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

Abstract

The application provides a communication method, device, system, storage medium and program product. The method comprises: a terminal device acquires a first system information block (SIB), and the first SIB indicates scheduling information of at least one second SIB. The terminal device determines whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB. Compared with the prior art, after receiving the first indication information, the terminal device must acquire SIB1 to acquire the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB. In the present application, after receiving the first indication information, the terminal device does not need to perform the process of acquiring or reacquiring SIB1, and acquires the at least one second SIB based on the existing valid scheduling information of the at least one second SIB. Therefore, the time delay of the terminal device in acquiring other SIBs can be shortened.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to a communication method, apparatus, system, storage medium, and program product. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, to ensure the public receives critical information such as alerts for disasters and other emergencies, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) public alarm system provides an alarm notification distribution mechanism. For example, network devices send alarm notifications to terminal devices. For terminal devices, after completing downlink synchronization with the cell and obtaining the cell's master information block (MIB) message, they obtain SIB1 through the scheduling information of the system information block (SIB) indicated in the MIB message. SIB1 includes scheduling information for other SIBs (one or more SIBs besides SIB1). The terminal device then obtains other SIBs according to the scheduling information of these other SIBs indicated by SIB1. The aforementioned alarm notification is sent to the terminal device through one or more of these other SIBs. Because the terminal device needs to first obtain the scheduling information of other SIBs in SIB1 and then obtain other SIBs according to that scheduling information, this results in a long delay in obtaining other SIBs, making it impossible for the terminal device to obtain alarm content in a timely manner and failing to guarantee the timeliness requirements of alarms. However, it is crucial that the public receive timely alerts in disasters and emergencies so that they can take action. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application discloses a communication method, apparatus, system, storage medium, and program product that can shorten the latency for terminal devices to obtain other SIBs.

[0004] Firstly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method. This method can be applied to a terminal-side device, such as a terminal or a communication / processing module within the terminal, or circuits or chips in the terminal responsible for communication functions (e.g., modem chips, also known as baseband chips, or system-on-chip (SoC) chips or system-in-package (SIP) chips containing modem cores), or circuits or chips in the terminal responsible for processing functions (e.g., graphics processing unit (GPU)). Taking the application of this method to a terminal-side device as an example, in this method, the terminal-side device acquires a first system message block (SIB), which indicates scheduling information for at least one second SIB. The terminal-side device further determines whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0005] In this embodiment, the network device sends a first SIB, which indicates scheduling information for at least one second SIB. The terminal device determines whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB. Compared to the prior art, where SIB1 must be acquired after receiving the first indication information before the scheduling information for at least one second SIB can be acquired, in this solution, the terminal device does not need to perform the process of acquiring or re-acquiring SIB1 when receiving the first indication information. Based on the existing valid scheduling information for at least one second SIB, it acquires at least one second SIB, thus shortening the latency for the terminal device to acquire other SIBs.

[0006] In one possible implementation, when the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB is in a broadcast state, the terminal device obtains the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0007] In other words, when the first SIB indicates the scheduling information of at least one second SIB, and indicates that the at least one second SIB is being broadcast or is about to be broadcast, the terminal device acquires the at least one second SIB. Thus, when the terminal device determines that the network side is sending or will send at least one second SIB based on the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB, the terminal device acquires the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB, thereby acquiring the at least one second SIB in a timely and accurate manner, avoiding the terminal device performing invalid SIB acquisition actions.

[0008] In another possible implementation, when the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB is in a non-broadcast state, the terminal device receives first indication information, which indicates that the at least one second SIB is being or will be broadcast. The terminal device obtains the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0009] In other words, when the first SIB indicates scheduling information for at least one second SIB, and the broadcast status information for at least one second SIB is non-broadcast, the terminal device does not retrieve the at least one second SIB according to its scheduling information after acquiring the first SIB. If the terminal device determines, based on the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB, that the network side has not currently sent or plans to send at least one second SIB, the terminal device does not need to retrieve it. When the network device sends a first indication message, the terminal device, upon receiving the first indication message, retrieves the at least one second SIB based on its scheduling information. In this example, when the network side is sending or is about to send at least one second SIB, the network side sends a first indication message to notify the terminal device. The terminal device does not need to retrieve or re-retrieve the first SIB to obtain scheduling information for other SIBs, thus reducing the latency for the terminal device to retrieve other SIBs.

[0010] In another possible implementation, the terminal device receives first indication information indicating that the at least one second SIB is being or is about to be broadcast. The terminal device also obtains the at least one second SIB based on scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0011] This example demonstrates how the scheduling information of at least one second SIB is indicated through a newly added scheduling information list. Upon receiving the first indication, the terminal device activates the scheduling information of at least one second SIB included in the newly added scheduling information list. That is, the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB obtained by the UE through the newly added scheduling information list is only activated and used after receiving the first indication. Since the terminal device has already obtained the scheduling information, it does not need to obtain the first SIB again, thus reducing the latency for the terminal device to obtain other SIBs.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the first indication information includes the Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS) primary notification indication information and the ETWS secondary notification indication information.

[0013] In another possible implementation, the first indication information includes type information of the at least one second SIB. This type information could, for example, be an identifier for the SIB.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the first SIB includes a first scheduling information list, which indicates at least one of the type information, periodic information, and broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB. It is understood that the first scheduling information list can be a scheduling information list that uses existing system information (SI), or it can be a newly added scheduling information list; this solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0015] In another possible implementation, the scheduling information indicates the broadcast status information corresponding to the at least one second SIB.

[0016] In another possible implementation, the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB may include one or more of the following: type information and periodic information of the at least one second SIB. For example, a new scheduling information list is added to indicate the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB. The terminal device only retrieves the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB after receiving the first indication information. Specifically, after receiving the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB, the terminal device does not retrieve the at least one second SIB according to the scheduling information; instead, it stores the scheduling information and only activates the use of the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB after receiving the first indication information.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the terminal device stores the scheduling information of at least one second SIB. This allows subsequent terminal devices to retrieve the at least one second SIB.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the terminal device further receives second indication information, which indicates a change in the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB. The terminal device then acquires a third SIB, which indicates the changed scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0019] Optionally, the terminal device stores the modified scheduling information of at least one of the aforementioned second SIBs. This allows the terminal device to update the stored scheduling information of other SIBs in a timely manner, thereby enabling more efficient and accurate acquisition of other SIBs.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the second SIB is an SIB related to the Public Warning System (PWS).

[0021] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method. This method can be applied to network-side devices, such as network-side access network equipment, modules (e.g., circuits, chips, or chip systems) within the access network equipment, or logical nodes, logical modules, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access network equipment. Taking the application of this method to a network-side device as an example, in this method, the network-side device sends a first SIB, which indicates scheduling information for at least one second SIB. The scheduling information for the at least one second SIB is used by the terminal device to determine whether to acquire the at least one second SIB.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the first SIB includes a first scheduling information list that indicates at least one of type information, periodic information, and broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB.

[0023] In another possible implementation, the scheduling information indicates the broadcast status information corresponding to the at least one second SIB.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the network-side device also sends the at least one second SIB.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the network-side device also sends a first indication message, which indicates that the at least one second SIB is being or is about to be broadcast.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first indication information includes the Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS) primary notification indication information and the ETWS secondary notification indication information.

[0027] In another possible implementation, the first indication information includes the type information of the at least one second SIB.

[0028] In another possible implementation, the network-side device also sends a fourth SIB, which indicates that the broadcast status information of at least one second SIB has changed. For example, the fourth SIB is the first SIB after the broadcast status information has changed. The terminal device obtains the valid broadcast status information of at least one second SIB through the fourth SIB (the latest broadcast SIB1), thereby obtaining at least one second SIB in a timely and accurate manner.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the network-side device also sends a second indication message, which indicates that the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB has changed.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the second SIB is an SIB related to the Public Warning System (PWS).

[0031] Thirdly, this application provides a communication device that has the functions of the first aspect above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means that perform the operations involved in the first aspect above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0032] In one implementation, the communication device includes: a communication module for acquiring a first system message block (SIB), the first SIB indicating scheduling information of at least one second SIB;

[0033] The processing module is used to determine whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the first SIB includes a first scheduling information list that indicates at least one of type information, periodic information, and broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB.

[0035] In another possible implementation, the scheduling information indicates the broadcast status information corresponding to the at least one second SIB.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the processing module is configured to acquire the at least one second SIB when the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB is in a broadcast state.

[0037] In another possible implementation, the processing module is configured to receive first indication information when the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB is in a non-broadcast state, the first indication information being used to indicate that the at least one second SIB is being or will be broadcast; and to obtain the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the first indication information includes the Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS) primary notification indication information and the ETWS secondary notification indication information.

[0039] In another possible implementation, the first indication information includes the type information of the at least one second SIB.

[0040] In another possible implementation, the communication module is further configured to receive first indication information, which indicates that the at least one second SIB is being or is about to be broadcast;

[0041] The communication module is also used to obtain the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the communication module is further configured to receive second indication information, which indicates that the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB has changed;

[0043] The communication module is also used to acquire a third SIB, which indicates the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB after modification.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the second SIB is an SIB related to the Public Warning System (PWS).

[0045] Fourthly, this application also provides a communication device that has the functions of the second aspect above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means that perform the operations involved in the second aspect above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0046] In one implementation, the communication device includes: a communication module for transmitting a first SIB, the first SIB indicating scheduling information of at least one second SIB, the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB being used by a terminal device to determine whether to acquire the at least one second SIB.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the communication module is also used to transmit the at least one second SIB.

[0048] In another possible implementation, the communication module is also used to send a first indication message indicating that the at least one second SIB is being or is about to be broadcast.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the communication module is further configured to send a second indication message indicating that the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB has changed.

[0050] In one possible implementation, the first SIB includes a first scheduling information list that indicates at least one of type information, periodic information, and broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB.

[0051] In another possible implementation, the scheduling information indicates the broadcast status information corresponding to the at least one second SIB.

[0052] In one possible implementation, the first indication information includes the Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS) primary notification indication information and the ETWS secondary notification indication information.

[0053] In another possible implementation, the first indication information includes the type information of the at least one second SIB.

[0054] In one possible implementation, the second SIB is an SIB related to the Public Warning System (PWS).

[0055] Fifthly, this application provides a communication device including a processor, which is configured to execute a computer program or computer-executable instructions stored in a memory, and / or cause the device to perform a method provided in any of the possible embodiments of the first to second aspects via logic circuitry.

[0056] One possible implementation also includes memory. Alternatively, the memory and processor can be integrated together.

[0057] One possible implementation also includes an interface circuit.

[0058] In one possible implementation, the device is a chip or chip system.

[0059] In a sixth aspect, this application provides a communication system that includes the communication device as described in the third aspect and the communication device as described in the fourth aspect.

[0060] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that is executed by a processor to implement the method provided in any possible implementation of the first or second aspect.

[0061] Eighthly, this application provides a computer program product that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform a method as provided in any possible implementation of the first or second aspect.

[0062] It is understood that the apparatus described in the third aspect, the apparatus described in the fourth aspect, the apparatus described in the fifth aspect, the system described in the sixth aspect, the computer storage medium described in the seventh aspect, or the computer program product described in the eighth aspect are all used to perform the method provided in any of the first or second aspects. Therefore, the beneficial effects they can achieve can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0063] The accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application are described below.

[0064] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0067] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0070] The embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terminology used in the implementation section of this application is for explaining specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0071] The technology provided in this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as fourth-generation (4G) communication systems (e.g., Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems), fifth-generation (5G) communication systems, wireless local area network (WLAN) systems, satellite communication systems, integrated systems of multiple systems, or future communication systems. Among these, 5G communication systems can also be referred to as new radio (NR) systems.

[0072] In a communication system, a network element can send signals to or receive signals from another network element. These signals can include information, signaling, or data. The term "network element" can also be replaced by an entity, network entity, device, communication equipment, communication module, node, communication node, etc. This application uses a network element as an example for description. For instance, a communication system may include at least one terminal and at least one access network device. The access network device can send downlink signals to the terminal, and / or the terminal can send uplink signals to the access network device. Furthermore, it is understood that if the communication system includes multiple terminals, these terminals can also exchange signals; that is, both the signal-sending network element and the signal-receiving network element can be a terminal.

[0073] See Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a wireless communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1As shown, the wireless communication system includes a wireless access network 100. The wireless access network 100 can be a future wireless access network or an existing wireless access network (e.g., 5G or 4G). One or more communication devices (120a-120j, collectively referred to as 120) can be interconnected or connected to one or more network devices (110a, 110b, collectively referred to as 110) within the wireless access network 100. Figure 1 This is just an illustration; the wireless communication system may also include other devices, such as core network equipment, wireless relay equipment, and / or wireless backhaul equipment. Figure 1 It is not shown in the middle.

[0074] For example, in practical applications, this wireless communication system can simultaneously include multiple network devices (also called access network devices) and multiple communication devices. A network device can simultaneously serve one or more communication devices. A communication device can also simultaneously access one or more network devices. This application embodiment does not limit the number of communication devices and network devices included in the wireless communication system.

[0075] In this context, a network device can be an entity on the network side used to transmit or receive signals. A network device can also be an access device that allows communication devices to wirelessly connect to the wireless communication system; for example, a network device can be a base station. A base station can broadly encompass, or be replaced by, various names including: NodeB, Evolved NodeB (eNB), Next Generation NodeB (gNB), Access Network Equipment in Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN), Relay Station, Access Point, Transmitting and Receiving Point (TRP), Transmitting Point (TP), Main eNB (MeNB), Secondary eNB (SeNB), Multi-mode Radio Node, Home Base Station, Network Controller, Access Node, Radio Node, Access Point (AP), Transmitting Node, Transceiver Node, Baseband Unit (BBU), Remote Radio Unit (RRU), Active Antenna Unit (AAU), Remote Radio Head (RRH), Centralized Unit (CU), Distributed Unit (DU), Radio Unit (RU), Centralized Unit Control Plane (CU control). Network devices can include CU-CP (Comprehensive User Plane) nodes, CU-UP (Comprehensive User Plane) nodes, and positioning nodes. Base stations can be macro base stations, micro base stations, relay nodes, donor nodes, or similar entities, or combinations thereof. Network equipment can also refer to communication modules, modems, or chips installed within the aforementioned devices or apparatuses. Network equipment can also be mobile switching centers and devices that function as base stations in device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications, as well as devices that function as base stations in future communication systems. Network equipment can support networks using the same or different access technologies. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technologies or device forms used in the network equipment.

[0076] All or part of the functions of the network device in this application can also be implemented through software functions running on hardware, or through virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (such as a cloud platform). The network device in this application can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of a network device.

[0077] Network devices can be fixed or mobile. For example, base stations 110a and 110b are stationary and are responsible for wireless transmission and reception from one or more cells of communication device 120. Figure 1 The helicopter or drone 120i shown can be configured to act as a mobile base station, and one or more cells can move according to the location of the mobile base station 120i. In other examples, the helicopter or drone (120i) can be configured as a communication device to communicate with base station 110b.

[0078] In this application, the communication device used to implement the above-mentioned network access functions can be an access network device, a network device with some access network functions, or a device capable of supporting the implementation of access network functions, such as a chip system, hardware circuit, software module, or hardware circuit plus software module. This device can be installed in the access network device or used in conjunction with the access network device. In the method of this application, the example of an access network device being used as the communication device to implement the access network device functions is described.

[0079] Communication devices can be user-side entities used to receive or transmit signals, such as mobile phones. Communication devices can be used to connect people, things, and machines. Communication devices can communicate with one or more core networks via network devices. Communication devices include handheld devices with wireless connectivity, other processing devices connected to wireless modems, or vehicle-mounted devices. Communication devices can be portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-embedded, or vehicle-mounted mobile devices. Communication devices can be widely used in various scenarios, such as cellular communication, device-to-device, vehicle-to-everything (V2X), point-to-point (P2P), machine-to-machine (M2M), machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, smart cities, drones, robots, remote sensing, passive sensing, positioning, navigation and tracking, autonomous delivery and mobility, etc.Examples of communication equipment 120 include: 3GPP standard user equipment (UE), fixed equipment, mobile equipment, handheld devices, wearable devices, cellular phones, smartphones, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phones, laptops, personal computers, smart books, vehicles, satellites, Global Positioning System (GPS) devices, drones, helicopters, aircraft, ships, remote control devices, smart home devices, industrial equipment, personal communication service (PCS) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless network cameras, tablets, handheld computers, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices such as smartwatches, smart point-of-sale (POS) machines, customer-premises equipment (CPE), light user equipment (light UE), reduced capability UE (REDCAP UE), wireless terminals in industrial control, terminals in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) systems, and autonomous driving (self-driving) systems. Wireless terminals in various scenarios include those related to driving, smart grids, transportation safety, smart cities (such as smart gas pumps, high-speed rail terminals), and smart homes (such as smart speakers, smart coffee machines, and smart printers). Communication equipment 120 can be wireless devices or devices used in these scenarios, such as communication modules, modems, or chips. Communication equipment can also be vehicle-mounted devices, such as complete vehicle units, on-board modules, on-board chips, on-board units (OBUs), or telematics boxes (T-BOXs). Communication equipment can also be referred to as a terminal, terminal device, UE, mobile station (MS), or mobile terminal (MT). Communication equipment can also be used in future wireless communication systems. Communication equipment can be used in dedicated network equipment or general-purpose equipment. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or form of the communication equipment.

[0080] For example, a communication device can be used to act as a base station. For instance, a UE can act as a scheduling entity, providing sidelink signaling between UEs in V2X, D2D, or point-to-point (P2P) scenarios. Figure 1 As shown, cellular phone 120a and car 120b communicate with each other using a side link signal. Cellular phone 120a communicates with smart home device 120e without needing to relay communication signals through base station 110b.

[0081] In this application, the communication device used to implement the functions of the communication equipment can be a terminal, a terminal having some of the functions of the aforementioned communication equipment, or a device capable of supporting the implementation of the functions of the aforementioned communication equipment, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the terminal or used in conjunction with the terminal. In this application, the chip system can be composed of chips or include chips and other discrete components. The technical solutions provided in this application are described using a terminal or UE as an example of the communication device.

[0082] For example, a wireless communication system typically consists of cells, with a base station managing the cell and providing communication services to multiple mobile stations (MS) within it. The base station includes a base unit (BBU) and a remote unit (RRU). The BBU and RRU can be located in different places; for example, the RRU can be deployed remotely to a high-traffic area, while the BBU is located in a central equipment room. Alternatively, the BBU and RRU can be located in the same equipment room. The BBU and RRU can also be different components within the same rack. For example, a cell can correspond to a carrier or a member carrier.

[0083] It is understood that this application can be applied between network devices and communication devices, between network devices, or between communication devices, that is, between primary devices and secondary devices. The primary device can be a network device or a communication device. When the primary device is a network device, the secondary device can be another network device or a communication device. When the primary device is a communication device, the secondary device can be another communication device.

[0084] Communication between access network devices and terminals follows a specific protocol layer structure. This protocol layer structure can include a control plane protocol layer structure and a user plane protocol layer structure. For example, the control plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as the radio resource control (RRC) layer, PDCP layer, radio link control (RLC) layer, medium access control (MAC) layer, and physical layer. Similarly, the user plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as the PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer. In one possible implementation, a service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) layer can be included above the PDCP layer.

[0085] For example, the protocol layer structure between the access network device and the terminal may also include an artificial intelligence (AI) layer for transmitting data related to AI functions.

[0086] Taking data transmission between access network devices and terminals as an example, data transmission needs to pass through user plane protocol layers, such as the SDAP layer, PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer. The SDAP layer, PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer can also be collectively referred to as the access layer. Based on the direction of data transmission, it is divided into sending and receiving; each of these layers is further divided into a sending part and a receiving part. Taking downlink data transmission as an example, after the PDCP layer obtains data from the upper layer, it transmits the data to the RLC layer and MAC layer. The MAC layer then generates a transport block, and finally, it is wirelessly transmitted through the physical layer. Data is encapsulated in corresponding ways at each layer. For example, data received by a layer from the upper layer is considered as the SDU of that layer. After encapsulation by that layer, it becomes a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) and is then passed to the next layer.

[0087] For example, the terminal may also have an application layer and a non-access layer. The application layer can be used to provide services to applications installed on the terminal. For instance, downlink data received by the terminal can be sequentially transmitted from the physical layer to the application layer, and then provided to the application by the application layer; or, the application layer can acquire data generated by the application and sequentially transmit the data to the physical layer for transmission to other communication devices. The non-access layer can be used to forward user data, such as forwarding uplink data received from the application layer to the SDAP layer or forwarding downlink data received from the SDAP layer to the application layer.

[0088] Access network equipment can include CUs and DUs. Multiple DUs can be centrally controlled by a single CU. As an example, the interface between the CU and DU can be called an F1 interface. The control plane (CP) interface can be F1-C, and the user plane (UP) interface can be F1-U. CUs and DUs can be distinguished according to the protocol layer of the wireless network: for example, the functions of the PDCP layer and above are located in the CU, and the functions of protocol layers below the PDCP layer (such as RLC and MAC layers) are located in the DU; or, for another example, the functions of the PDCP layer and above are located in the CU, and the functions of protocol layers below the PDCP layer are located in the DU.

[0089] It is understandable that the above division of CU and DU processing functions according to protocol layers is merely an example. Other division methods are also possible. For instance, CUs or DUs can be divided into those with more protocol layer functions, or they can be divided into those with partial protocol layer processing functions. In one design, some functions of the RLC layer and the protocol layer functions above the RLC layer are located in the CU, while the remaining functions of the RLC layer and the protocol layer functions below the RLC layer are located in the DU. In another design, the functions of CUs or DUs can be divided according to service type or other system requirements, such as latency. Functions that need to meet latency requirements are located in the DU, while functions that do not need to meet this latency requirement are located in the CU. In yet another design, the CU can also have one or more core network functions. For example, the CU can be located on the network side for convenient centralized management. In yet another design, the RU of the DU is remotely located. The RU has radio frequency functionality.

[0090] For example, DU and RU can be partitioned at the physical layer (PHY). For instance, DU can implement higher-level functions in the PHY layer, and RU can implement lower-level functions. Specifically, for transmission, the functions of the PHY layer may include adding cyclic redundancy check (CRC) codes, channel coding, rate matching, scrambling, modulation, layer mapping, precoding, resource mapping, physical antenna mapping, and / or radio frequency (RF) transmission functions. For reception, the functions of the PHY layer may include CRC, channel decoding, rate matching de-scrambling, demodulation, layer mapping de-mapping, channel detection, resource demapping, physical antenna demapping, and / or RF reception functions. The higher-level functions in the PHY layer may include a subset of the PHY layer's functions, for example, functions closer to the MAC layer, while the lower-level functions in the PHY layer may include another subset of the PHY layer's functions, for example, functions closer to the RF functions. For example, higher-level functions in the PHY layer may include adding CRC codes, channel coding, rate matching, scrambling, modulation, and layer mapping, while lower-level functions in the PHY layer may include precoding, resource mapping, physical antenna mapping, and radio frequency transmission functions; or, higher-level functions in the PHY layer may include adding CRC codes, channel coding, rate matching, scrambling, modulation, layer mapping, and precoding, while lower-level functions in the PHY layer may include resource mapping, physical antenna mapping, and radio frequency transmission functions.

[0091] For example, the functionality of a CU can be implemented by a single entity or by different entities. For instance, the functionality of the CU can be further divided, separating the control plane and user plane and implementing them through different entities: a control plane CU entity (i.e., the CU-CP entity) and a user plane CU entity (i.e., the CU-UP entity). These CU-CP and CU-UP entities can be coupled with a DU to jointly complete the functions of the access network device.

[0092] In the above architecture, signaling generated by the CU can be sent to the terminal via the DU, or signaling generated by the terminal can be sent to the CU via the DU. For example, signaling from the RRC or PDCP layer will eventually be processed into physical layer signaling and sent to the terminal, or it can be transformed from received physical layer signaling. Under this architecture, the RRC or PDCP layer signaling can be considered to be sent via the DU, or via the DU and RU.

[0093] For example, any one of DU, CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, and RU can be a software module, a hardware structure, or a combination of software and hardware structures, without limitation. The different entities can exist in different forms, without limitation. For example, DU, CU, CU-CP, and CU-UP are software modules, and RU is a hardware structure. These modules and the methods they execute are also within the scope of protection of this application.

[0094] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an O-RAN system, CU may also be called O-CU (open CU), DU may also be called O-DU, CU-CP may also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP may also be called O-CU-UP, and RU may also be called O-RU.

[0095] It should be understood that Figure 1 The number and type of devices in the communication system shown are for illustrative purposes only. This application is not limited to this. In actual applications, the communication system may include more terminals, more access network devices, and other network elements, such as core network devices and / or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions.

[0096] It is understood that all or part of the functions implemented by one or more of the terminals, access network devices, core network devices, or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions can be virtualized, that is, implemented through one or more of dedicated or general-purpose processors and corresponding software modules. Among these, the terminals and access network devices involve air interface transmission, and the transmit and receive functions of this interface can be implemented in hardware. Core network devices, such as operation administration and maintenance (OAM) network elements, can also be virtualized. For example, one or more of the functions of the virtualized terminals, access network devices, core network devices, or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions can be implemented by cloud devices, such as cloud devices in over-the-top (OTT) systems.

[0097] The method provided in this application can be used for communication between access network devices and terminals, or for communication between other communication devices, such as communication between macro base stations and micro base stations in a wireless backhaul link, or communication between two terminals in a sidelink (SL), etc., without limitation.

[0098] In this application, the phrase "sending information to... (e.g., a terminal)" or the related illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the destination of the information being the terminal. This can include sending information directly or indirectly to the terminal. Similarly, the phrase "receiving information from... (e.g., a terminal)" or "receiving information from... (e.g., a terminal)" or the related illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the source of the information being the terminal. This can include receiving information directly or indirectly from the terminal. Information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be interpreted similarly, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0099] The following explains several terms used in the embodiments of this application:

[0100] 1. Support for alarm systems in Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) and NR

[0101] E-UTRAN and NR provide support for alarm systems (such as the public warning system described below) through system information broadcasting capabilities. In E-UTRAN, the Mobility Management Entity (MME) sends alarm message content to E-UTRAN, which includes instances of warning notifications. E-UTRAN schedules and broadcasts the alarm message content. E-UTRAN provides the UE with an indication via SMS that a warning notification is being or will be broadcast. The "alarm message content" received by E-UTRAN contains instances of warning notifications. In NR, the Authentication Management Function (AMF) sends alarm message content to NR, which schedules and broadcasts the alarm message content. NR provides the UE with an indication via SMS that a warning message is being or will be broadcast.

[0102] 2. Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS)

[0103] ETWS is a public warning system (PWS). ETWS is a system for real-time monitoring, early warning, and information dissemination (such as alarm notifications) of earthquakes and tsunamis. ETWS alarm notifications can be primary notifications (short notifications sent within 4 seconds) or secondary notifications (sub-notifications providing detailed information). In E-UTRAN, ETWS primary notifications are broadcast in system information block type 10 (SIB10), while secondary notifications are broadcast in system information block type 11 (SIB11). In NR, ETWS primary notifications are broadcast in system information block type 5 (SIB5), while secondary notifications are broadcast in system information block type 6 (SIB6).

[0104] In this application, SIB refers to system information block type.

[0105] 3. Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS)

[0106] CMAS is also a public early warning system. CMAS is used to send multiple concurrent alarm notifications. CMAS alarm information (also called alarm notifications, etc.) is broadcast to the UE through system information blocks. For example, the network sends multiple concurrent CMAS alarm notifications to the UE and is responsible for handling any updates to the CMAS alarm notifications. Specifically, in E-UTRAN, CMAS notifications are broadcast in SIB12, and in NR, CMAS notifications are broadcast in SIB7.

[0107] 4. Radio Resource Control (RRC) Status

[0108] RRC states include an idle state, also known as RRC idle. When a terminal device is in the idle state, it does not retain the RRC context. The RRC context is the parameter used to establish communication between the terminal device and network devices. The RRC context can include security context, terminal device capability information, etc. Simultaneously, the terminal device has not established a connection with the core network device; that is, the core network device is in CN-IDLE (core network idle state). The terminal device has no data to transmit and will enter a sleep state, shutting down its transceiver unit to reduce power consumption. Terminal devices in the idle state only periodically wake up to receive paging messages.

[0109] The RRC state also includes the RRC inactive state. In this state, the UE suspends data processing, but the network device still maintains the UE's context information. Simply put, the air interface state of a UE in the RRC inactive state is similar to that in the RRC idle state, but from the core network side, a UE in the RRC inactive state is still in the connection management (CM) connected state.

[0110] The RRC state also includes a connected state, also known as RRC connected. When the terminal device is in the connected state, it has established an RRC context. The parameters required for communication between the terminal device and the network device have been obtained by both parties. The network device assigns a cell radio network temporary identifier (C-RNTI) to the accessing terminal device. Simultaneously, the terminal device also establishes a connection with the core network device, meaning the core network device is in CN_CONNECTED (core network connected state). At this time, if the terminal device is transmitting data, it is in continuous reception mode until the data transmission is complete and it enters a waiting state, at which point it switches to connected discontinuous reception (DRX) to save power. If there is still data to be transmitted, the terminal device returns to the continuous reception mode.

[0111] The architecture of the embodiments of this application has been described above. The methods of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below.

[0112] Reference Figure 2 The diagram shown is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Optionally, this method can be applied to the aforementioned communication system, for example... Figure 1 The communication system shown. (As shown) Figure 2 The communication method shown may include steps 201-202. Steps 201-202 are as follows:

[0113] 201. The network device sends a first SIB, which indicates scheduling information for at least one second SIB. Accordingly, the terminal device obtains the first SIB.

[0114] For example, the network device periodically transmits the aforementioned first SIB. For instance, the first SIB is SIB1. SIB1 includes scheduling information for other SIBs, etc. These other SIBs are SIBs other than the first SIB, and may include at least one of the aforementioned second SIBs. In one possible implementation, the second SIB is a Public Warning System (PWS) related SIB (e.g., it can be called a PWS SIB). For example, in NR, the PWS SIB includes one or more of SIB6, SIB7, and SIB8. In E-UTRAN, the PWS SIB includes one or more of SIB10, SIB11, and SIB12. Of course, the second SIB can also be other SIBs, such as SIB2, SIB3, SIB4, etc., and this solution does not limit this.

[0115] In one possible implementation, the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB includes one or more of the following: type information, periodic information, and broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB. For example, the type information of the second SIB may be any SIB other than SIB1, such as SIB2, SIB3, SIB4, SIB5, SIB6, SIB7, SIB8, SIB9, SIB10, SIB11, or SIB12, or it may be a PWS SIB, etc. The periodic information of the second SIB may be, for example, 8 / 16 / 32 / 64 / 128 / 256 / 512 radio frames, etc. The broadcast status information of the second SIB may be, for example, a broadcast state or a non-broadcast state, etc. The aforementioned SIB type information may also be referred to as SIB mapping information, etc.

[0116] For example, the first SIB includes a first scheduling information list, which indicates one or more of the type information, period information, and broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB. An embodiment of this application provides a first scheduling information list that may include scheduling information for multiple SIBs, wherein the scheduling information for each SIB includes one or more of the following: SIB type information, SIB period information, and SIB broadcast status information.

[0117] Understandably, the first scheduling information list can be a scheduling information list that uses existing system information (SI) or a newly added scheduling information list; this scheme does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0118] In one possible implementation, the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB indicates the broadcast status information corresponding to the at least one second SIB. For example, a new scheduling information list is added to indicate the first scheduling information list. Older versions of terminal devices (such as those not supporting this solution) cannot recognize the new scheduling information list; they can use the existing SI's scheduling information list to perform other SIB acquisitions. Newer versions (terminal devices supporting this solution) use the new scheduling information list to perform other SIB acquisitions. The two scheduling information lists can support terminal devices with different capabilities, achieving backward compatibility. For example, the existing SI's scheduling information list (including SIB type information and SIB periodicity information) is reused, and a new information element (IE) is added to indicate whether at least one second SIB is in a broadcast state. Newer versions of terminal devices (terminal devices supporting this solution) can determine whether to activate the scheduling information of at least one second SIB in the scheduling information list based on the added IE. Older terminal devices (those not supporting this solution) cannot recognize newly added Internet Explorer (IE) and cannot determine whether the network is currently broadcasting or about to broadcast at least one second SIB. Therefore, they rely on the existence of SIB scheduling information to determine whether an SIB is being broadcast or about to be broadcast, which can lead to older terminal devices performing invalid SIB acquisition actions. Therefore, this solution enables terminal devices to acquire at least one second SIB in a timely, effective, and accurate manner.

[0119] In another possible implementation, the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB may include one or more of the following: type information and periodic information of the at least one second SIB. For example, a new scheduling information list is added to indicate the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB. The terminal device only acquires the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB after receiving the first indication information. Specifically, after receiving the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB, the terminal device does not acquire the at least one second SIB according to the scheduling information. Instead, it stores the scheduling information and only activates the use of the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB after receiving the first indication information. For example, reusing the existing SI scheduling information list makes it impossible for older versions of terminal devices or terminal devices entering the cell after the first indication information is sent to distinguish whether the network side is broadcasting or about to broadcast at least one second SIB, resulting in the inability to acquire at least one second SIB in a timely, effective, and accurate manner. Therefore, this solution enables the terminal device to acquire at least one second SIB in a timely, effective, and accurate manner.

[0120] In one possible implementation, the terminal device stores the scheduling information of at least one second SIB. This allows subsequent terminal devices to retrieve the at least one second SIB.

[0121] 202. The terminal device determines whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0122] The following describes several implementation methods for whether the terminal device obtains at least one of the above-mentioned second SIBs.

[0123] In one possible implementation, when the broadcast status information of at least one second SIB is in a broadcast state, the terminal device obtains the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB. For example, the at least one second SIB includes an alarm notification.

[0124] In other words, when the first SIB indicates the scheduling information of at least one second SIB, and indicates that the at least one second SIB is being broadcast or is about to be broadcast, the terminal device acquires the at least one second SIB. Thus, when the terminal device determines that the network side is sending or will send at least one second SIB based on the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB, the terminal device acquires the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB, thereby acquiring the at least one second SIB in a timely and accurate manner, avoiding the terminal device performing invalid SIB acquisition actions.

[0125] In another possible implementation, when the broadcast status information of at least one second SIB is in a non-broadcast state, the terminal device receives first indication information, which indicates that the at least one second SIB is being or will be broadcast. Then, the terminal device retrieves the at least one second SIB based on its scheduling information.

[0126] In other words, when the first SIB indicates scheduling information for at least one second SIB, and the broadcast status information for at least one second SIB is in a non-broadcast state, after acquiring the first SIB, the terminal device does not retrieve the at least one second SIB according to its scheduling information. If the terminal device determines, based on the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB, that the network side has not currently sent or plans to send at least one second SIB, the terminal device does not need to retrieve the at least one second SIB. When the network device sends a first indication message, the terminal device, after receiving the first indication message, retrieves the at least one second SIB based on its scheduling information. In this example, when the network side is sending or is about to send at least one second SIB, the network side sends a first indication message to notify the terminal device. The terminal device does not need to retrieve or re-retrieve the first SIB to obtain scheduling information for other SIBs, thus shortening the latency for the terminal device to retrieve other SIBs. It is understood that the network device may send the first indication message multiple times at specific intervals (e.g., periodically), or the network device may send the first indication message all at once; this solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0127] In one possible implementation, the aforementioned first indication information includes ETWS primary notification indication information and ETWS secondary notification indication information. For example, the ETWS primary notification indication information is a short notification sent within 4 seconds. The ETWS secondary notification indication information can provide detailed information. Optionally, the first indication information may also include CMAS indication information, etc. For example, the network device sends the ETWS indication information or CMAS indication information in segments multiple times. Then, the terminal device obtains the ETWS indication information or CMAS indication information. For instance, E-UTRAN segments the alarm message content according to its size before transmission, sending the alarm message content segments via SIB11 or SIB12. If the terminal device does not receive all segments within 3 hours, the terminal device continuously obtains SIB11 or SIB12 to receive all segments of the alarm message content. Here, SIB11 corresponds to the ETWS alarm message content segment, and SIB12 corresponds to the CMAS alarm message content segment.

[0128] In another possible implementation, the first indication information includes type information of at least one second SIB. The type information of the SIB is used to indicate which SIB it is. For example, the type information of the SIB is an SIB identifier, which can be, for example, SIB6, SIB7, SIB8, SIB10, SIB11 or SIB12, or other SIBs, and this solution does not limit it.

[0129] Based on the aforementioned first indication information, the terminal device becomes aware of the existence of the alarm message, which facilitates the terminal device to promptly acquire at least one second SIB.

[0130] In another possible implementation, the network device sends a first indication message indicating that the at least one second SIB is being or will be broadcast. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first indication message. Then, the terminal device retrieves the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0131] This example demonstrates how the scheduling information of at least one second SIB is indicated through a newly added scheduling information list. Upon receiving the first indication, the terminal device activates the scheduling information of at least one second SIB included in the newly added scheduling information list. That is, the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB obtained by the UE through the newly added scheduling information list is only activated and used after receiving the first indication. Since the terminal device has already obtained the scheduling information, it does not need to obtain the first SIB again, thus reducing the latency for the terminal device to obtain other SIBs.

[0132] In one possible implementation, the network device further sends a second indication message indicating a change in the scheduling information of at least one second SIB. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the second indication message. The terminal device also acquires a third SIB indicating the changed scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0133] In other words, when the scheduling information of at least one second SIB changes, the terminal device needs to reacquire the scheduling information. The terminal device obtains the changed scheduling information, and then uses this changed information to retrieve at least one second SIB. Optionally, the aforementioned third SIB is the changed first SIB (e.g., SIB1).

[0134] Optionally, the second instruction information described above may only indicate a PWS change. Alternatively, the second instruction information may indicate an ETWS change and / or a CMAS change. Or, the second instruction information may indicate a change to a specific SIB type of information (such as SIB10 / 11 / 12), etc.

[0135] Optionally, the terminal device stores the modified scheduling information of at least one of the aforementioned second SIBs. This allows the terminal device to update the stored scheduling information of other SIBs in a timely manner, thereby enabling more efficient and accurate acquisition of other SIBs.

[0136] Optionally, the first and second indication information can be sent to the terminal device via short messages. These short messages can use a paging radio network temporary identifier (P-RNTI) and be transmitted on the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) using the short message field of the downlink control element. The short message can be either a paging message or a direct indication information message; this scheme does not limit the specific type of message.

[0137] In this embodiment, the network device sends a first SIB, which indicates scheduling information for at least one second SIB. The terminal device determines whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB. Compared to the prior art, where SIB1 must be acquired after receiving the first indication information before the scheduling information for at least one second SIB can be acquired, in this solution, the terminal device does not need to perform the process of acquiring or re-acquiring SIB1 when receiving the first indication information. Based on the existing valid scheduling information for at least one second SIB, it acquires at least one second SIB, thus shortening the latency for the terminal device to acquire other SIBs.

[0138] Reference Figure 3 The diagram shown is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Optionally, this method can be applied to the aforementioned communication system, for example... Figure 1 The communication system shown. (As shown) Figure 3 The communication method shown may include steps 301-303. Steps 301-303 are as follows:

[0139] 301. The network device sends a first SIB, which indicates scheduling information for at least one second SIB. Accordingly, the terminal device obtains the first SIB.

[0140] For example, the network device periodically transmits SIB1. SIB1 includes scheduling information for at least one second SIB, which includes type information, periodicity information, and broadcast status information for the at least one second SIB. Optionally, the broadcast status information for the at least one second SIB is a non-broadcast status. The terminal device stores the scheduling information for the at least one second SIB without retrieving it.

[0141] 302. The network device sends a first indication message, which indicates that it is broadcasting or is about to broadcast at least one of the second SIBs. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first indication message.

[0142] Specifically, the first indication information is used to notify the terminal device of broadcast status changes of at least one second SIB, so that the terminal device can update the broadcast status information of at least one second SIB in the first SIB in a timely manner. For a terminal device that has been continuously camped on the cell, after obtaining the SIB1 of the cell, the network side notifies the terminal device to update the broadcast status information of at least one second SIB in the first SIB in a timely manner through the first indication information.

[0143] Optionally, the network device may send the first indication information multiple times at specific intervals (such as periodically), or the network device may send the first indication information once. This solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0144] Optionally, the network device also sends a fourth SIB, which indicates that the broadcast status information of at least one second SIB has changed. For example, the fourth SIB is the aforementioned SIB1 (i.e., the first SIB), and the broadcast status information in the scheduling information included in SIB1 is updated to broadcast status. For example, for a terminal device that has just moved to a cell (e.g., a terminal device that camped on the cell after the first indication information was sent), the terminal device obtains the valid broadcast status information of at least one second SIB through the fourth SIB (the latest broadcast SIB1), thereby obtaining at least one second SIB in a timely and accurate manner.

[0145] For example, when disasters and other emergencies occur, network devices send a first indication message to notify terminal devices to receive alarm content. For instance, the network device sends this first indication message to the terminal device via a paging message. Since the terminal device has already obtained the scheduling information of at least one second SIB, it can obtain at least one second SIB based on the already obtained scheduling information without needing to obtain the scheduling information again. This reduces the latency of obtaining other SIBs. Furthermore, the terminal device obtains the at least one second SIB based on its broadcast status information, thus obtaining at least one second SIB promptly and accurately, avoiding invalid SIB acquisition actions.

[0146] Specifically, the network device supports sending the aforementioned first indication information to UEs in RRC idle, RRC inactive, and RRC connected states. For example, in an E-UTRAN system, when the first indication information is used to notify the UE that the PWS SIB is being broadcast or about to be broadcast, for UEs in RRC idle and RRC connected states, the network device can send the aforementioned first indication information to the UE via a short message, such as a paging message or a direct indication information message. The UE can be a narrowband internet of things (NB-IoT) UE, a bandwidth-reduced low complexity (BL) UE, a UE in coverage enhancement mode (UE in CE), or other types of UEs besides the above three types; this scheme does not impose any restrictions. In an NR system, when the first indication information is used to notify the UE that the PWS SIB is being broadcast or about to be broadcast, for UEs in RRC idle, RRC inactive, and RRC connected states, the network device can send the aforementioned first indication information via a short message, such as a paging message.

[0147] 303. The terminal device obtains the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0148] Optionally, if the broadcast status information of at least one second SIB is in a non-broadcast state, the terminal device does not acquire the at least one second SIB. Then, after receiving the first indication information, the terminal device acquires the at least one second SIB based on the acquired scheduling information.

[0149] In this example, the terminal device first obtains scheduling information for at least one second SIB, and then, after receiving the first indication information, obtains the at least one second SIB based on the already obtained scheduling information. This eliminates the need for the terminal device to obtain scheduling information again, thus reducing the latency for obtaining other SIBs.

[0150] It should be noted that, in the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between the various embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0151] It should be noted that the terminal device in this application embodiment can be an NB-IoT UE, an LTE UE, or an NRUE, etc., and this solution does not limit it.

[0152] The methods of the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above, and the apparatus of the embodiments of this application is provided below. It is understood that the division of multiple units or modules in the various apparatus embodiments of this application is only a logical division based on function and is not intended to limit the specific structure of the apparatus. In specific implementations, some functional modules may be subdivided into more smaller functional modules, and some functional modules may be combined into a single functional module. However, regardless of whether these functional modules are subdivided or combined, the general flow executed by the apparatus is the same. For example, some apparatuses include a receiving unit and a transmitting unit. In some designs, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit can also be integrated into a communication unit, which can implement the functions implemented by the receiving unit and the transmitting unit. Typically, each unit corresponds to its own program code (or program instructions). When the program code corresponding to each unit runs on the processor, it causes the unit to be controlled by the processing unit to execute the corresponding flow and thus achieve the corresponding function.

[0153] This application also provides an apparatus for implementing any of the above methods. For example, a communication apparatus is provided that includes a module (or means) for implementing the steps performed by the terminal device or network device in any of the above methods.

[0154] For example, refer to Figure 4 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. This communication device is used to implement the aforementioned communication method, for example... Figure 2 The communication method shown or Figure 3 The communication method shown.

[0155] like Figure 4 As shown, the device may include a communication module 401 and a processing module 402, as detailed below:

[0156] The communication module 401 is used to acquire a first system message block (SIB), which indicates scheduling information of at least one second SIB;

[0157] Processing module 402 is used to determine whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0158] In one possible implementation, the first SIB includes a first scheduling information list that indicates at least one of type information, periodic information, and broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB.

[0159] In another possible implementation, the scheduling information indicates the broadcast status information corresponding to the at least one second SIB.

[0160] In one possible implementation, the processing module 402 is configured to acquire the at least one second SIB when the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB is in a broadcast state.

[0161] In another possible implementation, the processing module 402 is configured to receive first indication information when the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB is in a non-broadcast state, the first indication information being used to indicate that the at least one second SIB is being or will be broadcast; and to obtain the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0162] In one possible implementation, the first indication information includes the Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS) primary notification indication information and the ETWS secondary notification indication information.

[0163] In another possible implementation, the first indication information includes the type information of the at least one second SIB.

[0164] In another possible implementation, the communication module 401 is further configured to receive first indication information, which indicates that the at least one second SIB is being or is about to be broadcast;

[0165] The communication module 401 is also used to obtain the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

[0166] In one possible implementation, the communication module 401 is further configured to receive second indication information, which indicates that the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB has changed;

[0167] The communication module 401 is also used to acquire a third SIB, which indicates the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB after modification.

[0168] In one possible implementation, the second SIB is an SIB related to the Public Warning System (PWS).

[0169] For a description of each of the above modules, please refer to the description in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0170] For example, refer to Figure 5 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. This communication device is used to implement the aforementioned communication method, for example... Figure 2 The communication method shown or Figure 3 The communication method shown.

[0171] like Figure 5 As shown, the device may include a communication module 501, as detailed below:

[0172] The communication module 501 is used to send a first SIB, which indicates scheduling information of at least one second SIB, and the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB is used by the terminal device to determine whether to acquire the at least one second SIB.

[0173] In one possible implementation, the communication module 501 is also used to transmit the at least one second SIB.

[0174] In another possible implementation, the communication module 501 is also used to send a first indication message, which indicates that the at least one second SIB is being or is about to be broadcast.

[0175] In one possible implementation, the communication module 501 is further configured to send a second indication message, which indicates that the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB has changed.

[0176] For a description of each of the above modules, please refer to the description in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0177] It should be understood that the division of modules in the above devices is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, modules in a communication device can be implemented by a processor calling software; for example, a communication device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of each module in the device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the modules in the device can be implemented as hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all units can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the functionality of some or all of the above units is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD), such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), which can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the above units. All modules of the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining parts implemented through hardware circuits.

[0178] Reference Figure 6 The diagram shown is a hardware structure schematic of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 The communication device 600 shown includes one or more processors 601 (one processor is illustrated in the figure).

[0179] Processor 601 is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, processor 601 can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a central processing unit (CPU), microprocessor, graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a type of microprocessor), or digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, processor 601 can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. These logical relationships of hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, processor 601 can be a hardware circuit implemented as an ASIC or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as a type of ASIC, such as a neural network processing unit (NPU), tensor processing unit (TPU), or deep learning processing unit (DPU). The processor 601 is used to execute related programs to implement the functions required by the units in the communication device of the present application embodiment, or to execute the communication method of the method embodiment of the present application.

[0180] Optionally, the communication device 600 may also include a memory (e.g., memory 603, memory 604, memory 605) (shown as dashed lines in the figure). This memory is used to store instructions executed by the processor 601, or to store input data required for the processor 601 to execute instructions, or to store data generated after the processor 601 executes instructions.

[0181] Optionally, the memory may be located within the one or more processors (e.g., memory 603), or outside the one or more processors (e.g., memory 604, memory 605), or may include a storage portion located within the one or more processors and a storage portion located outside the one or more processors.

[0182] In this embodiment, the memory (e.g., memory 603, memory 604, memory 605) may include, but is not limited to, cache, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), etc. Memory is any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code having an instruction or data structure form and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory in this embodiment may also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions for storing computer programs or instructions, and / or data.

[0183] Optionally, the communication device 600 may further include a communication interface 602 (shown as a dashed line in the figure). The processor 601 and the communication interface 602 are coupled together. The communication interface 602 may be a transceiver or interface circuit, a bus, a module, or other type of communication interface.

[0184] The memory can store programs. When the program stored in the memory is executed by the processor 601, the processor 601 and the communication interface 602 are used to execute the various steps of the communication method of the embodiments of this application.

[0185] As can be seen, each module in the above device can be one or more processors (or processing circuits) configured to implement the above methods, such as: CPU, GPU, NPU, TPU, DPU, microprocessor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or a combination of at least two of these processor forms or a portion of the processing circuits in these processors.

[0186] Furthermore, the modules in the above devices can be integrated in whole or in part, or they can be implemented independently. In one implementation, these modules are integrated together as a system-on-a-chip (SOC). The SOC may include at least one processor for implementing any of the above methods or for implementing the functions of the modules of the device. The at least one processor may be of different types, such as CPU and FPGA, CPU and artificial intelligence processor, CPU and GPU, etc.

[0187] It should be noted that, although Figure 6 The illustrated device 600 only shows the memory, processor, and communication interface. However, those skilled in the art should understand that in specific implementations, device 600 may also include other devices necessary for normal operation. Furthermore, depending on specific needs, those skilled in the art should understand that device 600 may also include hardware devices for implementing other additional functions. Moreover, those skilled in the art should understand that device 600 may only include the devices necessary for implementing the embodiments of this application, and may not necessarily include... Figure 6 All the devices shown.

[0188] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a computer or processor, cause the computer or processor to perform one or more steps of any of the above methods.

[0189] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions. When the computer program product is run on a computer or processor, it causes the computer or processor to perform one or more steps of any of the methods described above.

[0190] It is understood that in this application, "instruction" can include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, and implicit instruction. When describing a certain instruction information to indicate A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, directly indicates A, or indirectly indicates A. In this application, the information indicated by the instruction information is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementation, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index, or indirectly indicating the information to be instructed by indicating other information, wherein there is an association between the other information and the information to be instructed. It is also possible to indicate only a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts of the information to be instructed are known or agreed upon in advance. For example, the instruction of specific information can also be achieved by using the arrangement order of various information in advance (e.g., as specified by a protocol), thereby reducing the instruction overhead to a certain extent. The information to be instructed can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information to be sent separately, and the sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information can be the same or different. This application does not limit the specific sending method. The sending period and / or timing of these sub-information messages can be predefined, for example, according to a protocol, or configured by the transmitting device by sending configuration information to the receiving device.

[0191] It should be understood that in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can represent A or B; where A and B can be singular or plural. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple. Additionally, to facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish identical or similar items with substantially the same function and effect. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" do not necessarily imply difference. In this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being better or more advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner to facilitate understanding.

[0192] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the division of units is merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For instance, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. The coupling, direct coupling, or communication connection shown or discussed between each other may be indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, apparatuses, or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0193] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0194] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When these computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the flow or function according to the embodiments of this application is generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in or transmitted through a computer-readable storage medium. The computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), or magnetic media, such as floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, magnetic disks, or optical media, such as digital versatile discs (DVDs), or semiconductor media, such as solid state disks (SSDs).

[0195] The above description is merely a specific implementation of the embodiments of this application, but the protection scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the embodiments of this application should be covered within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of the embodiments of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Obtain a first system message block (SIB), wherein the first SIB indicates scheduling information of at least one second SIB; Whether to acquire the at least one second SIB is determined based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB includes: When the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB is in the broadcast state, the at least one second SIB is obtained based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB includes: When the broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB is in a non-broadcast state, a first indication information is received, which is used to indicate that the at least one second SIB is being or will be broadcast. The at least one second SIB is obtained based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining whether to acquire the at least one second SIB based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB includes: Receive a first indication message, the first indication message being used to indicate that the at least one second SIB is being or is about to be broadcast; The at least one second SIB is obtained based on the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS) main notification indication information and the ETWS auxiliary notification indication information.

6. The method according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the type information of the at least one second SIB.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The first SIB includes a first scheduling information list, which indicates at least one of the type information, periodic information, and broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The scheduling information indicates the broadcast status information corresponding to the at least one second SIB.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a second indication message, the second indication message being used to indicate that the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB has changed; Obtain a third SIB, which indicates the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB after modification.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The second SIB is the SIB related to the Public Warning System (PWS).

11. A communication method, characterized in that, include: A first SIB is sent, which indicates scheduling information for at least one second SIB. The scheduling information for the at least one second SIB is used by the terminal device to determine whether to acquire the at least one second SIB.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first SIB includes a first scheduling information list, which indicates at least one of the type information, periodic information, and broadcast status information of the at least one second SIB.

13. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The scheduling information indicates the broadcast status information corresponding to the at least one second SIB.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the at least one second SIB.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a first indication message, which is used to indicate that the at least one second SIB is being or is about to be broadcast.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS) main notification indication information and the ETWS auxiliary notification indication information.

17. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first indication information includes the type information of the at least one second SIB.

18. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second indication message, which is used to indicate that the scheduling information of the at least one second SIB has changed.

19. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 18, characterized in that, The second SIB is the SIB related to the Public Warning System (PWS).

20. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

21. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 11-19.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, The apparatus includes a processor and a memory for storing program code, and the processor for calling the program code to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

23. A communication device, characterized in that, The apparatus includes a processor and a memory for storing program code, and the processor for calling the program code to perform the method as described in any one of claims 11-19.

24. A communication system, characterized in that, Includes the apparatus as described in claim 22 and the apparatus as described in claim 23.

25. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by a processor, the method as described in any one of claims 1-19 is performed.

26. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes relevant program instructions, which, when executed, cause the method as described in any one of claims 1-19 to be implemented.

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