Apparatus and method for communication

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a solution for state switching for integrated sensing and communication (ISAC). In one solution, a first device sends first information to a second device; the second device determines a sensing state of the first device based on the first information, and sends second information to the first device indicating the sensing state. The first device then transitions to the sensing state indicated by the second information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure relate generally to the field of communication technology, and more particularly to devices and methods for state switching of integrated sensing and communication (ISAC). Background Technology

[0002] Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) technologies have been agreed upon for support in fifth-generation mobile communication technology (5G) and are expected to play a crucial role in the future of many industries. Recently, there has been further research and discussion on enhanced use cases and potential requirements for 5G systems to provide ISAC services addressing different target verticals / applications, such as autonomous / assisted driving, vehicle-to-everything (V2X), aerial / unmanned aerial vehicles (UVA), 3D map reconstruction, smart cities / factories, public sector, healthcare, smart homes, maritime sector, and more. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Typically, embodiments of this disclosure provide a solution for state switching of integrated sensing and communication (ISAC).

[0004] In a first aspect, a first device is provided, comprising: a processor configured to cause the first device to: send to a second device first information indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device; capability-related information of the first device indicating at least one sensing state or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a switching of a sensing state; a third indication indicating a sensing state in which the first device expects or prefers to operate; at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another; receiving second information from the second device indicating a sensing state among a plurality of sensing states of the first device; and transitioning to the sensing state indicated by the second information.

[0005] In a second aspect, a second device is provided, comprising: a processor configured to cause the second device to: obtain first information indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device; capability-related information of the first device, the capability-related information indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a switching of a sensing state; a third indication indicating a sensing state in which the first device is expected to operate; or at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another; determine a sensing state for the first device based on the first information; and send the second information indicating the sensing state to the first device.

[0006] In a third aspect, a communication method performed by a first device is provided. The method includes: sending to a second device first information indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device; capability-related information of the first device indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a switching of sensing states; a third indication indicating a sensing state; the first device expecting or preferring to operate in a sensing state; and at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another; receiving from the second device second information indicating a sensing state among a plurality of sensing states of the first device; and transitioning to the sensing state indicated by the second information.

[0007] In a fourth aspect, a communication method performed by a second device is provided. The method includes: obtaining first information including at least one of the following: device type information of the first device; capability-related information of the first device, the capability-related information indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a switching of sensing states; a third indication indicating a sensing state in which the first device is expected to operate, or at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another; determining a sensing state for the first device based on the first information; and sending the second information indicating the sensing state to the first device.

[0008] In a fifth aspect, a computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon is provided, which, when executed on at least one processor, cause at least one processor to perform the method according to the third or fourth aspect.

[0009] Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent from the accompanying drawings, which describe some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure in more detail, wherein: Figure 1A An example communication environment in which example embodiments of this disclosure may be implemented is shown; Figure 1B A schematic diagram of six example sensing modes according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 2 Example signaling flows for communication are shown according to some example embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 3 Example blocks of state switching according to some example embodiments of this disclosure are shown; Figures 4 to 6 Example resource blocks of ISAC according to some example embodiments of this disclosure are shown; Figure 7 Another example signaling flow for communication is shown according to some example embodiments of this disclosure; Figure 8 A flowchart is shown illustrating a method implemented at a first device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating a method implemented at a second device according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 10 A simplified block diagram of an apparatus suitable for implementing an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0011] In all the accompanying drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0012] The principles of this disclosure will now be described with reference to some exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are described for illustrative purposes only and to assist those skilled in the art in understanding and implementing this disclosure, and do not imply any limitation on the scope of this disclosure. The embodiments described herein can be implemented in various ways other than those described below.

[0013] In the following description and claims, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0014] As used herein, the term "terminal device" refers to any device with wireless or wired communication capabilities. Examples of terminal devices include, but are not limited to, user equipment (UE), personal computers, desktop computers, mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable computers, tablets, wearable devices, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, ultra-reliable and low-latency communication (URLLC) devices, Internet of Everything (IoE) devices, machine-type communication (MTC) devices, devices on vehicles used for V2X communications (where X signifies a pedestrian, vehicle, or infrastructure / network), devices used for integrated access and backhaul (IAB), including satellites and encompassing unmanned aerial vehicles. Terminal devices can be space vehicles or air vehicles in the High Altitude Platform (HAP) of a User Assemblies (UAS) non-terrestrial network (NTN), including extended reality (XR) devices of different types of reality (such as augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and virtual reality (VR)), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) commonly referred to as drones (which are aircraft without any human pilots), devices on high-speed trains (HSTs), or image capture devices (such as digital cameras, sensors, gaming devices, music storage and playback devices), or internet devices that enable wireless or wired internet access and browsing. Terminal devices can also have multicast / broadcast features to support public safety and mission-critical applications, V2X applications, transparent IPv4 / IPv6 multicast delivery, IPTV, smart TV, radio services, software delivery over wireless, group communications, and IoT applications. They can also incorporate one or more Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs), such as multi-SIMs. The term "terminal device" can be used interchangeably with UE, mobile station, user station, mobile terminal, user terminal, or wireless device.

[0015] The term "network device" refers to a device that provides or hosts a cell or coverage area that terminal devices can communicate with. Examples of network devices include, but are not limited to, Node B (or NB), evolved Node B (or eNodeB or eNB), next-generation Node B (gNB), Transmit / Receive Point (TRP), Remote Radio Unit (RRU), Radio Head (RH), Remote Radio Head (RRH), IAB node, low-power nodes such as femtonodes, piconodes, reconfigurable smart surfaces (RIS), etc.

[0016] Terminal devices or network devices can have artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning capabilities. It typically includes a model that has been trained from a large amount of data collected for a specific function and can be used to predict some information.

[0017] The terminal or network device can operate on several frequency ranges, such as FR1 (e.g., 450 MHz to 6000 MHz), FR2 (e.g., 24.25 GHz to 71 GHz), bands greater than 100 GHz, and terahertz (THz). It can also operate on licensed / unlicensed / shared spectrum. In multiple radio dual connectivity (MR-DC) applications, the terminal device can have more than one connection to the network device. The terminal or network device can operate in full-duplex, flexible-duplex, and cross-split-duplex modes.

[0018] The embodiments of this disclosure can be executed in test equipment, such as a signal generator, signal analyzer, spectrum analyzer, network analyzer, test terminal device, test network device, or channel simulator. In some embodiments, the terminal device can be connected to a first network device and a second network device. One of the first network device and the second network device can be a master node, and the other can be a slave node. The first network device and the second network device can use different Radio Access Technologies (RATs). In some embodiments, the first network device can be a first RAT device, and the second network device can be a second RAT device. In some embodiments, the first RAT device is an eNB, and the second RAT device is a gNB. Information related to different RATs can be sent from at least one of the first network device or the second network device to the terminal device. In some embodiments, first information can be sent from the first network device to the terminal device, and second information can be sent directly from the second network device to the terminal device, either via the first network device. In some embodiments, information related to the configuration of the terminal device configured by the second network device can be sent from the second network device via the first network device. Information related to the reconfiguration of the terminal device configured by the second network device can be sent directly from the second network device to the terminal device, either via the first network device.

[0019] As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term “comprising” and its variations should be understood as open-ended terms, meaning “including but not limited to”. The term “based on” should be understood at least in part as “based on”. The terms “one embodiment” and “embodiment” should be interpreted as “at least one embodiment”. The term “another embodiment” should be understood as “at least one other embodiment”. The terms “first,” “second,” etc., may refer to different or the same objects. Further explicit and implicit definitions may be included below.

[0020] In some examples, values, processes, or devices are referred to as “best,” “lowest,” “highest,” “smallest,” “maximum,” etc. It should be understood that such descriptions are intended to indicate that a choice can be made among many functional alternatives used, and that such a choice does not need to be better, smaller, higher, or more preferred than other choices.

[0021] As used herein, the terms “resource,” “transmission resource,” “uplink resource,” or “downlink resource” can refer to any resource used to perform communication or sensing, such as resources in the time domain, resources in the frequency domain, resources in the spatial domain, resources in the code domain, or any other resource used to implement communication or sensing. In the following, unless explicitly stated otherwise, resources in the frequency and time domains will be used as examples of transmission resources used to describe some exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. Note that the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are equally applicable to other resources in other domains.

[0022] As mentioned above, support for ISAC in 5G has been agreed upon. ISAC is a technology designed to integrate sensing capabilities into current communication systems. By utilizing sensing capabilities, networks can "see" the world through wireless signals and other inputs, connecting the physical and digital worlds. Therefore, ISAC has generated significant interest worldwide and is expected to play a crucial role in the future of many industries.

[0023] Currently, more research and discussion have been conducted on use cases (e.g., behavior recognition, gesture recognition, health monitoring, fall detection, integration with automotive radar, and localization and tracking). In the future, many sensing services will be supported within the limited spectrum.

[0024] Beyond use cases, another focus of the ISAC research is defining channel modeling to support object detection and / or tracking. This research aims to establish a common modeling framework capable of detecting and / or tracking the following example objects and enabling them to be distinguished from unintended objects: UAVs, indoor and outdoor people, motor vehicles (at least outdoors), autonomous guided vehicles (e.g., in indoor factories), objects that pose a hazard on roads / railways, with minimum sizes depending on frequency, etc.

[0025] Wireless resources are limited. In the case of ISAC, sensing and communication functions need to be performed. In this context, it is desirable to further discuss how to maximize the use of the sensing capabilities of sensing nodes with minimal impact on communication services.

[0026] Furthermore, different devices have different sensing capabilities, and the power of sensing devices is further limited. Therefore, how to centrally manage and utilize sensing devices and avoid unnecessary power consumption will be further discussed.

[0027] According to this disclosure, a solution for state switching in ISAC is proposed. In this solution, a first device (a sensing transmitter and / or receiver, such as a UE or gNB) sends first information to a second device (a sensing function entity, such as a gNB, a location management function (LMF), or a sensing management function (SMF)); the second device determines the sensing state of the first device based on the first information and sends second information indicating the sensing state to the first device. Then, the first device switches to the sensing state indicated by the second information.

[0028] Specifically, the first information indicates at least one of the following: device type information of the first device, capability-related information of the first device, capability-related information indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device, a first indication indicating that sensing functionality is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device, a second indication indicating an event associated with a sensing state switch, a third indication indicating a sensing state, the first device's expectation or preference to operate in a sensing state, and at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another. In this way, the second device can obtain sufficient information to make an appropriate decision regarding the state switch of the first device.

[0029] For ease of discussion, some terms used in the following description are listed below: Sensing transmitter: A sensing transmitter is an entity that emits sensing signals that the sensing service will use in its operation. The sensing transmitter can be an NR RAN / network device node or a UE / terminal device. The sensing transmitter may reside in the same or a different entity as the sensing receiver; Sensing Receiver: A sensing receiver is an entity that receives sensing signals that the sensing service will use in its operation. The sensing receiver can be an NR RAN / network device node or a UE / terminal device. The sensing receiver may be located in the same or a different entity as the sensing transmitter. First device: A sensing node / device, which may be a sensing transmitter and / or a sensing receiver. In this disclosure, the first device may be a terminal device or a gNB; Second device: A sensing function device / entity that can manage sensing services. The second device can be implemented in network devices (such as gNB) or core network devices (such as LMF, SMF, etc.); Signals reflected by an object: Any sensing signal from an object that can be used to sense the object. The signal can be a reflected signal, a scattered signal, a refracted signal, a diffracted signal, etc.

[0030] The principles and implementation methods of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0031] Example Environment Figure 1A A schematic diagram of an example communication environment 100A in which exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented is shown. In communication environment 100A, a plurality of communication devices, including a second device 120, a first device 110-1, and an optional device 110-2, can communicate with each other. Furthermore, communication environment 100A may also include one or more optional objects 130-1 and 130-2 to be sensed. Objects 130-1 and 130-2 may sometimes also be referred to as targets 130-1 and 130-2.

[0032] For better discussion, the first devices 110-1 and 110-2 are referred to individually or collectively as the first device 110, and the objects 130-1 and 130-2 are referred to individually or collectively as the objects 130.

[0033] exist Figure 1A In the example, the first device 110 may be a sensing node / device, such as a sensing transmitter and / or a sensing receiver. In some embodiments, the first device 110 may be a terminal device or a gNB.

[0034] exist Figure 1A In the example, the second device 120 may be a sensing function device / entity that can manage sensing services. In some embodiments, the second device 120 may be implemented at a network device (such as a gNB) or a core network device (such as an LMF, SMF, etc.).

[0035] It should be understood that Figure 1A The number of devices and their connections shown are for illustrative purposes only and do not imply any limitation. Communication environment 100 A may include any suitable number of devices configured to implement the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.

[0036] The communications in the communication environment 100A can conform to any suitable standard, including but not limited to Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Evolution, LTE-A Advanced, New Radio (NR), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), GSM EDGE Radio Access Network (GERAN), Machine Type Communication (MTC), etc. Embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented according to any generation of communication protocols currently known or developed in the future. Examples of communication protocols include, but are not limited to, first generation (1G), second generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth generation (5G) communication protocol 5.5G, 5G Advanced Network, or sixth generation (6G) network.

[0037] In the 100A communication environment, at least six sensing modes can be supported. Now refer to... Figure 1B It illustrates a schematic diagram 100B of six exemplary sensing modes according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, namely, gNB-based monopolar sensing mode: The sensing signal is transmitted by the network node (e.g., gNB) and received / measured by the network node itself, and is sometimes referred to as transmit and receive point (TRP) monopolar mode. gNB-based bistatic sensing mode: The sensing signal is sent by network node A and received / measured by network node B, which can sometimes be called TRP-TRP bistatic sensing mode. gNB-to-UE bistatic sensing mode: The sensing signal is sent by the network node and received / measured by the UE, which can sometimes be called UE-TRP bistatic mode; Bistatic sensing mode based on UE to gNB: The sensing signal is sent by the UE and received / measured by the UE itself, which can sometimes be called TRP-UE bistatic mode; UE-based monopolar sensing mode: The sensing signal is sent by the UE and received / measured by the network node, which can sometimes be called UE monopolar mode. UE-based bistatic sensing mode: The sensing signal is sent by UE A and received / measured by UE B, which can sometimes be called UE-UE bistatic mode.

[0038] Furthermore, the aforementioned sensing modes can be used in any combination or individually.

[0039] Working principles and example signaling for communication refer to Figure 2 This illustrates a signaling flow 200 for communication according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of discussion, reference will be made, for example, by using a first device 110 and a second device 120. Figure 1A and Figure 1B Discuss signaling flow 200.

[0040] In the following description, although operations are depicted in a specific order, this should not be construed as requiring that such operations be performed in the specific order shown or sequentially, or that all shown operations be performed to achieve the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, while several specific embodiment details are contained in the foregoing discussion, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments. Certain features described in the context of individual embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments.

[0041] It should be understood that the operations at the first device 110 and the second device 120 should be coordinated. In other words, the second device 120 and the first device 110 should have a common understanding regarding configuration, parameters, etc. This common understanding can be achieved through any suitable interaction between the second device 120 and the first device 110, or between the second device 120 and the first device 110, applying the same rules / policies. Although some operations are described below from the perspective of the first device 110, it should be understood that the corresponding operations should be performed by the second device 120. Similarly, although some operations are described from the perspective of the second device 120, it should be understood that the corresponding operations should be performed by the first device 110. For the sake of brevity, some identical or similar content is omitted here.

[0042] In some embodiments, the first device 110 may operate as a terminal device or a network device (gNB), and the second device 120 may operate as a network device (gNB), an LMF, or an SMF, etc.

[0043] In operation, the first device 110 sends first information 210 to the second device 120. Based on the first information, the second device 120 determines the sensing state of the first device 110, and then sends second information 220 to the first device 110, wherein the second information indicates the sensing state. Then, the first device 110 transitions 230 to the sensing state indicated by the second information.

[0044] Specifically, the first information indicates device type information of the first device 110, capability-related information of the first device 110, capability-related information indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device 110 or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device 110, a first indication indicating that sensing functions are supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device 110, a second indication indicating an event associated with a sensing state switch, a third indication indicating a sensing state in which the first device expects or prefers to operate, and at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another. In this way, the second device 120 can obtain sufficient information to make an appropriate decision regarding the state switch of the first device 110.

[0045] In this disclosure, the first device 110 can operate in different sensing states. Details regarding the different sensing states will be discussed below first.

[0046] It should be understood that the sensing states discussed herein are defined in relation to the characteristics / functions of sensing nodes sensing other targets / objects. That is, sensing measurements of itself (e.g., locating its own position) should be based on legacy procedures. This disclosure is not intended to improve conventional positioning processes.

[0047] Now for reference Figure 3 The diagram illustrates an exemplary block 300 of state switching according to some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] exist Figure 3 In the example, the sensing state can be a first sensing state, wherein if the first device 110 is in the first sensing state, the first device 110 performs at least one of the following: No sensing signal is sent for the object being sensed; or Reduce the priority of resources configured for sensing objects or areas.

[0049] The first sensing state can also be referred to as the sensing idle state, and if the first device 110 operates in the sensing idle state, the sensing function can be turned off.

[0050] In some embodiments, if the first device 110 is in a first sensing state, there is no measurement and reporting based on sensing signals reflected by other targets / objects for the RX device of the first device 110; and there is no transmission of sensing signals for sensing other objects for the TX device of the first device 110.

[0051] Furthermore, if any resource / time window is configured during the sensing idle state, the resource / time window configured for sensing other targets / objects is considered to have the lowest priority, meaning that resources used for sensing are de-prioritized. In this case, if the resource / time window conflicts with a channel / reference signal used for communication or its own positioning process, the first device 110 is not expected to receive or transmit sensing signals for sensing other objects.

[0052] In some embodiments, the sensing state may be a second sensing state, wherein if the first device 110 is in the second sensing state, then the first device 110 performs at least one of the following: The object to be sensed 130 is detected by measuring the sensing signal transmitted on at least one periodic resource; or Send a sensing signal to detect object 130 on at least one periodic resource; or No measurement or sensing results are reported.

[0053] The second sensing state can also be referred to as the sensing scan state, wherein if the first device 110 is in the second sensing state, the first device 110 operates at low power to perform sensing and does not report measurement or sensing results. In other words, the first device 110 may periodically detect objects based on configured resources but not report measurement or sensing results, or it may periodically send sensing signals based on configured resources.

[0054] In some embodiments, the periodic resources are in the time / frequency domain and can be represented by factors such as start position, duration / length, period, and reference subcarrier spacing (SCS).

[0055] In some embodiments, the periodic resource in at least one periodic resource can be configured by the second device 120 by at least one of the following: The starting point of periodic resources, The periodicity of periodic resources The duration of cyclical resources, Subcarrier spacing (SCS) of periodic resources, or Prioritization of periodic resources.

[0056] In some embodiments, a priority can be configured for periodic resources, which can be used to resolve resource conflicts, for example, defining behavior when there is a conflict with a resource used for communication or with other resources used for sensing.

[0057] Now for reference Figure 4 This illustrates example block 400 of resources for an ISAC according to some example embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 4 In the example, resource #1 can be represented by {period (P1), start time slot (S0), time slot length / number of time slots (L0), reference SCS, priority}, and resource #2 can be represented by {period (P), start time slot (S0), start symbol (S1), symbol length / number of symbols (L1) / number of time slots and number of symbols in the last time slot, reference SCS, priority}.

[0058] In addition, frequency information of the sensing resources can be indicated by frequency band, bandwidth portion (BWP), component carrier (CC), etc.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first device 110 may be configured with multiple configurations (multiple periodic resources) for sensing scanning.

[0060] In some embodiments, if a periodic resource in a periodic resource conflicts with another periodic resource in a periodic resource, the first device 110 can resolve the conflict based on the priority of the periodic resource and the other periodic resource.

[0061] In some embodiments, if a periodic resource in a periodic resource conflicts with a resource used for communication, the first device 110 can resolve the conflict based on the priority of the periodic resource and the priority of the resource used for communication.

[0062] Additionally, in some embodiments, in the case of multiple periodic resources, a larger period may be associated with a higher priority, and a smaller period may be associated with a lower priority. Furthermore, two or more resources with the same period but different offsets may be associated with different priorities.

[0063] In some embodiments, at least one periodic resource may include a first resource having a first period and a first priority, and a second resource having a second period and a second priority. If the second period is greater than or equal to the first period, the second priority may be higher than the first priority.

[0064] Now for reference Figure 5 This illustrates example block 500 of resources of ISAC according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0065] exist Figure 5In Implementation #1, the period of the low-priority resource is P / 2, while the period of the high-priority resource is P. Then, the resources in windows W1, W2, W3, and W4 can be high-priority resources, low-priority resources, high-priority resources, and low-priority resources, respectively.

[0066] exist Figure 5 In embodiment #2, the period of the low-priority resource is P, and the period of the high-priority resource is also P. The offsets of the high-priority and low-priority resources are S0+S1 and S0'+S1', respectively (using...). Figure 4 (Resource #2 in the example is used as an offset indicator). Then, the resources in windows W1, W2, W3, and W4 can be resources with high priority, resources with low priority, resources with high priority, and resources with low priority, respectively.

[0067] In some embodiments, one of the at least one periodic resources may be configured with the highest priority among the priorities of other resources used for sensing and communication.

[0068] Now for reference Figure 6 It illustrates an example block 600 of resources of ISAC according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0069] exist Figure 6 In the example, four resources are shown: resource #1 for sensing has priority #1, resource #2 for sensing has priority #2, resource #3 for sensing has priority #3, and resource #1 for communication has priority #4, where the priorities from highest to lowest are priority #3, priority #4, priority #2, and priority #1.

[0070] Therefore, in Figure 6 In the example, the resources in windows W1 to W13 can be: resource #3 for sensing, resource #1 for communication, resource #1 for communication, resource #1 for communication, resource #3 for sensing, resource #1 for communication, resource #1 for communication, resource #1 for communication, resource #3 for sensing, resource #1 for communication, resource #1 for communication, resource #1 for communication, resource #3 for sensing.

[0071] In some embodiments, resources for sending the second indication can be pre-configured. Specifically, the second device 120 can send configuration information indicating the resources used by the first device 110 to send the second indication. When the first device 110 is operating in a second sensing state, it can send the second indication to the second device 120 via the pre-configured resources based on the determination that conditions for transitioning from the second sensing state to a third sensing state are met.

[0072] exist Figure 3 In the example, the sensing state can be a third sensing state, wherein if the first device 110 is in the third sensing state, the first device 110 performs at least one of the following: Send a sensing signal for detecting at least one object. Detect at least one object; Measure the sensed signal reflected by the object, or Report measurement or sensing results.

[0073] The third sensing state can also be called the normal sensing state. If the first device 110 is in the third sensing state, the first device 110 can perform sending, detection, tracking, measurement and reporting as usual.

[0074] In some embodiments, the third sensing state may be divided into multiple sub-states. One example sub-state is a first sub-state, where the first device 110 may act as a sensing node for detecting at least one object 130 during the first sub-state. Another example sub-state is a second sub-state, where the first device 110 may act as a sensing node for coarsely tracking at least one detected object 130 during the second sub-state. Another example sub-state is a third sub-state, where the first device 110 may act as a sensing node for finely tracking at least one detected object 130 during the third sub-state.

[0075] As used herein, the operation of "detecting at least one object" means that the first device 110 performs at least one of the following: sending a sensing signal for detecting the object, receiving (and / or measuring) a sensing signal for detecting the object, or determining the presence of the object. Furthermore, the operation of "tracking at least one detected object" means that the first device 110 performs at least one of the following: sending a sensing signal for tracking the object, receiving (and / or measuring) a sensing signal for tracking the object, or determining tracking information for the object.

[0076] The first sub-state, the second sub-state, and the third sub-state can be referred to as the detection state, the coarse tracking state, and the fine tracking state, respectively.

[0077] In some embodiments, during the first sub-state, the first device 110 may send a first report to the second device 120, wherein the first report may indicate at least one of the following: The presence information of at least one object 130 to be sensed. At least the number of detected objects, or At least one location-related information of the detected object, Transmission delay information, transmission delay difference information RSRP information, RSRP difference information, or Information related to Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA).

[0078] In some embodiments, during the second / third sub-state, the first device 110 may send a second / third report to the second device 120, wherein the second or third report may indicate at least one of the following: Speed-related information, that is, any suitable information about speed from which it can be derived, such as the time difference of arrival measured at two resources with a given interval. Acceleration-related information, that is, any suitable information about acceleration from which it can be derived, such as the time difference of arrival measured at three resources with a given interval. Movement direction related information (measurements of multiple points on the same target), that is, any suitable information from which the movement direction can be derived. Altitude-related measurements, that is, any suitable measurement from which altitude information can be derived. Size-related information, that is, any suitable information from which the size of an object can be derived, such as information from multiple points sensing the same target. Trajectory-related information. That is, any suitable information about the trajectory of an object can be derived from it.

[0079] In some embodiments, if the first device 110 operates in a second or third sub-state, the first device 110 can send measurement or sensing results to the second device 120. The second device 120 can determine trajectory information based on the measurement or sensing results and then send the trajectory information to the first device 110. For the first device 110, the first device 110 can measure the sensing signal reflected by the object 130 based on the received trajectory information. That is, the received trajectory information can be used as auxiliary information for performing subsequent sensing measurements or subsequent sensing signal transmissions. This embodiment is particularly advantageous in scenarios where the first device 110 cannot obtain trajectory information.

[0080] Optionally, if the first device 110 supports reporting trajectory-related information to the second device 120, then after performing sensing measurements based on the trajectory information from the second device 120, the first device 110 can update the trajectory-related information and then send the updated trajectory-related information to the second device 120 accordingly.

[0081] In some embodiments, the tracking accuracy associated with the third sub-state may be greater than the tracking accuracy associated with the second sub-state.

[0082] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the measurement or sensing results reported during the third sub-state may be richer than those reported during the second sub-state.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the number of transmission opportunities for the sensing signal associated with the third sub-state may be greater than the number of transmission opportunities for the sensing signal associated with the second sub-state.

[0084] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the bandwidth of the resource configured for the third sub-state may be greater than the bandwidth of the resource configured for the second sub-state.

[0085] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the number of symbols configured to sense resources during the third sub-state may be greater than the number of symbols configured to sense resources during the second sub-state.

[0086] In some embodiments, at least one sensing resource may be configured for a third sensing state, and the sensing resource in the at least one sensing resource may be a periodic resource, a semi-persistent resource, or a non-periodic resource.

[0087] Additionally, in some embodiments, each of at least one sensing resource is configured with a priority for resolving resource conflicts.

[0088] In some embodiments, based on determining that no priority is configured for resolving resource conflicts, the first device 110 may apply a first priority rule among different sensing resources, wherein the first priority rule from high to low may be non-periodic sensing resources, semi-persistent sensing resources, and periodic sensing resources.

[0089] In some embodiments, based on determining that no priority is configured for resolving resource conflicts, the first device 110 may apply a second priority rule among different sensing resources and resources used for communication, wherein the second priority rule from high to low is common reference signal resources used for communication, aperiodic sensing resources, control channel resources (PUCCH or PDCCH) used for communication, shared channel resources (PUSCH or PDSCH) used for communication, semi-persistent sensing resources, and periodic sensing resources.

[0090] By appropriately defining the aforementioned multiple sensing states and related state switching conditions, the utilization of sensing resources and sensing capabilities can be maximized, while minimizing the impact on the communication services of sensing nodes.

[0091] The following will discuss details of how the second device 120 can determine the sensing state based on the first information, or details of how the first device 110 can determine the state transition based on sensing measurements.

[0092] In some embodiments, the second device 120 may determine the sensing state based on device type information. For example, an Operations Management and Maintenance (OAM) device may indicate its role when sensing other objects of the first device 110. As an example, the OAM indicates that the first device 110's role is a sensing scanning device, and the first device 110 may be configured to operate accordingly in a second sensing state. Furthermore, the first device 110 may indicate its device type information to the second device 120, and the second device 120 may make a decision accordingly based on the reported device type information.

[0093] In some embodiments, the second device 120 may determine the sensing state based on information from the sensing signal, such as whether the reference signal received power (RSRP) of the sensing signal reflected by other objects is greater than a threshold (meaning an object is detected), whether the transmission delay between Tx and Rx of the sensing signal is less than a threshold (meaning an object is close to the first device 110), whether the difference in RSRP between two adjacent times is large enough (meaning the object is getting closer), and whether the difference in transmission delay between Tx and Rx between two adjacent times is large enough (meaning the object is getting closer).

[0094] In some embodiments, the second device 120 may determine the sensing state as the first sensing state in one of the following situations: The first instruction indicates that the first device 110 does not support or does not allow the sensing function to be enabled, that is, it cannot / does not agree to open the sensing service for sensing other targets. The device type information or capability-related information of the first device 110 indicates that the first device 110 does not support or is not allowed to operate in the second or third sensing state; The third instruction indicates that the first device 110 is expected to operate in the first sensing state.

[0095] In some embodiments, the second device 120 may determine the sensing state as the second sensing state if one of the following occurs: The first device is dedicated to environmental monitoring or intrusion detection or allows the opening of sensing services for sensing other targets; The device type information or capability-related information of the first device 110 indicates that the first device 110 supports or is permitted to operate in the second sensing state. The third instruction indicates that the first device 110 is expected to operate in the second sensing state.

[0096] In some embodiments, the second device 120 may determine the sensing state as a third sensing state if one of the following occurs: The first device is dedicated to environmental monitoring or intrusion detection or allows the opening of sensing services for sensing other objects; The first device is dedicated to sensing and tracking; The device type information or capability-related information of the first device 110 indicates that the first device 110 supports or is permitted to operate in the third sensing state; The second indication indicates that the conditions for transitioning from the second sensing state to the third sensing state are met; The third instruction indicates that the first device 110 is expected to operate in the third sensing state.

[0097] As described above, the first device 110 can operate in different sensing states. That is, sensing state switching can be performed at the first device 110. Details regarding sensing state switching will be discussed below.

[0098] As a general rule, the decision to switch the sensing state can be made by the second device 120, and the second device 120 should indicate the decision to switch the sensing state to the first device 110. In addition, unlike making the decision to switch the sensing state, the triggering of the sensing state switch can be determined by either the first device 110 or the second device 120.

[0099] In one example, the first device 110 may send a third indication of the sensing state, which indicates that the first device expects or prefers to operate in the sensing state, and the second device 120 may determine whether the expected or preferred sensing state can be confirmed.

[0100] In another example, the first device 110 may determine whether a condition for triggering a sensing state switch is met. If the condition is met, the first device 110 may send a second indication to the second device 120 indicating that the condition is met. After the second indication, the second device 120 may make a decision regarding the sensing state switch.

[0101] In a further example, the first device 110 may provide relevant measurement results to the second device 120, which may make a decision about switching the sensing state based on the received measurement results.

[0102] The following section discusses some example implementations of conditions used to trigger sensing state switching.

[0103] In some embodiments, a first condition for transitioning from a sensing state or sub-state to another sensing state or sub-state can be determined to be satisfied if at least one of the following is true: The number of times the sensing signal reflected by the object to be sensed 130 is greater than or equal to the first threshold number, The intensity of the sensed signal reflected by object 130 is greater than or equal to the first threshold intensity. The number of times the intensity of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to the second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to the second threshold number. The measurement transmission delay between Tx and Rx of the sensing signal reflected by object 130 is less than or equal to the first threshold delay. The intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensed signal is increasing. The transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold delay difference, and the transmission delay is decreasing.

[0104] Therefore, in some embodiments, a second condition for transitioning from another sensing state or another sub-state to a sensing state or sub-state can be determined to be satisfied if at least one of the following is true: The number of sensing signals reflected by the object to be sensed 130 that was not greater than or equal to the third threshold number could not be detected. The intensity of the sensed signal reflected by object 130 is less than or equal to the third threshold intensity. The number of times the intensity of the sensed signal is less than or equal to the second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold intensity. The transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by object 130 is greater than or equal to the second threshold delay. The intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to the second threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensed signal is decreasing. The transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to the second threshold delay difference, and the transmission delay is increasing.

[0105] In some embodiments, the sensing state is a second sensing state, and the other sensing state is a third sensing state.

[0106] Optionally, in some embodiments, the sub-state is the first sub-state of the third sensing state, and the other sub-state is the second sub-state of the third sensing state.

[0107] Optionally, in some embodiments, the sub-state is the second sub-state of the third sensing state, and the other sub-state is the third sub-state of the third sensing state.

[0108] In some embodiments, any of the aforementioned thresholds may be predefined values ​​or configured by the second device 120 according to the sensing scenario. Specifically, at least one of the following may be predefined values ​​or configured by the second device 120: first threshold number, second threshold number, third threshold number, fourth threshold number, first threshold strength, second threshold strength, third threshold strength, fourth threshold strength, first threshold delay, second threshold delay, first threshold strength difference, second threshold strength difference, first threshold transmission delay, and second threshold transmission delay.

[0109] Furthermore, any of the aforementioned thresholds can vary depending on the different state transitions. Specifically, in the case of transitioning from sensing state A (or sub-state A) to sensing state B (or sub-state B), the number of first thresholds can be N1, the number of second thresholds can be N2, the intensity of the first threshold can be P1, the intensity of the second threshold can be P2, the delay of the first threshold can be T1, the difference in intensity of the first threshold can be D1, or the difference in delay of the first threshold can be D2. Therefore, in the case of transitioning from sensing state B (or sub-state B) to sensing state C (or sub-state C) (or from sensing state C (or sub-state C) to sensing state D (or sub-state D), or from sensing state D (or sub-state D) to sensing state A (or sub-state A)), the number of first thresholds can be N1′, the number of second thresholds can be N2′, the intensity of the first threshold can be P1′, the intensity of the second threshold can be P2′, the delay of the first threshold can be T1′, the difference in intensity of the first threshold can be D1′, and the difference in delay of the first threshold can be D2′.

[0110] In some embodiments, the first threshold strength may be greater than the third threshold strength, and / or the second threshold strength may be greater than the fourth threshold strength. In some embodiments, the first threshold delay may be less than the second threshold delay.

[0111] To better understand the above embodiments, some example embodiments are discussed below.

[0112] A transition from the first sensing state to the second sensing state can be determined if at least one of the following is true: Upon receiving a sensing request, the first device 110 agrees to switch to a second sensing state, such as the power state of the first device 110 allowing the performance of a sensing scan. The user of the first device 110 triggers a second sensing state, such as the user of the first device 110 wanting to detect or monitor the environment around the first device 110.

[0113] A transition from the second sensing state to the third sensing state can be determined if at least one of the following is true: The sensing signal is received N0 times consecutively, where N0 is greater than 1. Furthermore, receiving a sensing signal means that the signal strength is greater than the minimum detectable power (or the signal strength is greater than P0, where P0 is greater than zero). As an example, N0 <= 4, and N0 can be predefined or preconfigured according to sensing requirements. The object is close enough to the first device 110. The object is large enough. The transmission delay is less than T0 (N0 is greater than zero), especially when the first device 110 is in single-station sensing mode. The difference between two adjacent time points is greater than ΔRSRP0, and RSRP increases. The difference in transmission delay between two adjacent moments is greater than Δt0, and the transmission delay decreases.

[0114] A transition from the first substate to the second / third substate can be determined if at least one of the following is true: The intensity of the sensed signal is greater than P1 over N1 consecutive time intervals, where P1 is greater than zero and N1 is greater than one. Optionally, P1 > P0; The transmission delay is less than T1, where T1 is greater than zero. Optionally, T1 <T0; The difference between RSRP at two adjacent time points is greater than ΔRSRP1, and RSRP increases, for example, ΔRSRP1 > ΔRSRP0; The difference in transmission delay between two adjacent moments is greater than Δt1, and the transmission delay decreases, for example, Δt1 > Δt0.

[0115] A transition from the second / third substate to the first substate can be determined if at least one of the following is true: The intensity of the sensed signal is less than P2 for N2 consecutive time intervals, where P2 is greater than zero and N2 is greater than one. Optionally, P2 < P1; The transmission delay is greater than T2, where T2 is greater than zero. Optionally, T2 > T1; The difference between two adjacent time points is greater than ΔRSRP2, and RSRP decreases, for example, ΔRSRP2>= ΔRSRP1; The difference in transmission delay between two adjacent moments is greater than Δt2, and the transmission delay increases, for example, Δt2>= Δt1.

[0116] A transition from the third sensing state to the second sensing state can be determined if at least one of the following is true: The intensity of the sensed signal is less than (not greater than) P3 for N3 consecutive time intervals, where P3 is greater than zero and N3 is greater than one. Optionally, P3 < P0; The transmission delay is greater than T3, where T3 is greater than zero. Optionally, T3 > T0; The difference between two adjacent time points is greater than ΔRSRP3, and RSRP decreases, for example, ΔRSRP3>= ΔRSRP0; The difference in transmission delay between two adjacent moments is greater than Δt3, and the transmission delay increases, for example, Δt3 >= Δt0.

[0117] A transition from the second sensing state to the first sensing state can be determined if at least one of the following is true: In N4 consecutive time intervals, the intensity of the sensed signal is less than (not greater than) P4, where P4 is greater than zero and N4 is greater than one. Optionally, P4<P0,N4> N0; Receive an instruction to stop sensing; No monitoring required; The first device 110 is triggered by a user-activated sensor to detect idle status, such as a navigation system. The first device 110 triggers a switch to a sensed idle state by considering its power / battery status or other factors such as low battery power or the arrival of other more important services.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first device 110 may receive a sensing request from the second device 120, wherein the sensing request indicates at least one of the following: location information of the area to be sensed or the object to be sensed 130, the sensing range between the area to be sensed and the first device 110, or the sensing range between the object to be sensed 130 and the first device 110. The first device 110 may determine whether to execute the sensing request based at least in part on the sensing request, and then send the determination result to the second device 120.

[0119] In some embodiments, location information and sensing range may indicate the precise location or range of the area (or object) to be sensed. Alternatively, in some embodiments, location information and sensing range may indicate the general location or range of the area (or object) to be sensed. Furthermore, location information and sensing range may be represented by at least one of the following: longitude, latitude, altitude, area identifier, cell identifier, distance, etc. This disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0120] Specifically, upon receiving a sensing request, the first device 110 can determine whether to execute the sensing request based on the sensing request, the capability information of the first device 110, and the state of the first device 110. As an example, if the sensing area is far from the first device 110, or the first device 110 is a device dedicated to sensing and tracking, or the battery power of the first device 110 is low, the first device 110 can refuse (not respond to) the sensing request.

[0121] As for the second device 120, after transmitting the sensing request, if the second device 110 determines that the sensing request has been accepted by the first device 110, the second device can determine to transition the first device 110 from the first sensing state to the second sensing state. As a result, the second device 120 can send second information instructing the first device 110 to transition to the second state (e.g., to perform a sensing scan operation).

[0122] Now for reference Figure 7 This illustrates another example signaling flow 700 for communication according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0123] like Figure 7 As shown, the first device 110 can report capabilities related to the second device 120, such as: The first device 110 can support the following sensing states: second sensing state, third sensing state, first sub-state, second sub-state, and third sub-state; The first device 110 can support the transmission of sensing signals for other objects / objects / areas; The first device 110 can support measuring sensing signals and reporting measurement or sensing results for use in detecting / tracking other objects; The first device 110 can support sending / receiving sensing signals for detecting / tracking other objects.

[0124] After receiving a sensing request from a higher layer or core network, the second device 120 may send the sensing request to the first device 110.

[0125] In some embodiments, the second device 120 may broadcast a sensing request to a first device surrounding the object or target area.

[0126] In some embodiments, the approximate location of the target area (the object to be sensed) may be broadcast along with the sensing request.

[0127] In some embodiments, the general range between the target area (the object to be sensed) and the first device is specifically indicated to the specific first device by the second device 120 along with the request. In this way, the sensing request is included in dedicated signaling, such as Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling.

[0128] In some embodiments, if the second device 120 is a gNB, the second device 120 can send a sensing request via a communication specification stack (e.g., RRC). Therefore, if the second device 120 is an LMF / SF, the second device 120 can send a sensing request via a sensing specification stack.

[0129] exist Figure 7 In the example, the first device 110 can respond to a sensing request from the second device 120, such as agreeing to / disagreeing with the sensing object.

[0130] Additionally, if the first device 110 does not have sensing capabilities, it may ignore the sensing request or not respond to the sensing request.

[0131] Alternatively, if the first device 110 has sensing capabilities, then the first device 110 may accept a sensing request under one of the following circumstances: The power of the first device, 110, is sufficient. The distance between the monitored area / object and the first device is close enough, for example, the distance is less than a given value, which can be a fixed value or determined based on the power status of the first device 110; The first device 110 is the object of user consent sensing.

[0132] Otherwise, the first device can refuse the sensing request.

[0133] exist Figure 7 In the example, the first device #1 does not support sensing other targets, and the first device #1 may not respond to sensing requests.

[0134] Furthermore, device #2 is in a low battery state. In this case, device #2 may not respond to the sensing request or send a message indicating that the sensing request was rejected by device #2 (e.g., indicating the reason for the low battery state). As for device #3, device #3 is sufficiently close to the monitoring area and is in a high battery state. In this case, device #3 may send an ACK message to indicate that device #3 accepts the sensing request.

[0135] For the first device #4, the first device #4 is in a high battery state, but is too far away to sense the monitoring area. In this case, the first device #4 may not respond to the sensing request or send a message to indicate that the sensing request was rejected by the first device #4 (e.g., indicating the reason why the target / area to be sensed or monitored is too far away).

[0136] In some embodiments, the application time for each state transition should be considered. The application time can be the state transition delay of the first device. Additionally, in some embodiments, the state transition delay can be implemented as a capability (i.e., a UE capability). In this case, the first device 110 can report the relevant handover delay to the second device 120 (e.g., by sending first information including the state transition delay).

[0137] Furthermore, the state transition delay can vary depending on the different state transitions. Specifically, when transitioning from sensing state A (or sub-state A) to sensing state B (or sub-state B), the state transition delay can be a first value, while when transitioning from sensing state B (or sub-state B) to sensing state C (or sub-state C) (or from sensing state C (or sub-state C) to sensing state D (or sub-state D), or from sensing state D (or sub-state D) to sensing state A (or sub-state A)), the state transition delay can be a second value.

[0138] Example Method Figure 8 A flowchart of a communication method 800 implemented at a first device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For discussion purposes, [the following will be discussed]. Figure 1A The angle description method of the first device 110 in the middle is 800.

[0139] In block 810, the first device sends first information to the second device indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device, capability-related information of the first device indicating at least one sensing state or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device, a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device, a second indication indicating an event associated with a switching of sensing states, a third indication indicating a sensing state in which the first device expects or prefers to operate, and at least one time delay for transitioning from a sensing state to a further sensing state.

[0140] At box 820, the first device receives second information from the second device, which indicates a sensing state among a plurality of sensing states for the first device.

[0141] At box 830, the first device transitions to a sensing state indicated by the second information.

[0142] In some example embodiments, the sensing state is one of the following: a first sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the first sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: not sending a sensing signal for a sensing object; or reducing the priority of a resource configured for sensing an object; a second sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the second sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: detecting an object to be sensed by measuring a sensing signal sent on at least one periodic resource; or not reporting a measurement or sensing result; or a third sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the third sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: detecting at least one object, measuring a sensing signal reflected by the object, or reporting a measurement or sensing result.

[0143] In some example embodiments, the periodic resource in at least one periodic resource is configured by the second device by at least one of the following: the start position of the periodic resource, the period of the periodic resource, the duration of the periodic resource, the subcarrier spacing (SCS) of the periodic resource, or the priority of the periodic resource.

[0144] In some example embodiments, at least one periodic resource includes: a first resource having a first period and a first priority, and a second resource having a second period and a second priority, wherein the second period is greater than or equal to the first period, and the second priority is higher than the first priority.

[0145] In some example embodiments, one of the periodic resources is configured with the highest priority among the other resources for sensing and communication.

[0146] In some example embodiments, if a periodic resource in a periodic resource conflicts with another periodic resource in a periodic resource, the conflict is resolved according to the priority of the periodic resource and the other periodic resource; or if a periodic resource in a periodic resource conflicts with a resource used for communication, the conflict is resolved according to the priority of the periodic resource and the priority of the resource used for communication.

[0147] In some example embodiments, when the first device is operating in a second sensing state, the first device may send a second instruction to the second device via pre-configured resources based on the determination that the conditions for transitioning from the second sensing state to the third sensing state are met.

[0148] In some example embodiments, the third sensing state is divided into a plurality of sub-states including at least one of the following: a first sub-state, wherein the first device detects at least one object during the first sub-state; a second sub-state, wherein the first device coarsely tracks at least one detected object during the second sub-state; or a third sub-state, wherein the first device finely tracks at least one detected object during the third sub-state.

[0149] In some example embodiments, the first device may send a first report to the second device, the first report indicating at least one of the following: presence information of at least one object to be sensed, number of at least one detected object, or location-related information of at least one detected object; during a second sub-state or a third sub-state, the first device may send a second report or a third report to the second device, the second report or the third report indicating at least one of the following: speed-related information, movement direction-related information, size-related information, height-related information, or trajectory-related information.

[0150] In some example embodiments, during a second or third sub-state, the first device can receive trajectory information from the second device; and measure the sensing signal reflected by the object based on the trajectory information.

[0151] In some example embodiments, the tracking accuracy associated with the third sub-state is greater than the tracking accuracy associated with the second sub-state; the measurement or sensing results reported during the third sub-state are richer than those reported during the second sub-state; the number of transmission opportunities for sensing signals associated with the third sub-state is greater than the number of transmission opportunities for sensing signals associated with the second sub-state; the bandwidth of resources configured for the third sub-state is greater than the bandwidth of resources configured for the second sub-state; or the number of symbols configured for the third sub-state is greater than the number of symbols configured for the second sub-state.

[0152] In some example embodiments, at least one sensing resource is configured for a third sensing state, and the sensing resource in the at least one sensing resource is a periodic resource, a semi-persistent resource, or an aperiodic resource.

[0153] In some exemplary embodiments, each of the at least one sensing resource is configured with a priority for resolving resource conflicts; based on the determination that no priority for resolving resource conflicts is configured, a first priority rule is applied among the different sensing resources, wherein the first priority rule from high to low is aperiodic sensing resources, semi-persistent sensing resources, and periodic sensing resources; or based on the determination that no priority for resolving resource conflicts is configured, a second priority rule is applied among the different sensing resources and resources for communication, wherein the second priority rule from high to low is common reference signal resources for communication, aperiodic sensing resources, control channel resources for communication, shared channel resources for communication, semi-persistent sensing resources, and periodic sensing resources.

[0154] In some example embodiments, the first device may receive from the second device a sensing request indicating at least one of the following: location information of the area to be sensed or the object to be sensed, the sensing range between the area to be sensed and the first device, or the sensing range between the object to be sensed and the first device; and determine whether to execute the sensing request based at least in part on the sensing request; and send the determination result to the second device.

[0155] In some example embodiments, a first device may send a second indication if at least one of the following is met: the second indication indicates that a first condition for transitioning from a sensing state or sub-state to another sensing state or sub-state is satisfied: the number of times a sensing signal reflected by an object to be sensed is detected is greater than or equal to a first threshold number; the intensity of the sensing signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity; the number of times the intensity of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to a second threshold number; the measurement transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to a first threshold delay; the intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensing signal is increasing; the transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold delay difference; and the transmission... The delay is decreasing; or a second indication is sent if at least one of the following is true, indicating that a second condition for transitioning from another sensing state or another sub-state to a sensing state or sub-state is met: the number of times a sensing signal reflected from the object to be sensed is not detected is greater than or equal to a third threshold number; the intensity of the sensing signal reflected from the object is less than or equal to a third threshold intensity; the number of times the intensity of the sensing signal is less than or equal to a second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to a fourth threshold number; the transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected from the object is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay; the intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity difference; and the intensity of the sensing signal is decreasing; the transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay difference; and the transmission delay is increasing.

[0156] In some example embodiments, the sensing state is a second sensing state and another sensing state is a third sensing state, the substate is a first substate of the third sensing state and another substate is a second substate of the third sensing state, or the substate is a second substate of the third sensing state and another substate is a third substate of the third sensing state.

[0157] In some example embodiments, at least one of the following is a predefined value or configured by the second device: first threshold number, second threshold number, third threshold number, fourth threshold number, first threshold strength, second threshold strength, third threshold strength, fourth threshold strength, first threshold delay, second threshold delay, first threshold strength difference, second threshold strength difference, first threshold transmission delay, and second threshold transmission delay.

[0158] In some example embodiments, the first threshold strength is greater than the third threshold strength, the second threshold strength is greater than the fourth threshold strength, or the first threshold delay is less than the second threshold delay.

[0159] In some example embodiments, the first device is a terminal device or a network device, and the second device is a network device, a sensing function entity, or a location management function entity.

[0160] Figure 9 A flowchart of a communication method 900 implemented at a second device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For discussion purposes, [the following will be discussed]. Figure 1A The second device 120 in the method of angle description 900.

[0161] At box 910, the second device receives first information indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device, capability-related information of the first device, the capability-related information indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device, a first indication indicating that the sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a sensing state switch; a third indication indicating a sensing state in which the first device is expected to operate; and at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another.

[0162] In box 920, the second device determines the sensing state for the first device based on the first information.

[0163] In box 930, the second device sends second information indicating the sensing status to the first device.

[0164] In some example embodiments, the sensing state is one of the following: a first sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the first sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: not sending a sensing signal for a sensing object; or reducing the priority of a resource configured for sensing an object; a second sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the second sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: detecting an object to be sensed by measuring a sensing signal sent on at least one periodic resource; or not reporting a measurement or sensing result; or a third sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the third sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: detecting at least one object; measuring a sensing signal reflected by the object; or reporting a measurement or sensing result.

[0165] In some example embodiments, the periodic resource in at least one periodic resource is configured by the second device by at least one of the following: the start position of the periodic resource, the periodicity of the periodic resource, the duration of the periodic resource, the subcarrier spacing (SCS) of the periodic resource, or the priority of the periodic resource.

[0166] In some example embodiments, at least one periodic resource includes: a first resource having a first period and a first priority, and a second resource having a second period and a second priority, wherein the second period is greater than or equal to the first period, and the second priority is higher than the first priority.

[0167] In some example embodiments, at least one of the periodic resources is configured with the highest priority among the other resources for sensing and communication.

[0168] In some example embodiments, the second device may send configuration information indicating the resources used by the first device to send the second instruction.

[0169] In some example embodiments, the third sensing state is divided into a plurality of sub-states including at least one of the following: a first sub-state, wherein the first device detects at least one object during the first sub-state; a second sub-state, wherein the first device coarsely tracks at least one detected object during the second sub-state; and a third sub-state, wherein the first device finely tracks at least one detected object during the third sub-state.

[0170] In some example embodiments, the second device may receive a first report from the first device operating in a first sub-state, the first report indicating at least one of the following: presence information of at least one object to be sensed, number of at least one detected object, or location-related information of at least one detected object; and receive a second or third report from the first device operating in a second or third sub-state, the second or third report indicating at least one of the following: speed-related information, movement direction-related information, size-related information, height-related information, or trajectory-related information.

[0171] In some example embodiments, the second device can receive measurement or sensing results from the first device operating in a second or third sub-state; determine trajectory information based on the measurement or sensing results; and send the trajectory information to the first device.

[0172] In some example embodiments, the tracking accuracy associated with the third sub-state is greater than the tracking accuracy associated with the second sub-state; the measurement or sensing results reported during the third sub-state are richer than those reported during the second sub-state; the number of transmission opportunities for sensing signals associated with the third sub-state is greater than the number of transmission opportunities for sensing signals associated with the second sub-state; the bandwidth of resources configured for the third sub-state is greater than the bandwidth of resources configured for the second sub-state; or the number of symbols configured for the third sub-state is greater than the number of symbols configured for the second sub-state.

[0173] In some example embodiments, at least one sensing resource is configured for a third sensing state, and the sensing resource in the at least one sensing resource is a periodic resource, a semi-persistent resource, or an aperiodic resource.

[0174] In some example embodiments, the second device can configure a priority for resolving resource conflicts for each of at least one sensing resource.

[0175] In some example embodiments, the second device may determine the sensing state as the first sensing state if one of the following occurs: a first indication indicates that the sensing function is not supported or allowed to be enabled at the first device; device type information or capability-related information of the first device indicates that the first device does not support or is not allowed to operate in the second or third sensing state; a third indication indicates that the first device intends to operate in the first sensing state; the sensing state is determined as the second sensing state if one of the following occurs: device type information or capability-related information of the first device indicates that the first device supports or is allowed to operate in the second sensing state, and a third indication indicates that the first device intends to operate in the second sensing state; the sensing state is determined as the third sensing state if one of the following occurs: device type information or capability-related information of the first device indicates that the first device supports or is allowed to operate in the third sensing state, a second indication indicates that the conditions for transitioning from the second sensing state to the third sensing state are met, and a third indication indicates that the first device intends to operate in the third sensing state.

[0176] In some example embodiments, the second device may send a sensing request to the first device indicating at least one of the following: location information of the area to be sensed or the object to be sensed, or the sensing range between the area to be sensed and the first device, or the sensing range between the object to be sensed and the first device.

[0177] In some exemplary embodiments, after sending a sensing request, the second device may determine to switch the first device from a first sensing state to a second sensing state based on the determination that the sensing request has been accepted by the first device.

[0178] In some example embodiments, based on measurement or sensing results from the first device, the second device may determine to transition the first device from a sensing state or sub-state to another sensing state or sub-state if at least one of the following is true: the number of times a sensing signal reflected by the object to be sensed is detected is greater than or equal to a first threshold number; the intensity of the sensing signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity; the number of times the intensity of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to a second threshold number; the transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to a first threshold delay; the intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensing signal is increasing; the measurement transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold delay difference; and the transmission... The delay is decreasing; or based on the measurement or sensing results from the first device, it is determined that the first device should be transitioned from another sensing state or another sub-state to a sensing state or sub-state if at least one of the following is true: the number of sensing signals reflected by the object to be sensed is greater than or equal to a third threshold number; the intensity of the sensing signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to a third threshold intensity; the number of times the intensity of the sensing signal is less than or equal to a second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to a fourth threshold number; the transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay; the intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensing signal is decreasing; the transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay difference, and the transmission delay is increasing.

[0179] In some example embodiments, the sensing state is a second sensing state and another sensing state is a third sensing state, the substate is a first substate of the third sensing state and another substate is a second substate of the third sensing state, or the substate is a second substate of the third sensing state and another substate is a third substate of the third sensing state.

[0180] In some example embodiments, at least one of the following is a predefined value or configured by the second device: first threshold number, second threshold number, third threshold number, fourth threshold number, first threshold strength, second threshold strength, third threshold strength, fourth threshold strength, first threshold delay, second threshold delay, first threshold strength difference, second threshold strength difference, first threshold transmission delay, and second threshold transmission delay.

[0181] In some example embodiments, the first threshold strength is greater than the third threshold strength, the second threshold strength is greater than the fourth threshold strength, or the first threshold delay is less than the second threshold delay.

[0182] In some example embodiments, the first device is a terminal device or a network device, and the second device is a network device, a sensing function entity, or a location management function entity.

[0183] Example devices and apparatus Figure 10 This is a simplified block diagram of a device 1000 suitable for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure. The device 1000 can be considered as follows: Figure 1A Another example implementation of any of the devices shown. Thus, device 1000 may be implemented at or as a part of first device 110 or second device 120.

[0184] As shown in the figure, device 1000 includes a processor 1010, a memory 1020 coupled to the processor 1010, a suitable transceiver 1040 coupled to the processor 1010, and a communication interface coupled to the transceiver 1040. The memory 1020 stores at least a portion of a program 1030. The transceiver 1040 can be used for required bidirectional or unidirectional communication. The transceiver 1040 may include at least one of a transmitter 1042 and a receiver 1044. The transmitter 1042 and receiver 1044 may be functional modules or physical entities. The transceiver 1040 has at least one antenna to facilitate communication; however, in practice, the access node mentioned in this application may have several antennas. The communication interface can represent any interface required for communication with other network elements, such as the X2 / Xn interface for bidirectional communication between eNBs / gNBs, the S1 / NG interface for communication between the Mobility Management Entity (MME) / Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) / SGW / UPF and the eNB / gNB, the Un interface for communication between the eNB / gNB and the Relay Node (RN), or the Uu interface for communication between the eNB / gNB and the terminal equipment.

[0185] Assume that program 1030 includes program instructions that, when executed by the associated processor 1010, enable device 1000 to operate according to embodiments of this disclosure, as shown herein with reference to Figures 1 to 1010. Figure 10 The embodiments discussed herein may be implemented by computer software executable by the processor 1010 of device 1000, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. The processor 1010 may be configured to implement various embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, a combination of the processor 1010 and the memory 1020 may form a processing unit 1050 suitable for implementing various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0186] Memory 1020 can be of any type suitable for a local technology network and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as, as non-limiting examples, non-transitory computer-readable storage media, semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory. Although only one memory 1020 is shown in device 1000, several physically different memory modules may exist in device 1000. As a non-limiting example, processor 1010 can be of any type suitable for a local technology network and may include one or more of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. Device 1000 may have multiple processors, such as application-specific integrated circuit chips that are time-dependent on a clock of a synchronous main processor.

[0187] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a first device including circuitry is provided. The circuitry is configured to: send first information to a second device indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device; capability-related information of the first device indicating at least one sensing state or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a sensing state transition; a third indication indicating a sensing state; the first device's expectation or preference to operate in the sensing state; and at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another; receive second information from the second device indicating a sensing state among a plurality of sensing states of the first device; and transition to the sensing state indicated by the second information. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the circuitry may be configured to perform any method implemented by the first device as described above.

[0188] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a second device including circuitry is provided. The circuitry is configured to: obtain first information indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device; capability-related information of the first device indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a switching of sensing states; a third indication indicating a sensing state in which the first device is expected to operate; at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another; determine a sensing state for the first device based on the first information; and send second information indicating the sensing state to the first device. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the circuitry may be configured to perform any method implemented by the second device as described above.

[0189] As used herein, the term "circuit" can refer to hardware circuitry and / or a combination of hardware circuitry and software. For example, a circuit can be a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuitry with software / firmware. As another example, a circuit can be any part of a hardware processor with software, including digital signal processors, software, and memory, which work together to enable a device, such as a terminal device or network device, to perform various functions. In yet another example, a circuit can be hardware circuitry and / or a processor that requires software / firmware to operate, such as a microprocessor or a portion thereof, but which may be absent when software is not required to operate. As used herein, the term "circuit system" also encompasses only hardware circuitry or (one or more) processors, or a portion thereof, and its accompanying software and / or firmware implementation.

[0190] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a first apparatus is provided. The first apparatus includes: components for sending first information to a second device indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device; capability-related information of the first device indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a sensing state switch; a third indication indicating a sensing state; the first device expecting or preferring to operate in the sensing state; and at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another; components for receiving second information from the second device, the second information indicating a sensing state among a plurality of sensing states of the first device; and components for transitioning to the sensing state indicated by the second information. In some embodiments, the first apparatus may include components for performing corresponding operations of method 800. In some example embodiments, the first apparatus may also include components for performing other operations in some example embodiments of method 800. The components may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the components may be implemented in a circuit or software module.

[0191] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a second apparatus is provided. The second apparatus includes: components for obtaining first information indicating at least one of the following: device type information of a first device; capability-related information of the first device, the capability-related information indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a switching of sensing states; a third indication indicating a sensing state, at least one time delay for the first device to operate in the sensing state, or for transitioning from one sensing state to another; components for determining a sensing state for the first device based on the first information; and components for sending the second information indicating the sensing state to the first device. In some embodiments, the second apparatus may include components for performing corresponding operations of method 900. In some example embodiments, the second apparatus may also include components for performing other operations in some example embodiments of method 900. The components may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the components may be implemented in a circuit or software module.

[0192] In summary, the embodiments of this disclosure provide the following aspects.

[0193] In one aspect, a first device is provided, comprising: a processor configured to cause the first device to: send to a second device first information indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device; capability-related information of the first device indicating at least one sensing state or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a switching of sensing states; a third indication indicating a sensing state; the first device expecting or preferring to operate in a sensing state; at least one time delay for transitioning from one sensing state to another; receive second information from the second device indicating a sensing state among a plurality of sensing states of the first device; and transition to the sensing state indicated by the second information.

[0194] In some embodiments, the sensing state is one of the following: a first sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the first sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: not sending a sensing signal for a sensing object; or reducing the priority of a resource configured for sensing an object; a second sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the second sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: detecting a sensing object by measuring a sensing signal sent on at least one periodic resource; or not reporting a measurement result or a sensing result; or a third sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the third sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: detecting at least one object, measuring a sensing signal reflected by the object, or reporting a measurement result or a sensing result.

[0195] In some embodiments, the periodic resource in at least one periodic resource is configured by the second device by at least one of the following: the start position of the periodic resource, the periodicity of the periodic resource, the duration of the periodic resource, the subcarrier spacing (SCS) of the periodic resource, or the priority of the periodic resource.

[0196] In some embodiments, at least one periodic resource includes: a first resource having a first period and a first priority, and a second resource having a second period and a second priority, wherein the second period is greater than or equal to the first period, and the second priority is higher than the first priority.

[0197] In some embodiments, one of the at least one periodic resources is configured with the highest priority among the priorities of other resources for sensing and communication.

[0198] In some embodiments, if a periodic resource in a periodic resource conflicts with another periodic resource in a periodic resource, the conflict is resolved according to the priority of the periodic resource and the other periodic resource; or if a periodic resource in a periodic resource conflicts with a resource used for communication, the conflict is resolved according to the priority of the periodic resource and the priority of the resource used for communication.

[0199] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the first device to send a second instruction to the second device via pre-configured resources, provided that a condition for transitioning from the second sensing state to the third sensing state is satisfied, when the first device is operating in the second sensing state.

[0200] In some embodiments, the third sensing state is divided into a plurality of sub-states including at least one of the following: a first sub-state, wherein the first device detects at least one object during the first sub-state; a second sub-state, wherein the first device coarsely tracks at least one detected object during the second sub-state; and a third sub-state, wherein the first device finely tracks at least one detected object during the third sub-state.

[0201] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the first device to: during a first sub-state, send a first report to the second device, the first report indicating at least one of the following: presence information of at least one object to be sensed, number of at least one detected object, or location-related information of at least one detected object; and during a second or third sub-state, send a second or third report to the second device, the second or third report indicating at least one of the following: speed-related information, movement direction-related information, size-related information, height-related information, or trajectory-related information.

[0202] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the first device to: receive trajectory information from the second device during a second sub-state or a third sub-state; and measure a sensing signal reflected by an object based on the trajectory information.

[0203] In some embodiments, the tracking accuracy associated with the third sub-state is greater than the tracking accuracy associated with the second sub-state; the measurement or sensing results reported during the third sub-state are richer than those reported during the second sub-state; the number of transmission opportunities for sensing signals associated with the third sub-state is greater than the number of transmission opportunities for sensing signals associated with the second sub-state; the bandwidth of resources configured for the third sub-state is greater than the bandwidth of resources configured for the second sub-state; or the number of symbols configured for the third sub-state is greater than the number of symbols configured for the second sub-state.

[0204] In some embodiments, at least one sensing resource is configured for a third sensing state, and the sensing resource in the at least one sensing resource is a periodic resource, a semi-persistent resource, or an aperiodic resource.

[0205] In some embodiments, each of the at least one sensing resource is configured with a priority for resolving resource conflicts; based on the determination that no priority for resolving resource conflicts is configured, a first priority rule is applied among different sensing resources, wherein the first priority rule from high to low is aperiodic sensing resources, semi-persistent sensing resources, and periodic sensing resources; or based on the determination that no priority for resolving resource conflicts is configured, a second priority rule is applied among different sensing resources and resources used for communication, wherein the second priority rule from high to low is common reference signal resources used for communication, aperiodic sensing resources, control channel resources used for communication, shared channel resources used for communication, semi-persistent sensing resources, and periodic sensing resources.

[0206] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the first device to: receive from the second device a sensing request indicating at least one of the following: location information of the area to be sensed or the object to be sensed, the sensing range between the area to be sensed and the first device, or the sensing range between the object to be sensed and the first device; and determine whether to execute the sensing request based at least in part on the sensing request; and send the determination result to the second device.

[0207] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the first device to send a second indication if at least one of the following is met: the second indication indicates that a first condition for transitioning from a sensing state or sub-state to another sensing state or sub-state is satisfied: the number of times a sensing signal reflected by an object to be sensed is detected is greater than or equal to a first threshold number; the intensity of the sensing signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity; the number of times the intensity of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to a second threshold number; the measurement transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to a first threshold delay; the intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity difference; and the intensity of the sensing signal increases; the transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold delay difference; and And the transmission delay is decreasing; or a second indication is sent if at least one of the following is true, indicating that a second condition for transitioning from another sensing state or another sub-state to a sensing state or sub-state is met: the number of times a sensing signal reflected by the object to be sensed is not detected is greater than or equal to a third threshold number; the intensity of the sensing signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to a third threshold intensity; the number of times the intensity of the sensing signal is less than or equal to a second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to a fourth threshold number; the transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay; the intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity difference; and the intensity of the sensing signal is decreasing; the transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay difference; and the transmission delay is increasing.

[0208] In some embodiments, the sensing state is a second sensing state and another sensing state is a third sensing state, the sub-state is a first sub-state of the third sensing state and another sub-state is a second sub-state of the third sensing state, or the sub-state is a second sub-state of the third sensing state and another sub-state is a third sub-state of the third sensing state.

[0209] In some embodiments, at least one of the following is a predefined value or configured by the second device: first threshold number, second threshold number, third threshold number, fourth threshold number, first threshold strength, second threshold strength, third threshold strength, fourth threshold strength, first threshold delay, second threshold delay, first threshold strength difference, second threshold strength difference, first threshold transmission delay, and second threshold transmission delay.

[0210] In some embodiments, the first threshold strength is greater than the third threshold strength, the second threshold strength is greater than the fourth threshold strength, or the first threshold delay is less than the second threshold delay.

[0211] In some embodiments, the first device is a terminal device or a network device, and the second device is a network device, a sensing function entity, or a location management function entity.

[0212] In one aspect, a second device is provided, comprising: a processor configured to cause the second device to: obtain first information indicating at least one of the following: device type information of the first device, capability-related information of the first device indicating at least one sensing state supported or permitted by the first device or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device; a first indication indicating that a sensing function is supported or permitted to be enabled at the first device; a second indication indicating an event associated with a switching of sensing states; a third indication indicating a sensing state, at least one time delay for the first device to operate in a sensing state or for transitioning from one sensing state to another; determine a sensing state for the first device based on the first information; and send the second information indicating the sensing state to the first device.

[0213] In some embodiments, the sensing state is one of the following: a first sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the first sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: not sending a sensing signal for a sensing object; or reducing the priority of a resource configured for sensing an object; a second sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the second sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: detecting a sensing object by measuring a sensing signal sent on at least one periodic resource; or not reporting a measurement result or a sensing result; or a third sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the third sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: detecting at least one object; measuring a sensing signal reflected by the object; or reporting a measurement result or a sensing result.

[0214] In some embodiments, the periodic resource in at least one periodic resource is configured by the second device by at least one of the following: the start position of the periodic resource, the periodicity of the periodic resource, the duration of the periodic resource, the subcarrier spacing (SCS) of the periodic resource, or the priority of the periodic resource.

[0215] In some embodiments, at least one periodic resource includes: a first resource having a first period and a first priority, and a second resource having a second period and a second priority, wherein the second period is greater than or equal to the first period, and the second priority is higher than the first priority.

[0216] In some embodiments, one of the at least one periodic resources is configured with the highest priority among the priorities of other resources for sensing and communication.

[0217] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the second device to: send configuration information indicating the resources used by the first device to send the second instruction.

[0218] In some embodiments, the third sensing state is divided into a plurality of sub-states, including at least one of the following: a first sub-state, wherein the first device detects at least one object during the first sub-state; a second sub-state, wherein the first device coarsely tracks at least one detected object during the second sub-state; or a third sub-state, wherein the first device finely tracks at least one detected object during the third sub-state.

[0219] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the second device to: receive a first report from the first device operating in a first sub-state, the first report indicating at least one of the following: presence information of at least one object to be sensed, number of at least one detected object, or location-related information of at least one detected object; and receive a second or third report from the first device operating in a second or third sub-state, the second or third report indicating at least one of the following: speed-related information, movement direction-related information, size-related information, height-related information, or trajectory-related information.

[0220] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the second device to: receive measurement or sensing results from the first device operating in a second or third sub-state; determine trajectory information based on the measurement or sensing results; and send the trajectory information to the first device.

[0221] In some embodiments, the tracking accuracy associated with the third sub-state is greater than the tracking accuracy associated with the second sub-state; the measurement or sensing results reported during the third sub-state are richer than those reported during the second sub-state; the number of transmission opportunities for sensing signals associated with the third sub-state is greater than the number of transmission opportunities for sensing signals associated with the second sub-state; the bandwidth of resources configured for the third sub-state is greater than the bandwidth of resources configured for the second sub-state; or the number of symbols configured for the third sub-state is greater than the number of symbols configured for the second sub-state.

[0222] In some embodiments, at least one sensing resource is configured for a third sensing state, and the sensing resource in the at least one sensing resource is a periodic resource, a semi-persistent resource, or an aperiodic resource.

[0223] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to enable the second device to configure a priority for resolving resource conflicts for each of the at least one sensing resource.

[0224] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the second device to: determine a sensing state as a first sensing state if one of the following: a first indication indicates that the sensing function is not supported or allowed to be enabled at the first device; device type information or capability-related information of the first device indicates that the first device does not support or is not allowed to operate in a second or third sensing state; a third indication indicates that the first device is expected to operate in the first sensing state; determine a sensing state as a second sensing state if one of the following: device type information or capability-related information of the first device indicates that the first device supports or is allowed to operate in the second sensing state, and a third indication indicates that the first device is expected to operate in the second sensing state; determine a sensing state as a third sensing state if one of the following: device type information or capability-related information of the first device indicates that the first device supports or is allowed to operate in the third sensing state, a second indication indicates that the conditions for transitioning from the second sensing state to the third sensing state are met, and a third indication indicates that the first device is expected to operate in the third sensing state.

[0225] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the second device to send a sensing request to the first device indicating at least one of the following: location information of the area to be sensed or the object to be sensed, or the sensing range between the area to be sensed and the first device, or the sensing range between the object to be sensed and the first device.

[0226] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the second device to: after sending a sensing request, determine, based on the determination that the sensing request is accepted by the first device, transition the first device from a first sensing state to a second sensing state.

[0227] In some embodiments, the processor is further configured to cause the second device to determine, based on measurement or sensing results from the first device, to transition the first device from a sensing state or sub-state to another sensing state or sub-state if at least one of the following is true: the number of times a sensing signal reflected by an object to be sensed is detected is greater than or equal to a first threshold number; the intensity of the sensing signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity; the number of times the intensity of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to a second threshold number; the transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to a first threshold delay; the intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensing signal is increasing; and the measurement transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold delay difference. And the transmission delay is decreasing; or based on the measurement or sensing results from the first device, it is determined that the first device should be transitioned from another sensing state or another sub-state to a sensing state or sub-state if at least one of the following is true: the number of sensing signals reflected by the object to be sensed is greater than or equal to a third threshold number; the intensity of the sensing signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to a third threshold intensity; the number of times the intensity of the sensing signal is less than or equal to a second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to a fourth threshold number; the transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay; the intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity difference; and the intensity of the sensing signal is decreasing; the transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay difference; and the transmission delay is increasing.

[0228] In some embodiments, the sensing state is a second sensing state and another sensing state is a third sensing state, the sub-state is a first sub-state of the third sensing state and another sub-state is a second sub-state of the third sensing state, or the sub-state is a second sub-state of the third sensing state and another sub-state is a third sub-state of the third sensing state.

[0229] In some embodiments, at least one of the following is a predefined value or configured by the second device: first threshold number, second threshold number, third threshold number, fourth threshold number, first threshold strength, second threshold strength, third threshold strength, fourth threshold strength, first threshold delay, second threshold delay, first threshold strength difference, second threshold strength difference, first threshold transmission delay, and second threshold transmission delay.

[0230] In some embodiments, the first threshold strength is greater than the third threshold strength, the second threshold strength is greater than the fourth threshold strength, or the first threshold delay is less than the second threshold delay.

[0231] In some embodiments, the first device is a terminal device or a network device, and the second device is a network device, a sensing function entity, or a location management function entity.

[0232] In one aspect, a first device includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory coupled to the at least one processor and storing instructions thereon, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform the methods implemented by the first device discussed above.

[0233] In one aspect, a second device includes: at least one processor; and at least one memory coupled to and storing instructions thereon, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform the methods implemented by the second device discussed above.

[0234] In one aspect, a computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform the method implemented by the first device discussed above.

[0235] In one aspect, a computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform the method implemented by the second device discussed above.

[0236] In one aspect, a computer program includes instructions that, when executed on at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform the method implemented by the first device discussed above.

[0237] In one aspect, a computer program includes instructions that, when executed on at least one processor, cause at least one processor to perform a method implemented by the second device discussed above.

[0238] Generally, the various embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuitry, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects can be implemented in hardware, while others can be implemented in firmware or software that can be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. Although various aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated and described as block diagrams, flowcharts, or using some other graphical representation, it should be understood that, as non-limiting examples, the blocks, apparatuses, systems, techniques, or methods described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0239] This disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product includes computer-executable instructions that execute in a device on a target real or virtual processor, such as those included in a program module, to perform the actions described above with reference to Figures 1 to 12. Figure 10 The process or method described herein. Typically, a program module includes routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc., that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. In various embodiments, the functionality of a program module can be combined or split among program modules as needed. The machine-executable instructions used in a program module can be executed locally or on a distributed device. In a distributed device, the program module can reside on both local and remote storage media.

[0240] Program code used to perform the methods of this disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. This program code may be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus, such that when executed by the processor or controller, the program code causes the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be implemented. The program code may be executed entirely on a machine, partially on a machine, as a stand-alone software package, partially on a machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0241] The aforementioned program code may be embodied on a machine-readable medium, which may be any tangible medium that can contain or store a program used by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The machine-readable medium may be a machine-readable signal medium or a machine-readable storage medium. Machine-readable media may include, but are not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatus, or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples of machine-readable storage media will include electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0242] Furthermore, although the operations are described in a specific order, this should not be construed as requiring that these operations be performed in the specific order shown or sequentially, or that all the operations shown be performed to achieve the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, while several specific embodiment details are contained in the above discussion, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments. Certain features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments.

[0243] Although this disclosure has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological actions, it should be understood that the disclosure as defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. Rather, the specific features and actions described above are disclosed as exemplary forms for implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A first device, comprising: The processor is configured to cause the first device to: Send a first message to the second device indicating at least one of the following: The device type information of the first device, The capability-related information of the first device indicates at least one sensing state or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device. A first indication that the sensing function is supported or enabled at the first device. A second indication of an event associated with a sensing state transition. A third indication of the sensing state, in which the first device expects or prefers to operate under said sensing state, or At least one time delay is used for transitioning from one sensing state to another; Receive second information from the second device, the second information indicating a sensing state among a plurality of sensing states for the first device; as well as The system transitions to the sensing state indicated by the second information.

2. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the sensing state is one of the following: A first sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the first sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: No sensing signal is sent for the object being sensed; or Reduce the priority of resources configured for sensing objects. A second sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the second sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: The object to be sensed is detected by measuring sensing signals transmitted on at least one periodic resource; or Do not report measurement or sensing results; or A third sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the third sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: Detect at least one object, Track at least one object, Measure the sensed signal reflected by the object, or Report measurement or sensing results.

3. The first device according to claim 2, wherein the at least one periodic resource comprises: The first resource with the first cycle and the first priority, and A second resource having a second period and a second priority, wherein the second period is greater than or equal to the first period, and the second priority is higher than the first priority.

4. The first device according to claim 2, wherein the third sensing state is divided into a plurality of sub-states including at least one of the following: A first sub-state, wherein the first device detects at least one object during the first sub-state; The second sub-state, wherein the first device coarsely tracks at least one detected object during the second sub-state; or In the third sub-state, the first device tracks at least one detected object in a fine-grained manner during the third sub-state.

5. The first device of claim 4, wherein the processor is further configured to cause the first device to: During the first sub-state, a first report is sent to the second device, the first report indicating at least one of the following: At least one presence information of the object to be sensed. The number of at least one detected object, or The location-related information of at least one detected object. During the second sub-state or the third sub-state, a second report or a third report is sent to the second device, the second report or the third report indicating at least one of the following: Speed-related information Information related to the direction of movement, Size-related information Highly relevant information, or Track-related information.

6. The first device of claim 4, wherein the processor is further configured to cause the first device to: During the second sub-state or the third sub-state, trajectory information is received from the second device; and The sensing signal reflected by the object is measured based on the trajectory information.

7. The first device according to claim 4, wherein, The tracking accuracy associated with the third sub-state is greater than the tracking accuracy associated with the second sub-state; The measurement or sensing results reported during the third sub-state are richer than those reported during the second sub-state; The number of transmission opportunities for the sensing signal associated with the third sub-state is greater than the number of transmission opportunities for the sensing signal associated with the second sub-state. The bandwidth of the resource configured for the third sub-state is greater than the bandwidth of the resource configured for the second sub-state; or The number of symbols configured for the third sub-state is greater than the number of symbols configured for the second sub-state.

8. The first device of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to cause the first device to: Receive a sensing request from the second device indicating at least one of the following: Location information of the area to be sensed or the object to be sensed. The sensing range between the area to be sensed and the first device, or The sensing range between the object to be sensed and the first device; as well as Whether to execute the sensing request is determined at least in part based on the sensing request itself; as well as Send the confirmation result to the second device.

9. The first device of claim 2, wherein the processor is further configured to cause the first device to: The second indication is sent if at least one of the following is true: The number of times the sensing signal reflected by the object to be sensed is greater than or equal to the first threshold number; The intensity of the sensed signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to the first threshold intensity; The number of times the intensity of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to the intensity of the second threshold is greater than or equal to the number of times the intensity of the second threshold is reached; The measurement transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to a first threshold delay; The intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensed signal is increasing; or The transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold delay difference, and the transmission delay is decreasing; or The second indication is sent if at least one of the following is true: The number of times the sensing signal reflected by the object to be sensed was greater than or equal to the third threshold number could not be detected; The intensity of the sensed signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to the third threshold intensity; The number of times the intensity of the sensed signal is less than or equal to the intensity of the second threshold is greater than or equal to the number of times the intensity of the fourth threshold is reached; The transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to the second threshold delay; The intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensed signal is decreasing; or The transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay difference, and the transmission delay is increasing.

10. The first device according to claim 9, wherein, The sensing state is the second sensing state, and the other sensing state is the third sensing state. The sub-state is the first sub-state of the third sensing state, and the other sub-state is the second sub-state of the third sensing state, or The sub-state is the second sub-state of the third sensing state, and the other sub-state is the third sub-state of the third sensing state.

11. The first device according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the following is a predefined value or configured by the second device: The first threshold number, the second threshold number, the third threshold number, the fourth threshold number, the first threshold strength, the second threshold strength, the third threshold strength, the fourth threshold strength, the first threshold delay, the second threshold delay, the first threshold strength difference, the second threshold strength difference, the first threshold transmission delay, and the second threshold transmission delay.

12. The first device according to claim 9, wherein, The first threshold intensity is greater than the third threshold intensity. The second threshold intensity is greater than the fourth threshold intensity, or The first threshold delay is less than the second threshold delay.

13. The first device according to claim 1, wherein, The first device is a terminal device or a network device, and The second device is a network device, a sensing function entity, or a location management function entity.

14. A second device, comprising: The processor is configured to cause the second device to: Obtain first information indicating at least one of the following: The device type information of the first device, The capability-related information of the first device indicates at least one sensing state or at least one sensing-related operation supported or permitted by the first device. A first indication that the sensing function is supported or enabled at the first device. A second indication of an event associated with a sensing state transition. A third indication of the sensing state, in which the first device is expected to operate, or At least one time delay is used for transitioning from one sensing state to another; The sensing state for the first device is determined based on the first information; as well as Send second information indicating the sensing state to the first device.

15. The second device according to claim 14, wherein the sensing state is one of the following: A first sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the first sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: No sensing signal is sent for the object being sensed; or Reduce the priority of resources configured for sensing objects; A second sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the second sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: The object to be sensed is detected by measuring the sensing signal transmitted on at least one periodic resource; or Do not report measurement or sensing results; or A third sensing state, wherein if the first device is in the third sensing state, the first device performs at least one of the following: Detect at least one object; Measure the sensed signal reflected by the object; or Report measurement or sensing results.

16. The second device of claim 15, wherein the third sensing state is divided into a plurality of sub-states including at least one of the following: A first sub-state, wherein the first device detects at least one object during the first sub-state. The second sub-state, wherein the first device coarsely tracks at least one detected object during the second sub-state, or In the third sub-state, the first device tracks at least one detected object in a fine-grained manner during the third sub-state.

17. The second device of claim 16, wherein the processor is further configured to cause the second device to: Receive measurement results or sensing results from the first device operating in the second sub-state or the third sub-state; The trajectory information is determined based on the measurement results or the sensing results; as well as The trajectory information is sent to the first device.

18. The second device of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to cause the second device to: The sensing state is determined to be the first sensing state if one of the following is true: The first indication indicates that the sensing function is not supported or is not allowed to be enabled at the first device; The device type information or the capability-related information of the first device indicates that the first device does not support or is not allowed to operate in the second sensing state or the third sensing state; The third indication indicates that the first device is expected to operate in the first sensing state; The sensing state is determined to be the second sensing state if one of the following is true: The device type information or capability-related information of the first device indicates that the first device supports or is permitted to operate in the second sensing state. The third indication indicates that the first device is expected to operate in the second sensing state; The sensing state is determined to be the third sensing state if one of the following is true: The device type information or capability-related information of the first device indicates that the first device supports or is permitted to operate in the third sensing state. The second indication indicates that the condition for transitioning from the second sensing state to the third sensing state has been met. The third indication indicates that the first device is expected to operate in the third sensing state.

19. The second device of claim 14, wherein the processor is further configured to cause the second device to: After sending the sensing request, based on the determination that the sensing request is accepted by the first device, it is determined to switch the first device from the first sensing state to the second sensing state.

20. The second device of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to cause the second device to: Based on measurement or sensing results from the first device, it is determined that the first device should be transitioned from a sensing state or sub-state to another sensing state or another sub-state if at least one of the following is true: The number of times the sensing signal reflected by the object to be sensed is greater than or equal to the first threshold number is detected. The intensity of the sensed signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to the first threshold intensity. The number of times the intensity of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to the second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to the second threshold number. The transmission delay of the sensed signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to a first threshold delay. The intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensed signal is increasing. The measurement transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a first threshold delay difference, and the transmission delay is decreasing; or Based on the measurement or sensing results from the first device, it is determined that the first device should be transitioned from the other sensing state or the other sub-state to the sensing state or the sub-state if at least one of the following is true: The number of sensing signals reflected by the object being sensed was greater than or equal to the third threshold number that could not be detected. The intensity of the sensed signal reflected by the object is less than or equal to the third threshold intensity. The number of times the intensity of the sensed signal is less than or equal to the second threshold intensity is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold intensity. The transmission delay of the sensing signal reflected by the object is greater than or equal to the second threshold delay. The intensity difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensed signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold intensity difference, and the intensity of the sensed signal is decreasing. The transmission delay difference between two adjacent measurements of the sensing signal is greater than or equal to a second threshold delay difference, and the transmission delay is increasing.

21. The second device according to claim 20, wherein, The sensing state is the second sensing state, and the other sensing state is the third sensing state. The sub-state is the first sub-state of the third sensing state, and the other sub-state is the second sub-state of the third sensing state, or The sub-state is the second sub-state of the third sensing state, and the other sub-state is the third sub-state of the third sensing state.

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