further includes a communication interface, and the processor is coupled to the communication interface.

[0067] In one implementation, the communication interface may be a transceiver, or an input / output interface.

[0068] In another implementation, the communication device is a chip configured in a first or third non-terrestrial network device. When the communication device is a chip configured in a first or third non-terrestrial network device, the communication interface can be an input / output interface.

[0069] Eighthly, a communication device is provided, including a processor. The processor is coupled to a memory and can be used to execute instructions or data in the memory to implement the method in any possible implementation of the third aspect described above. Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory. Optionally, the communication device further includes a communication interface, and the processor is coupled to the communication interface.

[0070] In one implementation, the communication interface may be a transceiver, or an input / output interface.

[0071] In another implementation, the communication device is a chip configured in a first ground station. When the communication device is a chip configured in the first ground station, the communication interface can be an input / output interface.

[0072] A ninth aspect provides a processor, comprising: an input circuit, an output circuit, and a processing circuit. The processing circuit is configured to receive signals through the input circuit and transmit signals through the output circuit, causing the processor to execute a method in any possible implementation of any aspect.

[0073] In specific implementation, the processor can be one or more chips, the input circuit can be input pins, the output circuit can be output pins, and the processing circuit can be transistors, gate circuits, flip-flops, and various logic circuits. The input signal received by the input circuit can be received and input by, for example, but not limited to, a receiver, and the signal output by the output circuit can be, for example, but not limited to, output to and transmitted by a transmitter. Furthermore, the input circuit and the output circuit can be the same circuit, which is used as both the input circuit and the output circuit at different times. This application does not limit the specific implementation of the processor and various circuits.

[0074] In a tenth aspect, a communication device is provided, including a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to read instructions stored in the memory to execute a method in any possible implementation of any of the preceding aspects.

[0075] Optionally, the processor may be one or more, and the memory may be one or more.

[0076] Eleventhly, a computer program product is provided, the computer program product comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions), which, when the computer program is run, causes a computer to perform the method in any possible implementation of any of the preceding aspects.

[0077] In a twelfth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores a computer program or instructions (also referred to as code) that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0078] In a thirteenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a chip system including one or more processors for calling and executing instructions stored in memory, causing the methods in any of the above aspects or any possible implementations of the above aspects to be executed. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0079] The chip system may include input circuits or interfaces for transmitting information or data, and output circuits or interfaces for receiving information or data.

[0080] In a fourteenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including the aforementioned user equipment and network equipment, such as user equipment, non-terrestrial network equipment, and ground stations. Optionally, the communication system may also include other devices that communicate with the user equipment and / or network equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0081] Figure 1 This application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0082] Figure 2 A signaling interaction diagram of a store-and-forward communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0083] Figure 3 A signaling interaction diagram for Phase 1 of a store-and-forward communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0084] Figure 4 A signaling interaction diagram for stage two of a store-and-forward communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0085] Figure 5 A signaling interaction diagram for stage three of a store-and-forward communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0086] Figure 6 Signaling interaction diagram for stage four of a store-and-forward communication method provided in this application embodiment;

[0087] Figure 7 Signaling interaction diagram for stage five of a store-and-forward-based communication method provided in this application embodiment;

[0088] Figure 8a A schematic diagram of the communication connection of a communication system at time T1, provided as an embodiment of this application;

[0089] Figure 8b A schematic diagram of the communication connection of a communication system at time T2, provided as an embodiment of this application;

[0090] Figure 8c A schematic diagram of the communication connection of a communication system at time T3, provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0091] Figure 8d A schematic diagram of the communication connection of a communication system at time T4, provided as an embodiment of this application;

[0092] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the communication connection of a communication system at various times, provided as an embodiment of this application;

[0093] Figure 10 A schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0094] Figure 11 Another schematic block diagram of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0095] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0096] The technical solution of this application can be applied to converged non-terrestrial network (NTN) systems and traditional mobile communication systems.

[0097] Non-terrestrial network systems can include satellite communication systems, high altitude platform station (HAPS) communication, air-to-ground (A2G) communication, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Examples include integrated communication and navigation (ICaN) systems and global navigation satellite systems (GNSS).

[0098] Mobile communication systems can be fourth-generation (4G) communication systems (e.g., long term evolution (LTE) systems), worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) communication systems, fifth-generation (5G) communication systems (e.g., new radio (NR) systems), and future mobile communication systems, etc.

[0099] In this application embodiment, one example of a communication system may be as follows: Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 It includes user equipment UE101, non-terrestrial network equipment 102, ground station 103 and core network 104.

[0100] It should be noted that this application does not limit the number of user equipment UE101, non-terrestrial network equipment 102, ground station 103 and core network 104. Figure 1 The image shows one user equipment (UE) 101, three non-terrestrial network devices 102, two ground stations 103, and one core network 104.

[0101] In the embodiments provided in this application, the UE can be of various forms, such as an Internet of Things (IoT) terminal, a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a computer with wireless transceiver capabilities, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal in industrial control, an in-vehicle terminal device, a wireless terminal in self-driving technology, a wireless terminal in remote medical care, a wireless terminal in a smart grid, a wireless terminal in transportation safety, a wireless terminal in a smart city, a wireless terminal in a smart home, a wearable terminal device, etc. The UE may also be referred to as a terminal, terminal device, access terminal device, in-vehicle terminal, industrial control terminal, UE unit, UE station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal device, mobile device, UE terminal device, wireless communication device, UE agent, or UE device, etc. A terminal device can also be a fixed terminal or a mobile terminal.

[0102] In the embodiments provided in this application, the non-terrestrial network equipment can be a non-terrestrial device on the network side used to provide network communication functions. For example, it can be a network-side device mounted on a satellite, or a satellite that has all or part of the functions of a base station. The satellite can refer to an evolved Node B (eNB or eNodeB) in LTE; or a base station in a 5G network or a future evolved public land mobile network (PLMN), a broadband network gateway (BNG), an aggregation switch or a non-3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) access device, an access network device or a module of an access network device in an open RAN (ORAN) system, etc. The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit this.

[0103] Satellites can also include various forms, such as: macro base stations, micro base stations (also known as small stations), relay stations, access points, next-generation base stations (gNodeB, gNB), baseband units (BBU), transmitting and receiving points (TRP), transmitting points (TP), mobile switching centers, etc. This application does not specifically limit these.

[0104] In the embodiments provided in this application, the ground station serves as a communication hub between the non-terrestrial network device and the ground. It can receive data from the core network and forward the data to the non-terrestrial network device. For example, the ground station may be a gateway station, which can receive downlink data from the UE sent by the core network, and then forward the UE's downlink data to the non-terrestrial network device. It should be noted that the gateway station is merely an example, and other types of ground stations may also be used; this application does not limit the specific type of ground station.

[0105] It should be noted that the uplink data of the UE refers to the data that the UE needs to send to the core network. In the communication system described above, it is the data that the UE sends to the non-terrestrial network device and then forwards to the core network through the ground station. In this embodiment, it is referred to as the uplink data of the UE.

[0106] It should be noted that the downlink data of the UE refers to the data that the core network needs to send to the UE. In the communication system described above, the core network sends data to the non-terrestrial network device through the ground station, and the non-terrestrial network device then forwards the data to the UE. In this embodiment, it is referred to as the downlink data of the UE.

[0107] In some embodiments, the downlink data of the UE can be response data to the uplink data of the UE. That is, the core network first receives the uplink data of the UE, and the core network processes the uplink data of the UE to obtain the downlink data of the UE.

[0108] In the embodiments provided in this application, the core network can be responsible for core functions such as data transmission, routing, switching, and session management. For example, the core network is responsible for transmitting downlink data of the UE.

[0109] The communication system described above can operate in store-and-forward mode. Store-and-forward mode means that during data transmission, the input end can temporarily store the data to be sent to the output end at an intermediate node until the intermediate node establishes a communication connection with the output end, at which point the intermediate node can forward the data to the output end.

[0110] In one example, the input can be the UE, the intermediate node can be a non-terrestrial network device such as a satellite, the output can be the core network, and the data can be the uplink data of the UE.

[0111] In one example, the input can be the core network, the intermediate nodes can be non-terrestrial network devices such as satellites, the output can be the UE, and the data can be the downlink data of the UE.

[0112] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, as... Figure 1 As shown, the communication method based on store-and-forward provided in this application embodiment is illustrated using a communication link of core network-ground station-non-terrestrial network equipment-user equipment as an example. The communication method based on store-and-forward provided in this application embodiment can also be applied to other communication links, and this application does not limit it.

[0113] It should be further explained that the above Figure 1 The communication system shown is merely an example; in practical applications, the communication system may include more advanced technologies. Figure 1 More numerous or more types of devices. This application does not limit the architecture of the communication system.

[0114] In practical applications, satellites move along their predetermined Earth orbits, and their cell range changes accordingly. When a satellite's cell covers a ground station, the satellite can establish a communication connection with the ground station. Through a feeder link, the satellite can receive and store downlink data from the UE transmitted by the ground station. As the satellite continues to move, if its cell still covers the UE, the UE can camp on that satellite's cell and continuously listen for paging messages from the satellite. Since the satellite has stored the UE's downlink data, it can page the UE and send paging messages. Once the UE hears the satellite's paging messages, it can receive the downlink data relayed by the satellite through a service link.

[0115] When a communication system has multiple satellites deployed, the store-and-forward mode is not limited to a specific satellite. For example, if the communication system has 5 satellites deployed, satellite 1 to satellite 5, the cells of 3 of these satellites can cover the UE during the movement of the UE, namely satellite 1 to satellite 3, but only satellite 3 stores the downlink data of the UE.

[0116] However, in order to prevent missing downlink data sent to the UE, the UE will camp and listen for paging when the cells of satellites 1-3 cover the UE. However, satellites 1 and 2 do not store the UE's downlink data. Therefore, these two satellites will not send paging to the UE, which will cause the UE to waste unnecessary power consumption and cause power loss to the UE.

[0117] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides a store-and-forward-based communication method aimed at reducing unnecessary power consumption by the UE and minimizing power loss. Specific details can be found in the following embodiments.

[0118] Example 1:

[0119] Next, combined Figure 2 This application introduces a store-and-forward-based communication method provided in its embodiments. The following description uses a UE as an example of a terminal device and a non-terrestrial network device as an example of a network device. However, the implementation of this application is not limited to these examples.

[0120] S101: The third non-terrestrial network device sends the first information to the UE, and the UE receives the first information accordingly.

[0121] It should be noted that the UE receiving first information from a third non-terrestrial network device is only an example. It can also be that the UE receives first information from other non-terrestrial network devices. This application does not limit this.

[0122] Next, let's introduce the first piece of information.

[0123] In this embodiment of the application, the first information refers to information used to indicate a first time.

[0124] In some embodiments, the first information may include information at a first time, that is, the first information may be at a first time.

[0125] In some embodiments, the first information may be the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0126] In this embodiment, taking the first non-terrestrial network device as the second satellite as an example, and the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device as the satellite identifier of the second satellite as an example, the UE can store the correspondence between satellite ephemeris data and satellite identifiers, as well as ephemeris data of multiple satellites. The ephemeris data can include information such as the satellite's position and velocity used to predict the satellite's movement trajectory. After obtaining the satellite identifier of the second satellite, the UE can determine the ephemeris data of the second satellite corresponding to that satellite identifier (also referred to as an example of the first data). Subsequently, the UE can calculate the cell coverage time of the second satellite based on the ephemeris data of the second satellite, thereby obtaining the first time (i.e., the time related to the cell coverage time of the second satellite mentioned later).

[0127] The correspondence between satellite ephemeris data and satellite identifiers stored in the UE, as well as the ephemeris data of multiple satellites, may be downloaded by the UE through the network, or broadcast by a terrestrial network device capable of communicating with the UE, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0128] Next, we will introduce how to send the first message.

[0129] In some embodiments, the system information block broadcast by a third non-terrestrial network device may include the first information.

[0130] S101 can be: The third non-terrestrial network device broadcasts a system information block within its own cell. Correspondingly, the UE receives the system information block, and then the UE can obtain the first information by parsing the system information block.

[0131] In some embodiments, the connection termination information sent by a third non-terrestrial network device to the UE may include the first information.

[0132] After the UE and the third non-terrestrial network device complete their interaction, they can disconnect. The third non-terrestrial network device can send a connection release (RRC release) message to the UE (also known as an example of the second message).

[0133] S101 can be: a third non-terrestrial network device sends connection termination information to the UE, and the UE receives the connection termination information. Subsequently, the UE can obtain the first information by parsing the connection termination information.

[0134] In this way, the first information can be carried in existing signaling such as system information blocks or connection termination information, eliminating the need for a third non-terrestrial network device to send signaling to the UE separately, thus saving signaling overhead.

[0135] In some embodiments, a third non-terrestrial network device may send the first information to the UE.

[0136] S101 can be: a third non-terrestrial network device sends first information to the UE, and the UE receives the first information accordingly.

[0137] Next, we'll introduce the first-hand information.

[0138] In some embodiments, the first time can be the time for the cell to cover the UE of the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0139] For example, the first time can be any time between the moment when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device begins to cover the UE and the moment when its cell leaves the UE.

[0140] Taking the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device begins to cover the UE as 3:00 and the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device leaves the UE as 4:00 as an example, the first time can be any time between [3:00, 4:00).

[0141] For example, the first time period can be a time period that is between the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device begins to cover the UE and the time when its cell leaves the UE, or the time period can be between the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device begins to cover the UE and the time when its cell leaves the UE.

[0142] Based on the example above, the first time can be [3:00, 3:30] or [3:00, 4:00]. This application does not limit the duration of the first time.

[0143] In some embodiments, the first time can be a time earlier than the cell coverage time of the first non-terrestrial network device for the UE.

[0144] For example, the first time can be any time before the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device begins to cover the UE, and any time after the time when the UE receives the first information.

[0145] Taking the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device begins to cover the UE as 3:00 and the time when the UE receives the first information as 2:00 as an example, the first time can be any time between (2:00 and 3:00).

[0146] For example, the first time can be a time period, which is the time period between the time when the UE receives the first information and the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device begins to cover the UE, or the time period is the time period between the time when the UE subsequently obtains the first time and the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device begins to cover the UE.

[0147] Based on the example above, the first time interval can be [2:45, 2:55], [2:50, 2:58], or (2:00, 3:00). This application does not limit the duration of the first time interval.

[0148] S102: Within the first time frame, the UE enters power saving mode.

[0149] The UE is in power-saving mode within the first time range.

[0150] The first time range refers to the time range between the time of receiving the first information and the first time, but the first time range does not include the first time.

[0151] In some embodiments, the time when the UE receives the first information can be either the moment when the UE receives the first information or the time period during which the UE receives the first time. Within this time period, the UE can receive the first information and obtain the first time based on the first information. The following description uses the moment when the UE receives the first information as an example, but this does not constitute a limitation.

[0152] Based on the example above, the first time can be a specific moment, and the first time range can be the time range between the moment when the UE receives the first information and the first time.

[0153] In one example, taking the UE receiving the first information at 2:00 and the first time at 2:30 as an example, the first time range can be (2:00, 2:30), or the first time range can be (2:00, 2:25), or the first time range can be (2:02, 2:30), or the first time range can be (2:02, 2:25), etc. This application does not limit this.

[0154] Based on the example above, the first time can be a time period, and the first time range can be the time range between the moment when the UE receives the first information and the moment in the first time.

[0155] In one example, the time in the first time can be the start time, middle time, or end time of the first time; this application does not limit this.

[0156] For example, the first time is [2:30, 2:40]. The time in the first time can be 2:30, 2:33 or 2:40, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0157] Taking the UE receiving the first information at 2:00 and the time in the first time as 2:33 as an example, the range of the first time can be (2:00, 2:33), or the range of the first time can be (2:00, 2:28), or the range of the first time can be (2:02, 2:33), or the range of the first time can be (2:03, 2:28), etc. This application does not limit this.

[0158] When a UE enters power saving mode, that is, when the UE is in power saving mode, if any non-terrestrial network device's cell covers the UE, the UE may not camp on that non-terrestrial network device, or the UE may camp on that non-terrestrial network device but not listen to the paging of that non-terrestrial network device.

[0159] In some embodiments, if the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers a UE in power-saving mode within a first time range, then the UE in power-saving mode does not camp on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the UE in power-saving mode camps on the second non-terrestrial network device but does not listen to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0160] For example, the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device can cover the UE at any time within the first time range, while the UE is in power-saving mode.

[0161] It should be noted that the second non-terrestrial network device can be one or more non-terrestrial network devices, and this application does not limit this.

[0162] In some embodiments, the UE may start a timer and enter power-saving mode based on a first time.

[0163] For example, once the UE obtains the first information and determines the moment to enter power-saving mode, it can start a timer and enter power-saving mode. The timer can continue running while the UE is in power-saving mode.

[0164] In some embodiments, when the UE communicates with a third non-terrestrial network device or other device, the UE may be in active mode. When the UE has not established a communication connection with any device, the UE may be in idle mode. In idle mode, the UE may perform operations such as cell camping on a non-terrestrial network device and paging to monitor a non-terrestrial network device.

[0165] Next, we will introduce the timing duration of the timer.

[0166] In some embodiments, the timer duration can be the duration during which the UE is in power-saving mode.

[0167] For example, the duration of the timer can be determined based on the time difference between the first time and the current time, so that when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the UE or before it covers the UE, the timer can time out, the UE can exit the power saving mode, and can camp on the first non-terrestrial network device and listen to the paging of the first non-terrestrial network device in a timely manner.

[0168] In the example where the first time is the exact moment, the timer duration can be obtained by subtracting the current time from the first time. For example, if the first time is 3:00 and the current time is 2:00, the timer duration can be calculated to be 1 hour, indicating that the UE needs to be in power-saving mode for 1 hour.

[0169] In examples where the first time is a time period, the timer duration can be obtained by subtracting the current time from the start time of the time period. For example, if the first time is [2:45, 2:55] and the current time is 2:00, the timer duration can be calculated to be 45 minutes, indicating that the UE needs to be in power-saving mode for 45 minutes.

[0170] It should be noted that, when the first time is a time period, the timer duration can also be obtained by subtracting the current time from the midpoint of the time period. This application does not impose restrictions on the time periods used, as long as the UE can exit power-saving mode promptly.

[0171] S103: Within the second time frame, the UE exits power saving mode.

[0172] In some embodiments, the second time range may include a first time.

[0173] For example, in the case where the first time is a moment, and the end time of the first time range is the first time (but not including the first time), the start time of the second time range can be the first time.

[0174] For example, if the first time is 2:30, the first time range can be (2:00, 2:30), and the second time range can be [2:30, 4:00].

[0175] For example, in the case where the first time is a moment, and the end time of the first time range is earlier than the first time, the start time of the second time range can also be a moment earlier than the first time.

[0176] For example, if the first time is 2:30, the first time range can be (2:00, 2:25), and the second time range can be [2:28, 4:00].

[0177] For example, in the case where the first time is a time period, and the end time of the first time range is the start time of the first time (but not including the first time), the start time of the second time range can be the start time of the first time.

[0178] For example, in the case where the first time is a time period, and the end time of the first time range is earlier than the first time, the start time of the second time range can also be earlier than the first time.

[0179] This allows the UE to exit power-saving mode beforehand, enabling it to prepare for establishing a communication connection with the first non-terrestrial network device, which helps improve the speed of the communication connection between the two.

[0180] In some embodiments, the UE can start a timer, and after the UE determines that the timer has expired, the UE can exit the power saving mode.

[0181] Based on the above description, the UE starts a timer. After the timer expires, the UE can exit the power saving mode.

[0182] In some embodiments, the UE can exit power saving mode and enter idle mode to prepare for establishing a communication connection with a first non-terrestrial network device.

[0183] S104: The first non-terrestrial network device sends downlink data to the UE, and correspondingly, the UE receives the downlink data within the third time range after the first time.

[0184] It should be understood that after the UE exits power saving mode, if the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device is covering the UE, or the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device is about to cover the UE, then the UE can establish a communication connection with the first non-terrestrial network device when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the UE (see the introduction on the establishment of a communication connection between the two in Stage 5 below, which will not be elaborated here). Subsequently, the first non-terrestrial network device can send downlink data to the UE, and the first non-terrestrial network device can receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0185] In some embodiments, the third time range can be a third time range after the first time and before the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device leaves the UE.

[0186] Based on the above introduction, taking 2:30 as the first time as an example, assuming that the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device is covering the UE, the UE in idle mode can camp on the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device and listen for the paging of the first non-terrestrial network device for the UE. Then, the first non-terrestrial network device can send paging to the UE. After the UE receives the paging, the first non-terrestrial network device can establish a communication connection with the UE. Subsequently, the first non-terrestrial network device can send downlink data to the UE, and the UE receives the downlink data accordingly.

[0187] Thus, within the initial timeframe before the first non-terrestrial network device sends downlink data to the UE, the UE can enter power-saving mode, eliminating the need to camp on the second non-terrestrial network device or listen for paging information from it. This reduces the UE's power consumption and minimizes power loss. Simultaneously, within the second timeframe, the UE can exit power-saving mode to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device, preventing the UE from missing downlink data and ensuring stable communication between the UE and other devices to promptly meet service requirements.

[0188] Example 2:

[0189] Next, with Figure 1 The communication system shown uses satellite as an example of non-terrestrial network equipment, combined with... Figures 3-9 This application provides a detailed description of the store-and-forward-based communication method provided in its embodiments.

[0190] In some embodiments, the store-and-forward-based communication method provided by this application may include the following stages: Stage 1 is a stage in which the core network sends satellite-related information to a first satellite (also referred to as an example of a third non-terrestrial network device); Stage 2 is a stage in which the UE sends uplink data to the first satellite and the first satellite sends relevant information of a second satellite (also referred to as an example of a first non-terrestrial network device) to the UE; Stage 3 is a stage in which the first satellite sends uplink data to the core network; Stage 4 is a stage in which the core network sends downlink data to the second satellite; and Stage 5 is a stage in which the second satellite sends downlink data to the UE.

[0191] Let's start with Phase One:

[0192] Combination Figure 3 The aforementioned stage, in which the core network transmits relevant satellite information to the first satellite, is described in detail. For example... Figure 3 As shown, Phase One may include the following steps:

[0193] S201: Ground station A for the cell coverage of the first satellite.

[0194] A satellite's cell coverage ground station can also be understood as a ground station entering the satellite's service area, or being covered by the satellite's service area, or entering an area where the satellite can provide services. The description of satellite cell coverage ground stations in the following text can be found in the explanation here, and will not be repeated here.

[0195] The first satellite moves continuously on its preset orbit. When the cell coverage of the first satellite is ground station A (also known as the first ground station), it indicates that the first satellite can establish a communication connection with ground station A. After the communication connection is established, the first satellite can receive data sent by ground station A, and ground station A can also receive data sent by the first satellite.

[0196] For example, ground station A can send a signal, and after the first satellite detects the signal from ground station A, the first satellite can confirm that its cell covers ground station A.

[0197] For example, the first satellite continuously moves in a preset Earth orbit, indicating that the cell of the first satellite is pre-calculated. Therefore, the first satellite can determine the time during which its cell covers ground station A. The first satellite can also notify ground station A of the calculated time in advance.

[0198] S202: The first satellite establishes a communication connection with ground station A.

[0199] In some embodiments, a physical layer and a data link layer connection can be established between the first satellite and ground station A to ensure that the two can transmit data.

[0200] S203: The core network sends relevant information about the satellite to the first satellite through ground station A, and the first satellite receives the relevant information about the satellite.

[0201] It should be understood that in a multi-satellite deployment scenario, one satellite may receive the UE's uplink data. After this satellite transmits the UE's uplink data to the core network, the core network processes the UE's uplink data to obtain response data, which becomes the UE's downlink data. The core network then transmits the UE's downlink data to another satellite. Alternatively, if the core network does not receive the UE's uplink data, it may proactively transmit the UE's downlink data to a satellite.

[0202] Based on the above, it indicates that for the UE, the store-and-forward mode is not limited to a specific satellite; that is, multiple satellites can interact with the UE. The UE cannot determine which satellite stores its required downlink data. Therefore, to prevent missing downlink data, if the UE has not established a service link with a satellite or other non-terrestrial network device, and a satellite cell covers the UE, the UE will access that satellite. For example, the UE will continuously camp on the satellite and listen for paging messages, even if the satellite does not store downlink data, resulting in wasted power consumption for the UE.

[0203] Therefore, in this embodiment, the core network can send satellite-related information to the first satellite with which it has established a communication connection, so that the next satellite that can provide services to the UE can be determined based on this information, thereby reducing the power consumption loss of the UE.

[0204] In this embodiment, the first satellite does not specifically refer to any one satellite; it can be any satellite that communicates with the core network via ground station A. Ground station A also does not specifically refer to any one ground station; it is the ground station that enables the first satellite to communicate with the core network.

[0205] In some embodiments, the satellite in the satellite-related information can be any satellite that can communicate with the core network through any ground station. Any satellite may include the first satellite or other satellites. Any ground station may include ground station A or other ground stations. This application does not limit this.

[0206] Next, we will introduce relevant information about the satellite.

[0207] In some examples, the relevant information about the satellite can be the satellite's identifier (also known as an example of the device identifier for non-terrestrial network devices).

[0208] Satellite identification refers to the information used to identify satellites and distinguish different satellites.

[0209] In one example, the relevant information about a satellite can be satellite identifiers corresponding to multiple satellites (in this example, the relevant information about a satellite can be referred to as third information).

[0210] For example, the multiple satellites can be satellites capable of establishing communication connections with any ground station. The multiple satellites include a second satellite, and correspondingly, the relevant information of the satellites includes the satellite identifier of the second satellite, as well as the satellite-related identifiers of the other satellites.

[0211] Any ground station refers to a ground station that can establish a communication connection with the core network.

[0212] In an example where the relevant information of a satellite can be satellite identifiers corresponding to multiple satellites, the core network may store satellite identifiers of satellites that have established or are capable of establishing communication connections with it. The core network can obtain the satellite identifiers corresponding to multiple satellites stored in its own storage and send them to the first satellite through ground station A.

[0213] In another example, the relevant information about a satellite could be the satellite identifier of a second satellite (in this example, the relevant information about a satellite could be referred to as the first information).

[0214] The second satellite can be any satellite that can communicate with the core network through any ground station and with the UE.

[0215] For example, the second satellite can be the first satellite, or it can be a different satellite from the first satellite.

[0216] In one possible implementation, when the UE has the UE's uplink data, the second satellite can be a satellite that can provide services to the core network and the UE sequentially after the first satellite has provided services to the UE and the core network (see the detailed introduction of phases two and three below). For example, it can be the next or subsequent multiple satellites that can provide services to the core network and the UE sequentially. This application does not limit the number of second satellites. The following example uses a second satellite as an example.

[0217] For example, the first satellite is SAT-A, and the second satellite is SAT-B. Time t2 is later than time t1, time t3 is later than time t2, and time t4 is later than time t3. The cell of the first satellite covers the UE at time t1, and it can communicate with the UE (e.g., SAT-A receives the UE's uplink data and sends relevant information about the second satellite to the UE). Subsequently, the cell of the first satellite moves away from the UE. Then, at time t2, the cell of the first satellite covers ground station 1, and it can communicate with the core network through ground station 1 (e.g., SAT-A sends the UE's uplink data to the core network through ground station 1). Next, at time t3, the cell of the second satellite covers ground station 2, and it can communicate with the core network through ground station 2 (e.g., SAT-B receives the UE's downlink data, which is obtained by the core network processing the UE's uplink data). Subsequently, the cell of the second satellite moves, and at time t4, it covers the UE, and it can communicate with the UE (e.g., SAT-B sends the UE's downlink data to the UE).

[0218] It should be noted that ground station 1 and ground station 2 can be the same ground station or different ground stations, and this application does not limit this.

[0219] In another possible implementation, if the core network does not receive the UE's uplink data, the core network may first actively send the UE's downlink data to the UE (that is, there is no need to execute S208 and S209 in the following embodiments, and there is no need to execute the steps of stage three). The second satellite may be a satellite that can provide services to the core network and the UE successively after the first satellite provides services to the UE. For example, the next or subsequent multiple satellites that can provide services to the core network and the UE successively. This application does not limit the number of second satellites.

[0220] For example, the first satellite is SAT-A, and the second satellite is SAT-B. Time t2 is later than time t1, and time t3 is later than time t2. The cell of the first satellite covers the UE at time t1, and it can communicate with the UE (e.g., SAT-A sends relevant information about the second satellite to the UE). Then, the cell of the second satellite covers ground station 1 at time t2, and it can communicate with the core network through ground station 1 (e.g., SAT-B receives downlink data from the UE, which is obtained by the core network processing the uplink data of the UE). Next, the cell of the second satellite covers the UE at time t3, and it can communicate with the UE (e.g., SAT-B sends downlink data to the UE).

[0221] In an example where the satellite's relevant information can be the satellite identifier corresponding to the second satellite, the core network can store the correspondence between satellite identifiers and ephemeris data, and the core network stores multiple satellite identifiers and multiple ephemeris data. For each satellite identifier, the core network can determine the corresponding ephemeris data (also called the second data). Subsequently, the core network can calculate the satellite's trajectory based on the ephemeris data, and then determine the second satellite based on the trajectory of each satellite.

[0222] The ephemeris data contains a set of parameters describing the satellite's trajectory, which may include, but is not limited to, information such as the satellite's position and velocity.

[0223] In other embodiments, the relevant information about the satellite can be time related to the cell coverage time of the UE by the second satellite.

[0224] In this example, the satellite's relevant information can be referred to as the first information, and the time related to the cell coverage UE time of the second satellite can be referred to as the first time. In other words, the first information includes the information of the first time.

[0225] It should be noted that for an introduction to the first-hand situation, please refer to the introduction on the first-hand situation in S101, which will not be repeated here.

[0226] In the example where the first information includes the first time information, the core network may store a correspondence between satellite identifiers and ephemeris data, and the core network may store multiple satellite identifiers and multiple ephemeris data. For each satellite identifier, the core network can determine the corresponding ephemeris data. Subsequently, the core network can calculate the satellite's movement trajectory based on the ephemeris data. Then, based on the movement trajectory of each satellite, it can determine the time when the second satellite's cell covers the UE, and finally determine the first time described above.

[0227] Then we move on to Phase Two:

[0228] Combination Figure 4 The aforementioned stages of the UE transmitting its uplink data to the first satellite and the first satellite transmitting relevant information from the second satellite to the UE are described in detail. For example... Figure 4 As shown, stage two may include the following steps:

[0229] S204: The first satellite determines the relevant information of the second satellite based on the relevant information of the first satellite.

[0230] It should be noted that S204 is an optional execution step. In examples where the relevant information of the satellite can be the satellite identifiers corresponding to multiple satellites, that is, in examples where the relevant information of the satellite can be called third information, this step can be executed; in examples where the relevant information of the satellite can be the satellite identifier of a second satellite, or can be the time when the cell of the second satellite covers the UE, that is, in examples where the relevant information of the satellite can be called first information, this step does not need to be executed.

[0231] In some embodiments, based on the above description, the relevant information of the second satellite can be the satellite identifier of the second satellite, or it can be time related to the UE time of cell coverage by the second satellite. In this example, the relevant information of the second satellite can be referred to as the first information.

[0232] It should be noted that the method by which the first satellite determines the relevant information of the second satellite based on the relevant information of the first satellite can be found in the implementation method of the core network determining the relevant information of the second satellite based on the satellite identifiers corresponding to multiple satellites, which will not be repeated here.

[0233] The difference is that the first satellite can store the correspondence between satellite identifiers and ephemeris data, and the first satellite stores ephemeris data corresponding to multiple satellites respectively.

[0234] In some embodiments, the ephemeris data corresponding to the multiple satellites stored in the first satellite may be broadcast by a ground station capable of communicating with the first satellite, or downloaded by the first satellite via a network, or obtained by the first satellite through communication with other satellites. This application does not limit the scope of the data.

[0235] S205: The first satellite broadcasts a system information block within its own cell, and the corresponding UE receives the system information block.

[0236] In some embodiments, the system information block may be system information block 19. The first satellite may include system information block 19 (SIB19 for short). SIB19 contains information for configuring the interaction between the first satellite and the UE so that the UE can correctly access and use the services provided by the first satellite.

[0237] For example, the system information block may include a communication mode.

[0238] In one example, the first satellite can provide the UE with a store-and-forward communication mode, and the system information block broadcast by the first satellite can carry information indicating that the communication mode is store-and-forward.

[0239] In some embodiments, the system information block may include information about the second satellite. The first satellite may carry information about the second satellite in the system information block.

[0240] S206: In response to receiving the system information block broadcast by the first satellite, the UE camps on the cell of the first satellite and listens for paging.

[0241] In some embodiments, the cell of the first satellite moves with the movement of the first satellite. When the cell of the first satellite covers the UE, it indicates that the two can communicate and send and receive data. The first satellite broadcasts system information blocks within its own cell, and the UE can receive the system information blocks broadcast by the first satellite.

[0242] After receiving the system information block, the UE can determine that the first satellite can provide store-and-forward services in store-and-forward mode by parsing the system information block.

[0243] S207: The UE establishes a communication connection with the first satellite.

[0244] In some embodiments, the UE may camp on the cell of the first satellite and listen for whether the first satellite sends paging messages to itself.

[0245] For example, the UE can send an access request to the first satellite to request access to the first satellite. After the UE successfully accesses the first satellite, the UE can obtain the paging configuration based on the system message broadcast by the first satellite. Subsequently, the UE can enter the listening state based on the paging configuration and listen to whether the first satellite sends paging for itself through the paging channel.

[0246] In some embodiments, the UE has uplink data that needs to be sent to the core network, and the UE can actively establish a communication connection with the first satellite.

[0247] For example, the UE can first search for available satellites. For instance, after finding the first satellite on a specific channel (i.e., receiving the system information block broadcast by the first satellite), the UE can send an access request to the first satellite. After receiving the access request, the first satellite can allocate resources and respond to the UE, and the two establish a communication connection.

[0248] The communication connection established between the UE and the first satellite can be a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection, and this application does not limit this.

[0249] In some embodiments, the uplink data of the UE may include application data packets. For example, the uplink data of the UE may include web browsing data, video streaming data, voice call data, etc.

[0250] In some embodiments, the uplink data of the UE may also include session management information, security-related parameters, etc., and this application does not limit this.

[0251] It should be noted that this application does not limit the type and content of the UE's uplink data.

[0252] S208: The UE sends its uplink data to the first satellite, and the first satellite receives the uplink data from the UE.

[0253] The UE sends its uplink data to the first satellite through the RRC connection established with the first satellite.

[0254] S209: The first satellite stores the UE's uplink data.

[0255] After receiving the uplink data from the UE, the first satellite can save it so that it can send the UE's uplink data to the core network when communicating with the core network later.

[0256] It should be noted that the UE can send its uplink data to the first satellite multiple times, and correspondingly, the first satellite can store the UE's uplink data multiple times. This application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0257] It should be noted that S208 and S209 are optional execution steps.

[0258] In the case where the UE does not have the UE's uplink data, the second satellite can be an example of a satellite that can provide services to the core network and the UE sequentially after the first satellite provides services to the UE. That is, the first satellite only needs to send the relevant information of the second satellite to the UE through S206, S210 or other means, without executing S208 and S209.

[0259] In the case where the UE has the UE's uplink data, the second satellite can be an example of a satellite that can provide services to the core network and the UE sequentially after the first satellite has provided services to the UE and the core network. S208 and S209 are executed.

[0260] S210: The first satellite sends a connection termination message to the UE, and the UE receives the connection termination message accordingly.

[0261] In some embodiments, after the UE has finished sending its uplink data to the first satellite, the two can disconnect, and the first satellite can send a disconnection message to the UE.

[0262] As described in S205 above, the system information block may include information about the second satellite. It should be noted that the inclusion of information about the second satellite in the system information block is merely an example, and this application does not limit its scope.

[0263] Furthermore, in some embodiments, if the system information block does not carry information about the second satellite, the first satellite may send connection termination information carrying information about the second satellite to the UE.

[0264] In addition, in some embodiments, if the system information block does not carry information about the second satellite and the connection termination information does not carry information about the second satellite, the first satellite may send information about the second satellite to the UE separately.

[0265] This application does not impose any restrictions on the method of transmitting relevant information of the second satellite.

[0266] It should be noted that this application does not impose any restrictions on the execution order of S204; it only needs to be executed after S203 and before S210. Similarly, this application does not impose any restrictions on the execution order of the first satellite sending relevant information about the second satellite to the UE; it only needs to be executed after S204 and no later than S210.

[0267] S211: The UE determines the time related to the cell coverage time of the second satellite based on the relevant information of the second satellite.

[0268] The UE can parse the relevant information about the second satellite from the system information block.

[0269] The UE can parse the connection termination information to obtain the relevant information about the second satellite from the connection termination information.

[0270] It should be noted that S211 is an optional execution step. Based on the above description, the relevant information of the second satellite may include the satellite identifier of the second satellite, or it may include time related to the UE's time of cell coverage by the second satellite. In the example where the relevant information of the second satellite includes the satellite identifier of the second satellite, the UE may execute S211; in the example where the relevant information of the second satellite includes time related to the UE's time of cell coverage by the second satellite, the UE does not need to execute S211.

[0271] It should be noted that, taking the satellite identifier of the second satellite as an example, the UE determines the time related to the cell coverage time of the second satellite based on the satellite identifier of the second satellite. This can be seen in the implementation method described in S101, where the first information is the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device, and the UE determines the first time based on the first information. This will not be repeated here.

[0272] S212: The UE starts a timer and enters power-saving mode based on the time related to the cell coverage time of the second satellite.

[0273] In some embodiments, when the UE is in communication connection with the first satellite, the UE can be in active mode. After the UE disconnects from the first satellite and does not establish communication connection with other satellites or other devices, the UE can be in idle mode. In idle mode, the UE can perform operations such as residing on the satellite and paging to monitor the satellite.

[0274] In some embodiments, after the UE determines the time related to the cell coverage time of the second satellite, it can start a timer to enter a power-saving mode.

[0275] In power-saving mode, the UE can perform only the operation of residing on the satellite and not perform the paging operation of listening to the satellite, or it can not perform the operation of residing on the satellite and paging of listening to the satellite.

[0276] It should be noted that the implementation method of S212 can be found in the relevant introduction in S102, which states that the UE can start the timer and enter the power saving mode based on the first time. It will not be repeated here.

[0277] Furthermore, if the UE has uplink data, Phase Two can also be divided into two phases (Phase Two-1 and Phase Two-2). Phase Two-1 is the phase where the UE sends its uplink data to the fourth satellite (also known as an example of a fourth non-terrestrial network device), and Phase Two-2 is the phase where the first satellite sends relevant information about the second satellite to the UE. After completing Phase One, Phase Two-1 and Phase Two-2 can be executed, followed by Phase Three.

[0278] Phase 2-1 allows the fourth satellite to perform the operations described above in S204-210 performed by the first satellite. The difference is that when the fourth satellite performs S205 and S210, the system information block and connection termination information do not carry any information related to the second satellite.

[0279] Phase 2-2 can be S204-S207 and S210-212 as described above.

[0280] Based on the above description, when the UE has uplink data, it is possible that the same satellite receives the uplink data of the UE and sends the relevant information of the second satellite to the UE, and the fourth satellite is the same satellite as the first satellite; or it is possible that one satellite receives the uplink data of the UE and another satellite sends the relevant information of the second satellite to the UE, and the fourth satellite is a different satellite from the first satellite.

[0281] Phase Three:

[0282] Combination Figure 5 The aforementioned stage, in which the first satellite transmits uplink data of the UE to the core network, will be described in detail. For example... Figure 5 As shown, stage three may include the following steps:

[0283] S213: Ground station B covering the cell of the first satellite.

[0284] S214: The first satellite establishes a communication connection with ground station B.

[0285] It should be noted that the specific implementation methods of S213-S214 can be found in S201-S202, and will not be repeated here.

[0286] It should be emphasized that ground station A and ground station B can be the same ground station or different ground stations, and this application does not limit this.

[0287] In some embodiments, ground station B may be the first ground station covered during the cell movement of the first satellite after the first satellite disconnects from the UE.

[0288] S215: The first satellite sends the UE's uplink data and the satellite identifier of the second satellite to the core network through ground station B. Correspondingly, the core network receives the UE's uplink data and the satellite identifier of the second satellite.

[0289] In some embodiments, the UE's uplink data may include, in addition to the data described in the examples above, the UE's device identifier, which can be used to distinguish different UEs so that the core network can determine the UE's device identity.

[0290] Based on the above description, the satellite identifier of the second satellite can be used to identify the second satellite. This allows the core network to determine whether the downlink data of the UE needs to be sent to the second satellite with that satellite identifier.

[0291] This avoids the situation where the core network sends the UE's downlink data to satellites other than the second satellite, ensuring that the UE receives the UE's downlink data.

[0292] It should be noted that in examples where S208 and S209 are not executed, and the relevant information of the satellite is the satellite identifier of the second satellite or the time related to the UE time of the cell coverage of the second satellite, it is not necessary to execute S213-S215 of Phase 3.

[0293] In an example where S208 and S209 are not executed and the satellite information consists of satellite identifiers corresponding to multiple satellites, steps S213 and S214 of phase three, as well as step S215 in which the first satellite sends the satellite identifier of the second satellite to the core network via ground station B, can be executed.

[0294] In the example where S208 and S209 are executed, and the relevant information of the satellite is the satellite identifier of the second satellite or the time related to the cell coverage time of the second satellite, the steps of S213 and S214 in phase three and the step of sending the uplink data of the UE to the core network through ground station B in S215 can be executed.

[0295] Phase Four:

[0296] Combination Figure 6 The aforementioned stage, in which the core network transmits downlink data of the UE to the second satellite, is described in detail. For example... Figure 6 As shown, stage four may include the following steps:

[0297] S216: Ground station C for cell coverage of the second satellite.

[0298] S217: The second satellite establishes a communication connection with ground station C.

[0299] It should be noted that the implementation methods of S216-S217 can be found in the introduction of S201-S202, and will not be repeated here.

[0300] It should be emphasized that ground station C can be the same ground station as ground station B, or the same ground station as ground station A, or ground station C can be different from both ground station A and ground station B.

[0301] In some embodiments, ground station C may be the first ground station covered by the second satellite during cell movement after the core network has downlink data from the UE.

[0302] In some embodiments, ground station C can be the first ground station covered by the second satellite during cell movement after the first satellite sends uplink data of the UE to the core network through ground station B, and the core network processes the uplink data of the UE to obtain downlink data of the UE.

[0303] S218: The core network sends the UE's downlink data to the second satellite through ground station C, and the second satellite receives the UE's downlink data.

[0304] In some embodiments, steps S208, S209, and S215 may be performed whereby the first satellite sends the UE's uplink data to the core network via ground station B. After receiving the UE's uplink data, the core network may process it to obtain response data as the UE's downlink data. In other words, the UE's downlink data may be the response data of the UE's uplink data.

[0305] Downlink data for the UE refers to the data that needs to be sent from the core network and other network sides to the UE.

[0306] In the example where the UE's uplink data may include application data packets, the UE's downlink data may be application-related data for the UE, such as data or resources requested for the UE's uplink data.

[0307] In examples where the UE's uplink data may include session management information and security-related parameters, the UE's downlink data may also be control data used to control the UE.

[0308] It should be noted that this application does not limit the type and content of the downlink data of the UE.

[0309] In other embodiments, the core network may have the UE's downlink data without performing the steps S208, S209, and S215 where the first satellite sends the UE's uplink data to the core network via ground station B.

[0310] In some embodiments, the core network can establish a communication connection with ground station C via a wired or wireless link to enable data transmission between the two. Ground station C can be responsible for transmitting downlink data of the UE sent by the core network to the second satellite.

[0311] Based on the above introduction, the core network has previously received the satellite identifier of the second satellite or has already stored the satellite identifier of the second satellite. Therefore, when the core network communicates with the second satellite through ground station C, it can send the downlink data of the UE to the second satellite.

[0312] S219: The core network sends relevant satellite information to the second satellite through ground station C, and the second satellite receives the relevant satellite information accordingly.

[0313] It should be noted that the implementation of S219 can be found in S203, and will not be repeated here.

[0314] Phase Five:

[0315] Combination Figure 7 The aforementioned stage of the second satellite transmitting downlink data to the UE will be described in detail.

[0316] like Figure 7 As shown, stage five may include the following steps:

[0317] S220: The second satellite determines the relevant information of the third satellite based on the relevant information of the satellite.

[0318] It should be noted that the implementation of S220 can be found in the introduction of S204, and will not be repeated here.

[0319] For details on the third satellite, please refer to the descriptions of the second satellite in S203 and S204.

[0320] The third satellite can be any satellite that can communicate with the core network through any ground station and with the UE.

[0321] For example, the third satellite can be the second satellite, the first satellite, or a satellite different from both the second and first satellites.

[0322] In one possible implementation, when the UE has the UE's uplink data, the third satellite can be a satellite that can provide services to the core network and the UE sequentially after the second satellite has provided services to the UE and the core network. For example, it can be the next or subsequent multiple satellites that can provide services to the core network and the UE sequentially. This application does not limit the number of third satellites.

[0323] It should be noted that ground station 1 and ground station 2 can be the same ground station or different ground stations, and this application does not limit this.

[0324] In another possible implementation, if the UE does not have the UE's uplink data, the third satellite can be a satellite that can provide services to the core network and the UE successively after the second satellite provides services to the UE. For example, it can be the next or subsequent multiple satellites that can provide services to the core network and the UE successively. This application does not limit the number of third satellites.

[0325] S221: The UE determines that the timer has expired and exits the power saving mode.

[0326] Based on the above description, the UE starts a timer. After the timer expires, the UE can exit the power saving mode.

[0327] In some embodiments, the UE can enter idle mode to prepare for establishing a communication connection with a second satellite.

[0328] It should be noted that this application does not limit the execution order of S221; this step can be executed when the timer times out.

[0329] It should be noted that the implementation of S221 can be found in the implementation of S103 described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0330] S222: The second satellite broadcasts system information blocks within its own cell.

[0331] S223: In response to receiving the system information block broadcast by the second satellite, the UE camps on the cell of the second satellite and listens for paging.

[0332] It should be noted that the implementation methods of S222-S223 can be found in the introduction of S205-S206, and will not be repeated here.

[0333] S224: The second satellite sends paging to the UE, and the UE receives the paging accordingly.

[0334] The second satellite stores downlink data that needs to be sent to the UE. After the UE successfully accesses the second satellite, the second satellite can send paging to the UE through the paging channel.

[0335] S225: The UE responds to the paging sent to it by the second satellite and establishes a communication connection with the second satellite.

[0336] The UE detects a paging message sent to it by a second satellite via the paging channel. For example, the paging message may include a device identifier. If the UE detects the paging message and confirms that the device identifier it includes is the same as its own device identifier, the UE can determine that it has detected a paging message sent to it by a second satellite, and thus determine that the second satellite has stored downlink data that needs to be sent to it.

[0337] After the UE receives the paging message sent to it by the second satellite, it can establish a communication connection with the second satellite.

[0338] S226: The second satellite sends the UE's downlink data to the UE, and the UE receives the UE's downlink data accordingly.

[0339] After the UE establishes a communication connection with the second satellite, it can receive downlink data sent by the second satellite to the UE.

[0340] It should be noted that the implementation method of S226 can be found in the introduction of the implementation method of S104, and will not be repeated here.

[0341] S227: The second satellite sends a connection termination message to the UE, and the UE receives the connection termination message accordingly.

[0342] It should be noted that the implementation of S227 can be found in the description of S210, and will not be repeated here.

[0343] Next, taking a communication system comprising a core network 804, three ground stations 8031-8034, one UE 801, and four satellites 8021-8024 as an example, as follows... Figures 8a-8d As shown. These three ground stations can be referred to as Ground Station 1 through Ground Station 3, and these four satellites 8021 through 8024 can be referred to as SAT1 through SAT4, where the first satellite can be SAT1, the second satellite can be SAT3, and so on. The following can be combined with... Figure 9 As shown.

[0344] like Figure 8a As shown, at time T1, the cell of SAT1 (the example of the first satellite mentioned above) covers the UE, and a communication connection has been established between them, meaning there is a service link between them. At time T1, the UE can send its uplink data to SAT1. Subsequently, SAT1 can store the UE's uplink data. At time T1, SAT2 and SAT3 do not have a link, meaning they have not established a communication connection with any ground station or any UE. At time T1, SAT4 has established a communication connection with ground station 3, meaning there is a feeder link between them. Subsequently, SAT1-SAT4 continue to move according to their respective trajectories.

[0345] like Figure 8b As shown, at time T2, which is later than time T1, SAT1's cell covers ground station 1 (the example of ground station B above). A communication link has been established between the two, meaning they have a feeder link. SAT1 can send the stored UE uplink data to the core network via ground station 1. The corresponding core network can then process the uplink data to obtain the UE's downlink data. At time T2, SAT2's cell covers the UE. SAT2, SAT3, and SAT4 do not have a link; that is, none of them have established a communication link with any ground station or any UE. Subsequently, SAT1-SAT4 continue moving according to their respective trajectories.

[0346] like Figure 8c As shown, at time T3, which is later than time T2, SAT3 (the example of the second satellite mentioned above) has established a communication connection with ground station 2 (the example of ground station C mentioned above), meaning there is a feeder link between them. The core network can then send the UE's downlink data to SAT3 via ground station 2. At time T2, SAT1, SAT2, and SAT4 do not have a link; that is, none of them have established a communication connection with any ground station or any UE. Subsequently, SAT1-SAT4 continue to move according to their respective trajectories.

[0347] like Figure 8d As shown, at time T4, which is later than time T3, SAT3's cell covers the UE, and the two have established a communication connection, meaning they have a service link. At time T4, SAT3 can send downlink data to the UE. At time T4, SAT1 and SAT2 do not have a link, meaning they have not established a communication connection with either ground station or UE. At time T4, SAT4 has established a communication connection with ground station 2, meaning they have a feeder link.

[0348] Therefore, in this embodiment, the preceding satellite can provide the UE with relevant information about subsequent satellites. This allows the UE to enter power-saving mode before the subsequent satellite's cell covers it, eliminating the need to camp on the satellite and listen for satellite paging, or even to listen for satellite paging. This reduces unnecessary power consumption by the UE and lowers power loss. Simultaneously, when the subsequent satellite's cell covers the UE, it can exit power-saving mode to avoid missing downlink data, ensuring stable communication between the UE and the core network and timely meeting service requirements.

[0349] This application also provides a communication device. For example... Figure 10 As shown, this figure is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0350] The communication device 1000 may include a transceiver module 1020. The transceiver module 1020 can implement corresponding communication functions, which can be internal communication functions of the communication device 1000 or communication functions between the communication device 1000 and other devices. Optionally, the transceiver module 1020 may also be referred to as a communication interface, transceiver unit, or communication module.

[0351] Optionally, the communication device 1000 further includes a processing module 1010. The processing module 1010 can perform corresponding processing functions.

[0352] Optionally, the communication device 1000 further includes a storage module, which can be used to store instructions and / or data; the processing module 1010 can read the instructions and / or data in the storage module so that the communication device 1000 can implement the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0353] In one possible design, the communication device 1000 may correspond to the user equipment in the above embodiments, or to a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the user equipment. The communication device 1000 may be used to perform the steps or processes performed by the user equipment in any of the above method embodiments.

[0354] For example, the transceiver module 1020 of the user equipment is used to receive first information; the processing module 1010 of the user equipment is used to enter power saving mode within a first time range; the processing module 1010 of the user equipment is used to exit power saving mode within a second time range; and the transceiver module 1020 of the user equipment is used to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time range.

[0355] Wherein, the first information indicates the first time; the first time range is the time range between the time of receiving the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers user equipment in power saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device and is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device; the second time range includes the first time.

[0356] In one possible design, the communication device 1000 may correspond to the third non-terrestrial network device in the above embodiments, or a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the third non-terrestrial network device. The communication device 1000 may be used to perform the steps or processes performed by the third non-terrestrial network device in any of the above method embodiments.

[0357] For example, the transceiver module 1020 of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to send first information to the user equipment; the processing module 1010 of the third non-terrestrial network device is used to obtain the first information.

[0358] Wherein, the first information indicates the first time; the user equipment processing module 1010 is used to enter the power saving mode within the first time range; the user equipment processing module 1010 is used to exit the power saving mode within the second time range; the user equipment transceiver module 1020 is used to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within the third time range after the first time.

[0359] The first time range is the time range between the time when the user equipment receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device and is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0360] In one possible design, the communication device 1000 may correspond to the first ground station in the above embodiments, or to a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the first ground station. The communication device 1000 may be used to perform the steps or processes performed by the first ground station in any of the above method embodiments.

[0361] For example, the transceiver module 1020 of the first ground station is used to send first information to a third non-terrestrial network device, or to send third information to a third non-terrestrial network device; the processing module 1010 of the first ground station is used to obtain the first information or the third information.

[0362] The third non-terrestrial network device processing module 1010 is used to determine the first information based on the third information; the third information includes device identifiers of multiple non-terrestrial network devices; the multiple non-terrestrial network devices include the first non-terrestrial network device;

[0363] The transceiver module 1020 of the user equipment is used to receive first information from the third non-terrestrial network device, the first information indicating a first time; the processing module 1010 of the user equipment is used to enter power saving mode within the first time range; the processing module 1010 of the user equipment is used to exit power saving mode within a second time range; the processing module 1010 of the user equipment is used to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time.

[0364] The first time range is the time range between the time when the user equipment receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device and is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0365] In one possible design, the communication device 1000 may correspond to the first non-terrestrial network device in the above embodiments, or to a component (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) configured in the first non-terrestrial network device. The communication device 1000 may be used to perform the steps or processes performed by the first non-terrestrial network device in any of the above method embodiments.

[0366] For example, the transceiver module 1020 of the first non-terrestrial network device is used to send downlink data to the user equipment within a third time range after the first time; the processing module 1010 of the first non-terrestrial network device is used to acquire the downlink data.

[0367] The user equipment's transceiver module 1020 is used to receive first information from a third non-terrestrial network device, the first information indicating a first time; the user equipment's processing module 1010 is used to enter power-saving mode within the first time range; the user equipment's processing module 1010 is used to exit power-saving mode within a second time range.

[0368] The first time range is the time range between the time when the user equipment receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device and is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0369] The above are merely examples; for detailed steps or procedures, please refer to the descriptions in the foregoing embodiments.

[0370] Figure 11 This is another schematic block diagram of the communication device 1100 provided in the embodiments of this application. The communication device 1100 may be a chip, chip system, or processor, etc., in the transmitting or receiving end that implements the above-described methods. The communication device 1100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0371] like Figure 11As shown, the communication device 1100 may include one or more processors 1110, which may also be referred to as processing units or processing modules, and can implement certain control functions. The processor 1110 may be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the central processing unit can be used to control the communication device 1100 (e.g., a base station, baseband chip, user, user chip), execute software programs, and process data from the software programs.

[0372] In an alternative design, the processor 1110 may also store instructions and / or data, which can be executed by the processor 1110 to cause the communication device 1100 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments.

[0373] In another alternative design, the communication device 1100 may include a communication interface 1120 for implementing receiving and transmitting functions. For example, the communication interface 1120 may be a transceiver circuit, interface, interface circuit, or transceiver. The transceiver circuit, interface, interface circuit, or transceiver for implementing receiving and transmitting functions may be separate or integrated. The aforementioned transceiver circuit, interface, interface circuit, or transceiver may be used for reading and writing code / data, or it may be used for transmitting or relaying signals.

[0374] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may include one or more memories 1130, which may store instructions that can be executed on the processor 1110, causing the communication device 1100 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments. Optionally, the memories 1130 may also store data. Optionally, the processor 1110 may also store instructions and / or data. The processor 1110 and the memories 1130 may be provided separately or integrated together.

[0375] It should be understood that, in one possible design, the steps in the method embodiments provided in this application can be implemented by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software form. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly implemented by a hardware processor, or implemented by a combination of hardware and software modules in the processor. The software modules can reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. This storage medium is located in memory, and the processor reads information from the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method. To avoid repetition, detailed descriptions are not provided here.

[0376] In one implementation, the communication device 1100 may correspond to the terminal device in the above method embodiments, and may be used to execute the various steps and / or processes executed by the terminal device in the above method embodiments. The processor 1110 may be used to execute instructions stored in the memory 1130, and when the processor 1110 executes the instructions stored in the memory, the processor 1110 is used to execute the various steps and / or processes of the above method embodiments corresponding to the terminal device.

[0377] In another implementation, the communication device 1100 may correspond to the network device in the above method embodiments and may be used to execute the various steps and / or processes executed by the network device in the above method embodiments. The processor 1110 may be used to execute instructions stored in the memory 1130, and when the processor 1110 executes the instructions stored in the memory, the processor 1110 is used to execute the various steps and / or processes of the above method embodiments corresponding to the network device.

[0378] It should be understood that the aforementioned processing device can be one or more chips. For example, the processing device can be a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system-on-chip (SoC), a central processor unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), a digital signal processor (DSP), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a programmable logic device (PLD), or other integrated chips.

[0379] It is understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0380] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a computer, can implement one or more steps of any of the above communication methods.

[0381] Computer-readable storage media can be non-transitory computer-readable storage media, such as ROM, random access memory (RAM), CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage devices.

[0382] Another embodiment of this application provides a computer program product containing instructions. When executed by a computer, this computer program product can implement one or more steps of any of the above-described communication methods.

[0383] The electronic device, computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product provided in this embodiment are all used to execute the corresponding communication method provided above. Therefore, the beneficial effects they can achieve can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding communication method provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0384] In the embodiments of this application, the terms and English abbreviations are exemplary examples given for ease of description and should not be construed as limiting the application in any way. This application does not preclude the possibility of defining other terms that can achieve the same or similar functions in existing or future agreements.

[0385] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. A computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the flow or function according to the embodiments of this application is generated.

[0386] 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.

[0387] It should be understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the sequence number of each process does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0388] In summary, the above are merely preferred embodiments of the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

[0389] The terms "first," "second," and "third," etc., used in this application specification, claims, and drawings are used to distinguish different objects, not to limit a specific order.

[0390] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of the terms "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0391] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A communication method based on store-and-forward, characterized in that, Applied to user equipment, including: Receive the first information; the first information indicates the first time; Enter power-saving mode immediately. Wherein, the first time range is the time range between the time of receiving the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device and is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device. Within a second time frame, exit power saving mode; the second time frame includes the first time frame. Within a third time period following the first time period, downlink data is received from the first non-terrestrial network device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first information includes the information from the first time.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first information includes the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device, and the method further includes: Based on the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device, first data of the first non-terrestrial network device is obtained; the first data is used to indicate the movement trajectory of the first non-terrestrial network device. Based on the first data, the first time is determined.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The first time is the time during which the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The first time is the time earlier than the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the first time, a timer is started; the duration of the timer is the time difference between the first time and the current time. The method further includes: determining when the timer times out.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The receiving of the first information includes: Receive the first message from the third non-terrestrial network device.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The receipt of the first information from the third non-terrestrial network device includes: Receive a system information block from the third non-terrestrial network device; the system information block includes the first information.

9. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The receipt of the first information from the third non-terrestrial network device includes: The system receives second information from the third non-terrestrial network device; the second information includes the first information, and the second information is used to instruct the third non-terrestrial network device to disconnect from the user equipment.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Uplink data is sent to a fourth non-terrestrial network device; the downlink data is the response data to the uplink data.

11. A communication method based on store-and-forward, characterized in that, Applications to third-party non-terrestrial network devices include: Send the first message to the user equipment; Wherein, the first information indicates a first time; the user equipment is used to enter power-saving mode within the first time range; the user equipment is used to exit power-saving mode within a second time range; the user equipment is used to receive downlink data from a first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time; The first time range is the time range between the time when the user equipment receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device and is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first information includes the information from the first time.

13. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first information includes the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device, and the user equipment is used to determine the first time based on the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The first time is the time during which the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The first time is the time earlier than the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11-15, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the first message from the first ground station.

17. The method according to any one of claims 11-15, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive third information from a first ground station; the third information includes device identifiers of multiple non-terrestrial network devices; the multiple non-terrestrial network devices include the first non-terrestrial network device; Based on the device identifiers of the plurality of non-terrestrial network devices, second data of the plurality of non-terrestrial network devices is obtained; the second data is used to indicate the movement trajectory of the plurality of non-terrestrial network devices. Based on the second data, the first information is determined.

18. The method according to any one of claims 11-17, characterized in that, Sending the first information to the user equipment includes: Send a system information block to the user equipment; the system information block includes the first information.

19. The method according to any one of claims 11-17, characterized in that, Sending the first information to the user equipment includes: Send a second message to the user equipment; the second message includes the first message, and the second message is used to instruct the third non-terrestrial network device to disconnect from the user equipment.

20. The method according to any one of claims 11-19, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive uplink data from the user equipment; the downlink data is the response data of the uplink data; the third non-terrestrial network device and the fourth non-terrestrial network device are the same.

21. The method according to any one of claims 11-20, characterized in that, The first non-terrestrial network device and the third non-terrestrial network device are the same.

22. A communication method based on store-and-forward, characterized in that, Applied to the first ground station, including: Send the first information to the third non-terrestrial network device, or send the third information to the third non-terrestrial network device; The third non-terrestrial network device is used to determine the first information based on the third information; the third information includes device identifiers of multiple non-terrestrial network devices; the multiple non-terrestrial network devices include a first non-terrestrial network device; The user equipment is configured to receive first information from the third non-terrestrial network device, the first information indicating a first time; the user equipment is configured to enter a power-saving mode within a first time range; the user equipment is configured to exit the power-saving mode within a second time range; and the user equipment is configured to receive downlink data from the first non-terrestrial network device within a third time range after the first time. The first time range is the time range between the time when the user equipment receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device and is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The first information includes the information from the first time.

24. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The first information includes the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device, and the user equipment is used to determine the first time based on the device identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device.

25. The method according to any one of claims 22-24, characterized in that, The first time is the time during which the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment.

26. The method according to any one of claims 22-24, characterized in that, The first time is the time earlier than the time when the cell of the first non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment.

27. A communication method based on store-and-forward, characterized in that, Applied to first non-terrestrial network devices, including: Within the third time frame following the first time frame, downlink data is sent to the user equipment; The user equipment is configured to receive first information from a third non-terrestrial network device, the first information indicating the first time; the user equipment is configured to enter a power-saving mode within a first time range; and the user equipment is configured to exit the power-saving mode within a second time range. The first time range is the time range between the time when the user equipment receives the first information and the first time, and the first time range does not include the first time; the second time range includes the first time; the cell of the second non-terrestrial network device covers the user equipment in power saving mode within the first time range, the user equipment in power saving mode is not camped on the second non-terrestrial network device, or the user equipment in power saving mode is camped on the second non-terrestrial network device and is not listening to the paging information of the second non-terrestrial network device.

28. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a processing module and a transceiver module. The communication device is used to execute the program or instructions of the store-and-forward communication method as described in any one of claims 1-10, or to execute the program or instructions of the store-and-forward communication method as described in any one of claims 11-21, or to execute the program or instructions of the store-and-forward communication method as described in any one of claims 22-26, or to execute the program or instructions of the store-and-forward communication method as described in claim 27.

29. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes at least one processor and at least one memory, the processor being coupled to the memory, the processor being configured to read programs or instructions from the memory to execute the store-and-forward based communication method as described in any one of claims 1-27.

30. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program or instructions stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program or instructions are executed, the computer performs the store-and-forward communication method as described in any one of claims 1-27.

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