Communication method, device, system, storage medium and program product

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a communication method, device, system, storage medium and program product. The communication method comprises: a first access network device sending first information to a second access network device, the first information being used for requesting the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices; wherein the first device is used for performing at least one of the following in a sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; wherein the first access network device supports a sensing control function. The present disclosure enables the first access network device to complete the sensing service and improves the communication efficiency.

Description

Communication methods, devices, systems, storage media and software products Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to communication methods, devices, systems, storage media, and program products. Background Technology

[0002] During the transmission of radio waves, they may be blocked by some objects (hereinafter referred to as reflectors). The wireless signal transmitter emits radio waves, and the wireless signal receiver receives the radio waves and compares the transmitted and received signals, or records the historical changes of the received signal, thereby obtaining some information about the reflector.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] Access network devices that support sensing and control functions are unable to perform sensing services due to their own limitations.

[0005] This disclosure provides communication methods, devices, systems, storage media, and program products.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is provided, executed by a first access network device, the method comprising: the first access network device sending first information to a second access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; wherein the first devices are configured to perform at least one of the following in a sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; wherein the first access network device supports sensing control functions.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is provided, executed by a second access network device, the method comprising: the second access network device receiving first information sent by a first access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; wherein the first devices are used to perform at least one of the following in a sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; wherein the first access network device supports sensing control functions.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is provided for a communication system. The method includes: a first access network device sending first information to a second access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; wherein the first devices are used to perform at least one of the following in a sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; wherein the first access network device supports sensing control functions.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided for performing the communication method described in any one of the first and second aspects.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is provided, including a first access network device and a second access network device, wherein the first access network device is configured to implement the communication method described in the first aspect, and the second access network device is configured to implement the communication method described in the second aspect.

[0011] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided that stores instructions which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform a communication method as described in the first aspect and any one thereof, or the second aspect and any one thereof.

[0012] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a program product is provided, comprising at least one of a program and instructions, wherein the program and instructions, when executed by a communication device, implement the communication method described in any one of the first and second aspects.

[0013] This disclosure involves a first access network device sending first information to request a second access device to instruct one or more first devices, thereby enabling the first access network device to perform sensing services and improve communication efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings required for the description of the embodiments are introduced below. The following drawings are only some embodiments of this disclosure and do not impose specific limitations on the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 1a is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 1b is a schematic diagram of a sensing reference architecture.

[0017] Figure 1c is a schematic diagram of a sensing reference architecture.

[0018] Figure 1d is a schematic diagram of a sensing reference architecture.

[0019] Figure 1e is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture.

[0020] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication method interaction according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 3 is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 4a is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 4b is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 5a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first access network device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0025] Figure 5b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second access network device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 6a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 6b is a schematic diagram of the chip structure proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0028] This disclosure provides communication methods, devices, systems, storage media, and program products.

[0029] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure propose a communication method executed by a first access network device, the method comprising: the first access network device sending first information to a second access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; wherein, the first device is used to perform at least one of the following in a sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; wherein, the first access network device supports sensing control functions.

[0030] In the above embodiments, the first access network device sends first information to request the second access device to instruct one or more first devices, thereby enabling the first access network device to complete the sensing service and improve communication efficiency.

[0031] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task.

[0032] In the above embodiments, the first information can be used to request one or more first devices capable of performing sensing tasks, so that the second access network device can indicate one or more first devices capable of performing sensing tasks. In addition to assisting the first access network device in completing sensing services, the first access device can also directly select a sensing signal receiving end to perform sensing tasks without having to determine whether it is capable of performing sensing tasks.

[0033] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: first indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task; an identifier of the sensing task; type information of the sensing task; time information required for the sensing task; number information of the first devices required for the sensing task; location information of the first devices required for the sensing task; status information of the first devices required for the sensing task; signal reception strength of the first devices required for the sensing task; and signal transmission strength of the first devices required for the sensing task.

[0034] In the above embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the above, so that the second access network device can more accurately indicate one or more first devices to the first access network device.

[0035] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: the first access network device receiving second information, the second information being used to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task, or the second information being used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0036] In the above embodiments, the first access network device can receive second information, which can indicate one or more first devices capable of performing sensing tasks. That is, the second access network device can indicate one or more first devices capable of performing sensing tasks to the first access network device. The second information can be used to reject the request from the first access network device, so that the first access network device can promptly initiate requests to other devices.

[0037] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that support a first capability, the first capability including the ability to transmit and / or receive sensing signals.

[0038] In the above embodiments, the first information can be used to request one or more first devices that support the first capability, so that the second access network device can indicate all one or more first devices that support the first capability to the first access network device, so that the first access network device can select one or more suitable first devices according to different sensing tasks, thereby improving flexibility and avoiding requesting one or more first devices from the second access network device every time a sensing task needs to be performed, thus improving efficiency and avoiding waste of resources.

[0039] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: second indication information, the second indication information being used to instruct the first access network device to request one or more first devices to support the first capability; the first capability.

[0040] In the above embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the above-mentioned items, so that the second access network device can more accurately indicate one or more first devices.

[0041] In some embodiments, in conjunction with the first aspect, the method further includes: the first access network device receiving second information, the second information being used to indicate one or more first devices supporting the first capability, or the second information being used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0042] In the above embodiments, the first access network device can receive second information, which can indicate one or more first devices supporting the first capability. That is, the second access network device can indicate one or more first devices supporting the first capability to the first access network device. The second information can be used to reject the request from the first access network device, so that the first access network device can promptly initiate requests to other devices.

[0043] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the second information is used to reject the request of the first access network device, and the second information is also used to indicate the reason for rejection.

[0044] In the above embodiments, when the second information is used to reject the request from the first access network device, it can also indicate the reason for rejection, so that the first access network device can make corresponding adjustments based on the reason for rejection to improve communication efficiency. For example, the reason for rejection could be that one or more first devices are in a busy period during a certain time and therefore cannot perform the sensing task. In this case, the first access network device can choose to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices again after this period based on the reason. Another example is that the reason for rejection could be that the second access network device does not have one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task. In this case, the first access network device can choose to request instructions for one or more first devices from other devices based on the reason.

[0045] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the one or more first devices; capability information of the one or more first devices; location information of the one or more first devices; antenna information of the one or more first devices; and beam information of the one or more first devices.

[0046] In the above embodiments, the second information may include at least one of the above, so that when the second access network device indicates a plurality of one or more first devices, the first access network device may select one or more more suitable first devices to perform the sensing task.

[0047] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the method further includes: the first access network device sending third information, the third information being used to request the second access network device to perform a sensing task; the first access network device receiving fourth information, the fourth information including at least one of the following: an identifier of the sensing task; a measurement result of the sensing task; and location information of the first device corresponding to the measurement result.

[0048] In the above embodiments, the first access network device can send third information and receive fourth information to complete the sensing task, thereby improving efficiency.

[0049] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: the first access network device selecting one or more first devices from one or more first devices indicated by the second information to perform the sensing task; wherein the third information includes identifiers of the selected one or more first devices.

[0050] In the above embodiments, the first access network device may select one or more first devices, and the third information may include the identifiers of the selected one or more first devices, so as to indicate the selected one or more first devices to the second access network device.

[0051] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the one or more first devices include at least one of the following: a terminal served by the second access network device; and a transmission / reception point of the second access network device.

[0052] In the above embodiments, one or more first devices include at least one of the above features to adapt to different communication scenarios, thereby improving flexibility and communication efficiency.

[0053] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided, executed by a second access network device, the method comprising: the second access network device receiving first information sent by a first access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; wherein the first devices are used to perform at least one of the following in a sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; wherein the first access network device supports sensing control functions.

[0054] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task.

[0055] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: first indication information, which is used to instruct the first access network device to request one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task; an identifier of the sensing task; type information of the sensing task; time information required for the sensing task; number information of the first devices required for the sensing task; location information of the first devices required for the sensing task; status information of the first devices required for the sensing task; signal reception strength of the first devices required for the sensing task; and signal transmission strength of the first devices required for the sensing task.

[0056] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: the second access network device sending second information, the second information being used to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task, or the second information being used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0057] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that support a first capability, the first capability including the ability to transmit sensing signals and / or the ability to receive sensing signals.

[0058] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: second indication information, the second indication information being used to instruct the first access network device to request one or more first devices to support the first capability; the first capability.

[0059] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: the second access network device sending second information, the second information being used to indicate one or more first devices supporting the first capability, or the second information being used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0060] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second information is used to reject the request of the first access network device, and the second information is also used to indicate the reason for rejection.

[0061] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the one or more first devices; capability information of the one or more first devices; location information of the one or more first devices; antenna information of the one or more first devices; and beam information of the one or more first devices.

[0062] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the method further includes: the second access network device receiving third information, the third information being used to request the second access network device to perform a sensing task; the second access network device sending fourth information, the fourth information including at least one of the following: an identifier of the sensing task; a measurement result of the sensing task; and location information of the first device corresponding to the measurement result.

[0063] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the third information includes the identifiers of one or more first devices selected by the first access network device.

[0064] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the one or more first devices include at least one of the following: a terminal served by the second access network device; and a transmit / receive point of the second access network device.

[0065] Thirdly, a communication method is provided, the method comprising: a first access network device sending first information to a second access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices, the one or more first devices being used to send and / or receive sensing signals in a sensing task, the first access network device supporting sensing control functions; and the second access network device receiving the first information.

[0066] Thirdly, a communication method is provided for a communication system, the method comprising: a first access network device sending first information to a second access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; wherein the first devices are used to perform at least one of the following in a sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; wherein the first access network device supports sensing control functions.

[0067] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, the communication device being used to perform the communication method described in any one of the first and second aspects.

[0068] Fifthly, a communication system is provided, including a first access network device and a second access network device, wherein the first access network device is configured to implement the communication method described in the first aspect, and the second access network device is configured to implement the communication method described in the second aspect.

[0069] In a sixth aspect, a storage medium is provided that stores instructions which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform a communication method as described in the first aspect and any one thereof, or the second aspect and any one thereof.

[0070] In a seventh aspect, a program product is provided, comprising at least one of a program and instructions, wherein the program and instructions, when executed by a communication device, implement the communication method described in any one of the first and second aspects.

[0071] Eighthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product that, when executed by a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the method as described in the optional implementation of the first or second aspect.

[0072] In a ninth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in an optional implementation of the first or second aspect.

[0073] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a chip or chip system. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry configured to perform the method described according to an optional implementation of the first or second aspect above.

[0074] It is understood that the communication devices, first access network devices, second access network devices, terminals, core network devices, communication systems, storage media, program products, computer programs, chips, or chip systems involved in the embodiments of this disclosure are all used to execute the methods proposed in the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here.

[0075] This disclosure provides communication methods, devices, systems, storage media, and program products. In some embodiments, the terms "communication method" and "information processing method" can be used interchangeably, as can the terms "communication device" and "information processing device" and "communication device," and the terms "information processing system" and "communication system."

[0076] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments. In all embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent and can be mutually referenced. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0077] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0078] In this embodiment of the disclosure, unless otherwise stated, elements expressed in the singular form, such as "a," "an," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "this," etc., can mean "one and only one," or "one or more," "at least one," etc. For example, when using articles such as "a," "an," "the," etc. in translation, the noun following the article can be understood as either a singular expression or a plural expression.

[0079] In the embodiments disclosed herein, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0080] In some embodiments, the terms “at least one of A or B, at least one of A and B”, “one or more”, “a plurality of”, “multiple”, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0081] In some embodiments, the notation "at least one of A and B", "A and / or B", "A in one case, B in another", "in response to one case A, in response to another case B", etc., may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether there is a branch B); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether there is a branch A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed); in some embodiments, both A and B are executed. The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.

[0082] In some embodiments, the notation "A or B" may include the following technical solutions, depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether a branch B exists); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether a branch A exists); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed). The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, and C.

[0083] The prefixes "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely for distinguishing different descriptive objects and do not impose restrictions on the position, order, priority, quantity, or content of the descriptive objects. The description of the descriptive objects is found in the claims or the context of the embodiments, and the use of prefixes should not constitute unnecessary restrictions. For example, if the descriptive object is a "field," the ordinal numbers preceding "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not restrict the position or order of the "fields." "First" and "second" do not restrict whether the "fields" they modify are in the same message, nor do they restrict the order of "first field" and "second field." Similarly, if the descriptive object is a "level," the ordinal numbers preceding "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not restrict the priority between "levels." Furthermore, the number of descriptive objects is not limited by ordinal numbers and can be one or more. For example, in "first device," the number of "devices" can be one or more. Furthermore, the objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the object being described is "device", then "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different. Similarly, if the object being described is "information", then "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their content can be the same or different.

[0084] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0085] In some embodiments, terms such as "time / frequency" and "time-frequency domain" refer to the time domain and / or frequency domain.

[0086] In some embodiments, terms such as “in response to…”, “in response to determining…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “when…”, “if…”, etc. can be used interchangeably. These descriptions all refer to the device making a corresponding action under certain objective circumstances. They do not necessarily limit the time, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when implementing it, nor do they mean that there must be other limitations.

[0087] In some embodiments, the terms “greater than,” “greater than or equal to,” “not less than,” “more than,” “more than or equal to,” “not less than,” “higher than,” “higher than or equal to,” “not lower than,” and “above” can be used interchangeably, as can the terms “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not greater than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not more than,” “lower than,” “lower than or equal to,” “not higher than,” and “below”.

[0088] In some embodiments, devices, etc., may be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to those described in the embodiments. Terms such as “device,” “equipment,” “circuit,” “network element,” “network function,” “network device,” “function,” “node,” “unit,” “section,” “system,” “network,” “chip,” “chip system,” “entity,” and “subject” are interchangeable.

[0089] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0090] In some embodiments, the terms "access network device (AN device)," "radio access network device (RAN device)," "base station (BS)," "radio base station," "fixed station," "node," "access point," "transmission point (TP)," "reception point (RP)," "transmission / reception point (TRP)," "panel," "antenna panel," "antenna array," "cell," "macro cell," "small cell," "femto cell," "pico cell," "sector," "cell group," "serving cell," "carrier," "component carrier," and "bandwidth part (BWP)" can be used interchangeably.

[0091] In some embodiments, the terms "terminal", "terminal device", "user equipment (UE)", "user terminal", "mobile station (MS)", "mobile terminal (MT)", "subscriber station", "mobile unit", "subscriber unit", "wireless unit", "remote unit", "mobile device", "wireless device", "wireless communication device", "remote device", "mobile subscriber station", "access terminal", "mobile terminal", "wireless terminal", "remote terminal", "handset", "user agent", "mobile client", and "client" can be used interchangeably.

[0092] In some embodiments, access network devices, core network devices, or network devices can be replaced by terminals. For example, embodiments of this disclosure can also be applied to structures where communication between access network devices, core network devices, or network devices and terminals is replaced by communication between multiple terminals (e.g., device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), etc.). In this case, the structure can also be configured such that the terminal has all or part of the functions of the access network device. Furthermore, terms such as "uplink" and "downlink" can be replaced with terms corresponding to communication between terminals (e.g., "sidelink"). For example, uplink channel, downlink channel, etc., can be replaced with sidelink channel, and uplink link, downlink, etc., can be replaced with sidelink link.

[0093] In some embodiments, the terminal may be replaced by an access network device, a core network device, or a network device. In this case, the access network device, core network device, or network device may also be configured to have all or some of the functions of the terminal.

[0094] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0095] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0096] Furthermore, each element, each row, or each column in the table of this disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0097] Figure 1a is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0098] As shown in Figure 1a, the communication system 100 includes a first access network device 101 and a second access network device 102.

[0099] In some embodiments, the communication system may further include a terminal and core network equipment.

[0100] In some embodiments, the access network device is, for example, a node or device that connects a terminal to a wireless network. The access network device may include at least one of the following in a 5G communication system: evolved Node B (eNB), next-generation eNB (ng-eNB), next-generation Node B (gNB), node B (NB), home node B (HNB), home evolved node B (HeNB), radio backhaul device, radio network controller (RNC), base station controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), base band unit (BBU), mobile switching center, base station in a 6G communication system, open RAN, cloud RAN, base station in other communication systems, and access node in a Wi-Fi system, but is not limited thereto.

[0101] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to the Open RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between or within access network devices involved in the embodiments of this disclosure can be transformed into internal interfaces of Open RAN. The processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be implemented by software or programs.

[0102] In some embodiments, the access network device may be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). The CU may also be called a control unit. The CU-DU structure can separate the protocol layer of the access network device. Some of the protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining part or all of the protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU and centrally controlled by the CU. However, this is not the only possibility.

[0103] In some embodiments, the terminal includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: mobile phone, wearable device, Internet of Things device, car with communication function, smart car, tablet computer, computer with wireless transceiver function, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal device in industrial control, wireless terminal device in self-driving, wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, wireless terminal device in smart grid, wireless terminal device in transportation safety, wireless terminal device in smart city, and wireless terminal device in smart home.

[0104] In some embodiments, the core network equipment can be a single device, multiple devices, or a group of devices. Network elements can be virtual or physical. The core network includes, for example, at least one of the Evolved Packet Core (EPC), 5G Core Network (5GCN), and Next Generation Core (NGC).

[0105] It is understood that the communication system described in this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0106] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1a, or to some of the main bodies, but are not limited thereto. The main bodies shown in FIG1a are illustrative. The communication system may include all or some of the main bodies in FIG1a, or it may include other main bodies outside of FIG1a. The number and form of each main body are arbitrary. Each main body may be physical or virtual. The connection relationship between the main bodies is illustrative. The main bodies may not be connected or may be connected. The connection may be in any way, such as direct connection or indirect connection, wired connection or wireless connection.

[0107] The embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G new radio (NR), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), and IEEE 802.20, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth (a registered trademark), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) networks, Device-to-Device (D2D) systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) systems, systems utilizing other communication methods, and next-generation systems built upon them, etc. Furthermore, multiple systems can be combined (e.g., a combination of LTE or LTE-A with 5G).

[0108] In some embodiments, wireless sensing is a technology that uses wireless communication to acquire, detect, analyze, and transmit information about the state, behavior, or characteristics of an environment or object. For example, a wireless signal transmitter emits radio waves, and a wireless signal receiver receives them. During the transmission of radio waves, the transmission may be blocked by objects (hereinafter referred to as reflectors), resulting in wireless transmission effects such as reflection, diffraction, transmission, phase change, Doppler shift, and signal intensity changes. The wireless signal receiver receives the radio waves and compares the transmitted and received signals, or records the historical changes in the received signal, thereby acquiring information about the reflector. This information about the reflector may include:

[0109] Coordinate information (e.g., coordinates relative to the wireless signal receiver (e.g., distance, horizontal angle, and vertical angle));

[0110] Speed ​​information (e.g., moving speed and direction of movement relative to the wireless signal receiver);

[0111] Behavioral pattern information (e.g., running, walking, approaching, falling, swinging, etc.); or weather information (e.g., rain, snow, etc.); or traffic information (e.g., congestion, accidents, etc.).

[0112] In some embodiments, in a wireless network (e.g., a cellular network), the wireless signal transmitter can be at least one of the following:

[0113] Base station;

[0114] Wireless access points (e.g., WiFi access points (APs));

[0115] terminal.

[0116] In some embodiments, the wireless signal receiver may be at least one of the following:

[0117] Base station;

[0118] Wireless access point;

[0119] terminal.

[0120] In some embodiments, the wireless signal transmitter and the wireless signal receiver may be from the same device or different devices. For example:

[0121] 1) Base station A transmits, base station B receives.

[0122] 2) Base station A transmits, base station A receives.

[0123] 3) Terminal A sends, terminal B receives.

[0124] 4) Terminal A sends, Terminal A receives.

[0125] 5) Base station A transmits, terminal A receives.

[0126] 6) Terminal A transmits, base station A receives.

[0127] In some embodiments, the sensing reference architecture may include at least three of the following: the sensing function is deployed on the core network (CN) side; the sensing element (SF) is deployed on the CN side, and the centralized unit (CU) and user plane (UP) are separated; the sensing element (SF) is deployed on the radio access network (RAN) side as a central control node.

[0128] Figure 1b illustrates a schematic diagram of a perception reference architecture. In Figure 1b, the SF (Surveillance Provider) is deployed on the CN (Network Component) side. The SF connects to the AMF (Agency Component) via Network Slice (NS) 1, to Unified Data Management (UDM) via NS3, to Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) via NS4, to Location Management Function (LMF) via NS6, to Policy Control Function (PCF) via NS5, to Network Element Function (NEF) via NS2, and to User Port Function (UPF) via NS7. The PCF and NEF are connected via the Network Function Node Inter-Node Communication Interface 5 (N5), and the NEF and Application Function (AF) are connected via N33. The AMF and RAN support are connected via N2, and the AMF and UE are connected via N1. The RAN and UPF can also be connected.

[0129] Figure 1c shows a schematic diagram of a sensing reference architecture. Similar to Figure 1b, the CU and UP are separated. That is, the SF and UPF do not communicate directly with each other. Instead, the SF is connected to the sensing data plane function through NS7, and the sensing control plane function is connected to the UPF through NS8.

[0130] Figure 1d illustrates a perception reference architecture. In Figure 1d, the SF (Sensitive Controller) acts as a central control node deployed on the RAN side. The SF connects to the RAN via NS1, to the AMF via NS2, to the NWDAF via NS4, and to the NEF via NS3. The NEF connects to the AF via N33, and connections can also exist between the RAN and the UE (User Equipment).

[0131] In some embodiments, the SF is a core network element responsible for determining the sensing mode, sensing nodes, sensing measurement configuration, and other functions; the gNB is responsible for executing specific sensing functions.

[0132] In some embodiments, the gNB can perform some or all of the functions of the SF, including calculating sensing results and triggering neighboring base stations to track targets. Furthermore, considering the interference of sensing signals between different base stations, the RAN can more easily sense air interface resources and allocate them reasonably and promptly. To avoid interference, the RAN can perform some sensing control functions (e.g., air interface sensing resource allocation). Simultaneously, to reduce the amount of data transmitted during sensing data transmission, the RAN can perform preprocessing during sensing data reporting to reduce data transmission overhead. For example, sensing data preprocessing operations can involve processing raw signal information into point set information or sensing target information, and preprocessing operations can also include aggregating sensing data from multiple sensing nodes for processing to obtain more accurate sensing results. For example, as shown in Figure 1d, the RAN may include new logical functional units, such as a Sensing Unit, for performing sensing control functions and data preprocessing functions. This can be understood as a sensing control function deployed on the base station side, for example, it can be simply referred to as the base station-side sensing control function (RAN sensing controller, RSC), but is not limited to this. Sensing control functions within the base station help improve sensing efficiency and reduce sensing latency, etc.

[0133] In some embodiments, the RSC may have at least one of the following functions:

[0134] It manages the sensing services in its service area, for example, it can manage its own service requests (e.g., sensor-assisted communication), service requests from UEs served by the RAN node, service requests from other RAN nodes, and service requests from the CN (e.g., AMF).

[0135] Determine the sensing mode;

[0136] Sensing result processing;

[0137] Interact with the UE served by the RAN node for sensing;

[0138] Interact with other RAN nodes to perform sensing;

[0139] Interact with AMF.

[0140] Figure 1e is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture. As shown in Figure 1e, in a communication system architecture with a Next Generation Access Network (NG-RAN), the RAN can have RSC units. RAN1 and RAN2 are two RANs that can communicate with each other. The RSC unit in RAN1 is called RSC1, and the RSC unit in RAN2 is called RSC2. The RAN also has Transmission and Receiving Points (TRPs). Different RANs are connected through the inter-base station interface (Xn interface), and the RAN and UE can be connected through the user equipment and base station interface (Uu interface). The UE can send a Session Establishment Request (SET) to request the establishment of a network connection. The UE can have Candidate Sensing TRPs for sensing.

[0141] In some embodiments, access network devices supporting sensing control functions may be unable to perform sensing services due to limitations imposed by their own circumstances. For example, when a RAN with RSC receives a sensing service request from another network element, and there is no suitable UE within that RAN to perform sensing signal transmission or reception when determining the sensing mode, the sensing service cannot be performed.

[0142] Therefore, this disclosure provides a communication method in which a first access network device sends first information to request a second access device to instruct one or more first devices, thereby enabling the first access network device to complete sensing services and improve communication efficiency.

[0143] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication method interaction according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method for a communication system 100, the method including:

[0144] In step S2101, the first access network device 101 sends the first information to the second access network device 102.

[0145] In some embodiments, the second access network device 102 receives first information sent by the first access network device 101.

[0146] In some embodiments, terms such as “send,” “transmit,” “report,” “distribute,” “transfer,” “bidirectional transmission,” “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably.

[0147] In some embodiments, the name of the first information is not limited, and it may be, for example, "request information", "instruction information", etc.

[0148] In some embodiments, the names of information, etc., are not limited to the names described in the embodiments. Terms such as "information", "message", "signal", "signaling", "report", "configuration", "indication", "instruction", "command", "channel", "parameter", "domain", "field", "symbol", "symbol", "codebook", "codeword", "codepoint", "bit", "data", "program", and "chip" can be used interchangeably.

[0149] In some embodiments, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices. The one or more first devices are used to send and / or receive sensing signals in a sensing task. The name of the first device is not limited; it may be, for example, a first node, a sensing signal transceiver, etc., which are not exemplified here. The first access network device supports sensing control functions, that is, the first access network device can act as a control node for the sensing task, manage the sensing task, and select one or more first devices for sending and / or receiving signals in the sensing task. The request from the first access network device to the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices can be understood as the first access network device requesting the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices to the first access network device for sending and / or receiving sensing signals in the sensing task managed by the first access network device. Indicating one or more first devices to the first access network device can also be understood as providing one or more first devices to the first access network device, or as sending information about one or more first devices to the first access network device. The first access network device can select one or more more suitable first devices to complete the sensing task and improve the accuracy of sensing based on the information of one or more first devices. For example, the first information may request the second access network device to send information about one or more first devices.

[0150] In some embodiments, the first access network device requests one or more first devices indicated by the second access network device, which may be at least one of the following: a terminal served by the second access network device, or the TRP of the second access network device.

[0151] Optionally, the first access network device may request one or more first devices indicated by the second access network device, which could be terminals served by the second access network device. In this case, the first devices can be terminal devices. Terminals served by the second access network device can send and / or receive sensing signals in sensing tasks managed by the first access network device. Here, the terminal is a terminal with sensing capabilities. For example, if the location of the terminal is capable of receiving sensing information sent by the first access network device, then the terminal can act as the receiving end of the sensing task.

[0152] Optionally, if the first access network device requests one or more first devices indicated by the second access network device, which may be the TRP of the second access network device, then the first device may be an antenna device. The TRP of the second access network device may send and / or receive sensing signals in sensing tasks managed by the first access network device.

[0153] In some embodiments, the second access network device may be an access network device adjacent to the first access network device. The second access network device may or may not support sensing and control functions, and this disclosure does not limit it.

[0154] In some embodiments, the first information is used to request a second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing sensing tasks.

[0155] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: first indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task; an identifier of the sensing task; type information of the sensing task; time information required for the sensing task; number information of the first devices required for the sensing task; location information of the first devices required for the sensing task; status information of the first devices required for the sensing task; signal reception strength of the first devices required for the sensing task; and signal transmission strength of the first devices required for the sensing task.

[0156] Optionally, the first information includes first indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task. If the first information includes the first indication information, upon receiving the first information, the second access network device can determine that the first access network device has requested one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task. The second access network device can determine whether there are one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task, or which first devices are capable of performing the sensing task.

[0157] Optionally, in some cases, the first instruction information and the first information can be the same information.

[0158] Optionally, the first information includes an identifier for the sensing task. It is understood that different sensing tasks have different types, require different amounts of time, require different numbers of first devices, and / or have different capability requirements, etc. Each sensing task can have an identifier. When the first access network device receives the first information, it can determine other information related to the sensing task based on the identifier, such as the type of sensing task, the number of first devices required, etc. This allows it to determine whether there are one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task, or which first devices are capable of performing the sensing task.

[0159] For example, if the first access network device configures identifiers for multiple sensing tasks and configures the correspondence between sensing tasks and their identifiers to the second access network device, then when the first information includes the identifier of the sensing task, the second access network device can determine what kind of sensing task the first access device is going to perform, thereby determining whether there are one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task, or which first devices are capable of performing the sensing task.

[0160] For example, if the second access network device configures identifiers for multiple sensing tasks and configures the correspondence between sensing tasks and their identifiers to the first access network device, then when the first information includes the identifier of the sensing task, the second access network device can determine what kind of sensing task the first access device is going to perform, thereby determining whether there are one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task, or which first devices are capable of performing the sensing task.

[0161] For example, the protocol can specify the identifiers corresponding to multiple sensing tasks. When the first information includes the identifier of the sensing task, the second access network device can determine what kind of sensing task the first access device is to perform, thereby determining whether there are one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task, or which first devices are capable of performing the sensing task.

[0162] For example, a first access network device can request an instruction for one or more first devices from a second access network device, carrying the identifier of the sensing task and other information about the sensing task. When the first access network device requests one or more first devices for the same sensing task again, the first information can include only the identifier of the sensing task, omitting other information about the sensing task, thus saving resources. For instance, if the first access network device requests an instruction for one or more first devices from the second access network device, and the second access network device rejects the request due to busy traffic or its sensing signal receiver being temporarily occupied, then the first access network device can request again after a period of time. The first information in the second request can then only include the identifier of the sensing task, thus saving resources.

[0163] Optionally, the first information includes the type information of the sensing task. For example, the type of sensing task may be a first device required to transmit sensing signals, such as a sensing signal transmitter. That is, the first information may indicate that the first access network device requires a first device to transmit sensing signals. For example, when the first information includes the type of sensing task, and the type of sensing task is a first device required to transmit sensing signals, the second access network device can determine whether there is a first device capable of transmitting sensing signals in the sensing task. As another example, the type of sensing task may be a first device required to receive sensing signals, such as a sensing signal receiver. That is, the first information may indicate that the first access network device requires a first device to receive sensing signals. For example, when the first information includes the type of sensing task, and the type of sensing task is a first device required to receive sensing signals, the second access network device can determine whether there is a first device capable of transmitting sensing signals in the sensing task. For example, the type of sensing task can be a first device that needs to be used to send and receive sensing signals. That is, the first information can indicate that the first access network device needs a first device that needs to send and receive sensing signals. For example, when the first information includes the type of sensing task and the type of sensing task is a first device that needs to be used to send and receive sensing signals, the second access network device can determine whether there is a first device that can send and receive sensing signals in the sensing task.

[0164] Optionally, the first information includes time information required for the sensing task. For example, the required time information could be the required time period length, or the required start time, end time, etc. When the first information includes time information required for the sensing task, the second access network device can determine whether there are one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task within that time period. For example, the second access network device can determine whether there are one or more first devices capable of transmitting and / or receiving sensing signals within a certain time period. Or, for example, the second access network device can determine which one or more first devices can transmit and / or receive sensing signals within a certain time period. Thus, the second access network device can indicate one or more first devices to the first access network device.

[0165] Optionally, the first information includes information on the number of first devices required for the sensing task. For example, the required number of first devices may include the number of sensing signal transmitters and / or the number of sensing signal receivers. Assuming the first access network device requires A sensing signal transmitters and B sensing signal receivers, the first information may include A and B. In this case, the second access network device can determine whether there are enough first devices available for transmitting sensing signals and whether there are enough first devices available for receiving sensing signals. As another example, the required number of first devices may be the total number of sensing signal transmitters and sensing signal receivers. Assuming the first access network device requires A sensing signal transmitters and B sensing signal receivers, the first information may include A+B. The first access network device can determine whether there are enough terminals and TRPs available for both transmitting and receiving sensing signals.

[0166] Optionally, the first information includes the location information of the first device required for the sensing task. For example, the location information could be an index of a Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) to indicate which SSB the first device required for the sensing task receives. Here, the SSB is a signal sent by the base station to the terminal for synchronization. It is understood that the same base station serves at least one terminal, meaning the same base station sends the same SSB to at least one terminal. Different base stations send different SSBs. When the location information is an SSB index, it can indicate which base station serves the terminal requiring the sensing signal, or it can indicate which base station's TRP the first device required for the sensing task is. Alternatively, the location information could be latitude and longitude information to indicate the geographical location or geographical area where the desired sensing transceiver is located.

[0167] Optionally, the first information may include the status information of the first device required for the sensing task. For example, the status information may include a non-mobile state, a state with a long dwell time, or an RRC connected state, but it is not limited to these. For example, the status information may also be a low-speed moving state, etc., which are not listed in this disclosure. For another example, if the first device is a terminal, the status information may also be the terminal's dwell time in the cell, or the terminal's moving speed, etc. For example, when the first information includes the status information of the first device required for the sensing task, and the status information is a non-mobile state, then the first device required for the sensing task is a non-mobile first device. For another example, when the first information includes the status information of the first device required for the sensing task, and the status information is a connected state, then the first device required for the sensing task is a first device in an RRC connected state. For another example, when the first information includes the status information of the first device required for the sensing task, and the status information is a stationary state, then the first device required for the sensing task is a stationary first device. The second access network device can determine whether there is a first device in a non-mobile state, a connected state, or a stationary state that can send and / or receive sensing signals.

[0168] Optionally, the first information may include the signal reception strength of the first device required for the sensing task. When the first information includes the signal reception strength of the first device required for the sensing task, the second access network device can determine whether there is a first device whose signal reception strength meets the requirements of the first device for the sensing task. For example, if the first device is a terminal, the second access network device can determine the terminal's signal reception strength based on the measurement report reported by the terminal, thereby determining whether the terminal's signal reception strength meets the requirements of the first device for the sensing task. If it does, the terminal can be used as the first device for the sensing task; if it does not, it cannot be used as the first device for the sensing task.

[0169] Optionally, the first information may include the signal transmission strength of the first device required for the sensing task. For example, signal transmission strength can be understood as the maximum power or available power that the first device can transmit when acting as a transmitter to transmit a sensing signal. When the first information includes the signal transmission strength of the first device required for the sensing task, the second access network device can determine whether the signal transmission strength of one or more first devices meets the requirements of the sensing task. For example, the second access network device can determine whether the maximum transmission power or available power of one or more first devices meets the signal transmission strength required for the sensing task. If it does, the second access network device can indicate the one or more first devices to the first access network device. If it does not, it will not indicate to the first access network device. Optionally, it can also inform the first access network device that the reason for not indicating is that the signal transmission strength of one or more first devices does not meet the requirements of the sensing task.

[0170] In some embodiments, the terms "synchronization signal (SS)," "synchronization signal block (SSB)," "reference signal (RS)," "pilot," and "pilot signal" can be used interchangeably.

[0171] In some embodiments, the signal reception strength includes at least one of the received power of the received signal, the received quality, and the signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SNR).

[0172] In some embodiments, the signal reception strength in this disclosure can be the reception strength of a sensing signal or the reception strength of a communication signal. Correspondingly, the signal transmission strength can be the transmission strength of a sensing signal or the transmission strength of a communication signal.

[0173] In some embodiments, the first information is used to request a second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that support a first capability. The first capability includes the ability to transmit sensing signals and / or the ability to receive sensing signals.

[0174] Optionally, the first capability may include the ability to transmit sensing signals. The first information may request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of transmitting sensing signals. The second access network device may indicate one or more first devices capable of transmitting sensing signals to the first access network device, so that the first access network device can select one or more of them for transmitting sensing signals during a sensing task.

[0175] Optionally, the first capability may include the ability to receive sensing signals, and the first information may be used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of receiving sensing signals. The second access network device may indicate one or more first devices capable of receiving sensing signals to the first access network device, so that the first access network device may select one or more of them to receive sensing signals during the sensing task.

[0176] It is understood that the above optional examples can be combined with each other. For example, the first capability may include the ability to transmit and receive sensing signals, and the first information may be used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that can transmit sensing signals and one or more first devices that can receive sensing signals. Alternatively, the first information may be used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that can both transmit and receive sensing signals.

[0177] It is understood that one or more first devices are used to transmit and / or receive sensing signals; that is, one or more first devices may be used only to transmit sensing signals, or only to receive sensing signals, or both. In this disclosure, they are collectively referred to as one or more first devices. Receiving sensing signals may include measuring the sensing signals and reporting the measurement results. For example, when one or more first devices are used to receive sensing signals, they may also be used to measure the received sensing signals and report the measurement results.

[0178] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: second indication information, which is used to indicate that the requesting first access network device requests support for one or more first devices; and the first capability.

[0179] Optionally, the first information includes second indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request one or more first devices that support the first capability. If the first information includes the second indication information, upon receiving the first information, the second access network device can determine that the first access network device is requesting one or more first devices that support the first capability. The second access network device can determine whether there are one or more first devices that support the first capability, or which first devices support the first capability.

[0180] Optionally, the first information includes a first capability. For example, the first information may include the capability to transmit sensing signals, in which case the second access network device may indicate one or more first devices capable of transmitting sensing signals. As another example, the first information may include the capability to receive sensing signals, in which case the second access network device may indicate one or more first devices capable of receiving sensing signals. Yet another example, the first information may include both the capability to transmit and the capability to receive sensing signals, in which case the second access network device may indicate one or more first devices capable of transmitting and receiving sensing signals, or indicate one or more first devices capable of both transmitting and receiving sensing signals.

[0181] In some embodiments, the first capability supported by one or more first devices may be pre-configured by a second access network device or reported by one or more first devices.

[0182] In some embodiments, the first information can be used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task, or it can be used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices supporting a first capability. For example, the first access network device can send the former if a sensing task needs to be performed, and send the latter if no sensing task needs to be performed.

[0183] In some embodiments, the first information may be carried by a Sensing Coordination Request message, which is used to request coordinated execution of a sensing task. For example, when the first information is used to request a second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task, the first information may be carried by a Sensing Coordination Request message.

[0184] In some embodiments, the first information may be carried by a Sensing Capability Request message, which requests indication of one or more first devices that support sensing. For example, when the first information is used to request a second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that support the first capability, the first information may be carried by a Sensing Capability Request message.

[0185] In some embodiments, the name of the first capability is not limited, and it may be, for example, "sensing signal transceiver capability".

[0186] In step S2102, the second access network device 102 sends the second information to the first access network device 101.

[0187] In some embodiments, the first access network device 101 receives second information sent by the second access network device 102.

[0188] In some embodiments, the second information is used to instruct one or more first devices, or the second information is used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0189] In some embodiments, when the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task, the second information can be used to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task, or the second information can be used to reject the request from the first access network device. Wherein, the second information indicating one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task can be understood to include information about one or more first devices; for example, the second information can be the identifier of one or more first devices, and these one or more first devices are capable of performing a sensing task.

[0190] In some embodiments, when the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that support the first capability, the second information may be used to indicate one or more first devices that support the first capability, or the second information may be used to reject the request from the first access network device. Wherein, the second information indicating one or more first devices that support the first capability can be understood to include information about one or more first devices; for example, the second information may be the identifier of one or more first devices that support the first capability.

[0191] In some embodiments, the second information is used to reject the request of the first access network device, and the second information is also used to indicate the reason for rejection. For example, the reason for rejection may be that the type, time, number, location, status, signal reception strength, etc., of one or more first devices of the second access network device do not meet the requirements of the sensing task. Or, one or more first devices of the second access network device only support transmitting sensing signals but not receiving sensing signals, while the first access network device requires one or more first devices that support the ability to receive sensing signals. Or, one or more first devices of the second access network device only support receiving signals but not transmitting sensing signals, while the first access network device requires one or more first devices that support transmitting sensing signals. This disclosure does not provide examples, but is not limited thereto.

[0192] In some embodiments, terms such as “moment,” “point in time,” “time,” and “time location” can be used interchangeably, as can terms such as “duration,” “segment,” “time window,” “window,” and “time.”

[0193] In some embodiments, the second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, including indicating one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task, or indicating one or more first devices supporting a first capability. The second information includes at least one of the following: identifiers of one or more first devices; capability information of one or more first devices; location information of one or more first devices; antenna information of one or more first devices; and beam information of one or more first devices.

[0194] Optionally, the second information may include the identifiers of one or more first devices. For example, the second information may include the identifiers of one or more first devices to enable the first access network device to interact with them to perform sensing tasks.

[0195] Optionally, the second information may include capability information of one or more first devices. For example, the capability information may indicate that one or more first devices support transmitting sensing signals, and / or that one or more first devices support receiving sensing signals, so that the first access network device can select them when needed. For example, if the second access network device indicates that one or more first devices support transmitting sensing signals, the second access network device may transmit the identifier of the one or more first devices and indicate its support for transmitting sensing signals through the capability information. When the first access network device needs one or more first devices capable of transmitting sensing signals, it can select them; when the first access network device needs one or more first devices capable of receiving sensing signals, it can choose not to select them.

[0196] Optionally, the second information may include the location information of one or more first devices. For example, based on the location information, the first access network device may select one or more first devices in more suitable locations to perform the sensing task.

[0197] Optionally, the second information may include antenna information of one or more first devices. For example, based on the antenna information, the first access network device may select one or more first devices with a more suitable number of antenna ports, antenna port order, or Transmission Configuration Indicator state (TCI state) corresponding to the antenna ports to perform the sensing task.

[0198] Optionally, the second information may include beam information of one or more first devices. Based on the beam information, the first access network device may select one or more first devices with a more suitable beam to perform the sensing task.

[0199] In some embodiments, the name of the second information is not limited, and it may be, for example, "device information", "one or more first device information", "feedback information", "response information", "rejection information", etc.

[0200] In step S2103, the first access network device 101 selects one or more first devices to perform the sensing task.

[0201] In some embodiments, a second access network device may instruct one or more first devices, from which the first access network device may select one or more first devices to perform a sensing task.

[0202] For example, when the first information is used to request one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task, the second access network device can indicate multiple first devices capable of performing the sensing task. In this case, all one or more first devices indicated by the second information are capable of performing the sensing task. The first access network device can arbitrarily select one or more, or select one or more more suitable sensing signal receivers based on location information, antenna information, beam information, etc., to perform the sensing task.

[0203] For example, when the first information is used to request one or more first devices supporting a first capability, the second access network device may indicate multiple first devices supporting the first capability. The first capability may be the ability to transmit and / or receive sensing signals. However, the ability to transmit and / or receive sensing signals does not necessarily mean that all one or more first devices indicated by the second information can perform the sensing task. Therefore, the first access network device can select one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task. Alternatively, if multiple first devices indicated by the second information can perform the sensing task, the first access network device may also select one or more more suitable first devices.

[0204] In step S2104, the first access network device 101 sends third information to the second access network device 102.

[0205] In some embodiments, the second access network device 102 receives third information sent by the first access network device 101.

[0206] In some embodiments, the third information is used to request the second access network device to perform a sensing task.

[0207] In some embodiments, when the first information is used to request one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task, and the first information includes information related to the sensing task, such as the identifier of the sensing task, the time information required for the sensing task, etc., it can be understood that the first information implicitly requests the second access network device to perform the sensing task. The first access network device may not send the third information, but directly select one or more first devices indicated by the second access network device in the second information to perform the sensing task. That is, step S2103 can be omitted.

[0208] In some embodiments, when the first information is used to request one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task, and the second access network device determines that multiple first devices are capable of performing the sensing task, the second access network device can select one of them and indicate the selected one or more first devices to the first access network device via the second information. Then, the first access network device may not need to send the third information, but can directly select the one or more first devices indicated by the second access network device in the second information to perform the sensing task. That is, step S2103 can be omitted.

[0209] In some embodiments, when the first information is used to request one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task, and the second access network device determines that multiple first devices are capable of performing the sensing task, the second access network device can indicate multiple first devices to the first access network device via the second information. The first access network device can then select one or more of these devices to perform the sensing task. For example, the first access network device can arbitrarily select one or more, or select one or more more suitable sensing signal receivers based on location information, antenna information, beam information, etc., to perform the sensing task. The first access network device can send third information, including the identifiers of the selected one or more first devices, to request the second access network device to select the selected one or more first devices to perform the sensing task.

[0210] In some embodiments, when the first information is used to request one or more first devices supporting a first capability, the second access network device may indicate multiple one or more first devices supporting the first capability to the first access network device. When a sensing task needs to be performed, the first access network device may send third information to the second access network device to request the execution of the sensing task. It is understood that the second information indicates one or more first devices supporting the first capability, which may be the ability to transmit and / or receive sensing signals. However, one or more first devices capable of transmitting and / or receiving sensing signals may not necessarily be capable of performing the sensing task requested by the third information; that is, not all one or more first devices indicated by the second information can perform the sensing task. Therefore, the first access network device may select one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task and carry the identifier of the one or more first devices in the third information. Alternatively, if multiple one or more first devices indicated by the second information can perform the sensing task, the first access network device may also select one or more more suitable one or more first devices and carry the identifier of the one or more first devices in the third information.

[0211] In some embodiments, the name of the third information is not limited, and it may be, for example, "request information".

[0212] In step S2105, the second access network device 102 sends the fourth information to the first access network device 101.

[0213] In some embodiments, the first access network device 101 receives fourth information sent by the second access network device 102.

[0214] In some embodiments, the fourth information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the sensing task; a measurement result of the sensing task; and location information of one or more first devices corresponding to the measurement result.

[0215] Optionally, the fourth information includes an identifier of the perception task, which indicates which perception task the fourth information is feedback for.

[0216] Optionally, the fourth information includes measurement results of the sensing task. For example, the measurement results of the sensing task may include the transmitted power and received power of the sensing signal, the received strength and signal-to-noise ratio of the sensing signal, etc., but are not limited to these. The measurement results of the sensing task can be used to calculate the sensing results, which may include, for example, the position of the reflector.

[0217] Optionally, the fourth information may include the location information of one or more first devices corresponding to the measurement results of the sensing task. The location information can be used together with the measurement results to calculate the sensing results, which may include, for example, the location of a reflector.

[0218] In some embodiments, the second access network device may determine whether one or more first devices corresponding to the measurement result of the sensing task can send their location information to the first access network device. If the one or more first devices confirm that it is possible, the location information of the one or more first devices corresponding to the measurement result of the sensing task shall be included in the fourth information.

[0219] In some embodiments, the name of the fourth information is not limited, and it may be, for example, "result information", "feedback information", etc.

[0220] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S2101 to S2105. For example, step S2101 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0221] In some embodiments, steps S2102 to S2105 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0222] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0223] Figure 3 is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3, the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method, which includes:

[0224] In step S3101, the first access network device 101 sends the first information to the second access network device 102.

[0225] Optionally, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing sensing tasks.

[0226] Optionally, the first information includes at least one of the following: first indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request one or more first devices capable of performing a sensing task; an identifier of the sensing task; type information of the sensing task; time information required for the sensing task; number information of the first devices required for the sensing task; location information of the first devices required for the sensing task; status information of the first devices required for the sensing task; signal reception strength of the first devices required for the sensing task; and signal transmission strength of the first devices required for the sensing task.

[0227] Optionally, the first access network device receives second information, which is used to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing sensing tasks, or the second information is used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0228] Optionally, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that support the first capability, the first capability including the ability to transmit sensing signals and / or the ability to receive sensing signals.

[0229] Optionally, the first information includes at least one of the following: second indication information, which is used to instruct the first access network device to request one or more first devices to support the first capability; and the first capability.

[0230] Optionally, the first access network device receives second information, which is used to indicate one or more first devices with the first capability, or the second information is used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0231] Optionally, the second information is used to reject the request from the first access network device, and the second information is also used to indicate the reason for the rejection.

[0232] Optionally, the second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the second information includes at least one of the following: the identifier of one or more first devices; the capability information of one or more first devices; the location information of one or more first devices; the antenna information of one or more first devices; and the beam information of one or more first devices.

[0233] Optionally, if the second information is used to instruct one or more first devices, the first access network device may send third information, which is used to request the second access network device to perform a sensing task; the first access network device receives fourth information, which includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the sensing task; a measurement result of the sensing task; and location information of one or more first devices corresponding to the measurement result.

[0234] Optionally, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that support the first capability, the first capability including the ability to transmit sensing signals and / or the ability to receive sensing signals, and the method further includes: the first access network device selecting one or more first devices capable of performing sensing tasks from the one or more first devices that support the first capability; the third information includes the identifiers of the selected one or more first devices.

[0235] Figure 4a is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4a, the present disclosure relates to a communication method, which includes:

[0236] Step S4101: The first base station sends a message for a sensing coordination request to the second base station.

[0237] In some embodiments, the first base station may be a first access network device in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0238] In some embodiments, the second base station may be a second access network device in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0239] In some embodiments, the first base station has RSC functionality. The second base station may or may not have RSC functionality.

[0240] In some embodiments, the sensing coordination request message includes first information, which can be used by the second base station to select a suitable TRP and / or UE to participate in the sensing task (including sending sensing signals and / or receiving sensing signals and performing measurements).

[0241] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following:

[0242] A perception task identifier is used to indicate a specific perception task.

[0243] The requested sensing task type, such as a requested Transmission Point (TP), Receiving Point (RP), or Transmission and Receiving Point (TRP), indicates the receiving point and / or transmitting point of the requested sensing signal. TP, RP, or TRP includes antennas on both the base station and terminal sides.

[0244] Request the number of sensing transmission or reception points, which indicates how many sensing transmission or reception TRPs or UEs are needed.

[0245] The time of request for perception is used to indicate when perception is required.

[0246] The request is to be aware of the location of the UE, for example, by indicating the SSB index to determine the SSB where the requested UE is located.

[0247] Request the sensed UE status information to indicate the expected UE status to participate in the sensed state, such as a UE in a non-mobile state, a UE with a long dwell time, or a UE in an RRC connected state.

[0248] The signal strength of the UE can be determined based on the measurement report reported by the UE.

[0249] In step S4102, the second base station selects whether there is a suitable TRP or UE to participate in this sensing task based on the first information.

[0250] In some embodiments, if the second base station accepts the sensing coordination request, the second base station sends a sensing coordination feedback message to the first base station. Optionally, the sensing coordination feedback message includes second information to indicate the selected sensing TRP or UE information.

[0251] In some embodiments, if the second base station rejects the sensing coordination request, the second base station sends a sensing coordination failure message to the first base station. Optionally, the message may carry the reason for the failure.

[0252] In step S4103, the second base station sends a message to the first base station to indicate a sensing collaboration report or update.

[0253] In some embodiments, the message used to indicate a sensing coordination report or update includes third information indicating the result of the sensing coordination. The third information includes at least one of the following:

[0254] Perceive task identifiers,

[0255] Sensing measurement results

[0256] UE location information corresponding to the sensing measurement results

[0257] In some embodiments, the UE's location information requires the UE's consent to be provided.

[0258] In some embodiments, the UE's location information can be indicated by the SSB index where the UE is located. The RSC can perform perception calculations based on the second information to obtain the perception results.

[0259] This disclosure realizes cross-base station sensing coordination based on RAN control, which improves the efficiency of network sensing.

[0260] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4101 to S4103. For example, step S4101 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0261] In some embodiments, steps S4102 and S4103 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0262] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the sending of information, signaling, etc. from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the information being forwarded from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the information being sent from one subject to another without passing through other subjects.

[0263] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0264] Figure 4b is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4b, the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method, which includes:

[0265] Step S4201: The first base station sends a sensing capability request message to the second base station.

[0266] In some embodiments, the first base station may be a first access network device in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0267] In some embodiments, the second base station may be a second access network device in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0268] In some embodiments, the first base station has RSC functionality.

[0269] In some embodiments, the sensing capability request message includes fourth information, which can be used to request that sensing UE and / or TRP information be provided. The request to provide sensing UE and / or TRP information may be a request to indicate sensing UE and / or TRP information; in various embodiments of this disclosure, "provide" can be understood as "indicate".

[0270] In some embodiments, the fourth information includes at least one of the following:

[0271] Aware UE / TRP request indication is available;

[0272] The ability to perceive UE / TRP is available.

[0273] In step S4202, the second base station sends a sensing capability feedback message to the first base station.

[0274] In some embodiments, the sensing capability feedback message includes a fifth piece of information, which indicates that sensing UE / TRP information is available in the second base station.

[0275] In some embodiments, the fifth information includes at least one of the following:

[0276] Available aware UE identifiers, used to indicate a specific UE in the RAN, such as C-RNTI;

[0277] Available perception TRP identifiers;

[0278] Available sensing UE capabilities, for example, the UE supports the transmission and / or reception of sensing signals;

[0279] UE / TRP location information;

[0280] UE status information, such as whether the UE is stationary or the dwell time of the cell where the UE is located.

[0281] UE / TRP antenna configuration or beam information.

[0282] In some embodiments, providing the UE's location information requires the UE's consent.

[0283] Step S4203: When the first base station has a sensing service request, the first base station selects whether there is a suitable UE / TRP that can participate in this sensing task based on the fourth information.

[0284] In some embodiments, if present, the RSC base station sends a sensing measurement request message to the second base station, wherein the message includes the identifier of the selected UE or TRP.

[0285] In some embodiments, the RSC base station can negotiate with neighboring base stations: the RSC base station sends a sensing coordination request to the neighboring base station, including suggested sensing selection information. The neighboring base station determines whether there is a suitable TRP or UE to participate in sensing (receiving and / or transmitting sensing signals) based on the suggested sensing selection information. The neighboring base station can send a sensing coordination feedback message to the RSC base station to confirm receipt of the coordination request, wherein the message may include information about the selected TRP and / or UE to participate in sensing. The neighboring base station can send a sensing coordination failure message to the RSC base station to indicate that the request failed and carry the reason for the failure, such as no suitable TRP or UE, no available sensing resources, etc. After accepting the coordination request, the neighboring base station performs sensing operations and sends the sensing measurement results and corresponding location information to the RSC base station so that the RSC base station can calculate the sensing results.

[0286] In some embodiments, neighboring base stations provide available UE / TRP information to the RSC base station, and the RSC base station selects UE / TRPs to participate in the sensing task. The RSC base station requests available UE / TRP information in a sensing capability request message. The neighboring base station provides available UE / TRP information in a capability request feedback message. The RSC base station selects TRPs and / or UEs from neighboring base stations to participate in the sensing task based on service requirements and available UE / TRP information. The neighboring base station sends available sensing TRPs and / or UE information to the RSC base station, and the RSC base station selects TRPs and / or UEs to participate in the sensing task.

[0287] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4201 to S4203. For example, step S4201 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0288] In some embodiments, steps S4202 and S4203 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0289] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the sending of information, signaling, etc. from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the information being forwarded from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the information being sent from one subject to another without passing through other subjects.

[0290] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0291] This disclosure also proposes an apparatus (also referred to as a communication device, etc.) for implementing any of the above methods. For example, an apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. Furthermore, another apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by a network device (e.g., an access network device, a core network functional node, a core network device, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0292] It should be understood that the division of units or modules in the above device is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, the units or modules in the device can be implemented by a processor calling software: for example, the device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of the units or modules in the above device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all of the units or modules can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The functionality of some or all of the units or modules is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD), such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). This PLD can include a large number of logic gates, and the connection relationships between these logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the units or modules. All units or modules in the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining portion implemented through hardware circuits.

[0293] In this embodiment, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), or a digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. The logical relationships of the aforementioned hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the process of the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU), a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), or a Deep Learning Processing Unit (DPU).

[0294] Figure 5a is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first access network device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The first access network device 5100 is used to perform any of the above methods.

[0295] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG5a, the first access network device 5100 may include at least one of a transceiver module 5101, a processing module 5102, etc.

[0296] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5101 is used to send first information to the second access network device. The first information is used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices. The one or more first devices are used to send and / or receive sensing signals in a sensing task. The first access network device supports sensing control functions.

[0297] In some embodiments, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task.

[0298] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: first indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task; an identifier of the sensing task; type information of the sensing task; time information required for the sensing task; number information of the first devices required for the sensing task; location information of the first devices required for the sensing task; status information of the first devices required for the sensing task; signal reception strength of the first devices required for the sensing task; and signal transmission strength of the first devices required for the sensing task.

[0299] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5101 is further configured to: receive second information, the second information being used to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task, or the second information being used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0300] In some embodiments, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that support a first capability, the first capability including the ability to transmit sensing signals and / or the ability to receive sensing signals.

[0301] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: second indication information, which is used to instruct the first access network device to request support for one or more first devices for the first capability; the first capability.

[0302] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5101 is further configured to: receive second information, the second information being used to indicate one or more first devices that support the first capability, or the second information being used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0303] In some embodiments, the second information is used to reject the request from the first access network device, and the second information is also used to indicate the reason for the rejection.

[0304] In some embodiments, the second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the second information includes at least one of the following: the identifier of the one or more first devices; the capability information of the one or more first devices; the location information of the one or more first devices; the antenna information of the one or more first devices; and the beam information of the one or more first devices.

[0305] In some embodiments, the second information is used to instruct one or more first devices, and the transceiver module 5101 is further used to: send third information, the third information being used to request the second access network device to perform a sensing task; the first access network device receives fourth information, the fourth information including at least one of the following: an identifier of the sensing task; a measurement result of the sensing task; and location information of the first device corresponding to the measurement result.

[0306] In some embodiments, the method further includes: the first access network device selecting one or more first devices from one or more first devices indicated by the second information to perform the sensing task; wherein the third information includes identifiers of the selected one or more first devices.

[0307] In some embodiments, the one or more first devices include at least one of the following: a terminal served by the second access network device; and a transmit / receive point of the second access network device.

[0308] Figure 5b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second access network device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The second access network device 5200 is used to perform any of the above methods.

[0309] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG5b, the second access network device 5200 may include at least one of a transceiver module 5201, a processing module 5202, etc.

[0310] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5201 is configured to receive first information sent by a first access network device, the first information being configured to request a second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; wherein, the first device is configured to perform at least one of the following in the sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; wherein, the first access network device supports sensing control functions.

[0311] In some embodiments, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task.

[0312] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: first indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task; an identifier of the sensing task; type information of the sensing task; time information required for the sensing task; number information of the first devices required for the sensing task; location information of the first devices required for the sensing task; status information of the first devices required for the sensing task; signal reception strength of the first devices required for the sensing task; and signal transmission strength of the first devices required for the sensing task.

[0313] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5201 is further configured to: send second information, the second information being used to indicate one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task, or the second information being used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0314] In some embodiments, the first information is used to request the second access network device to indicate one or more first devices that support a first capability, the first capability including the ability to transmit sensing signals and / or the ability to receive sensing signals.

[0315] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: second indication information, which is used to instruct the first access network device to request support for one or more first devices for the first capability; the first capability.

[0316] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5201 is further configured to: send second information, the second information being used to indicate one or more first devices that support the first capability, or the second information being used to reject the request of the first access network device.

[0317] In some embodiments, the second information is used to reject the request from the first access network device, and the second information is also used to indicate the reason for the rejection.

[0318] In some embodiments, the second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the second information includes at least one of the following: the identifier of the one or more first devices; the capability information of the one or more first devices; the location information of the one or more first devices; the antenna information of the one or more first devices; and the beam information of the one or more first devices.

[0319] In some embodiments, the second information is used to instruct one or more first devices, and the transceiver module 5201 is further used to: receive third information, the third information being used to request the second access network device to perform a sensing task; the second access network device sends fourth information, the fourth information including at least one of the following: an identifier of the sensing task; a measurement result of the sensing task; and location information of the first device corresponding to the measurement result.

[0320] In some embodiments, the third information includes the identifiers of one or more first devices selected by the first access network device.

[0321] In some embodiments, the one or more first devices include at least one of the following: a terminal served by the second access network device; and a transmit / receive point of the second access network device.

[0322] Figure 6a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The communication device 6100 can be a network device (e.g., access network device, core network device, etc.), a terminal (e.g., user equipment, etc.), a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing any of the above methods. The communication device 6100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0323] As shown in Figure 6a, the communication device 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 includes one or more processors 6101. The processor 6101 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor may be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit may be used to control communication devices (e.g., base stations, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. Optionally, the communication device 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 6100 to execute any of the above methods.

[0324] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more transceivers 6102. When the communication device 6100 includes one or more transceivers 6102, the transceiver 6102 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps S2101, S2102, S2104, S2105, but not limited thereto), and the processor 6101 performs other steps (e.g., step S2103). In optional embodiments, the transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0325] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more memories 6103 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions stored in the memory 6103 to cause the communication device 6100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, all or part of the memory 6103 may also be located outside the communication device 6100. In an optional embodiment, the communication device 6100 may include one or more interface circuits 6104. Optionally, the interface circuit 6104 is connected to the memory 6103 and can be used to receive data and / or instructions from the memory 6103 or other devices, and can be used to send data and / or instructions to the memory 6103 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 6104 can read data and / or instructions stored in the memory 6103 and send the data and / or instructions to the processor 6101.

[0326] The communication device 6100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 6100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 6100 may not be limited by FIG. 6a. The communication device may be a standalone device or may be part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection of one or more ICs, optionally, the IC collection may also include storage components for storing data, programs and / or instructions; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, terminal device, smart terminal device, cellular phone, wireless device, handheld device, mobile unit, vehicle device, network device, cloud device, artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) others, etc.

[0327] Figure 6b is a schematic diagram of the chip structure proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. For cases where the communication device 6100 can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to the schematic diagram of the chip 6200 shown in Figure 6b, but it is not limited thereto.

[0328] Chip 6200 includes one or more processors 6201. Chip 6200 is used to perform any of the methods described above.

[0329] In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more interface circuits 6202. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, and transceiver pin can be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more memories 6203 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 6203 may be located outside of chip 6200. Optionally, interface circuit 6202 is connected to memory 6203, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to receive data and / or instructions from memory 6203 or other devices, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to send data and / or instructions to memory 6203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 6202 can read data and / or instructions stored in memory 6203 and send the data and / or instructions to processor 6201.

[0330] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 6202 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps S2101, S2102, S2104, and S2105, but not limited thereto). The interface circuit 6202 performing the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method refers, for example, to the interface circuit 6202 performing data and / or instruction interaction between the processor 6201, the chip 6200, the memory 6203, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 6201 performs other steps (e.g., step S2103).

[0331] The modules and / or devices described in the various embodiments, such as virtual devices, physical devices, and chips, can be combined or separated arbitrarily as needed. Optionally, some or all steps can also be performed collaboratively by multiple modules and / or devices, which is not limited here.

[0332] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a temporary storage medium.

[0333] This disclosure also proposes a program product, including a program and / or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product. Optionally, the program product is stored on the storage medium.

[0334] This disclosure also proposes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method is executed by a first access network, and the method includes: The first access network device sends first information to the second access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; Wherein, the first device is configured to perform at least one of the following in the sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; The first access network device supports sensing and control functions.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: first indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task; an identifier of the sensing task; type information of the sensing task; time information required for the sensing task; number information of the first devices required for the sensing task; location information of the first devices required for the sensing task; status information of the first devices required for the sensing task; signal reception strength of the first devices required for the sensing task; signal transmission strength of the first devices required for the sensing task; or, The first information includes at least one of the following: second indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request support from one or more first devices for the first capability; the first capability; The first capability includes at least one of the following: the ability to transmit sensing signals; the ability to receive sensing signals.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first access network device receives second information, which is used to instruct one or more first devices, or the second information is used to reject the request of the first access network device.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, The second information is used to reject the request from the first access network device, and the second information is also used to indicate the reason for the rejection.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein, The second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the second information includes at least one of the following: The identifier of the one or more first devices; Capability information of the one or more first devices; Location information of the one or more first devices; Antenna information of the one or more first devices; Beam information of the one or more first devices.

6. The method according to claim 3 or 5, characterized in that, The second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the method further includes: The first access network device sends third information, which is used to request the second access network device to perform a sensing task; The first access network device receives fourth information, which includes at least one of the following: the identifier of the sensing task; the measurement result of the sensing task; and the location information of the first device corresponding to the measurement result.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein, The method further includes: The first access network device selects one or more first devices from the one or more first devices indicated by the second information to perform the sensing task; The third information includes the identifiers of one or more selected first devices.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The first device includes at least one of the following: The terminal served by the second access network device; The transmitting and receiving points of the second access network device.

9. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method is performed by a second access network device, and the method includes: The second access network device receives first information sent by the first access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; Wherein, the first device is configured to perform at least one of the following in the sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; The first access network device supports sensing and control functions.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: first indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request one or more first devices capable of performing the sensing task; an identifier of the sensing task; type information of the sensing task; time information required for the sensing task; number of first devices required for the sensing task; and other information required by the sensing task. Location information of the first device; status information of the first device required for the sensing task; signal reception strength of the first device required for the sensing task; signal transmission strength of the first device required for the sensing task; or... The first information includes at least one of the following: second indication information, which instructs the first access network device to request support from one or more first devices for the first capability; the first capability; The first capability includes at least one of the following: the ability to transmit sensing signals; the ability to receive sensing signals.

11. The method according to any of claims 9-10, characterized by, The method further includes: The second access network device sends a second message, which is used to instruct one or more first devices, or the second message is used to reject the request of the first access network device.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The second information is used to reject the request from the first access network device, and the second information is also used to indicate the reason for the rejection.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein, The second information is used to indicate one or more first devices, and the second information includes at least one of the following: The identifier of the one or more first devices; Capability information of the one or more first devices; Location information of the one or more first devices; Antenna information of the one or more first devices; Beam information of the one or more first devices.

14. The method according to claim 11 or 13, characterized in that, The second information is used to reject the request from the first access network device, and the method further includes: The second access network device receives third information, which is used to request the second access network device to perform a sensing task; The second access network device sends fourth information, which includes at least one of the following: the identifier of the sensing task; the measurement result of the sensing task; and the location information of the first device corresponding to the measurement result.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein, The third information includes the identifiers of one or more first devices selected by the first access network device.

16. The method according to any one of claims 9-15, characterized in that, The first device includes at least one of the following: The terminal served by the second access network device; The transmitting and receiving points of the second access network device.

17. A method of communication, comprising: The method is used in a communication system, and the method includes: The first access network device sends first information to the second access network device, the first information being used to request the second access network device to instruct one or more first devices; Wherein, the first device is configured to perform at least one of the following in the sensing task of the first access network device: sending a sensing signal; receiving a sensing signal; The first access network device supports sensing and control functions.

18. A communication device, characterized by The communication device is used to perform the communication method according to any one of claims 1-8 and 9-16.

19. A communication system, characterized by It includes a first access network device and a second access network device, wherein the first access network device is configured to implement the communication method according to claims 1-8, and the second access network device is configured to implement the communication method according to claims 9-16.

20. A storage medium, characterized by The storage medium stores instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the communication method as described in any one of claims 1-8 and 9-16.

21. A program product, characterized by It includes at least one of a program and instructions, wherein when the program and instructions are executed by a communication device, they implement the communication method according to any one of claims 1-8 and 9-16.

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