State switching method and apparatus, electronic device, and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to a state switching method, apparatus, electronic device, and computer-readable storage medium. The state switching method includes: in response to a terminal connecting to a network device via a satellite, and the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device being greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, sending a first request message to the satellite; the first request message is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; in response to a received first confirmation message, switching the terminal from the connected state to the inactive state; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains context information of its communication with the network device via the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a state switching method, apparatus, electronic device, and computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Satellite communication technology is a rapidly developing communication technology in recent years. In satellite communication, terminals can connect to network devices via satellite, thereby connecting to the core network. Satellites are used for information transmission with terminals.

[0003] However, when the terminal is transmitting information with network devices, its power consumption is relatively high and its battery life is relatively short. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To overcome the problems existing in the related technologies, this disclosure provides a state switching method, apparatus, electronic device, and computer-readable storage medium that can solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a state switching method is provided, the method comprising: in response to a terminal connecting to a network device via a satellite, and the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device being greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, sending a first request message to the satellite; the first request message being used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; and in response to a received first confirmation message, switching the terminal from the connected state to the inactive state; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains context information of communication with the network device via the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a state switching method is provided, the method comprising: receiving the first request information sent by a terminal and forwarding it to a network device; wherein the terminal is connected to the network device via a satellite; the first request information is sent by the terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, for requesting the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal retains context information of communication with the network device via the satellite in the inactive state, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state; receiving the first confirmation information sent by the network device and forwarding it to the terminal.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a state switching method is provided, the method comprising: receiving a first request message forwarded by a satellite; wherein the first request message is sent by a terminal when there is no information transmission with a network device for a duration greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, for requesting the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal is connected to the network device via the satellite; sending a first confirmation message to the satellite to instruct the terminal to switch the connected state to an inactive state; wherein the terminal retains context information of communication with the network device via the satellite in the inactive state, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a state switching apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising: a first transmitting unit configured to send a first request message to the satellite in response to a terminal connecting to a network device via a satellite and the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device being greater than or equal to a first duration threshold; the first request message being used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; and a switching unit configured to switch the terminal from a connected state to an inactive state in response to a received first confirmation message; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains context information of communication with the network device via the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a state switching apparatus is provided, the apparatus including a forwarding unit configured to: receive first request information sent by a terminal and forward it to a network device; wherein the terminal is connected to the network device via a satellite; the first request information is sent by the terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, for requesting the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal retains context information of communication with the network device via the satellite in the inactive state, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state; and receives first confirmation information sent by the network device and forwards it to the terminal.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a state switching apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising: a receiving unit configured to receive first request information relayed by a satellite; wherein the first request information is sent by a terminal when there is no information transmission with a network device for a duration greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, for requesting the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal is connected to the network device via the satellite; and a second sending unit configured to send first confirmation information to the satellite to instruct the terminal to switch the connected state to an inactive state; wherein the terminal retains context information of communication with the network device via the satellite in the inactive state, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided, comprising: a processor and a memory; the memory being used to store a computer program; and the processor being used to execute the state switching method as described in the first, second, and third aspects by invoking the computer program.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, implements the state switching method as described in the first, second, and third aspects.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the methods described in the first, second, and third aspects.

[0014] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure may include the following beneficial effects:

[0015] This disclosure adds an inactive state during communication between the terminal and the network device via satellite. The terminal can switch to the inactive state if the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold. While in the inactive state, the terminal retains the communication context information for quick connection restoration and ceases monitoring of the downlink channel.

[0016] When the terminal is in connected mode, it needs to maintain monitoring of the downlink channel so that it can promptly parse information sent to it by network devices via satellite and communicate with them. However, in the inactive mode proposed in this disclosure, the terminal and network devices have not communicated for an extended period, indicating a temporary lack of communication needs. In this case, the terminal can be switched to inactive mode to stop monitoring the downlink channel, thus avoiding the high power consumption associated with continuous downlink monitoring and extending the terminal's battery life.

[0017] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this disclosure, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 1 This disclosure is a system architecture diagram illustrating a state switching method according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a state switching method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 3 This is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating a state switching method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a state switching method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a state switching method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a state switching method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating a state switching device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating a state switching device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating a state switching device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a state switching device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0030] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” as used in this disclosure and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0031] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used in this disclosure to describe various information, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish information of the same type from one another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, first information may also be referred to as second information, and similarly, second information may also be referred to as first information. Depending on the context, the word "if" as used herein may be interpreted as "when," "when," or "in response to determination."

[0032] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this disclosure proposes a state switching method.

[0033] Figure 1 This is a system architecture diagram illustrating a state switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the system architecture of the state switching method proposed in this disclosure may include: terminal 110, satellite 120 and network device 130.

[0035] In some embodiments, the terminal 110 includes, but is not limited to, communication devices such as mobile phones, tablets, wearable devices, sensors, and Internet of Things devices.

[0036] In some embodiments, terminal 110 may communicate with network device 130.

[0037] For example, communication can be conducted via satellite 120 within an NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) network. Communication may include sending and / or receiving information.

[0038] In some embodiments, satellite 120 can receive information sent by terminal 110 and forward the information of terminal 110 to network device 130; alternatively, it can receive information sent by network device 130 and forward the information of network device 130 to terminal 110. Through forwarding, satellite 120 can realize communication between terminal 110 and network device 130, thereby enabling terminal 110 to access network device 130.

[0039] In some embodiments, network device 130 may include, but is not limited to, access network devices (e.g., base stations) and core network devices.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a state switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The state switching method can be performed by... Figure 1 The terminal 110 shown is executing.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, the state transition methods include:

[0042] In step S201, in response to the terminal connecting to the network device via satellite and the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device being greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, a first request message is sent to the satellite; the first request message is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state.

[0043] In step S202, in response to the received first confirmation information, the terminal is switched from the connected state to the inactive state; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains the context information of communicating with the network device via the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

[0044] In some embodiments, the terminal can connect to network devices via satellite.

[0045] Network devices can establish connections with satellites and connect to terminals via satellites. Network devices can send information to satellites, and satellites will forward the information received from network devices to terminals.

[0046] The terminal can send information to the satellite via a connected satellite. After receiving the information from the terminal, the satellite can forward the information to the network device, thereby realizing communication between the network device and the terminal.

[0047] In some embodiments, the satellite can continuously transmit downlink information.

[0048] Satellites can transmit downlink information via the PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel). The PDCCH can also be used to transmit signaling, which can be used to indicate the resources corresponding to the information.

[0049] In some embodiments, the terminal cannot determine the object of the downlink information transmitted by the satellite before parsing the downlink information transmitted by the satellite.

[0050] In order to receive information, the terminal needs to receive PDCCH. Therefore, the terminal needs to keep listening to PDCCH in order to determine the resource corresponding to the information based on the signaling in PDCCH, and then determine the information on the resource.

[0051] However, maintaining a constant monitoring of the PDCCH consumes a lot of power for the terminal. If the terminal maintains a constant monitoring of the PDCCH for a long time, the terminal's power will decrease rapidly, thus affecting the terminal's battery life.

[0052] In some embodiments, if the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device exceeds a first duration threshold, a first request message is sent to the satellite; the first request message is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state.

[0053] When there is communication service between the terminal and the network device, information transmission between them is relatively frequent. Conversely, when communication service ends, the terminal and the network device may not have any communication needs for a considerable period of time.

[0054] Therefore, the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device can be determined. If the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device is greater than or equal to the first duration threshold, it can be considered that the communication service between the terminal and the network device has ended, there is no temporary communication need between the terminal and the network device, and the terminal does not need to maintain real-time monitoring of the PDCCH channel to meet the needs of real-time communication. In this case, the terminal can be switched from the connected state to the inactive state.

[0055] The terminal needs to receive an instruction from the network device before it can switch to an inactive state. Therefore, the terminal can send a first request message to the satellite, which will then forward the first request message to the network device. The first request message is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state.

[0056] In some embodiments, a first confirmation message is received.

[0057] After receiving the first request information, the network device can determine whether the terminal can enter the inactive state and provide corresponding instructions. For example, it can send a first confirmation message to indicate that the terminal can enter the inactive state.

[0058] Network devices can send the first confirmation information to the satellite, which then forwards the first confirmation information to the terminal.

[0059] In some embodiments, in response to the received first confirmation information, the terminal is switched from a connected state to an inactive state.

[0060] After receiving the first confirmation message, the terminal can switch from the connected state to the inactive state.

[0061] In some embodiments, the terminal retains context information for communicating with the satellite and the network device in the inactive state, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

[0062] When the terminal is in an inactive state, it can stop listening to the downlink channel, thereby reducing power consumption and improving battery life.

[0063] On the other hand, since there may still be communication needs between the terminal and the network device, in order to enable the terminal to quickly establish a connection with the network device via satellite, the context information of the communication between the terminal and the network device can be retained in the inactive state.

[0064] Based on the retained context information, when communication needs exist, the terminal can quickly reconnect to the network device to continue previous communication services or transmit information based on the restored connection.

[0065] In some embodiments, when a terminal switches from a connected state to an inactive state, the network device may also retain the context information of communication with the terminal.

[0066] Upon receiving the first request and determining that the terminal can switch to an inactive state, the network device can retain the local context information of its communication with the terminal, thereby facilitating the rapid establishment of a connection with the terminal and the resumption of communication.

[0067] Figure 3 This is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating a state switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown, a connection has been established between the terminal and the satellite, and a connection has been established between the satellite and the network equipment. In this case, the terminal is in a connected state.

[0069] In some embodiments, if the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device exceeds a first duration threshold, the terminal is switched from a connected state to an inactive state.

[0070] like Figure 3 As shown, the terminal can send a first request message to the satellite to request that the terminal switch to an inactive state.

[0071] In some embodiments, the network device may send a first confirmation message to the terminal via satellite to inform the terminal that it can enter an inactive state.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, after receiving the request information sent by the terminal, the network device can save the terminal's context information and, if it determines that there is no further communication need with the terminal (e.g., there is no communication need within the first time period), instruct the terminal to enter the inactive state.

[0073] In some embodiments, the state switching method further includes: sending a second request message to the satellite when the terminal is in an inactive state and the duration of no information transmission is greater than or equal to a second duration threshold; the second request message is used to request the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state; in response to the received second confirmation message, switching the terminal from an inactive state to an idle state; wherein the terminal disconnects from the satellite in the idle state.

[0074] If the duration of no information transmission exceeds the second duration threshold when the terminal is inactive, the terminal can trigger RRC (Radio Resource Control) connection release, send a second request message (e.g., release message) to the satellite, and disconnect the terminal from the network device, thereby entering the idle state.

[0075] After receiving the second request information relayed by the satellite, the network device can send a second confirmation message to instruct the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state. The second confirmation message is sent by the network device, relayed by the satellite, and received by the terminal. In response to the received second confirmation message, the terminal can switch from an inactive state to an idle state.

[0076] like Figure 3 As shown, if there is no information transmission between the terminal and the network device within the second time period after the terminal is in an inactive state, the terminal can send a release message to the satellite and switch to an idle state.

[0077] The connection between a terminal and a network device can include the connection between the terminal and a satellite, as well as the connection between the satellite and the network device. Therefore, in an idle state, any node in the connection between the terminal and the network device can be disconnected to break the connection between the terminal and the network device. For example, the connection between the terminal and the satellite can be disconnected while the connection between the satellite and the network device remains intact.

[0078] In some embodiments, the state switching method further includes: determining that the terminal is in a connected state when information transmission is required.

[0079] When information transmission is required, the terminal needs to be in a connected state. Only in a connected state can it communicate with network devices via satellite to transmit the information that needs to be transmitted.

[0080] A terminal can be in a connected state, an inactive state, or an idle state. Therefore, when information transmission is required, if the terminal is in an inactive state, it needs to switch from the inactive state to the connected state. If the terminal is in an idle state, it needs to switch from the idle state to the connected state.

[0081] In some embodiments, determining that the terminal is in a connected state when information transmission is required includes: when information transmission is required and the terminal is in an inactive state, switching the terminal from an inactive state to a connected state based on the context information.

[0082] The need for information transmission by a terminal can be triggered by the terminal itself or by the network device.

[0083] When preset conditions are triggered (such as a fixed time interval or a fixed triggering event), the terminal can wake up from the inactive state and resume the connected state. In the connected state, it can then transmit information with network devices.

[0084] Because the inactive state retains context information, waking up from the inactive state to the connected state results in faster recovery, lower latency, and stronger communication timeliness and responsiveness compared to re-establishing a connection with the network device from the idle state.

[0085] like Figure 3 As shown, the information transmission required by the terminal can include at least two situations: one is that the terminal needs to send uplink information to the network device, and the other is that the network device needs to send downlink information to the terminal via satellite.

[0086] In some embodiments, if the terminal is in an inactive state and information transmission is required within a duration less than a second duration threshold, it can be restored from the inactive state to the connected state based on the context information.

[0087] When the terminal is inactive, it can use a timer to keep track of time. If the duration of no information transmission exceeds the second time threshold, it will switch to the idle state. If information transmission is required within the second time interval, it will return to the connected state.

[0088] In some cases, a terminal needs to transmit information, which may include at least one of the following: the terminal needs to send uplink information to the network device; the terminal needs to receive downlink information sent by the network device.

[0089] In the inactive or idle state, the terminal may need to send uplink information to the network device due to periodic triggering or event triggering. In this case, the terminal has a need for information transmission.

[0090] After entering the inactive state, the terminal stops listening to the PDCCH channel, but can wake up to the connected state at a specific time point and listen to the PDCCH channel to determine whether the network device needs to send downlink information to the terminal. If the network device has a need to transmit information with the terminal, the network device can send an indication message to the terminal when the terminal is woken up to the connected state at a specific time point. This indication message is used to instruct the terminal on the time domain resources to receive downlink information. If the terminal does not receive any information transmitted by the satellite after waking up at a specific time point, the terminal can continue to switch to the inactive state. If there is no need for information transmission within a second duration threshold, the terminal can then switch from the inactive state to the idle state.

[0091] like Figure 3 As shown, if the terminal needs to send uplink information to the network device, the terminal can restore the connected state.

[0092] In some embodiments, when the information transmission needs to be performed, it is when downlink information sent by the network device needs to be received. Determining that the terminal is in a connected state includes: receiving first indication information sent by the network device through the satellite, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate time domain resources; determining that the terminal is in a connected state; and parsing the information within the time domain resources to receive the downlink information.

[0093] A terminal may have a need to transmit information in an idle state, an inactive state, or a connected state. When information transmission is required and downlink information needs to be received from network devices, the terminal is determined to be in a connected state.

[0094] If the terminal is in a disconnected state, then switch the terminal to a connected state.

[0095] Since the terminal stops listening to the PDCCH channel when it is inactive, it cannot receive the information sent by the network device under these circumstances, and the terminal cannot determine that the network device does not have a communication requirement.

[0096] Therefore, when the terminal is in an inactive state, it can periodically wake up to the connected state and listen to the PDCCH channel. If the network device has a communication need with the terminal, the network device can send a first indication message through the PDCCH channel when the terminal periodically wakes up to the connected state, to indicate that the network device has a communication need and to instruct the terminal to communicate during the time period specified in the first indication message.

[0097] Since satellite communication is a time-division multiplexing system and information is continuously transmitted on the PDCCH channel, the first indication information is used to indicate time-domain resources. Network devices need to use the first indication information to indicate the time-domain resources corresponding to the terminal. Within the indicated time-domain resources, the information on the PDCCH channel is the information that the terminal needs to receive.

[0098] like Figure 3 As shown, if a network device needs to send downlink information to a terminal via satellite, the network device can first send a first indication message based on the satellite, then determine the time domain resources based on the first indication message, and parse the information in the indicated time domain resources.

[0099] In some embodiments, after the terminal switches to connected mode, the information within the time domain resources is parsed.

[0100] After receiving the first indication information, the terminal can determine the target time domain based on the first indication information. The terminal can remain inactive to save power and switch to connected mode before reaching the target time domain to receive and parse information within the target time domain for information transmission with the network device and to receive downlink information sent by the network device.

[0101] Based on the target time domain indicated by the first indication information, the terminal can parse only the information within the target time domain, thereby skipping the parsing of information in the remaining invalid time domains and saving terminal power consumption.

[0102] In some embodiments, when the information transmission needs to be performed, i.e., when uplink information needs to be sent to the network device, determining that the terminal is in a connected state includes: sending a second request message to the satellite, the second request message being used to request the terminal to enter the connected state; determining that the terminal is in a connected state in response to receiving a second confirmation message; and sending the uplink information to the satellite.

[0103] A terminal can only communicate with network devices when it is in connected state; therefore, it can only send uplink information to network devices when it is in connected state.

[0104] Therefore, if the terminal is in an inactive or idle state, and there is a need to send uplink information, the terminal needs to be switched to a connected state before sending uplink information.

[0105] The terminal can send a second request message to the satellite, requesting that the terminal enter a connected state. The satellite can forward this second request message to a network device, which can then determine whether the terminal is eligible to enter a connected state.

[0106] When a network device determines that a terminal can enter the connected state, the network device can send a second confirmation message to the satellite, which will then forward the message to the terminal. The second confirmation message is used to indicate that the terminal can enter the connected state.

[0107] In some embodiments, when a terminal needs to send information to a network device, the terminal can wake up from the inactive state and return to the connected state, or re-establish the connection from the idle state to switch to the connected state.

[0108] The uplink information that the terminal needs to send may include a measurement report from the terminal on the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or other cells adjacent to that cell. This measurement report can be used to determine whether the terminal needs to perform cell handover or cell reselection.

[0109] In some embodiments, the uplink information includes a cell measurement report, and the method further includes: measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell; generating the cell measurement report based on the measurement results; determining that the terminal is in a connected state, and sending the cell measurement report to the satellite.

[0110] Uplink information may include cell measurement reports. The terminal can measure the cell where it is located and other neighboring cells, generate a measurement report, and send the measurement report to the network device so that the network device can determine the cell where the terminal is camped or whether the terminal needs to switch cells.

[0111] It should be noted that cell measurement and sending the measurement report can occur at different times. The terminal can first measure the cell and generate a measurement report, then determine that it is in a connected state, and then send the cell measurement report.

[0112] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving indication information, the indication information being generated by the network device based on the cell measurement report and forwarded by the satellite; and selecting a target cell indicated by the indication information for camping based on the indication information.

[0113] According to the instructions from the network device, the terminal can stay in the target cell indicated by the instructions.

[0114] Network devices can instruct terminals to remain in the current cell, instruct terminals to switch to other cells, or prohibit terminals from connecting to cells. This disclosure does not impose any restrictions in this regard.

[0115] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a state switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0116] In some embodiments, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell includes at least one of the following: when the terminal is in a connected state, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell in response to the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold, and / or the interval between the last measurement report sent being greater than or equal to a third duration threshold; when the terminal is in an idle state or an inactive state, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell in response to the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold.

[0117] Before performing cell measurements, the terminal can first perform a judgment to determine whether cell measurements are necessary.

[0118] If the first condition for judgment is not met, then the cell may not need to be measured.

[0119] Based on this embodiment, the terminal may not perform cell measurements in certain situations. If cell measurements are not performed, there is no corresponding cell measurement report, and the terminal does not need to be in a connected state to upload the cell measurement report. Therefore, this embodiment can, to a certain extent, avoid the power consumption of the terminal measuring cells, generating measurement reports, and determining the connected state and sending measurement reports, thereby enhancing the terminal's battery life.

[0120] The specific first condition varies depending on the state of the terminal, which will be described in detail in the following examples.

[0121] In some embodiments, the state switching method further includes: measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell when a first condition is met; wherein the first condition includes at least one of the following: the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite is greater than a first distance threshold, and / or the interval between the last measurement report sent and the last measurement report sent is greater than a third duration threshold.

[0122] For example, if a terminal needs to send uplink information to a network device while inactive, it can return to connected mode. For example, ... Figure 4 As shown, in step S401, if the terminal triggers a cell measurement event, it can be assumed that the terminal has a need to send uplink information to the satellite.

[0123] In this situation, it can be determined whether the first condition is met. If the first condition is met, the cell measurement can then begin; otherwise, the measurement can be ignored.

[0124] Specifically, the first condition may include step S402A and / or step S402B.

[0125] In step S402A, it is determined whether the first distance between the terminal's location and the cell center corresponding to the network device is greater than a first distance threshold.

[0126] Since the cell range corresponding to a satellite is relatively large, if the terminal's location is close to the center of the cell corresponding to the network device (e.g., not greater than the first distance threshold), the best cell for the terminal at that location can be considered to be the cell corresponding to the satellite. The terminal does not need to switch cells or reselect cells, does not need to perform cell measurement, and does not need to send uplink measurement reports. However, if the terminal's location is far from the center of the cell corresponding to the network device (e.g., greater than the first distance threshold), the terminal can be considered to be on the edge of the cell corresponding to the satellite. In this case, there may be a need to switch cells or reselect cells, and cell measurement is required.

[0127] In step S402B, it is determined whether the interval between the last time the terminal sent a measurement report is greater than the third duration threshold.

[0128] The terminal can periodically trigger cell measurement events, thus determining the interval between the terminal's most recent measurement report. If the interval is short (e.g., not greater than the third time threshold), it can be assumed that the terminal's location has not changed much in a short period of time, and the most recent measurement report has not expired, so there is no need to update the most recent measurement report. However, if the interval is long (e.g., greater than the third time threshold), the timeliness of the most recent measurement report is weak, and the cell needs to be measured to resend the measurement report and update it.

[0129] It should be noted that steps S402A and S402B do not conflict. The terminal can execute step S403A if either condition is met, or it can execute step S403B if neither condition is met.

[0130] As shown in step S403A, if any of the first conditions are met, the terminal can begin to measure the cell.

[0131] The terminal can measure the cell corresponding to the satellite and the cells adjacent to that cell, and then generate a measurement report. In the connected state, the terminal sends the generated measurement report to the satellite.

[0132] In some embodiments, if none of the first conditions are met, the terminal may ignore the measurement of the cell.

[0133] If the terminal is close to the cell center (e.g., the first distance is no greater than the first distance threshold) and the interval between the most recent measurement report is short (e.g., the interval is no greater than the third duration threshold), then it can be considered that the terminal does not need to perform cell measurements, and the most recent measurement report is still timely and has not expired. In this case, the terminal can ignore cell measurements and therefore does not need to send uplink measurement reports to the satellite, thus allowing the terminal to remain in an inactive state without needing to recover from the inactive state to the connected state.

[0134] If the first condition is not met, the terminal can ignore the need to send information to the network device, thereby remaining in an inactive state to reduce uplink information, reduce terminal power consumption, and thus further enhance battery life.

[0135] In some embodiments, when the terminal is in a connected state, the first condition includes: the first distance between the location of the terminal and the cell center corresponding to the satellite is greater than a first distance threshold, and the interval between the last transmitted measurement report and the last transmitted measurement report is greater than a third duration threshold; when the terminal is in an idle state or an inactive state, the first condition includes: the first distance between the location of the terminal and the cell center corresponding to the satellite is greater than a first distance threshold.

[0136] When the terminal is in a connected state, information transmission between the terminal and network devices is more frequent. Therefore, cell measurement can be performed only when both conditions are met simultaneously: the first distance is greater than a first distance threshold and the interval duration is greater than a third duration threshold. This connection also includes the terminal returning to a connected state from an inactive state.

[0137] In this situation, if the terminal is close to the cell center or the interval between the terminal's last measurement report and the last time it sent a measurement report is short, it can be assumed that the terminal does not need to send a new measurement report. Therefore, the cell can be measured without performing measurements, thereby reducing uplink information and saving power consumption.

[0138] When the terminal is in an inactive or idle state, there is less information transmission between the terminal and the network device. Therefore, it can be assumed that the most recently sent measurement report has expired. Thus, it is not necessary to consider whether the interval between the most recently sent measurement report meets the conditions. It is only necessary to ensure that the distance between the terminal's location and the cell center corresponding to the network device is greater than the first distance threshold.

[0139] If the distance is not greater than the first distance threshold, terminals in idle and inactive states do not need to perform cell measurements, thus avoiding the generation of measurement reports and the need to switch to connected state to send the generated measurement reports. This reduces uplink information from the terminal and saves power. However, if the distance is greater than the first distance threshold, the terminal is far from the cell center and may require cell handover and cell reselection. In this case, cell measurements need to be performed, and the generated measurement reports need to be sent to the satellite after switching to connected state.

[0140] In some embodiments, a terminal triggering a cell measurement event may include at least one of the following: periodic triggering, event triggering.

[0141] Periodic triggering refers to the terminal triggering cell measurements periodically according to a preset interval; event triggering refers to the terminal triggering cell measurements when a preset event is triggered (such as a strong signal strength from a neighboring cell or communication lag in the current cell).

[0142] In some embodiments, the first distance threshold may be adjusted based on historical information.

[0143] Based on the historical information, the system can autonomously learn and adjust the first distance threshold according to the changing patterns of the distance between the cell edge and the cell center corresponding to the satellite.

[0144] In some embodiments, the first distance threshold in the connected state may be different from the first distance threshold in the idle state and / or inactive state.

[0145] For example, the first distance threshold in the connected state can be adjusted to a larger value, thereby reducing the frequency of uplink reports sent in the connected state; while the first distance threshold in the idle state and / or inactive state can be adjusted to a smaller value, thereby enabling timely cell measurement when cell handover or cell reselection is required.

[0146] In some embodiments, the information transmission includes at least one of the following: sending uplink information to the satellite; receiving downlink information sent by the satellite.

[0147] Information transmission may include the terminal sending uplink information to the satellite, such as a cell measurement report; information transmission may also include the terminal receiving downlink information sent by the satellite, such as a first indication message sent by the satellite and communication information sent by the satellite.

[0148] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a state switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The state switching method can be performed by... Figure 1 The satellite 120 shown in the diagram performs the operation, and the terminal connects to network devices through the satellite.

[0149] like Figure 5 As shown, the state transition methods include:

[0150] In step S501, a first request message sent by the terminal is received and forwarded to the network device; wherein, the terminal is connected to the network device via satellite; the first request message is sent by the terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, and is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal retains the context information of communication with the network device via the satellite in the inactive state, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state;

[0151] In step S502, the first confirmation information sent by the network device is received and forwarded to the terminal.

[0152] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a second request message sent by the terminal and forwarding the second request message to the network device; the second request message is used to request the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state, and the second request message is sent when the terminal is in an inactive state and the duration of no information transmission is greater than or equal to a second duration threshold; receiving a second confirmation message sent by the network device and forwarding the second confirmation message to the terminal; the second confirmation message is used to instruct the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state; wherein, the terminal disconnects from the satellite in the idle state.

[0153] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving first indication information sent by a network device and forwarding it to a terminal, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate time domain resources; and receiving downlink information sent by a network device and forwarding it to a terminal.

[0154] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a second request message sent by a terminal and forwarding it to a network device, the second request message being used to request the terminal to enter a connected state; receiving a second confirmation message sent by a network device and forwarding it to the terminal, the second confirmation message being used to indicate that the terminal is in a connected state; and receiving uplink information sent by the terminal and forwarding it to the network device.

[0155] In some embodiments, the uplink information includes a cell measurement report, and the method further includes: receiving the cell measurement report and forwarding it to the terminal; wherein the cell measurement report is generated by the terminal measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell, and based on the measurement results, and the cell measurement report is sent by the terminal in a connected state.

[0156] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving indication information sent by a network device and forwarding it to a terminal; the indication information is generated by the network device based on the cell measurement report, and the indication information is used to instruct the terminal to camp on a target cell.

[0157] For details on the implementation process and function of the above embodiments, please refer to the corresponding steps of the above terminal-side embodiments.

[0158] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a state switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The state switching method can be performed by... Figure 1 The network device 130 shown in the diagram performs the operation, and the terminal connects to the network device via the satellite.

[0159] like Figure 6 As shown, the state transition methods include:

[0160] In step S601, a first request message forwarded by the satellite is received; wherein, the first request message is sent by the terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, and is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal is connected to the network device via the satellite;

[0161] In step S602, a first confirmation message is sent to the satellite to instruct the terminal to switch the connected state to an inactive state; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains the context information of communicating with the network device through the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

[0162] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving second request information; the second request information is sent to a satellite by the terminal when it is in an inactive state and the duration of no information transmission is greater than or equal to a second duration threshold, and is forwarded by the satellite, the second request information being used to request the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state; generating and sending second confirmation information based on the second request information, the second confirmation information being used to instruct the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state; wherein, the terminal disconnects from the satellite in the idle state.

[0163] In some embodiments, when the network device needs to send downlink information to the terminal, the method further includes: sending first indication information to the satellite, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate time domain resources; and sending downlink information within the time domain resources.

[0164] In some embodiments, where the information transmission is required when uplink information needs to be sent to the network device, the method further includes: receiving a second request message relayed by a satellite, the second request message being sent by the terminal to request the terminal to enter a connected state; sending a second confirmation message to indicate that the terminal can enter the connected state; and receiving uplink information sent by the terminal while in the connected state.

[0165] In some embodiments, the uplink information includes a cell measurement report, which is generated by the terminal measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell and based on the measurement results. The cell measurement report is sent to the satellite by the terminal when it determines that it is in a connected state.

[0166] In some embodiments, the method further includes: sending indication information based on a cell measurement report, the indication information being relayed by a satellite and received by a terminal, for instructing the terminal to camp on a target cell.

[0167] In some embodiments, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell includes at least one of the following: when the terminal is in a connected state, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell in response to the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold, and / or the interval between the last measurement report sent being greater than or equal to a third duration threshold; when the terminal is in an idle state or an inactive state, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell in response to the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold.

[0168] In some embodiments, when the terminal is in an inactive state, the connection with the terminal can be restored based on context information, so that the terminal switches from an inactive state to a connected state.

[0169] For details on the implementation process and function of the above embodiments, please refer to the corresponding steps of the above terminal-side embodiments.

[0170] Corresponding to the embodiments of the state switching method of this disclosure, this disclosure also provides embodiments of a corresponding state switching device.

[0171] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a block diagram of a state switching device in one embodiment of this disclosure. The state switching device is configured on a terminal, which is connected to a network device via satellite, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the state switching device includes:

[0172] The first sending unit 710 is configured to send a first request message to the satellite in response to a terminal connecting to a network device via a satellite and the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device being greater than or equal to a first duration threshold; the first request message is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state.

[0173] The switching unit 720 is configured to switch the terminal from a connected state to an inactive state in response to a received first acknowledgment message; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains the context information of communicating with the network device via the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

[0174] In some embodiments, the device is further configured to: send a second request message to the satellite when the terminal is in an inactive state and the duration of no information transmission is greater than or equal to a second duration threshold; the second request message is used to request the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state; in response to the received second confirmation message, switch the terminal from an inactive state to an idle state; wherein the terminal disconnects from the satellite in the idle state.

[0175] In some embodiments, the device is further configured to determine that the terminal is in a connected state when information transmission is required.

[0176] In some embodiments, when the information transmission needs to be performed, it is when downlink information sent by the network device needs to be received. Determining that the terminal is in a connected state includes: receiving first indication information sent by the network device through the satellite, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate time domain resources; determining that the terminal is in a connected state; and parsing the information within the time domain resources to receive the downlink information.

[0177] In some embodiments, when the information transmission needs to be performed, i.e., when uplink information needs to be sent to the network device, determining that the terminal is in a connected state includes: sending a second request message to the satellite, the second request message being used to request the terminal to enter the connected state; determining that the terminal is in a connected state in response to receiving a second confirmation message; and sending the uplink information to the satellite.

[0178] In some embodiments, the uplink information includes a cell measurement report, and the device is further configured to: measure the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell; generate the cell measurement report based on the measurement results; determine that the terminal is in a connected state, and send the cell measurement report to the satellite.

[0179] In some embodiments, the apparatus is further configured to: receive indication information generated by the network device based on the cell measurement report and forwarded by the satellite; and select a target cell indicated by the indication information for camping based on the indication information.

[0180] In some embodiments, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell includes at least one of the following: when the terminal is in a connected state, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell in response to the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold, and / or the interval between the last measurement report sent being greater than or equal to a third duration threshold; when the terminal is in an idle state or an inactive state, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell in response to the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold.

[0181] In some embodiments, determining that the terminal is in a connected state when information transmission is required includes: when information transmission is required and the terminal is in an inactive state, switching the terminal from an inactive state to a connected state based on the context information.

[0182] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a block diagram of a state switching device in one embodiment of this disclosure. The state switching device is configured on a satellite, and the terminal connects to network equipment via the satellite, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the state switching device includes a forwarding unit 810, which is configured to: receive a first request message sent by the terminal and forward it to the network device; wherein the terminal is connected to the network device via satellite; the first request message is sent by the terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, for requesting the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal retains the context information of communication with the network device via the satellite in the inactive state, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state; and receives a first confirmation message sent by the network device and forwards it to the terminal.

[0183] In some embodiments, the device is further configured to: receive a second request message sent by the terminal and forward the second request message to the network device; the second request message is used to request the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state, and the second request message is sent when the terminal is in an inactive state and the duration of no information transmission is greater than or equal to a second duration threshold; receive a second confirmation message sent by the network device and forward the second confirmation message to the terminal; the second confirmation message is used to instruct the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state; wherein, the terminal disconnects from the satellite in the idle state.

[0184] In some embodiments, the apparatus is further configured to: receive first indication information sent by a network device and forward it to a terminal, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate time domain resources; and receive downlink information sent by a network device and forward it to a terminal.

[0185] In some embodiments, the apparatus is further configured to: receive a second request message sent by a terminal and forward it to a network device, the second request message being used to request the terminal to enter a connected state; receive a second confirmation message sent by the network device and forward it to the terminal, the second confirmation message being used to indicate that the terminal is in a connected state; and receive uplink information sent by the terminal and forward it to the network device.

[0186] In some embodiments, the uplink information includes a cell measurement report, and the device is further configured to: receive the cell measurement report and forward it to the terminal; wherein the cell measurement report is generated by the terminal measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell, and the cell measurement report is sent by the terminal in a connected state.

[0187] In some embodiments, the apparatus is further configured to: receive indication information sent by a network device and forward it to a terminal; the indication information is generated by the network device based on the cell measurement report, and the indication information is used to instruct the terminal to camp on a target cell.

[0188] Please see Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a block diagram of a state switching device in one embodiment of this disclosure. The state switching device is configured in a network device, and the terminal connects to the network device via satellite, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the state switching device includes:

[0189] The receiving unit 910 is configured to receive a first request message relayed by the satellite; wherein the first request message is sent by the terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, and is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal is connected to the network device via the satellite.

[0190] The second transmitting unit 920 is configured to send a first confirmation message to the satellite to instruct the terminal to switch the connected state to an inactive state; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains the context information of communicating with the network device through the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

[0191] In some embodiments, the device is further configured to: receive a second request message; the second request message is sent to a satellite by the terminal when it is in an inactive state and the duration of no information transmission is greater than or equal to a second duration threshold, and is forwarded by the satellite, the second request message being used to request the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state; generate and send a second confirmation message based on the second request message, the second confirmation message being used to instruct the terminal to switch from an inactive state to an idle state; wherein, the terminal disconnects from the satellite in the idle state.

[0192] In some embodiments, when the network device needs to send downlink information to the terminal, the apparatus is further configured to: send first indication information to the satellite, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate time domain resources; and send downlink information within the time domain resources.

[0193] In some embodiments, where the information transmission requirement is to send uplink information to the network device, the device is further configured to: receive a second request message relayed by a satellite, the second request message being sent by the terminal to request the terminal to enter a connected state; send a second confirmation message to indicate that the terminal can enter a connected state; and receive uplink information sent by the terminal while in a connected state.

[0194] In some embodiments, the uplink information includes a cell measurement report, which is generated by the terminal measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell and based on the measurement results. The cell measurement report is sent to the satellite by the terminal when it determines that it is in a connected state.

[0195] In some embodiments, the apparatus is further configured to: send indication information based on a cell measurement report, the indication information being relayed by a satellite and received by a terminal, for instructing the terminal to camp on a target cell.

[0196] In some embodiments, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell includes at least one of the following: when the terminal is in a connected state, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell in response to the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold, and / or the interval between the last measurement report sent being greater than or equal to a third duration threshold; when the terminal is in an idle state or an inactive state, measuring the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell in response to the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold.

[0197] In some embodiments, when the terminal is in an inactive state, the connection with the terminal can be restored based on context information, so that the terminal switches from an inactive state to a connected state.

[0198] The specific implementation process of the functions and roles of each unit in the above device can be found in the implementation process of the corresponding steps in the above method, and will not be repeated here.

[0199] Embodiments of this disclosure also provide an electronic device, including: a processor and a memory; the memory for storing a computer program; and the processor for executing a state switching method as described in any of the above embodiments by invoking the computer program.

[0200] Embodiments of this disclosure also provide a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, implements the state switching method as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0201] Embodiments of this disclosure also provide a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the methods described in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0202] Figure 10 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a state switching device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, device 1000 may be a mobile phone, computer, digital broadcasting terminal, messaging device, game console, tablet device, medical device, fitness equipment, personal digital assistant, etc.

[0203] Reference Figure 10 The device 1000 may include one or more of the following components: processing component 1002, memory 1004, power supply component 1006, multimedia component 1008, audio component 1010, input / output (I / O) interface 1012, sensor component 1014, and communication component 1016.

[0204] Processing component 1002 typically controls the overall operation of device 1000, such as operations associated with display, telephone calls, data communication, camera operation, and recording. Processing component 1002 may include one or more processors 1020 to execute instructions to complete all or part of the steps of the aforementioned state switching method. Furthermore, processing component 1002 may include one or more modules to facilitate interaction between processing component 1002 and other components. For example, processing component 1002 may include a multimedia module to facilitate interaction between multimedia component 1008 and processing component 1002.

[0205] Memory 1004 is configured to store various types of data to support the operation of device 1000. Examples of such data include instructions for any application or method operating on device 1000, contact data, phonebook data, messages, pictures, videos, etc. Memory 1004 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0206] Power supply component 1006 provides power to various components of device 1000. Power supply component 1006 may include a power management system, one or more power supplies, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to device 1000.

[0207] The multimedia component 1008 includes a screen that provides an output interface between the device 1000 and the user. In some embodiments, the screen may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a touch panel (TP). If the screen includes a touch panel, the screen may be implemented as a touchscreen to receive input signals from the user. The touch panel includes one or more touch sensors to sense touches, swipes, and gestures on the touch panel. The touch sensors may sense not only the boundaries of the touch or swipe action but also the duration and pressure associated with the touch or swipe operation. In some embodiments, the multimedia component 1008 includes a front-facing camera and / or a rear-facing camera. When the device 1000 is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or a video mode, the front-facing camera and / or the rear-facing camera may receive external multimedia data. Each front-facing camera and rear-facing camera may be a fixed optical lens system or have focal length and optical zoom capabilities.

[0208] Audio component 1010 is configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, audio component 1010 includes a microphone (MIC) configured to receive external audio signals when device 1000 is in an operating mode, such as call mode, recording mode, and voice recognition mode. The received audio signals may be further stored in memory 1004 or transmitted via communication component 1016. In some embodiments, audio component 1010 also includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0209] I / O interface 1012 provides an interface between processing component 1002 and peripheral interface modules, which may be keyboards, click wheels, buttons, etc. These buttons may include, but are not limited to, home buttons, volume buttons, start buttons, and lock buttons.

[0210] Sensor assembly 1014 includes one or more sensors for providing state assessments of various aspects of device 1000. For example, sensor assembly 1014 may detect the on / off state of device 1000, the relative positioning of components such as the display and keypad of device 1000, changes in position of device 1000 or a component of device 1000, the presence or absence of user contact with device 1000, orientation or acceleration / deceleration of device 1000, and temperature changes of device 1000. Sensor assembly 1014 may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. Sensor assembly 1014 may also include an optical sensor, such as a CMOS or CCD image sensor, for use in imaging applications. In some embodiments, sensor assembly 1014 may also include an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, pressure sensor, or temperature sensor.

[0211] Communication component 1016 is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between device 1000 and other devices. Device 1000 can access wireless networks based on communication standards, such as WiFi, 2G, 3G, 4G LTE, 5G NR, or combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 1016 receives broadcast signals or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 1016 also includes a near-field communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module may be implemented based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) technology, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology, and other technologies.

[0212] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 1000 may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, or other electronic components to perform the state switching method described above.

[0213] In an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions is also provided, such as a memory 1004 including instructions, which can be executed by the processor 1020 of the device 1000 to complete the aforementioned state switching method. For example, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may be a ROM, random access memory (RAM), CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage device, etc.

[0214] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

[0215] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

[0216] It should be noted that, in this document, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. The terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0217] The methods and apparatus provided in the embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this disclosure. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the methods and core ideas of this disclosure. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this disclosure. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A state switching method, characterized in that, The method includes: In response to a terminal connecting to a network device via satellite, and the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device being greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, a first request message is sent to the satellite; the first request message is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state. In response to the received first confirmation information, the terminal is switched from the connected state to the inactive state; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains the context information of communicating with the network device via the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: When the terminal is in an inactive state and the duration of no information transmission is greater than or equal to the second duration threshold, a second request message is sent to the satellite; the second request message is used to request the terminal to switch from the inactive state to the idle state. In response to the received second confirmation information, the terminal is switched from an inactive state to an idle state; wherein, in the idle state, the terminal disconnects from the satellite.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: When information transmission is required, the terminal is determined to be in a connected state.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, The situation where information transmission is required is when downlink information sent by the network device needs to be received. Determining that the terminal is in a connected state includes: Receive first indication information sent by the network device via the satellite, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate time domain resources; The terminal is determined to be in a connected state; The information within the time-domain resources is parsed to receive the downlink information.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein, The situation requiring information transmission refers to the need to send uplink information to the network device. Determining that the terminal is in a connected state includes: Send a second request message to the satellite, the second request message being used to request the terminal to enter a connected state; Upon receiving the second confirmation information, it is determined that the terminal is in a connected state; The uplink information is sent to the satellite.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, The uplink information includes a cell measurement report, and the method further includes: Measurements are performed on the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell; Generate the cell measurement report based on the measurement results; The terminal is confirmed to be in a connected state, and the cell measurement report is sent to the satellite.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive indication information, which is generated by the network device based on the cell measurement report and forwarded by the satellite; Based on the instruction information, select the target cell indicated by the instruction information to stay in.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The measurement of the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell includes at least one of the following: When the terminal is in a connected state, in response to the first distance between the location of the terminal and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold, and / or the interval between the last measurement report sent being greater than or equal to a third duration threshold, measurements are performed on the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell. When the terminal is in an idle or inactive state, in response to the first distance between the terminal's location and the center of the cell corresponding to the satellite being greater than or equal to a first distance threshold, the cell corresponding to the satellite and / or the neighboring cells of the cell are measured.

9. The method of claim 3, wherein, The step of determining that the terminal is in a connected state when information transmission is required includes: When information transmission is required and the terminal is in an inactive state, the terminal is switched from an inactive state to a connected state based on the context information.

10. A state switching method characterized by comprising: The method includes: The system receives a first request message sent by a terminal and forwards it to a network device; wherein the terminal is connected to the network device via satellite; the first request message is sent by the terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, and is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal retains the context information of its communication with the network device via the satellite in the inactive state, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state; The system receives the first confirmation message sent by the network device and forwards it to the terminal.

11. A state switching method characterized by comprising: The method includes: The terminal receives a first request message relayed by a satellite; wherein the first request message is sent by the terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, and is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal is connected to the network device via the satellite. A first confirmation message is sent to the satellite to instruct the terminal to switch the connected state to an inactive state; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains the context information of communicating with the network device through the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

12. A state switching device, characterized by comprising: The device includes: The first sending unit is configured to send a first request message to the satellite in response to a terminal connecting to a network device via a satellite and the duration of no information transmission between the terminal and the network device being greater than or equal to a first duration threshold; the first request message is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state. The switching unit is configured to switch the terminal from a connected state to an inactive state in response to a received first acknowledgment message; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains the context information of communicating with the network device via the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

13. A state switching device, characterized by comprising: The device includes a forwarding unit, which is configured to: The system receives a first request message sent by a terminal and forwards it to a network device; wherein the terminal is connected to the network device via satellite; the first request message is sent by the terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, and is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal retains the context information of its communication with the network device via the satellite in the inactive state, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state; The system receives the first confirmation message sent by the network device and forwards it to the terminal.

14. A state switching device, characterized by comprising: The device includes: The receiving unit is configured to receive a first request message relayed by a satellite; wherein the first request message is sent by a terminal when the duration of no information transmission with the network device is greater than or equal to a first duration threshold, and is used to request the terminal to switch from a connected state to an inactive state; the terminal is connected to the network device via the satellite. The second transmitting unit is configured to send a first confirmation message to the satellite to instruct the terminal to switch the connected state to an inactive state; wherein, in the inactive state, the terminal retains the context information of communicating with the network device through the satellite, and the terminal stops listening to the downlink channel in the inactive state.

15. An electronic device, comprising: include: Processor, memory; The memory is used to store computer programs; The processor is configured to execute the state switching method as described in any one of claims 1-11 by invoking the computer program.

16. A computer readable storage medium having stored thereon a computer program, characterized in that, When the program is executed by the processor, it implements the state switching method according to any one of claims 1-11.

17. A computer program product, characterised in that, Includes a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

Images