Communication method, apparatus and system

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide a communication method, device and system, which are used for directly transmitting a data packet with a large data volume, so as to avoid splitting a data packet with a large data volume into a plurality of data packets with small data volumes. The method comprises the following steps: sending first indication information, the first indication information being used for indicating at least one of the following: a coverage level of a terminal device, or a first range of data packet sizes supported by the terminal device for transmission; receiving a correspondence between an index and a TBS; the correspondence is related to the first indication information; receiving second indication information, the second indication information comprising a first index, and the second indication information being used for determining a first TBS according to the correspondence and the first index.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to communication methods, apparatus and systems. Background Technology

[0002] For uplink data transmission, existing protocols specify the transport block size (TBS) and its index in tabular form. TBS Index of Resource Unit (RU) RU The correspondence between them. Where, I RU The value range is from 0 to 7. (Using I) TBS =0, I RU For example, if the value is 7, the value of TBS is 256 bits.

[0003] When the data packet size is large, due to the limitation of TBS (Total Bit Scale), a large data packet needs to be split into multiple smaller data packets for transmission. For example, when a terminal device needs to send a 1648-bit data packet and the TBS value is 256 bits, the terminal device can split the 1648-bit data packet into 7 data packets.

[0004] However, sending multiple small data packets by a terminal device can lead to increased header overhead and reduced transmission efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method, apparatus, and system for directly transmitting large data packets, avoiding the need to split a large data packet into multiple smaller data packets.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0007] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided. The apparatus executing the communication method can be a terminal device, or a module applied in the terminal device to implement its communication function, such as a chip, a chip system, a module, or a component. The communication method includes: sending first indication information, the first indication information indicating at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or a first range of data packet sizes supported by the terminal device; receiving a correspondence between an index and a TBS; the correspondence being related to the first indication information; and receiving second indication information, the second indication information including the first index, the second indication information being used to determine a first TBS based on the correspondence and the first index.

[0008] In the communication method provided in this application embodiment, the terminal device can report a first range of supported data packet sizes. The first range includes values ​​that can be relatively large, for example, the first range is greater than or equal to 2560 bits. Therefore, the network device can issue a corresponding index-TBS mapping relationship for the larger first range, in which the TBS value can be set to a larger value accordingly. In this method, the data packets to be transmitted may not be split, or the data packets to be transmitted may be split into fewer data packets, thereby helping to reduce header overhead, improve transmission efficiency, enhance coverage (e.g., coverage improvement of approximately 2dB), and increase channel coding gain. Furthermore, the index-TBS mapping relationship is related to first indication information. In other words, for the larger first range, the TBS value can be set to a larger value accordingly; for the smaller first range, the TBS value can be set to a smaller value accordingly, thereby helping the network device to indicate a larger TBS value with less indication overhead for terminal devices supporting the transmission of large data packets.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the coverage level of the terminal device is one of multiple coverage levels, including a first coverage level and a second coverage level. The first coverage level is different from the second coverage level, and the coverage level is related to the transmission duration of a transport block (TB) or the number of time-domain units occupied by a TB. In this scheme, multiple coverage levels can be divided based on the length of a TB in the time domain. This application does not limit the number or names of coverage levels.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, when the coverage level of the terminal device is a first coverage level, the transmission duration of one TB is greater than or equal to a first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by one TB is greater than or equal to a second threshold; when the coverage level of the terminal device is a second coverage level, the transmission duration of one TB is less than the first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by one TB is less than the second threshold. In this scheme, "one TB" can be replaced by "one transmission". The unit or granularity of the transmission duration can be, for example, a resource unit (RU), i.e., 1 millisecond (ms). The unit of the transmission duration can also be a picosecond (ps), nanosecond (ns), microsecond (us), or second (s), without limitation. The time domain unit in this application can be, for example, an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbol, a slot, a mini-slot, a subframe, or a frame, without limitation.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information is carried on a first random access resource, which corresponds to at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range. In this scheme, the first indication information may employ an indirect indication method.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range. In this solution, the first indication information can be provided in a direct indication manner.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information is carried in the first uplink message during the random access procedure; the correspondence is carried in the first downlink message during or after the random access procedure. This scheme can be applied to terminal devices in a disconnected state (e.g., idle state).

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the terminal device is in a connected state, the first indication information is carried in a second uplink message, and the correspondence is carried in a second downlink message used for scheduling data. For example, the second uplink message can be connected state uplink signaling, and the second downlink message can be connected state downlink signaling.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the second indication information is carried in a third downlink message used for scheduling data. For example, the third downlink message may be carried on a PDSCH.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, when the terminal device's coverage level is a first coverage level, the value of the first TBS differs from the value when the terminal device's coverage level is a second coverage level; similarly, when the first range is less than or equal to a third threshold, the value of the first TBS differs from the value when the first range is greater than the third threshold. In this scheme, the value of the first TBS is determined by the terminal device based on a first index indicated by the network device. The network device also indicates a first index; different coverage levels or different ranges of data packet sizes correspond to different first TBS values. This helps to enable the network device to indicate a larger TBS value with less indication overhead for terminal devices that support transmitting large amounts of data packets.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect described above, in one possible implementation, the correspondence is related to the first indication information, including: when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the maximum value of the TBS in the correspondence is greater than the maximum value of the TBS in the correspondence when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level. Different coverage levels or different ranges of data packet sizes correspond to different first TBS values. In this scheme, different coverage levels result in different correspondences, and consequently, different maximum values ​​of TBS.

[0018] Secondly, a communication method is provided. The apparatus for executing the communication method can be a network device, or a module applied in the network device to implement its communication function, such as a chip, a chip system, a module, or a component. The communication method includes: receiving first indication information, the first indication information indicating at least one of the following: the coverage level of a terminal device, or a first range of data packet sizes supported by the terminal device; sending a correspondence between an index and a TBS; the correspondence being related to the first indication information; and sending second indication information, the second indication information including the first index, the second indication information being used by the terminal device to determine a first TBS based on the correspondence and the first index.

[0019] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the coverage level of the terminal device is one of a plurality of coverage levels, including a first coverage level and a second coverage level, wherein the first coverage level is different from the second coverage level, and the coverage level is related to the transmission duration of a transport block TB or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB.

[0020] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, when the coverage level of the terminal device is a first coverage level, the transmission duration of a TB is greater than or equal to a first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB is greater than or equal to a second threshold; when the coverage level of the terminal device is a second coverage level, the transmission duration of a TB is less than the first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB is less than the second threshold.

[0021] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information is carried on a first random access resource, which corresponds to at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range.

[0022] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range.

[0023] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information is carried in the first uplink message during the random access procedure; the correspondence is carried in the first downlink message during or after the random access procedure.

[0024] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the terminal device is in a connected state, the first indication information is carried in the second uplink message, and the correspondence is carried in the second downlink message used for scheduling data.

[0025] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the second indication information is carried in a third downlink message used for scheduling data.

[0026] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the value of the first TBS is different from the value of the first TBS when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level; when the first range is less than or equal to the third threshold, the value of the first TBS is different from the value of the first TBS when the first range is greater than the third threshold.

[0027] In conjunction with the second aspect above, in one possible implementation, the correspondence is related to the first indication information, including: when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence is greater than the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level.

[0028] Thirdly, a communication device is provided for implementing the above-described method. This communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the implementation of the above-described method. These modules, units, or means can be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the above-described functions.

[0029] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the communication device includes: a transmitting module and a receiving module; the transmitting module is configured to transmit first indication information, the first indication information indicating at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or a first range of data packet sizes supported by the terminal device; the receiving module is configured to receive a correspondence between an index and a TBS; the correspondence is related to the first indication information; the receiving module is further configured to receive second indication information, the second indication information including the first index, the second indication information being used to determine a first TBS based on the correspondence and the first index.

[0030] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the coverage level of the terminal device is one of a plurality of coverage levels, including a first coverage level and a second coverage level. The first coverage level is different from the second coverage level, and the coverage level is related to the transmission duration of a transport block (TB) or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB.

[0031] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the transmission duration of a TB is greater than or equal to the first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB is greater than or equal to the second threshold; when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level, the transmission duration of a TB is less than the first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB is less than the second threshold.

[0032] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information is carried on a first random access resource, which corresponds to at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range.

[0033] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range.

[0034] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information is carried in the first uplink message during the random access procedure; the correspondence is carried in the first downlink message during or after the random access procedure.

[0035] In conjunction with the third aspect mentioned above, in one possible implementation, the terminal device is in a connected state, the first indication information is carried in the second uplink message, and the correspondence is carried in the second downlink message used for scheduling data.

[0036] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the second indication information is carried in a third downlink message used for scheduling data.

[0037] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the value of the first TBS is different from the value of the first TBS when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level; when the first range is less than or equal to the third threshold, the value of the first TBS is different from the value of the first TBS when the first range is greater than the third threshold.

[0038] In conjunction with the third aspect above, in one possible implementation, the correspondence is related to the first indication information, including: when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence is greater than the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level.

[0039] Fourthly, a communication device is provided for implementing the above-described method. This communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the implementation of the above-described method. These modules, units, or means can be implemented in hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the above-described functions.

[0040] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the communication device includes: a transmitting module and a receiving module; the receiving module is configured to receive first indication information, the first indication information indicating at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or a first range of data packet sizes supported by the terminal device for transmission; the transmitting module is configured to transmit a correspondence between an index and a TBS; the correspondence is related to the first indication information; the transmitting module is further configured to transmit second indication information, the second indication information including the first index, the second indication information being used by the terminal device to determine a first TBS based on the correspondence and the first index.

[0041] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the coverage level of the terminal device is one of a plurality of coverage levels, including a first coverage level and a second coverage level. The first coverage level is different from the second coverage level, and the coverage level is related to the transmission duration of a transport block (TB) or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB.

[0042] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the transmission duration of a TB is greater than or equal to the first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB is greater than or equal to the second threshold; when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level, the transmission duration of a TB is less than the first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB is less than the second threshold.

[0043] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information is carried on a first random access resource, which corresponds to at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range.

[0044] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range.

[0045] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information is carried in the first uplink message during the random access procedure; the correspondence is carried in the first downlink message during or after the random access procedure.

[0046] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the terminal device is in a connected state, the first indication information is carried in the second uplink message, and the correspondence is carried in the second downlink message used for scheduling data.

[0047] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the second indication information is carried in a third downlink message used for scheduling data.

[0048] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the value of the first TBS is different from the value of the first TBS when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level; when the first range is less than or equal to the third threshold, the value of the first TBS is different from the value of the first TBS when the first range is greater than the third threshold.

[0049] In conjunction with the fourth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the correspondence is related to the first indication information, including: when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence is greater than the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level.

[0050] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, comprising: a processor; the processor being coupled to a memory and, after reading computer instructions stored in the memory, executing the method as described in the first or second aspect above according to the instructions.

[0051] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a memory for storing computer instructions.

[0052] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a communication interface; this communication interface is used for the communication device to communicate with other devices. For example, the communication interface may be a transceiver, an input / output interface, an interface circuit, an output circuit, an input circuit, a pin, or related circuitry, etc.

[0053] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the communication device can be a chip or a chip system. When the communication device is a chip system, it can be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0054] In conjunction with the fifth aspect above, in one possible implementation, when the communication device is a chip or chip system, the aforementioned communication interface can be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip or chip system. The aforementioned processor can also be embodied as a processing circuit or logic circuit.

[0055] A sixth aspect provides a communication system, comprising: a terminal device and a network device. The terminal device is configured to perform the method described in the first aspect, and the network device is configured to perform the method described in the second aspect.

[0056] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores instructions which, when executed on a computer, enable the computer to perform the methods described in the first or second aspect.

[0057] Eighthly, a computer program product containing instructions is provided that, when run on a computer, enables the computer to perform the methods described in the first or second aspect above.

[0058] Ninth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip comprising: a processor, the processor being configured to execute instructions that cause a device including the chip to perform the method described in the first or second aspect.

[0059] In conjunction with the ninth aspect above, in one possible implementation, the chip also includes a memory for storing instructions.

[0060] The technical effects of any possible implementation of aspects two through nine can be found in the first aspect above, as well as the technical effects of any possible implementation of the first aspect, which will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0061] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 2 A detailed architecture diagram of device 1 provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 3 A detailed architecture diagram of device 2b provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0064] Figure 4A flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 5 The first instruction information provided for the embodiments of this application adopts a direct instruction method in the following process. Figure 1 ;

[0066] Figure 6 The first instruction information provided for the embodiments of this application adopts a direct instruction method in the following process. Figure 2 ;

[0067] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating the indirect instruction method used for the first instruction information provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0068] Figure 8 Specific example flow of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 1 ;

[0069] Figure 9 Specific example flow of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 2 ;

[0070] Figure 10 Specific example flow of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 3 ;

[0071] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the composition of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0072] In the 5th generation (5G) new radio (NR) system, the terminal device can determine the modulation order, code rate, and TBS used for the physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) transmission scheduled by the received downlink control information (DCI).

[0073] The modulation order and code rate are related to the modulation and coding scheme (MCS). Specifically, the terminal device can read the I_MCS field in the DCI, which occupies 5 bits. Since 5 bits can represent a maximum of 32 values, theoretically there are a maximum of 32 different MCS states. In the current protocol, to address different transmission requirements and channel conditions, three MCS tables are defined, corresponding to normal code rate, high code rate, and low code rate, respectively. See 3GPP technical specification (TS) 38.214.5.1.3.1 for details. These three MCS tables provide different combinations of modulation order and code rate to adapt to different transmission scenarios.

[0074] Typically, for DCI scrambling using paging (P)-radio network temporary identifier (RNTI), random access (RA)-RNTI, or system information (SI)-RNTI, the modulation scheme used for PDSCH transmission is quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), i.e., modulation order Qm = 2. Based on this, the demodulation performance of PDSCH can be improved by reducing the code rate, thereby ensuring reliable information transmission.

[0075] For other cases besides those mentioned above, such as DCI scrambled with cell (C)-RNTI, MCS-C-RNTI, temporary cell (TC)-RNTI, configured scheduling (CS)-RNTI, or semi-persistent scheduling (SPS) C-RNTI, the modulation scheme used for PDSCH transmission is related to the relevant configuration parameters.

[0076] Terminal devices can determine the TBS using the number of physical resource blocks (PRBs) allocated before rate matching. If the maximum value of codewords scheduled by the higher-layer parameter DCI (maxNrofCodeWordsScheduledByDCI) indicates that two codeword transmissions are enabled, then in the index of MCS (MCS)... MCS=26 and the corresponding redundancy version identity (rv) of the transport block id In the case of =1, DCI format 1_1 will disable one of the two transport blocks. In I MCS The value is not 26, or rv id When the value of is not 1, DCI format 1_1 will enable two transport blocks. If both transport blocks, i.e., transport blocks 1 and 2, are enabled, then transport blocks 1 and 2 are mapped to codewords 0 and 1, respectively. If only one transport block is enabled, then the enabled transport block is always mapped to the first codeword.

[0077] For PDSCH transmissions scheduled by DCI format 1_0, format 1_1, or format 1_2, the terminal device can calculate the TBS using a formula based on the different scrambling methods, as detailed in 3GPP TS 38.214.5.1.3.2. The terminal device can then select the closest TBS value from the corresponding TBS table based on the calculation result.

[0078] The above describes the modulation order, code rate, and TBS determination process used in PDSCH transmission. For Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) transmission, existing protocols use I... TBS I RU The correspondence between TBS and TBS is shown in Table 1. The unit of TBS is bits.

[0079] Table 1

[0080]

[0081]

[0082] In existing protocols, the value of TBS is typically small. For example, in Table 1, I... TBS The TBS value corresponding to 0 ranges from 16 to 256 bits. This means that when transmitting a large data packet, it needs to be split into multiple smaller data packets for transmission. This leads to the following problems:

[0083] 1) Problem 1: Increased expenses in Baotou.

[0084] Each smaller data packet after splitting requires the addition of a higher-level header and physical layer cyclic redundancy check (CRC) bits, which increases header overhead. The more data packets there are, the more header overhead is required.

[0085] 2) Problem 2: Reduced transmission efficiency.

[0086] As mentioned in Question 1, increased packet header overhead means that there is more redundant information besides the data, which leads to a reduction in the actual amount of data transmitted per unit time, i.e., slower transmission speed and reduced transmission efficiency.

[0087] 3) Problem three: Reduced coverage.

[0088] Under the same coverage conditions, transmitting multiple smaller data packets will result in slower transmission speeds compared to transmitting a single large data packet. This is equivalent to coverage loss, or reduced coverage.

[0089] 4) Problem 4: Limited channel coding gain.

[0090] When interleaving bits in a bitstream, if each data packet contains a small number of bits, the bitstream will have poor temporal dispersion, resulting in poor anti-interference capability of the interleaved signal and thus limiting the channel coding gain.

[0091] To directly transmit large data packets without splitting them, the network device needs to indicate a large TBS value to the terminal device; for example, the TBS value could be 1648 bits. In one possible implementation, a parameter for representing I... TBS I RU And the number of columns in the table showing the correspondence between , and TBS (e.g., Table 1), until the table contains, for example, I. TBS =0, TBS has a value of 1648 bits. At this time, I RU The value of will increase (for example, become 200, requiring 8 bits to represent), thus indicating I. RU The overhead increases (e.g., from 3 bits to 8 bits).

[0092] To minimize indication overhead, terminal devices can be classified. The classification criteria include at least one of the following: coverage level, or the range of supported data packet sizes. Different categories of terminal devices receive I... TBS I RU The correspondence between I and TBS is different. In other words, different categories of terminal devices correspond to different tables, where the table is used to represent I TBS I RU This establishes the correspondence between TBS and other parameters. This helps network devices, for terminal devices supporting large data packet transmissions, to indicate larger TBS values ​​with minimal overhead.

[0093] The specific technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can represent A or B. "And / or" in this application is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "At least one" and "one or more" can be used interchangeably. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple. Furthermore, to facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish identical or similar items with substantially the same function and effect. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" are not necessarily different.

[0094] "Used for indication" can include direct and indirect indications, as well as explicit and implicit indications. When describing "indication information used to indicate A" or "indication information of A," it can include whether the indication information directly or indirectly indicates A, but it does not necessarily mean that the indication information carries A. The information indicated by a certain piece of information (such as configuration information as described below) is called the information to be indicated. In the specific implementation process, there are many ways to indicate the information to be indicated, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be indicated, such as the information to be indicated itself or its index. It can also indirectly indicate the information to be indicated by indicating other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be indicated. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be indicated, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the indication of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various information, thereby reducing indication overhead to some extent. At the same time, common parts of various information can be identified and indicated uniformly to reduce the indication overhead caused by individually indicating the same information. For example, those skilled in the art should understand that a precoding matrix is ​​composed of precoding vectors, and the various precoding vectors in the precoding matrix may have the same parts in terms of composition or other attributes. Furthermore, the specific indication method can also be any existing indication method, such as, but not limited to, the above-mentioned indication methods and their various combinations. Specific details of various indication methods can be found in the prior art, and will not be repeated here. As described above, for example, when multiple pieces of information of the same type need to be indicated, different indication methods may occur for different pieces of information. In the specific implementation process, the required indication method can be selected according to specific needs. This application embodiment does not limit the selected indication method; therefore, the indication methods involved in this application embodiment should be understood to cover various methods that enable the party to be indicated to obtain the information to be indicated. The information to be indicated can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information pieces and sent separately. The sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information pieces can be the same or different. This application does not limit the specific sending method. The sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information pieces can be predefined, for example, predefined according to a protocol, or configured by the transmitting device by sending configuration information to the receiving device. The configuration information may include, for example but not limited to, one or a combination of at least two of the following: radio resource control signaling, medium access control (MAC) layer signaling, and physical layer signaling.Among them, radio resource control signaling includes, for example, radio resource control (RRC) signaling; MAC layer signaling includes, for example, MAC control element (CE); and physical layer signaling includes, for example, downlink control information (DCI).

[0095] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system used in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 Image (a) illustrates a schematic diagram of direct communication between a base station and an ambient-Internet of Things (A-IoT) device. The base station and the A-IoT device can directly exchange A-IoT data and / or signaling via the Uu interface. Figure 1 In (a) of the diagram, base station A, which sends signals to the A-IoT device, and base station B, which receives signals from the A-IoT device, are the same base station. Although Figure 1 (a) is not shown, but the case where the base station communicates directly with the A-IoT device also includes the case where the base station A that sends signals to the A-IoT device and the base station B that receives signals from the A-IoT device are different base stations.

[0096] In the communication process, the base station can act as a reader, communicating with A-IoT devices. Communication between the base station and the A-IoT device can be called reader-to-device (R2D) communication. Correspondingly, the link between the base station and the A-IoT device can be called an R2D link. Communication between the A-IoT device and the base station can be called device-to-reader (D2R) communication. Correspondingly, the link between the A-IoT device and the base station can be called a D2R link.

[0097] Figure 1 Figure (b) illustrates a schematic diagram of indirect communication between a base station and an ambient-Internet of Things (A-IoT) device via an intermediate node. The base station and the A-IoT device can exchange A-IoT data and / or signaling through the intermediate node. The intermediate node can receive signals from the A-IoT device and forward them to the base station; alternatively, the intermediate node can receive signals from the base station and forward them to the A-IoT device.

[0098] In the communication process, intermediate nodes can act as readers, communicating with A-IoT devices. Communication between intermediate nodes and A-IoT devices can be called reader-to-device (R2D) communication. Correspondingly, the link between intermediate nodes and A-IoT devices can be called an R2D link. Communication between A-IoT devices and intermediate nodes can be called device-to-reader (D2R) communication. Correspondingly, the link between A-IoT devices and intermediate nodes can be called a D2R link.

[0099] For example, Figure 1 The base stations mentioned can be NR base stations, macro stations, pole stations, micro stations, small stations, evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs), transmission reception points (TRPs), base stations in future mobile communication systems, or access nodes in wireless fidelity (WiFi) systems. In another possible scenario, multiple radio access network (RAN) nodes collaborate to assist A-IoT devices in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes implementing some of the functions of a base station. In other words, Figure 1 The base station in the network can be replaced by a RAN node. For example, a RAN node can be a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU), etc. CUs and DUs can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio equipment or radio units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs).

[0100] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an open RAN (ORAN) system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented by a software module, a hardware module, or a combination of software and hardware modules. The embodiments of this application can be implemented by DU or RU.

[0101] For example, Figure 1 The A-IoT device in this context can be a tag with a power consumption of 1 microwatt (hereinafter referred to as device 1) or a tag with a power consumption of hundreds of microwatts. In IoT communication, the terminal device can be referred to as a tag. Due to power consumption limitations, device 1's uplink transmission is achieved through backscattering of an externally provided carrier. The specific architecture of device 1 can be found below. Figure 2 In the microwatt-level power consumption category, a device that uses an externally provided carrier wave for backscattering to transmit signals can be referred to as device 2a, while a device that uses an internally generated carrier wave to transmit signals can be referred to as device 2b. The specific architecture of device 2b can be found below. Figure 3 .

[0102] For example, Figure 1 The intermediate nodes can be relays, integrated access and backhaul (IAB) nodes, user equipment (UE), repeaters, and other nodes that enable A-IoT communication.

[0103] Combination Figure 2The specific architecture of device 1 is described below. Device 1 includes an antenna 201, a matching network 202, a radio frequency (RF) energy harvester 203, a power management unit (PMU) 204, energy storage 205, an RF bandpass filter (BPF) 206, an RF envelope detector (ED) 207, a baseband (BB) low-pass filter (LPF) 208, a comparator 209, a clock generator 210, BB logic 211, memory 212, and a backscatter modulator 213. The functions of each component, part, or module are described below.

[0104] Antenna 201 is used for RF transmission and reception. Antenna 201 can be used as a receiver or a transmitter.

[0105] Matching network 202 is used to match the impedance between the antenna and other components besides the antenna (including RF energy harvester 203 and receiver-related modules). The receiver-related modules include RF BPF 206, RF ED 207, BB LPF 208, and comparator 209. Detailed descriptions of the receiver-related modules are provided below and will not be repeated here.

[0106] RF energy harvester 203 is used to convert radio frequency signals (i.e., AC signals) into DC signals. RF energy harvester 203 may include a rectifier.

[0107] Energy storage 205 is used to store the energy collected by RF energy harvester 203.

[0108] PMU 204 is used to manage the energy stored in energy storage 205 and to supply energy to modules that require energy.

[0109] Clock generator 210 is used to provide clock signals.

[0110] BB logic 211 may include, for example, a decoder 2111, a controller 2112, and an encoder 2113.

[0111] Memory 212 may include non-volatile memory, such as electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), to permanently store the identity (ID) of device 1. Memory 212 may also include a register for temporarily storing information. This register can be used to store information only when there is sufficient energy in energy storage 205.

[0112] The receiving modules include an RF BPF 206, an RF ED 207, a BB LPF 208, and a comparator 209. The RF BPF 206 is used to improve frequency selectivity. The RF ED 207 converts the RF signal into a baseband signal. The BB LPF 208 filters out harmonics and high-frequency components to improve the signal quality input to the comparator 209. The comparator 209 determines whether the input signal level is high or low.

[0113] The transmission-related modules include a backscatter modulator 213, which can modulate the backscatter signal using the transmit signal from the BB logic 211 by switching impedance.

[0114] Combination Figure 3 The specific architecture of device 2b is described below. Device 2b includes: antenna 301, matching network 302, PMU 304, energy storage 305, RF BPF 307, mixer 309, mixer 323, intermediate frequency (IF) amplifier and IF filter 310, IF ED 311, BB amplifier 312, BB LPF 313, comparator or N-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 314, clock generator 315, BB logic 316, memory 317, local oscillator (LO) 319, LPF 320, digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 321, and modulator 322.

[0115] Optionally, device 2b further includes at least one of the following: RF energy harvester 303, energy harvester (other than RF) 306, low noise amplifier (LNA) 308, or power amplifier (PA) 318. The functions of each component, part, or module are described below.

[0116] Antenna 301 is used for RF transmission and reception. Antenna 301 can be used as a receiver or a transmitter.

[0117] Matching network 302 is used to match the impedance between the antenna and other components besides the antenna (including receiver-related modules, and optionally, RF energy harvester 303). A detailed description of the receiver-related modules is provided below and will not be repeated here.

[0118] RF energy harvester 303 is used to convert radio frequency signals (i.e., AC signals) into DC signals. RF energy harvester 203 may include a rectifier.

[0119] Energy storage 305 is used to store energy collected by RF energy harvester 303 and / or energy harvester (other than RF) 306.

[0120] PMU 304 is used to manage the energy stored in energy storage 305 and to supply energy to modules that require energy.

[0121] Clock generator 315 is used to provide clock signals.

[0122] BB logic 316 may include, for example, a decoder 3161, a controller 3162, and an encoder 3163.

[0123] Memory 317 may include non-volatile memory, such as EEPROM, for permanent storage of device 2b ID. Memory 317 may also include a register for temporary storage of information. This register may be used to store information only when there is sufficient energy in energy storage 305.

[0124] In the signal transmission process, LO 319 is used to generate the carrier frequency; in the signal reception process, LO 319 is used to generate the carrier frequency offset for IF reception.

[0125] The receiving modules include: RF BPF 307, mixer 309, IF amplifier and IF filter 310, IF ED 311, BB amplifier 312, BB LPF 313, and a comparator or N-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 314. RF BPF 307 is used to improve frequency selectivity. Mixer 309 converts the RF signal to an IF signal. IF amplifier amplifies the IF signal. IF filter filters out unwanted RF and LO signals. IF ED 311 detects the envelope from the intermediate frequency signal. BB amplifier 312 is an optional module. BB LPF 313 filters out harmonics and high-frequency components to improve the signal quality input to the comparator or N-bit ADC 314.

[0126] The transmission-related modules include: modulator 322, DAC 321, LPF 320, mixer 323, and PA 318. Modulator 322 is used to modulate baseband bits according to the modulation scheme. Modulator 322 can be part of BB logic 316. DAC 321 is used to convert digital signals into analog signals. LPF 320 is used to filter out unwanted signals. Mixer 323 is used to up-convert the BB signal into an RF signal. If PA 318 is present, PA 318 can be used to amplify the transmitted signal.

[0127] also, Figure 2 or Figure 3 The structural composition shown does not constitute a limitation on A-IoT devices, except... Figure 2 or Figure 3 In addition to the components shown, A-IoT devices may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0128] The following will combine Figures 1 to 3 The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail.

[0129] The terms "multiple" and "at least two" in this application are interchangeable and will not be repeated below.

[0130] Figure 4 A flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown, including the following steps:

[0131] Step S401: The terminal device sends first indication information to the network device. The first indication information indicates at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or a first range of data packet sizes supported by the terminal device. Accordingly, the network device receives the first indication information from the terminal device.

[0132] The terminal device in this application can be Figure 1 A-IoT devices in this application. The terminal device in this application can adopt... Figure 2 or Figure 3 The architecture shown is illustrated. The terminal device in this application can also be described as: a passive terminal device, a passive terminal device with an envelope detector receiver, a passive IoT terminal device, a semi-passive terminal device, a semi-passive IoT terminal device, a passive terminal device, a semi-passive terminal device, an active terminal device, a terminal device with backscatter capability, a terminal device with reverse carrier capability, a terminal device with active carrier transmission capability, or a tag.

[0133] The network device in this application can be Figure 1The network equipment in this application can also be described as: macro station, pole station, micro station, small station, excitation source (helper), or reader / writer.

[0134] The coverage level in this application can also be replaced by coverage level or coverage capability. The coverage level can be characterized by the maximum coupling loss (MCL). The unit of MCL is usually decibel (dB).

[0135] Optionally, the coverage level of the terminal device is one of multiple coverage levels, including a first coverage level and a second coverage level. The first coverage level is different from the second coverage level. The coverage level is related to the transmission duration of a transport block (TB) or the number of time-domain units occupied by a TB. In this scheme, multiple coverage levels can be divided according to the length of a TB in the time domain. The names of the multiple coverage levels can be, for example, "enhancement" and "normal". Alternatively, the names of the multiple coverage levels can be, for example, "weak", "weaker", "stronger", and "stronger". This application embodiment does not limit the number and names of coverage levels.

[0136] For example, the first coverage level can be enhanced, the second coverage level can be normal, and the coverage level of the terminal device can be enhanced or normal.

[0137] The coverage level in this application is a general term and can be understood as multiple coverage levels, such as enhanced and normal. The coverage level of the terminal device in this application can be understood as one of the multiple coverage levels, such as enhanced or normal.

[0138] Optionally, when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the transmission duration of one TB is greater than or equal to a first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by one TB is greater than or equal to a second threshold; when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level, the transmission duration of one TB is less than the first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by one TB is less than the second threshold. In this scheme, "one TB" can be replaced by "one transmission". The unit or granularity of the transmission duration can be, for example, a resource unit (RU), i.e., 1 millisecond (ms). The unit of the transmission duration can also be a picosecond (ps), nanosecond (ns), microsecond (us), or second (s), without limitation. The time domain unit in this application can be, for example, an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbol, a slot, a mini-slot, a subframe, or a frame, without limitation.

[0139] In other words, when the transmission duration of a TB is greater than or equal to the first threshold, or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB is greater than or equal to the second threshold, the coverage level of the terminal device is classified as the first coverage level. When the transmission duration of a TB is less than the first threshold, or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB is less than the second threshold, the coverage level of the terminal device is classified as the second coverage level.

[0140] In this application, the transmission duration of one TB is equal to a first threshold, corresponding to either a first coverage level or a second coverage level for the terminal device. The number of time domain units occupied by one TB is equal to a second threshold, corresponding to either a first coverage level or a second coverage level for the terminal device.

[0141] Taking enhanced coverage as the first coverage level, normal coverage as the second coverage level, and 10RU as the first threshold as an example, if the coverage level of the terminal device is enhanced, it corresponds to a transmission duration of 10RU or more for one TB. If the coverage level of the terminal device is normal, it corresponds to a transmission duration of less than 10RU for one TB.

[0142] Taking enhanced coverage as the first coverage level, normal coverage as the second coverage level, and a second threshold of 8 as the time unit, with time slots as the time domain unit, a terminal device with enhanced coverage level corresponds to a time slot count of 8 or more times per TB. A terminal device with normal coverage level corresponds to a time slot count of less than 8 times per TB.

[0143] In this application, "transmission" can be understood as "sending" or "receiving".

[0144] In this application, the unit of the first range can be bits. The first range can be, for example, less than or equal to 1648 bits, or greater than or equal to 2560 bits.

[0145] In this application, the first indication information may directly or indirectly indicate at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range. Two different indication methods are described below.

[0146] 1) Method 1: Direct (or explicit) instruction.

[0147] In Method 1, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or a first range. Thus, the network device can determine at least one of the coverage level or the first range of the terminal device based on the content included in the first indication information.

[0148] For example, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: MCL = 164dB, or less than or equal to 2560 bits. Thus, the network device can classify the coverage level of the terminal device as normal. As another example, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: MCL = 174dB, or greater than 2560 bits. Thus, the network device can classify the coverage level of the terminal device as enhanced.

[0149] In one possible implementation, the coverage level of the terminal device, or at least one of the first ranges, can be carried in message (Msg)1, such as Figure 5 The steps are shown in step S501. Figure 5 The flowchart shown includes the following steps:

[0150] Step S501: The terminal device sends Msg1 to the network device. Msg1 carries the coverage level of the terminal device, or at least one of the first ranges. Accordingly, the network device receives Msg1 from the terminal device.

[0151] Step S502: The network device determines the coverage level of the terminal device, or at least one of the first ranges, based on the content included in Msg1.

[0152] In another possible implementation, the coverage level of the terminal device, or at least one of the first ranges, can be carried in message Msg3, such as Figure 6 The steps are shown in step S603. Figure 6 The flowchart shown includes the following steps:

[0153] Step S601: The terminal device sends Msg1 to the network device. Correspondingly, the network device receives Msg1 from the terminal device.

[0154] Step S602: The network device sends Msg2 to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives Msg2 from the network device.

[0155] The relevant descriptions of Msg1 in step S601 and Msg2 in step S602 can be found in section 9.2.6 of 3GPP TS 38300 version (V) 18.3.0, and will not be repeated here.

[0156] Step S603: The terminal device sends Msg3 to the network device. Msg3 carries the coverage level of the terminal device, or at least one of the first ranges. Accordingly, the network device receives Msg3 from the terminal device.

[0157] Step S604: The network device determines the coverage level of the terminal device, or at least one of the first ranges, based on the content included in Msg3.

[0158] 2) Method 2, indirect (or implicit) indication.

[0159] In Method 1, the first indication information is carried on the first random access resource, which corresponds to at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or a first range. Thus, the network device can determine, based on the first random access resource carrying the first indication information, at least one of the coverage level or first range of the terminal device corresponding to the first random access resource.

[0160] Assume that the correspondence between random access resources and coverage level and data packet size range is pre-defined as follows: Random access channel (RACH) resource 1 corresponds to at least one of the following: MCL = 164dB, or data packet size is less than or equal to 1648 bits; RACH resource 2 corresponds to at least one of the following: MCL = 174dB, or data packet size is greater than 1648 bits.

[0161] The first random access resource is RACH resource 1 when at least one of the following conditions is met: the terminal device's MCL = 164dB, or the first range is less than or equal to 1648 bits. That is, the terminal device can select RACH resource 1 to carry the first indication information. Accordingly, the network device can determine, based on RACH resource 1 carrying the first indication information, at least one of the following: the terminal device's MCL = 164dB (corresponding to the terminal device's coverage level being enhanced), or the first range is less than or equal to 1648 bits.

[0162] The first random access resource is RACH resource 2 when at least one of the following conditions is met: the terminal device's MCL = 174dB, or the first range is greater than 1648 bits. That is, the terminal device can select RACH resource 2 to carry the first indication information. Accordingly, the network device can determine, based on RACH resource 2 carrying the first indication information, at least one of the following: the terminal device's MCL = 174dB (corresponding to the terminal device's coverage level being normal), or the first range is greater than 1648 bits.

[0163] In one possible implementation, the first indication information can be carried in Msg1, such as... Figure 7 The steps are shown in step S701. Figure 7 The flowchart shown includes the following steps:

[0164] Step S701: The terminal device sends Msg1 to the network device. Msg1 is carried on a first random access resource, which corresponds to at least one of the terminal device's coverage level or first range. Accordingly, the network device receives Msg1 from the terminal device.

[0165] Step S702: The network device determines the coverage level of the terminal device, or at least one of the first range, based on the first random access resource carrying Msg1.

[0166] Based on the descriptions of the two indication methods above, in one possible implementation, the first indication information is carried in the first uplink message during the random access process. The first uplink message can be Msg1 or Msg3. This implementation is applicable to terminal devices in a disconnected state (e.g., idle state). In another possible implementation, the terminal device is in a connected state, and the first indication information can be carried in a second uplink message. The second uplink message can be connected state uplink signaling. The uplink message in this application can be replaced with a D2R message.

[0167] Regardless of whether the first indication information is direct or indirect, after receiving the first indication information, the network device can determine the coverage level of the terminal device, or at least one of the first ranges. For example, the network device can determine the coverage level of the terminal device based on the value of MCL. Then, the network device can determine the correspondence between the index and TBS based on the first indication information. In other words, the correspondence between the index and TBS corresponding to the first coverage level is different from the correspondence between the index and TBS corresponding to the second coverage level. The correspondence between the index and TBS differs for different packet size ranges.

[0168] Step S402: The network device sends the mapping relationship between the index and the TBS to the terminal device. The mapping relationship is related to the first indication information. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the mapping relationship between the index and the TBS from the network device.

[0169] The index in this application can be I TBS or I RU At least one of them.

[0170] In this application, the correspondence between the index and TBS can be represented in tabular form, formula or other forms, without limitation.

[0171] In this application, at least one of the coverage level or data packet size ranges is different, resulting in different correspondences, and consequently at least one of the TBS value range, TBS value interval, or TBS maximum value is also different.

[0172] The following provides a specific example of the correspondence between the index and TBS.

[0173] A. Example 1

[0174] Taking enhanced coverage as the first coverage level and normal coverage as the second coverage level, the correspondence between the index and TBS for a terminal device with a normal coverage level is shown in Table 2; the correspondence between the index and TBS for a terminal device with an enhanced coverage level is shown in Table 3. Alternatively, if the first range is less than or equal to the third threshold, the correspondence between the index and TBS is shown in Table 2; if the first range is greater than the third threshold, the correspondence between the index and TBS is shown in Table 3.

[0175] Table 2

[0176]

[0177] Table 3

[0178]

[0179] Regarding Table 2, I RU There are 8 possible values ​​for I, which can be represented by 3 bits; Referring to Table 3, I RU There are 6 possible values ​​for TBS, which can also be represented by 3 bits. The range of TBS values ​​in Table 2 (16 bits to 256 bits) is different from the range of TBS values ​​in Table 3; or, the interval between TBS values ​​in Table 2 is different from the interval between TBS values ​​in Table 3; or, the maximum value of TBS in Table 2 (256 bits) is different from the maximum value of TBS in Table 3 (1648 bits).

[0180] I TBS and I RUUnder the same conditions, the TBS values ​​used by network devices according to Table 2 differ from those indicated by Table 3. For example, I TBS =0, I RU =5, the network device uses a TBS value of 152 bits as indicated in Table 2, and the network device uses a TBS value of 1648 bits as indicated in Table 3.

[0181] B. Example 2

[0182] Taking enhanced coverage as the first coverage level and normal coverage as the second coverage level, the correspondence between the index and TBS for a terminal device with a normal coverage level is shown in Table 2; the correspondence between the index and TBS for a terminal device with an enhanced coverage level is shown in Table 3. Alternatively, if the first range is less than or equal to the third threshold, the correspondence between the index and TBS is shown in Table 4; if the first range is greater than the third threshold, the correspondence between the index and TBS is shown in Table 5.

[0183] Table 4

[0184]

[0185] Table 5

[0186]

[0187] Regarding Table 4, I RU There are 6 possible values ​​for I, which can be represented by 3 bits; Referring to Table 5, I RU There are 8 possible values ​​for TBS, which can also be represented by 3 bits. The range of TBS values ​​in Table 4 (56 bits to 256 bits) is different from the range of TBS values ​​in Table 5 (32 bits to 1648 bits); or, the interval between TBS values ​​in Table 4 is different from the interval between TBS values ​​in Table 5; or, the maximum value of TBS in Table 4 (256 bits) is different from the maximum value of TBS in Table 5 (1648 bits).

[0188] I TBS and I RU Under the same conditions, the TBS values ​​used by network devices according to Table 4 differ from those used according to Table 5. For example, I TBS =0, I RU =5, the network device uses a TBS value of 256 bits as indicated in Table 2, and the network device uses a TBS value of 1096 bits as indicated in Table 5.

[0189] Optionally, the correspondence is related to the first indication information, including: when the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence is greater than the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level. In this scheme, different coverage levels result in different correspondences, and consequently, different maximum values ​​of TBS.

[0190] Optionally, the correspondence is related to the first indication information, including: the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence when the first range is greater than the third threshold, and the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence when the first range is greater than the third threshold but less than the third threshold.

[0191] For example, referring to Example 1, regarding Table 3, I TBS =0 corresponds to a TBS ranging from 256 bits to 1648 bits, with a maximum TBS of 1648 bits. Regarding Table 2, I TBS =0 corresponds to a TBS ranging from 16 bits to 256 bits, with a maximum TBS of 256 bits. 1648 is greater than 256.

[0192] For example, referring to Example 2, regarding Table 5, I TBS =0 corresponds to a TBS ranging from 32 bits to 1648 bits, with a maximum TBS of 1648 bits. Regarding Table 4, I... TBS =0 corresponds to a TBS ranging from 56 bits to 256 bits, with a maximum TBS of 256 bits. 1648 is greater than 256.

[0193] If the first indication information is carried in the first uplink message during the random access procedure, then the correspondence between the index and the TBS is carried in the first downlink message during or after the random access procedure. Specifically, when the first uplink message is Msg1, the first downlink message is Msg2, Msg4, or connection-mode downlink signaling. When the first uplink message is Msg3, the first downlink message is Msg4 or connection-mode downlink signaling. The downlink message in this application can be replaced with an R2D message. The connection-mode downlink signaling in this application can be, for example, a DCI.

[0194] If the terminal device is in a connected state, the first indication information is carried in the second uplink message, and the correspondence between the index and the TBS is carried in the second downlink message used for scheduling data. For example, the second uplink message can be connected-state uplink signaling, and the second downlink message can be connected-state downlink signaling.

[0195] Step S403: The network device sends second indication information to the terminal device. The second indication information includes a first index. The second indication information is used by the terminal device to determine the first TBS based on the correspondence and the first index. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the second indication information from the network device.

[0196] The terminal device determines the value of a TBS based on an I. TBS The value of and an I RU The value of I can be predefined. In one possible approach, a value for I can be predefined. TBS The value of I RU The value can be indicated by the second indication information, that is, the first index belongs to I. RU In another possible approach, an I can be pre-defined. RU The value of I TBS The value can be indicated by the second indication information, that is, the first index belongs to I. TBS In yet another possible implementation, an I TBS The value of and an I RU The values ​​are all indicated by the second indication information, that is, the first index belongs to I. RU and I TBS .

[0197] Although the coverage level or packet size range varies and the corresponding relationships differ, the number of bits in the first index is fixed, meaning the indication overhead of the network device is fixed. For example, when the first index belongs to I... RU When the first index is 1, it can occupy 3 bits; when the first index belongs to I TBS When the first index is I, it can occupy 4 bits; when the first index belongs to I RU and I TBS At that time, the first index can occupy 7 bits.

[0198] Optionally, when the terminal device's coverage level is the first coverage level, the value of the first TBS differs from the value when the terminal device's coverage level is the second coverage level; similarly, when the first range is less than or equal to the third threshold, the value of the first TBS differs from the value when the first range is greater than the third threshold. In this scheme, the value of the first TBS is determined by the terminal device based on the first index indicated by the network device. The network device also indicates the first index; different coverage levels or different ranges of packet sizes correspond to different first TBS values. This helps to enable the network device to indicate a larger TBS value with less indication overhead for terminal devices that support transmitting large amounts of data packets. A specific example is as follows:

[0199] Based on Example 1 above, assume ITBS It is preset to 0, and the first index is I. RU =5. If the terminal device's coverage level is normal, or the first range is less than or equal to at least one of the third thresholds (i.e., the correspondence between the index issued by the network device and the TBS is as shown in Table 2), then the terminal device can determine that the first TBS is 152 bits. If the terminal device's coverage level is enhanced, or the first range is greater than at least one of the third thresholds (i.e., the correspondence between the index issued by the network device and the TBS is as shown in Table 3), then the terminal device can determine that the first TBS is 1648 bits.

[0200] Based on Example 2 above, assume I TBS It is preset to 0, and the first index is I. RU =5. If the terminal device's coverage level is normal, or the first range is less than or equal to at least one of the third thresholds (i.e., the correspondence between the index issued by the network device and the TBS is as shown in Table 4), then the terminal device can determine that the first TBS is 256 bits. If the terminal device's coverage level is enhanced, or the first range is greater than at least one of the third thresholds (i.e., the correspondence between the index issued by the network device and the TBS is as shown in Table 5), then the terminal device can determine that the first TBS is 1096 bits.

[0201] Optionally, the second indication information is carried in a third downlink message used for scheduling data. For example, the third downlink message may be carried on a PDSCH or PDCCH.

[0202] In the communication method provided in this application embodiment, the terminal device can report a first range of supported data packet sizes. The first range includes values ​​that can be relatively large, for example, the first range is greater than or equal to 2560 bits. Therefore, the network device can issue a corresponding index-TBS mapping relationship for the larger first range, in which the TBS value can be set to a larger value accordingly. In this method, the data packets to be transmitted may not be split, or the data packets to be transmitted may be split into fewer data packets, thereby helping to reduce header overhead, improve transmission efficiency, enhance coverage (e.g., coverage improvement of approximately 2dB), and increase channel coding gain. Furthermore, the index-TBS mapping relationship is related to first indication information. In other words, for the larger first range, the TBS value can be set to a larger value accordingly; for the smaller first range, the TBS value can be set to a smaller value accordingly, thereby helping the network device to indicate a larger TBS value with less indication overhead for terminal devices supporting the transmission of large data packets.

[0203] Typically, the data packets for metering services are quite large, for example, 1600 bits. The communication method provided in this application is more suitable for services with large data packet sizes.

[0204] Combination Figure 6 Taking the first indication information as a direct indication method, the first uplink message as Msg3, the first downlink message as Msg4, and the third downlink message carried on PDSCH (or PDCCH) as an example, Figure 8 This application illustrates a specific example flow of the communication method provided in its embodiments. Figure 1 The specific descriptions of steps S801 to S804 can be found in the specific descriptions of steps S601 to S604 above, and will not be repeated here. Figure 8 It also includes the following steps:

[0205] Step S805: The network device determines the correspondence between the index and TBS based on the coverage level of the terminal device or at least one of the first range.

[0206] Step S806: The network device sends Msg4 to the terminal device. Msg4 carries the correspondence between the index and the TBS. Accordingly, the terminal device receives Msg4 from the network device.

[0207] Step S807: The terminal device sends Msg5 to the network device. Correspondingly, the network device receives Msg5 from the terminal device.

[0208] The description of Msg5 in step S807 can be found in the prior art and will not be repeated here.

[0209] Step S808: The network device sends a first index to the terminal device via PDSCH (or PDCCH). The first index is included in the second indication information. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first index from the network device via PDSCH (or PDCCH).

[0210] Combination Figure 7 Taking the first indication information as an indirect indication method, with the first uplink message being Msg1, the first downlink message being Msg2, and the third downlink message being carried on PDSCH (or PDCCH) as an example, Figure 9 This application illustrates a specific example flow of the communication method provided in its embodiments. Figure 2 The specific descriptions of steps S901 and S902 can be found in the specific descriptions of steps S701 and S702 above, and will not be repeated here. Figure 9 It also includes the following steps:

[0211] Step S903: The network device determines the correspondence between the index and TBS based on the coverage level of the terminal device or at least one of the first range.

[0212] Step S904: The network device sends Msg2 to the terminal device. Msg2 carries the correspondence between the index and the TBS. Accordingly, the terminal device receives Msg2 from the network device.

[0213] Step S905: The terminal device sends Msg3 to the network device. Correspondingly, the network device receives Msg3 from the terminal device.

[0214] Step S906: The network device sends Msg4 to the terminal device. Accordingly, the terminal device receives Msg4 from the network device.

[0215] Step S907: The terminal device sends Msg5 to the network device. Correspondingly, the network device receives Msg5 from the terminal device.

[0216] The descriptions of Msg3 in step S905, Msg4 in step S906, and Msg5 in step S907 can be found in existing technologies and will not be repeated here.

[0217] Step S908: The network device sends a first index to the terminal device via PDSCH (or PDCCH). The first index is included in the second indication information. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first index from the network device via PDSCH (or PDCCH).

[0218] For terminal devices in a connected state, Figure 10 This application illustrates a specific example flow of the communication method provided in its embodiments. Figure 3 The first indication information is carried out in a direct indication manner, the second uplink message is carried on PUCCH, the second downlink message is carried on PDCCH, and the third downlink message is carried on PDSCH (or PDCCH). Figure 10 Includes the following steps:

[0219] Step S1001: The terminal device sends Msg5 to the network device. Correspondingly, the network device receives Msg5 from the terminal device.

[0220] The description of Msg5 in step S1001 can be found in the prior art and will not be repeated here.

[0221] Step S1002: The network device sends downlink data to the terminal device via the PDSCH. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives downlink data from the network device via the PDSCH.

[0222] Step S1003: The terminal device sends its coverage level, or at least one of the first range, to the network device via PUCCH. Correspondingly, the network device receives the terminal device's coverage level, or at least one of the first range, from the terminal device via PUCCH.

[0223] Step S1004: The network device determines the coverage level of the terminal device, or at least one of the first ranges, based on the content carried on the PUCCH.

[0224] Step S1005: The network device determines the correspondence between the index and TBS based on the coverage level of the terminal device or at least one of the first range.

[0225] Step S1006: The network device sends the mapping relationship between the index and the TBS to the terminal device via the PDCCH. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the mapping relationship between the index and the TBS from the network device via the PDCCH.

[0226] Step S1007: The terminal device sends uplink data to the network device via PUSCH. Correspondingly, the network device receives uplink data from the terminal device via PUSCH.

[0227] Step S1008: The network device sends a first index to the terminal device via PDSCH (or PDCCH). The first index is included in the second indication information. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first index from the network device via PDSCH (or PDCCH).

[0228] In the description of the above communication methods and their corresponding technical effects, the example given is a terminal device, but this does not constitute any limitation on the execution subject. The terminal device can be replaced by a terminal apparatus, or a module used in the terminal device to implement its communication function, such as a chip, chip system, module, or component.

[0229] In the description of the above communication methods and their corresponding technical effects, the example given is a network device, but this does not constitute any limitation on the execution subject. A network device can be replaced by a network apparatus, or a module used in a network device to implement its communication function, such as a chip, chip system, module, or component.

[0230] It is understood that, in order to achieve the above-mentioned functions, terminal devices or network devices include hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0231] This application embodiment can divide the terminal device or network device into functional modules according to the above method embodiments. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0232] For example, in the embodiments of this application, the terminal device and the network device can adopt... Figure 11 This is implemented in the form of a communication device 1100. The communication device 1100 may include a transmitting module 1101 and a receiving module 1102. The communication device 1100 is used to implement the above... Figures 4 to 10 The methods illustrated in this embodiment demonstrate the functions of the terminal device or network device.

[0233] For example, when the communication device 1100 is used to implement Figure 4 In the method embodiment shown, the terminal device functions as follows: a sending module 1101 is used to send first indication information; a receiving module 1102 is used to receive the correspondence between the index and TBS; the receiving module 1102 is also used to receive second indication information.

[0234] For example, when the communication device 1100 is used to implement Figure 4 In the method embodiment shown, the network device functions as follows: receiving module 1102 is used to receive first indication information; sending module 1101 is used to send the correspondence between the index and TBS; sending module 1101 is also used to send second indication information.

[0235] For a more detailed description of the aforementioned transmitting module 1101 and receiving module 1102, please refer to [reference needed]. Figures 4 to 10 The relevant descriptions in the method embodiments shown.

[0236] In this embodiment, the communication device 1100 is presented in an integrated manner, divided into various functional modules. Here, "module" can refer to a specific ASIC, circuit, processor and memory executing one or more software or firmware programs, integrated logic circuit, and / or other devices that can provide the above-mentioned functions.

[0237] In a simplified embodiment, when the communication device 1100 is used to implement Figures 4 to 10 When considering the functionality of the terminal device in the illustrated method embodiment, those skilled in the art will realize that the communication device 1100 can employ... Figure 2 Device 1 shown or Figure 3 The device shown is in the form of 2b.

[0238] for example, Figure 11 The functions / implementation processes of the transmitting module 1101 and the receiving module 1102 can be obtained through... Figure 2 Antenna 201 or Figure 3 This is achieved using antenna 301.

[0239] Since the communication device 1100 provided in this embodiment can execute the above-described communication method, the technical effects it can achieve can be referred to the above-described method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0240] It should be noted that one or more of the above modules or units can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of both. When any of the above modules or units are implemented by software, the software exists as computer program instructions and is stored in memory. The processor can be used to execute the program instructions and implement the above method flow. The processor can be built into a SoC or ASIC, or it can be a separate semiconductor chip. In addition to the core that executes the software instructions for computation or processing, the processor may further include necessary hardware accelerators, such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), or logic circuits that implement dedicated logic operations.

[0241] When the above modules or units are implemented in hardware, the hardware can be any one or any combination of a CPU, microprocessor, digital signal processing (DSP) chip, microcontroller unit (MCU), artificial intelligence processor, ASIC, SoC, FPGA, PLD, application-specific digital circuit, hardware accelerator, or non-integrated discrete device, which can run the necessary software or perform the above method flow independently of software.

[0242] Optionally, embodiments of this application also provide a chip system, including: at least one processor and an interface, wherein the at least one processor is coupled to a memory via the interface, and when the at least one processor executes a computer program or instructions in the memory, the method in any of the above method embodiments is executed. In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a memory. Optionally, the chip system may be composed of chips, or may include chips and other discrete devices; embodiments of this application do not specifically limit this.

[0243] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software programs, implementation can be, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device containing one or more servers, data centers, etc., that can be integrated with the medium. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs), etc.

[0244] Although this application has been described herein in conjunction with various embodiments, those skilled in the art, by reviewing the accompanying drawings, disclosure, and appended claims, will understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in carrying out the claimed application. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other components or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit can implement several functions listed in the claims. While different dependent claims may recite certain measures, this does not mean that these measures cannot be combined to produce good results.

[0245] Although this application has been described in conjunction with specific features and embodiments, it is obvious that various modifications and combinations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Accordingly, this specification and drawings are merely exemplary illustrations of this application as defined by the appended claims, and are considered to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents within the scope of this application. Clearly, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and modifications to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Thus, if such modifications and modifications of this application fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application is also intended to include such modifications and modifications.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send a first indication message, the first indication message being used to indicate at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or a first range of data packet sizes that the terminal device supports for transmission; The correspondence between the received index and the TBS is determined; the correspondence is related to the first indication information. Receive second indication information, the second indication information including a first index, the second indication information being used to determine a first TBS based on the correspondence and the first index.

2. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive first indication information, the first indication information being used to indicate at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or a first range of data packet sizes supported by the terminal device for transmission; Send the correspondence between the index and TBS; the correspondence is related to the first indication information; Send a second instruction message, the second instruction message including a first index, the second instruction message being used by the terminal device to determine a first TBS based on the correspondence and the first index.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The coverage level of the terminal device is one of a plurality of coverage levels, including a first coverage level and a second coverage level. The first coverage level is different from the second coverage level. The coverage level is related to the transmission duration of a transport block (TB) or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, When the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the transmission duration of one TB is greater than or equal to the first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by one TB is greater than or equal to the second threshold. When the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level, the duration of a TB transmission is less than the first threshold; or the number of time domain units occupied by a TB is less than the second threshold.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The first indication information is carried on a first random access resource, which corresponds to at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The first indication information includes at least one of the following: the coverage level of the terminal device, or the first range.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The first indication information is carried in the first uplink message during the random access process; the correspondence is carried in the first downlink message during or after the random access process.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The terminal device is in a connected state, the first indication information is carried in the second uplink message, and the correspondence is carried in the second downlink message used for scheduling data.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The second indication information is carried in a third downlink message used for scheduling data.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, When the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the value of the first TBS is different from the value of the first TBS when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level. When the first range is less than or equal to the third threshold, the value of the first TBS is different from the value of the first TBS when the first range is greater than the third threshold.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The correspondence is related to the first indication information and includes: When the coverage level of the terminal device is the first coverage level, the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence is greater than the maximum value of TBS in the correspondence when the coverage level of the terminal device is the second coverage level.

12. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes: a module or unit for implementing the method according to any one of claims 1-11.

13. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A memory and a processor coupled to the memory, the memory being used to store a program, and the processor being used to execute the program stored in the memory; when the communication device is running, the processor runs the program, causing the communication device to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-11.

14. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores a computer program that, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in any one of claims 1-11.

15. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method described in any one of claims 1-11.

16. A chip, characterized in that, The chip includes a processor and a memory, the memory being used to store instructions and the processor being used to execute the instructions, causing the apparatus including the chip to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-11.

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