Sensing methods, signal transmission methods, signal acquisition methods and related devices

Abstract

This application proposes a sensing method, a signal transmission method, an information acquisition method, and related apparatus. The sensing method includes: a first network element acquiring first information, the first information indicating the sensing capability of a ground device; in response to the ground device's sensing capability not meeting a sensing accuracy condition, the first network element obtaining a sensing measurement result, the sensing measurement result being obtained based on a first sensing signal and a second sensing signal, wherein the first sensing signal is transmitted by a non-ground device, and the second sensing signal is transmitted by a ground device. By introducing non-ground device assistance for sensing, the accuracy of the sensing measurement result can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a sensing method, a signal transmission method, a signal acquisition method, and related devices. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of communication technology, Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) technology is an important development direction in the field of communications. ISAC technology refers to realizing wireless communication and wireless sensing functions through a single system. A communication system integrating ISAC technology not only has communication functions but also sensing functions.

[0003] Specifically, in a communication system, devices with signal transmission capabilities can transmit wireless signals for sensing (hereinafter referred to as sensing signals), and devices with signal reception capabilities can receive sensing signals. By analyzing the received sensing signals, information such as distance, velocity, and angular velocity can be extracted to achieve functions such as object localization, object tracking, and object monitoring.

[0004] Currently, the transmission and reception of sensing signals are mainly achieved by ground-based equipment, such as base stations. However, due to environmental factors, high-precision sensing cannot be achieved by transmitting sensing signals from ground-based equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application proposes a sensing method, a signal transmission method, a signal acquisition method, and related devices, which can use non-ground equipment to assist in sensing.

[0006] Firstly, this application proposes a sensing method applicable to a first network element with sensing capabilities. Specifically, when sensing is required, the first network element can acquire first information from a ground device. This first information indicates the sensing capability of the ground device. Therefore, based on the first information from the ground device, the first network element can determine whether the sensing capability of the ground device meets requirements such as sensing accuracy. If the first information meets preset conditions, it indicates that the sensing capability of the ground device meets the requirements of the first network element. Then, the first network element can use the ground device to perform sensing and obtain sensing measurement results based on the sensing signals from the ground device.

[0007] If the first information does not meet the preset conditions, it indicates that the sensing capability of the ground equipment cannot meet the requirements of the first network element. In this way, the first network element can obtain sensing measurement results based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal. The first sensing signal is transmitted by a non-ground device, and the second sensing signal is transmitted by a ground device. Because the non-ground device has a higher altitude, the first sensing signal from it has a stronger sensing capability. Therefore, combining the first and second sensing signals can improve the accuracy of the sensing measurement results, ensuring that the first network element can obtain sufficiently accurate sensing measurement results.

[0008] In other words, when the sensing signals from ground-based equipment cannot meet the requirements of the first network element, sensing signals from non-ground-based equipment can be introduced. Utilizing the advantages of non-ground-based equipment, more accurate sensing measurement results can be obtained to meet the needs of the first network element. Thus, using non-ground-based equipment to assist sensing can improve sensing accuracy.

[0009] In some possible implementations, the ground equipment may include base stations and / or terminal equipment. In this way, transmitting the second sensing signal through the terminal equipment can improve the coverage of the second sensing signal and increase the accuracy of the sensing measurement results.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the first sensing signal can be a Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) signal. Optionally, non-terrestrial equipment can actively send SSB signals without requiring a request from the first network element. This reduces the interaction process between terrestrial communication equipment and non-terrestrial equipment, thus reducing overhead.

[0011] In some possible implementations, after determining that the sensing capability of the ground equipment does not meet the sensing accuracy requirements, the first network element can request the non-ground equipment to transmit a first sensing signal. That is, the non-ground equipment can transmit the first sensing signal based on the request from the first network element. This reduces the time required to transmit the first sensing signal and saves energy consumption for the non-ground equipment.

[0012] In some possible implementations, a first network element can request a non-terrestrial device to transmit a first sensing signal through other network elements. Specifically, the first network element can send a first request to a second network element. The first request is used to request the second network element to instruct the non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal. Optionally, the first network element and the second network element can belong to different core networks. In this way, through requests between core network elements, a first network element belonging to the terrestrial network can request a non-terrestrial device in the non-terrestrial network to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0013] In some possible implementations, the first request includes sensing area information. The sensing area information indicates the geographical area covered by the first sensing signal. Thus, based on the sensing area information in the first request, the coverage of the first sensing signal can be controlled to ensure that the first sensing signal can cover the geographical area to be sensed.

[0014] In some possible implementations, the second network element can generate auxiliary sensing information based on the first request. This auxiliary sensing information is used to acquire the first signal. The first network element can acquire the auxiliary sensing information and send it to the device acquiring the first sensing signal, so that the device can acquire the first sensing signal according to the auxiliary sensing information. This facilitates the acquisition of the first sensing signal.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the first network element may not need to request the non-terrestrial device to transmit the second sensing signal through the second network element. Specifically, the first network element can send a sensing assistance request to the non-terrestrial device. The sensing assistance request is used to request the non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal. In this way, in scenarios where the first network element and the non-terrestrial device belong to the same core network, the interaction process between network elements is reduced, and resource overhead is reduced.

[0016] In some possible implementations, the first and second sensing signals can be collected by ground equipment. For example, if the ground equipment is a ground base station, the ground base station can transmit the second sensing signal and collect the first and second sensing signals.

[0017] In some possible implementations, the ground equipment can report the first and second sensing signals it has collected to the first network element. The first network element can then obtain the sensing measurement results based on the signals reported by the ground equipment.

[0018] In some possible implementations, ground equipment can obtain the sensing measurement results based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal and report them to the first network element.

[0019] In some possible implementations, the first information may include any one or more of the following: the sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment, the historical sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment, or the location information of the ground equipment. The location information of the ground equipment is used for estimation.

[0020] In some possible implementations, the first information includes the sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment. This sensing accuracy information block maliciously includes point cloud density. Point cloud density is the density of point cloud data obtained from the sensing signals from the ground equipment. A higher point cloud density indicates a higher density of points in the point cloud data obtained from the sensing signals from the ground equipment, and a stronger sensing capability of the ground equipment. A lower point cloud density indicates a lower density of points in the point cloud data obtained from the sensing signals from the ground equipment, and a weaker sensing capability of the ground equipment.

[0021] In some possible implementations, the perception accuracy condition may include a preset point cloud density threshold. If the point cloud density is less than the preset point cloud density threshold, the perception measurement results obtained using only the perception signals from the ground equipment are considered to have poor accuracy, thus indicating that the perception capability of the ground equipment does not meet the perception accuracy condition.

[0022] In some possible implementations, non-ground equipment includes one or more of satellites, unmanned aerial vehicle platforms, or high-altitude communication platform stations.

[0023] Secondly, this application provides a signal transmission method applicable to a second network element, specifically used to instruct a non-terrestrial device to transmit a first sensing signal upon request from a first network element. Specifically, the second network element can first obtain a first request from the first network element. The second network element can then instruct the non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal based on the first request. Therefore, the first network element can obtain a sensing measurement result combining the sensing signals from the non-terrestrial device and the sensing signals from the terrestrial device, improving the accuracy of the sensing measurement result.

[0024] In some possible implementations, the second network element can instruct the non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal via indication information. Specifically, the network element can send indication information to the non-ground equipment, which is used to instruct the non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0025] In some possible implementations, non-terrestrial equipment may include satellites. In this case, the second network element can send instruction information to the satellite via the base station corresponding to the satellite.

[0026] In some possible implementations, the first network element can indicate the time, coverage area, or format of the first sensing signal transmitted by the non-terrestrial equipment via indication information. That is, the indication information may include any one or more of the time, coverage area, or format of the first sensing signal transmitted by the non-terrestrial equipment.

[0027] In some possible implementations, multiple non-terrestrial devices may be capable of transmitting sensing signals. Accordingly, before instructing a non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal, the second network element may first determine one or more non-terrestrial devices from among the multiple non-terrestrial devices to transmit the first sensing signal. For example, if the non-terrestrial device is a satellite, the second network element may first select the satellite to transmit the first sensing signal based on ephemeris information.

[0028] In some possible implementations, the first request may include information about the area to be sensed. Accordingly, after receiving the first request, the second network element can determine the non-ground device transmitting the first sensing signal based on the information about the area to be sensed. Specifically, the second network element can determine the non-ground device whose sensing signal can cover the sensed area based on the coverage range of the sensing signal transmitted by the non-ground device, and use this non-ground device as the transmitter of the first sensing signal. This ensures that the first sensing signal can cover the sensed area.

[0029] In some possible implementations, the second network element can also return auxiliary sensing information to the first network element. This auxiliary sensing information is used to acquire the first sensing signal. Based on the auxiliary sensing signal, the first network element can instruct the device acquiring the sensing signal to acquire the first sensing signal.

[0030] Thirdly, this application provides a signal acquisition method. This method can be applied to ground-based equipment. Specifically, the ground-based equipment can acquire a first sensing signal from a non-ground-based device and a second sensing signal from the ground-based device, so as to obtain a sensing measurement result based on the first and second sensing signals. Thus, by introducing the first sensing signal from the non-ground-based device, the accuracy of the sensing measurement result is improved.

[0031] Fourthly, this application provides a communication device, which includes a transceiver module and a processing module. The modules of the communication device can also be used to perform the steps performed in various possible implementations of the first aspect and achieve the corresponding technical effects. For details, please refer to the first aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0032] Fifthly, this application provides a communication device, which includes a transceiver module and a processing module. The modules of the communication device can also be used to perform the steps performed in various possible implementations of the second aspect and achieve the corresponding technical effects. For details, please refer to the second aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0033] Sixthly, this application provides a communication device, which is a third device. The communication device includes a transceiver module and a processing module. The constituent modules of the communication device can also be used to perform the steps executed in various possible implementations of the third aspect and achieve the corresponding technical effects. For details, please refer to the third aspect, which will not be repeated here.

[0034] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a communication device including at least one processor coupled to a memory; the memory is used to store a program or instructions; the at least one processor is used to execute the program or instructions to cause the device to implement the method described in any possible implementation of any of the first aspects. Optionally, the communication device may include the memory.

[0035] In an eighth aspect, this application provides a communication device including at least one logic circuit and an input / output interface; the logic circuit is configured to perform the method described in any possible implementation of any of the first aspects described above.

[0036] A ninth aspect of this application provides a communication device including at least one processor coupled to a memory; the memory is used to store a program or instructions; the at least one processor is used to execute the program or instructions to enable the communication device to implement the method described in any possible implementation of any of the second aspects described above. Optionally, the communication device may include the memory.

[0037] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a communication device including at least one logic circuit and an input / output interface; the logic circuit is configured to perform the method described in any possible implementation of any of the preceding second aspects.

[0038] Eleventhly, this application provides a communication device including at least one processor coupled to a memory; the memory is used to store a program or instructions; the at least one processor is used to execute the program or instructions to enable the communication device to implement the method described in any possible implementation of any of the preceding third aspects. Optionally, the communication device may include the memory.

[0039] In a twelfth aspect, this application provides a communication device including at least one logic circuit and an input / output interface; the logic circuit is configured to perform the method described in any possible implementation of any of the preceding third aspects.

[0040] In a thirteenth aspect, this application provides a communication system that includes at least one of the first network element and the second network element described above.

[0041] In a fourteenth aspect, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing one or more computer-executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, perform the method as described in any possible implementation of any of the first, second, or third aspects described above.

[0042] In a fifteenth aspect, this application provides a computer program product (or computer program) that, when executed by a processor, performs the method described in any possible implementation of any of the first, second, or third aspects described above.

[0043] In a sixteenth aspect, this application provides a chip or chip system including at least one processor for supporting a communication device in implementing the method described in any possible implementation of any of the first, second, or third aspects described above.

[0044] In one possible design, the chip or chip system may further include a memory for storing program instructions and data necessary for the communication device. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices. Optionally, the chip system may also include interface circuitry that provides at least one of program instructions or data to the at least one processor.

[0045] The technical effects of any of the design methods in aspects four through sixteen can be found in the technical effects of the different design methods in aspects one through three above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1a A schematic diagram of the communication system provided in this application;

[0047] Figure 1b Another schematic diagram of the communication system provided in this application;

[0048] Figure 1c Another schematic diagram of the communication system provided in this application;

[0049] Figure 2a A schematic diagram of a communication system including sensing network elements provided in this application;

[0050] Figure 2bAnother structural schematic diagram of a communication system including sensing network elements provided for this application;

[0051] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating the sensing method provided in this application;

[0052] Figure 4 Another flowchart illustrating the sensing method provided in this application;

[0053] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating the sensing method provided in this application;

[0054] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the communication device provided in this application;

[0055] Figure 7 Another schematic diagram of the communication device provided in this application;

[0056] Figure 8 Another schematic diagram of the communication device provided in this application;

[0057] Figure 9 Another schematic diagram of the communication device provided in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0058] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this application mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0059] In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or". For example, A / B can mean A or B. "And / or" in this document is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. Furthermore, "at least one" means one or more, and "multiple" means 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 multiple items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c. Where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0060] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" in the embodiments described in this application mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0061] The following detailed embodiments further illustrate the objectives, technical solutions, and beneficial effects of this application. It should be understood that the following are merely specific embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made based on the technical solutions of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

[0062] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0063] It should be understood that the technical solution of this application can be applied to networks with non-terrestrial equipment. For example, it can be applied to non-terrestrial networks (NTN), or scenarios where NTN and terrestrial networks (TN) are integrated. The technical solution of this application can adopt access technologies that evolve after 5G, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE), 5th Generation Mobile Communication (5G), and 6th Generation Mobile Communication (6G).

[0064] The basic architecture of the communication system provided in the embodiments of this application is described below. The communication system provided in this application may include one or more satellites, one or more terminal devices, and may also include terrestrial network elements.

[0065] The following is based on Figure 1a The system architecture shown is illustrated as an example. Figure 1a As shown, the communication system includes a non-terrestrial device 11, a terrestrial device 12, and a network element 13. The non-terrestrial device 11 can transmit a first sensing signal. The terrestrial device 12 can transmit a second sensing signal. The first and second sensing signals can be used to sense the object to be sensed. By acquiring the first and second sensing signals, sensing measurement results can be obtained. The network element 13 can obtain the sensing measurement results and complete the sensing process.

[0066] For ease of description, Figure 1a In the illustration, non-ground equipment 11 is a satellite, and ground equipment 12 is a base station. It is understood that in an NTN scenario, non-ground equipment 11 can be an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform, a high-altitude platform station (HAPS), or other similar equipment. Ground equipment 12 can also be other ground-based equipment with the capability to transmit sensing signals.

[0067] In some other scenarios, ground equipment 12 can also be a terminal device. For example, if it is necessary to sense a certain area, network element 13 can instruct the terminal device corresponding to that area to transmit a second sensing signal.

[0068] In this application, the location of the non-ground device 11 may be variable. For example, if the non-ground device 11 is a satellite, the relative position of the satellite and the ground may change. The location of the ground device may be fixed or mobile. During the sensing process, the location of the ground device does not leave the coverage area of ​​the sensing signal.

[0069] In some application scenarios, some or all core network functions can be deployed to non-terrestrial equipment 11. For example, some functions of the Mobility Management Entity (MME) can be deployed to non-terrestrial equipment 11. Under a store-and-forward (S&F) architecture, deploying some MME functions to satellites can be called an MME-Split scenario. Under an S&F architecture, deploying all core network functions to terrestrial network elements can be called a Full CN / Whole CN scenario.

[0070] In some other application scenarios, non-terrestrial device 11 may not have core network functionality. The core network functionality is entirely deployed on the ground, for example, on ground device 12 and / or network element 13. In this application scenario, the Radio Access Network (RAN) network elements can be carried by other non-terrestrial devices, or all located on the ground. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0071] In some other application scenarios, non-terrestrial equipment 11 does not carry RAN or core network elements; it is only used for transparent forwarding between terminal equipment and terrestrial network elements.

[0072] In other words, the non-terrestrial device 11 can carry some or all of the core network elements, or it can not carry any core network elements. If the non-terrestrial device 11 does not carry core network elements, it can carry access network elements. Alternatively, under a transparent forwarding architecture, the non-terrestrial device 11 is not used to carry access network and core network elements.

[0073] exist Figure 1a In the implementation shown, the relative positions of the non-ground device 11 and the network element 13 change over time. As the non-ground device 11 moves, the sensing signals emitted by the non-ground device 11 cannot be used to sense the area that the sensing network element 13 needs to sense. Optionally, sensing signals emitted by other non-ground devices can be used to assist the sensing network element 13 in its sensing.

[0074] In one implementation, the non-ground device 11 can be a satellite. Optionally, the satellite can be a non-geosynchronous orbit (NGSO) satellite, such as a LEO or MEO satellite.

[0075] Figure 2a This is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of this application. Please refer to... Figure 2a The communication system includes user equipment (UE), radio access network (RAN) equipment (or simply access network equipment), access and mobility management function (AMF), user plane function (UPF), unified data management (UDM), network data analytics function (NWDAF), location management function (LMF), policy control function (PCF), or network function (NEF).

[0076] The communication system also includes a sensing function (SF), which can establish connections with other core network functions, such as UPF, AMF, UDM, NWDAF, LMF, PCF, or NEF. The sensing function is responsible for configuring how sensing devices perform sensing measurements or interact with sensing requirements. It can also process sensing data. The sensing device can be either a RAN or a UE, and the sensing data can be, for example, data or information related to sensing measurements.

[0077] In one example, the LMF is used to calculate the location of the terminal device. The SF can store an environmental map, enabling environmental map reconstruction, and it interacts with the LMF to exchange environmental, measurement, and other information.

[0078] The name of the sensing function may change as the communication system evolves. Any functional network element with a name similar to SF can be understood as the SF of this application and is applicable to the methods provided in this application. For example, SF can also be a communication sensing function, sensing management function entity, sensing function network element, sensing network element, sensing server, or other names. This application does not limit the name of SF. The following embodiments mainly use the description of SF to introduce the execution operation of this functional network element. The interaction between SF and RAN or UE can be transmitted through AMF or directly. For example, sensing data acquired by RAN or UE can be transmitted to SF via control plane or user plane. Specifically, user plane can be forwarded from RAN or UE to SF via UPF, or RAN or UE can transmit directly to SF.

[0079] Figure 2b This is another schematic diagram of the communication system in an embodiment of this application. Please refer to... Figure 2b In a communication system, a sensing unit (SU) is added to the access network equipment side. This SU can perform sensing-related functions, including but not limited to: SU interacting with the SF (Sensing Provider Interface) to request sensing data; and SU interacting with core network equipment, the RAN (Radio Router Network), or the UE (User Equipment) to exchange sensing data. The core network equipment may be, for example, an AMF (Academic Management Function) or a UPF (User Router Network). For example, the RAN may include a centralized unit (CU) or a distributed unit (DU).

[0080] In one example, when the UE reports sensing data to the RAN, the sensing data can be passed from the UE to the DU, then from the DU to the CU, and finally from the CU to the SU on the RAN side; or the sensing data can be passed from the UE to the DU and then directly from the DU to the SU; or the UE can directly pass the sensing data to the SU.

[0081] The name of the sensing unit may change as the communication system evolves. Any functional network element with a name similar to SU can be understood as SU in this application and is applicable to the method provided in this application. For example, SU can also be a sensing computing unit, sensing computing module, sensing module, sensing computing board, computing device, or other names. This application does not limit the name of SU.

[0082] The sensing unit can be independent of the access network equipment; for example, it can be deployed in an edge computing device, or it can be an external service board of the access network equipment. Alternatively, the sensing unit can be co-located with the access network equipment, for example, it can be a functional unit or module within the access network equipment.

[0083] The technical solution of this application can be applied to cellular communication systems related to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). For example, 4th generation (4G) communication systems, 5G communication systems, and communication systems beyond the 5th generation. For example, future communication systems. For example, 4th generation communication systems may include Long Term Evolution (LTE) communication systems. 5th generation communication systems may include New Radio (NR) communication systems. The technical solution of this application can also be applied to Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) systems, communication systems supporting the convergence of multiple wireless technologies, device-to-device (D2D) systems, or vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication systems.

[0084] The following describes the terminal equipment, non-terrestrial equipment, terrestrial equipment, and network elements involved in this application.

[0085] It needs to be stated that, Figure 1a The number of satellites and terminal equipment shown is merely illustrative and should not be considered a specific limitation of this application. The terminal equipment and satellites involved in the system architecture will be described in detail below.

[0086] I. Terminal Equipment

[0087] Terminal equipment, also known as user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), fixed wireless access (FWA), customer premises equipment (CPE), etc., refers to devices that include wireless communication capabilities (providing voice / data connectivity to users). Examples include handheld devices with wireless connectivity, in-vehicle devices, and machine-type communication (MTC) terminals. Currently, terminal devices can include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving (e.g., drones, vehicles), wireless terminals in remote medical surgery, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, and wireless terminals in smart homes. For example, wireless terminals in self-driving can be drones, helicopters, or airplanes. For example, wireless terminals in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) can be in-vehicle equipment, vehicle equipment, in-vehicle modules, vehicles, or ships. Wireless terminals in industrial control can be cameras, robots, or robotic arms. Wireless terminals in smart homes can be televisions, air conditioners, robot vacuums, speakers, or set-top boxes. The terminal device can also be a device or module that is connected to the communication system shown above and has corresponding communication functions. The terminal device usually contains a communication module, circuit or chip that performs the corresponding communication function, and the terminal device is also configured with program instructions for performing the corresponding communication function.

[0088] It should be noted that the terminal device can be a device or apparatus with a chip, or a device or apparatus with integrated circuitry, or a chip, chip system, module, or control unit in the device or apparatus shown above; the specific application is not limited to any particular type. It should also be noted that in this application, when referring to a terminal device, it can refer to the terminal device itself, or to the chip, functional module, or integrated circuit within the terminal device that performs the method provided in this application; the specific application is not limited to any particular type.

[0089] II. Non-ground equipment

[0090] Non-ground equipment refers to equipment deployed outside the ground. Optionally, non-ground equipment can be non-ground equipment within an NTN. In an NTN, signals from terminal equipment are first sent to non-ground equipment.

[0091] Non-terrestrial equipment has the capability to transmit sensing signals. Specifically, non-terrestrial equipment can transmit sensing signals based on requests from network elements. Alternatively, non-terrestrial equipment can also actively transmit sensing signals. Optionally, if non-terrestrial equipment actively transmits sensing signals, the sensing signal can be a Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) signal. That is, the first sensing signal described below can be an SSB signal.

[0092] Optionally, the non-ground equipment can be any one or more of the following: satellites, unmanned aerial vehicle platforms, high-altitude platform stations, etc. Among them, satellites can be, for example, NGSO medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, high-altitude platform stations (HAPS), evolved NodeBs (eNBs), and 5G base stations (gNBs). Satellites can also be GSO satellites.

[0093] In this embodiment, the form of the satellite is not limited. The device used to realize the function of the satellite can be the satellite itself; or it can be a device that supports the satellite in realizing the function, such as a chip system. The device can be installed in the satellite or used in conjunction with the satellite.

[0094] Optionally, non-terrestrial equipment may include network elements. There are several implementation methods for network elements in non-terrestrial equipment. In the first implementation, the non-terrestrial equipment does not carry core network elements or access network elements. In the second implementation, the non-terrestrial equipment does not carry core network elements but carries access network elements. In the third implementation, the non-terrestrial equipment carries some core network elements. In the fourth implementation, all core network functions can be transferred to the non-terrestrial equipment.

[0095] It is understood that, in addition to these four possible implementation methods, non-terrestrial equipment can also have other implementation methods for carrying network elements. The embodiments in this application only provide illustrative examples of network element carrying on satellites and do not impose specific limitations.

[0096] If the perception method is implemented based on non-terrestrial devices of NTN, then the non-terrestrial devices can be non-terrestrial devices under the transparent forwarding architecture or non-terrestrial devices under the regeneration mode architecture.

[0097] In a transparent forwarding architecture, non-terrestrial devices are used to forward signals between terminal devices and terrestrial network elements, acting as frequency-conversion forwarders. In this scenario, non-terrestrial devices can be considered equivalent to remote radio units (RRUs) for long-distance signal forwarding. Optionally, links can exist between non-terrestrial devices, such as inter-satellite links between satellites. Signals from terminal devices can be forwarded from one non-terrestrial device to another via these links, increasing the signal transmission distance.

[0098] In the regeneration mode architecture, in addition to frequency conversion forwarding, non-terrestrial equipment plays other roles. For example, non-terrestrial equipment may include gNB equipment or digital processing units (DUs). Accordingly, non-terrestrial equipment can act as a base station to regenerate non-terrestrial received signals.

[0099] For example, in a partially regenerative satellite architecture, the RAN (Radio Address Translation) is carried on the satellite. The satellite carries the base station and has the processing functions of a base station. The NTN gateway is a transport network layer node and supports the corresponding transport protocols. The satellite and the NTN gateway are connected via the satellite radio interface (SRI), and the NG interface is carried over the SRI, responsible for higher-level information transmission.

[0100] For example, in the MME-split architecture of the S&F mode, some functions of the MME can be transferred to the satellite. The network elements on the satellite used to implement some of the MME's functions can be called onboard MME elements. It is understood that ground network elements can also include network elements used to implement other functions of the MME. Optionally, one or more of the core network elements such as AMF, SMF, and UPF can also be carried on the satellite.

[0101] For example, in the S&F mode, in the full CN architecture, the satellite carries both MME and HSS.

[0102] III. Ground Equipment

[0103] Ground equipment refers to network equipment deployed on the ground. In the embodiments of this application, ground equipment may refer to network equipment deployed on the ground that has the ability to transmit sensing signals. For example, ground equipment may include terminal equipment and / or base stations. A description of terminal equipment can be found above and will not be repeated here.

[0104] A base station can be an evolved universal terrestrial radio access (E-UTRA) system, a new radio (NR) system, or a future radio access system as defined in the 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP). It can also be a WiFi system, an enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) system, an ultra-reliable low latency communication (URLLC) system, a massive machine-type communication (mMTC) system, a long-range Internet of Things (LoRa) system, or a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) system. A base station can also include two or more of the above-mentioned different radio access systems. A base station can also be an open RAN (O-RAN).

[0105] In addition, ground equipment can also be other RAN equipment. Currently, some examples of RAN equipment include: next-generation base stations, transmission reception points (TRPs), evolved Node Bs (eNBs), radio network controllers (RNCs), Node Bs (NBs), base station controllers (BSCs), base transceiver stations (BTSs), home base stations (e.g., home evolved Node Bs or home Node Bs (HNBs)), base band units (BBUs), or wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) access points (APs) in future communication systems. Furthermore, in a network architecture, ground network elements can include centralized unit (CU) nodes, distributed unit (DU) nodes, or RAN equipment comprising both CU and DU nodes.

[0106] Furthermore, in other possible cases, the ground equipment can be other devices capable of transmitting sensing signals. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or form of the ground equipment. For ease of description, the embodiments of this application are not limited.

[0107] IV. Sensory Network Elements

[0108] A sensing network element refers to a network element with sensing capabilities. Optionally, the sensing capability may include the ability to analyze sensing signals or the ability to analyze sensing measurement results. That is, the sensing network element can obtain sensing measurement results based on the sensing signals. Alternatively, the sensing network element can also perform further analysis based on the sensing measurement results.

[0109] Optionally, the sensing network element can be a network element in the access network or a network element in the core network. If the sensing network element is deployed in the core network and provides sensing functions for the network, then the sensing network element can also be called a sensing management function (SMF) network element.

[0110] If the sensing network element is a core network element, it can share the core network with either ground equipment or non-ground equipment. If the ground equipment and non-ground equipment do not share the core network, the sensing network element can belong to the core network of the ground equipment, the core network of the non-ground equipment, or an independent core network.

[0111] For ease of explanation, the following text will use the sensing network element as the core network element as an example.

[0112] In ISAC technology, ground-based equipment can transmit sensing signals. These signals encounter obstacles during propagation, resulting in reflections and scattering. By collecting and analyzing the echo signals, information such as the shape, size, location, material, speed, and type of the obstacles can be obtained.

[0113] Currently, sensing signals can be transmitted by base station equipment or controlled by base station equipment to transmit other equipment (such as sensors controlled by the base station and / or terminal equipment accessing the network through the base station). Base stations have wide coverage. As the infrastructure of wireless communication networks, base stations typically cover an entire city or a specific area. This means that using base stations for environmental sensing can achieve real-time monitoring of large areas, providing valuable data support for urban planning, traffic management, disaster early warning, and other fields. Secondly, base stations are continuously online. Base stations need to provide communication services to users 24 hours a day, so they are always in operation. This allows for real-time, continuous data collection and analysis using base stations for environmental sensing, enabling timely detection and handling of environmental problems. In addition, using base stations for environmental sensing can reduce costs. Since base stations are already widely deployed in cities, there is no need to install a large number of additional sensors and equipment. Sensing and monitoring of the surrounding environment can be achieved simply by upgrading and modifying existing base stations. This not only saves significant investment costs but also avoids redundant construction and resource waste.

[0114] However, the location of base stations is fixed, and the location of the antennas on the base stations used to transmit sensing signals is also relatively fixed. Using base stations for signal sensing has significant disadvantages.

[0115] On the one hand, in urban application scenarios, there may be many obstructions around base stations. The antenna deployment locations of base stations are fixed and difficult to adjust. Obstructions can easily create blind spots for sensing signals. Sensing signals cannot enter these blind spots, or the echo signals of sensing signals that do enter the blind spots cannot be received, causing the sensing network elements to be unable to detect the situation within the blind spots. Furthermore, in complex environments, the attenuation of sensing signals may be severe, making it difficult to collect and analyze the echo signals. Moreover, the propagation path of sensing signals between obstructions is complex, making the analysis of echo signals more difficult.

[0116] On the other hand, base station antennas are often limited in height and may not be the highest point in the surrounding environment. Furthermore, to achieve better sensing performance, the direction of signal transmission is usually not directed upwards towards ground-based equipment. This makes it difficult for the sensing signal to reach spaces above the antenna height, resulting in poor detection capabilities for targets higher than the antenna.

[0117] Understandably, other ground-based equipment besides base stations also suffers from similar disadvantages, including incomplete sensing signal coverage and poor sensing accuracy. For example, if sensing signals are transmitted through terminal devices, the resolution of the sensing signals may be low due to the small aperture of the terminal device's antenna. Similarly, if sensing signals are transmitted through pre-deployed sensors, the coverage area will be limited by the sensor's location, exhibiting a problem similar to that of base stations.

[0118] This application proposes a sensing method, a signal transmission method, a signal acquisition method, and related apparatus. The sensing method can be applied to a first network element with sensing capabilities, the signal transmission method can be applied to a second network element, and the signal acquisition method can be applied to ground equipment. Specifically, when sensing is required, the first network element can acquire first information from the ground equipment. The first information from the ground equipment indicates the sensing capability of the ground equipment. Therefore, based on the first information from the ground equipment, the first network element can determine whether the sensing capability of the ground equipment meets requirements such as sensing accuracy. If the first information meets preset conditions, it indicates that the sensing capability of the ground equipment meets the requirements of the first network element. Then, the first network element can use the ground equipment to perform sensing and obtain sensing measurement results based on the sensing signals from the ground equipment.

[0119] If the first information does not meet the preset conditions, it indicates that the sensing capability of the ground equipment cannot meet the requirements of the first network element. In this way, the first network element can obtain sensing measurement results based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal. The first sensing signal is transmitted by a non-ground device, and the second sensing signal is transmitted by a ground device. Because the non-ground device has a higher altitude, the first sensing signal from it has a stronger sensing capability. Therefore, combining the first and second sensing signals can improve the accuracy of the sensing measurement results, ensuring that the first network element can obtain sufficiently accurate sensing measurement results.

[0120] In other words, when the sensing signals from ground-based equipment cannot meet the requirements of the first network element, sensing signals from non-ground-based equipment can be introduced. Utilizing the advantages of non-ground-based equipment, more accurate sensing measurement results can be obtained to meet the needs of the first network element. Thus, using non-ground-based equipment to assist sensing can improve sensing accuracy.

[0121] The embodiments of this application will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0122] The sensing method provided in this application can be applied to network elements with sensing capabilities. To distinguish the network element implementing the sensing method, it will be referred to as the sensing network element or the first network element below. The signal transmission method can be used in a communication system for a second network element (if it exists) connected to the first network element, and the signal reporting method can be applied to ground equipment that collects sensing signals. Specifically, the signal transmission method is applied to application scenarios where a non-ground device needs to actively request the transmission of a first sensing signal, and the first network element cannot directly send a request to the non-ground device.

[0123] The following descriptions are provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0124] In some implementations, the non-ground device can actively transmit the first sensing signal, or the first network element can send a request to the non-ground device to request it to transmit the first sensing signal. Then the communication system can function as follows: Figure 1a As shown.

[0125] Specifically, the first network element can be Figure 1a Network element 13. Non-terrestrial equipment can be... Figure 1a Network element 11. Ground equipment can be... Figure 1a Ground equipment 12. If non-ground equipment 11 does not actively transmit the first sensing signal, non-ground equipment 11, ground equipment 12, and network element 13 can belong to the same core network. If non-ground equipment 11 actively transmits the first sensing signal, non-ground equipment 11, ground equipment 12, and network element 13 can belong to different core networks. For example, non-ground equipment 11 can belong to core network 1, and ground equipment 12 and network element 13 can belong to core network 2.

[0126] Network element 13 can obtain the first information corresponding to ground device 12 and determine whether the sensing capability of ground device 12 meets the sensing accuracy condition.

[0127] If the sensing capability of the ground equipment 12 meets the sensing accuracy requirements, the network element 13 obtains the sensing measurement results through the ground equipment 12.

[0128] If the sensing capability of ground device 12 does not meet the sensing accuracy requirements, network element 13 can send a request to non-ground device 11 to request it to transmit a first sensing signal. By combining the first sensing signal transmitted by non-ground device 11 and the second sensing signal transmitted by ground device 12, a more accurate sensing measurement result can be obtained. Alternatively, non-ground device 11 can also actively transmit the first sensing signal. When network element 13 determines that the sensing capability of ground device 12 does not meet the sensing accuracy requirements, the sensing measurement result can be obtained based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal transmitted by ground device 12.

[0129] Optionally, the ground equipment 12 can collect the echo signals of the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal, and report the collected echo signals to the network element 13. The network element 13 can process the echo signals to obtain the sensing measurement results. Alternatively, the ground equipment 12 can also collect the echo signals of the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal, obtain the sensing measurement results, and send the sensing measurement results to the network element 13.

[0130] In some other possible implementations, the non-ground equipment does not actively transmit the first sensing signal, and the first network element cannot directly request the non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal. In this case, the communication system can be as follows: Figure 1b As shown.

[0131] Specifically, in Figure 1b The implementation shown includes non-ground equipment 21, ground equipment 22, network element 23, and network element 24. Non-ground equipment 21 and network element 23 belong to core network A, while ground equipment 22 and network element 24 belong to core network B. Network element 24 can serve as a first network element to implement the sensing method provided in this application embodiment. Network element 22 can serve as a second network element to implement the signal transmission method provided in this application embodiment. Optionally, the second network element can be located on a satellite.

[0132] Among them, core network A can be the core network of NTN, and core network B can be the core network of TN.

[0133] Specifically, the network element 24 can obtain the first information corresponding to the ground device 22 and determine whether the sensing capability of the ground device 22 meets the sensing accuracy condition.

[0134] If the sensing capability of the ground equipment 22 meets the sensing accuracy requirements, the network element 24 obtains the sensing measurement results through the ground equipment 22.

[0135] If the sensing capability of ground equipment 22 does not meet the sensing accuracy requirements, network element 24 can request non-ground equipment 21 to transmit a first sensing signal. Since network element 24 belongs to core network B, and non-ground equipment 21 belongs to core network A, network element 24 cannot directly send a request to non-ground equipment 21. Instead, network element 24 can first send a first request to network element 23 in core network B. Network element 23 can then instruct non-ground equipment 21 to transmit the first sensing signal based on the first request from network element 24. According to the instruction of network element 23, non-ground equipment 21 can transmit the first sensing signal, enabling network element 24 to obtain a sensing measurement result that integrates the first and second sensing signals.

[0136] In the above Figure 1a and Figure 1b In the illustrated implementation, the ground equipment is used simultaneously to transmit the second sensing signal and receive its echo. However, in some other possible implementations, the transmission and reception of the second sensing signal can be performed by different devices. That is, the ground equipment can be used to transmit the second sensing signal but not to receive its echo; instead, other devices in the communication system can receive the echo. For example, the base station can instruct the terminal device to transmit the second sensing signal, and the base station can collect the echoes of the first and second sensing signals to obtain the sensing measurement results.

[0137] Optionally, the echo signals of the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal can be collected by the same device, or the echo signals of the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal can be collected by different devices respectively.

[0138] Optionally, in some possible implementations, network element 13 or network element 24, as the first network element, can also be connected to other devices. For example, in some possible implementations, the first network element can also be connected to a server and obtain first information through the server. Optionally, the server can be used to store historical sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment. Optionally, the server can be used to evaluate whether the sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment meets the requirements. The aforementioned server can be a server inside the communication system or a server outside the communication system.

[0139] The above has introduced some possible application scenarios. Below, we introduce some specific implementation methods for information determination. It should be noted that the message names between network elements or the names of parameters in the messages in the following embodiments are merely examples; other names may be used in specific implementations, and this application does not impose specific limitations on them.

[0140] See Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of an information determination method proposed in this application.

[0141] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0142] S301: The first network element obtains the first information.

[0143] To determine whether non-ground equipment is needed for sensing, the first network element can first acquire first information indicating the sensing capability of the ground equipment. Based on the first information, the first network element can determine whether the sensing capability of the ground equipment meets the sensing accuracy requirements. If the sensing accuracy requirements are met, the first network element can use the sensing signal from the ground equipment for sensing without introducing non-ground equipment as an aid. If the sensing accuracy requirements are not met, the first network element can introduce non-ground equipment as an aid to improve the accuracy of the sensing measurement results.

[0144] In this embodiment, the first information is used to indicate the sensing capability of the ground device. Optionally, the first information may include at least one of the following: sensing accuracy information of the ground device, historical sensing accuracy information of the ground device, or location information of the ground device. These will be described in detail below.

[0145] The sensing accuracy information of ground equipment indicates the precision of the sensing results obtained by the ground equipment. The sensing results of ground equipment refer to the results obtained by sensing based on the sensing signals emitted by the ground equipment, that is, the sensing results that can be obtained by using ground equipment for sensing without the assistance of non-ground equipment.

[0146] Optionally, before acquiring the first information, the sensing results of the ground equipment can be analyzed to obtain sensing accuracy information. For example, the first network element can first instruct the ground equipment to transmit sensing signals and collect the echo signals of the sensing signals. By analyzing the echo signals, the first network element can determine the accuracy of the sensing results of the ground equipment and obtain the sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment.

[0147] The sensing accuracy information of ground equipment can include the point cloud density of point cloud data. Point cloud data is obtained from sensing signals from ground equipment. The higher the point cloud density, the stronger the sensing capability of the ground equipment.

[0148] Specifically, point cloud data can be obtained by analyzing the sensing signals from ground-based equipment. Point cloud data refers to data recorded in the form of points through methods such as scanning. Point cloud data includes the positional information of multiple points, each indicating the location of a target surface. By analyzing the echo signals of the sensing signals, the three-dimensional coordinates of multiple points can be obtained. By analyzing the three-dimensional coordinates of each point in the point cloud data, information such as the shape of the target surface can be determined, thus obtaining the sensing measurement results. Therefore, the higher the point density in the point cloud, the higher the accuracy of the sensing measurement results obtained based on the point cloud. If the point cloud density is low, the obtained sensing measurement results may not accurately reflect information such as the shape of the object surface to be sensed. Therefore, the magnitude of point cloud density can represent the sensing capability of ground-based equipment.

[0149] In addition to point cloud density, the perception accuracy information of ground equipment can also include other information such as the reliability and accuracy information of the three-dimensional coordinates of points in the point cloud.

[0150] Historical sensing accuracy information of ground equipment refers to the accuracy information of sensing measurement results obtained based on the sensing signals from the ground equipment. If the historical sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment indicates that the accuracy of the previously obtained sensing measurement results was low, it means that sensing based solely on the sensing signals sent by the ground equipment may not be sufficient to achieve the desired results.

[0151] Optionally, after obtaining the sensing measurement results through the sensing signals of the ground equipment, the accuracy of the sensing measurement results can be evaluated, and the evaluation results can be recorded as historical sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment. Optionally, the first network element can connect to a server. After obtaining the sensing measurement results, the first network element can send the sensing measurement results to the server. The server can analyze and evaluate the sensing measurement results, obtain the accuracy information of the sensing measurement results, and record it. When it is necessary to determine whether non-ground equipment is needed to assist sensing, the first network element can query the server to obtain the historical sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment.

[0152] The location information of ground equipment may include one or more of the following: the geographical coordinates of the ground equipment and information about its surrounding environment. Based on the location information of the ground equipment, the complexity of the environment in which the ground equipment is located can be analyzed to determine whether non-ground equipment is needed for sensing assistance.

[0153] In addition to sensing accuracy information, historical sensing accuracy information, and location information, the first information may also include other information indicating the sensing capabilities of the ground equipment. For example, the first information may also include the ground equipment's transmission power information, beam pointing range, and other information. Accordingly, when determining whether the ground equipment's sensing capabilities meet the sensing accuracy conditions, the transmission power information of the ground equipment can also be used to determine whether the second sensing signal transmitted by the ground equipment has sufficient accuracy for sensing.

[0154] The first information has been introduced above. The following section introduces how the first network element obtains the first information.

[0155] Optionally, if the first network element and the ground equipment belong to the same core network, the first network element can obtain the first information reported by the ground equipment. If the first network element and the ground equipment belong to different core networks, the ground equipment can report the first information to the first network element through other network devices (such as network elements in the core network to which the ground equipment belongs) as relays.

[0156] Alternatively, the first information can be obtained through other devices. For example, the first network element can report the first information to the server, and then the first network element can obtain the first information from the server. Or, for another example, the first message can be stored in a storage device, and then the first network element can retrieve the first information from the storage device.

[0157] The embodiments of this application do not limit the implementation method of the first network element obtaining the first information.

[0158] After receiving the first information, the first network element can determine whether it is necessary to introduce non-ground equipment to assist in sensing. Specifically, this determination can be made based on sensing accuracy conditions. If the sensing capability of the ground equipment indicated by the first information does not meet the sensing accuracy conditions, the first network element can continue to execute the following steps, such as S302, to introduce non-ground equipment to assist in sensing.

[0159] The perception accuracy condition is a pre-configured judgment condition used to determine whether non-ground-based equipment is needed for assisted perception. If the perception capability of the ground-based equipment does not meet the perception accuracy condition, it means that relying solely on the echo signal from the perception signal from the ground-based equipment is insufficient to obtain the perception measurement result, or the accuracy of the perception measurement result is insufficient. Therefore, non-ground-based equipment can be introduced for assisted perception. For example, if the first information includes point cloud density, then the perception accuracy condition can include a preset point cloud density threshold. If the point cloud density is less than the preset point cloud density threshold, it means that the point cloud data obtained from the perception signal of the ground-based equipment contains too few points, resulting in inaccurate perception measurement results, and non-ground-based equipment needs to be introduced for assisted perception.

[0160] In the above description, the first network element determines whether to introduce non-ground-based equipment for assisted sensing based on the first information. It is understandable that in some other possible implementations, other devices, such as other network elements or servers, could determine whether to introduce non-ground-based equipment for assisted sensing. For example, the first network element can send the first information to the server, which can then determine whether the sensing accuracy condition is met. If met, the server can return corresponding indication information to the first network element, indicating the need to introduce non-ground-based equipment for assisted sensing.

[0161] S302: Non-ground equipment transmits the first sensing signal, and ground equipment transmits the second sensing signal.

[0162] If it is necessary to introduce non-ground equipment to assist in sensing, the non-ground equipment can send signals for sensing. Ground equipment sends signals for sensing. In this embodiment, the signal sent by the non-ground equipment for sensing is referred to as the first sensing signal. The signal sent by the ground equipment for sensing is referred to as the second sensing signal.

[0163] Optionally, the non-ground equipment can be any non-ground device within the NTN, such as a satellite, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform, or high-altitude communication platform station within the NTN. That is, the first sensing signal can be transmitted via a satellite, UAV platform, or high-altitude communication platform station. Alternatively, the non-ground equipment can also be other equipment deployed on non-ground surfaces.

[0164] Optionally, the ground equipment can be a base station, a terminal device, or other equipment deployed on the ground with the function of transmitting sensing signals. If the ground equipment is a terminal device, it can transmit a second sensing signal based on the instruction of the base station. Specifically, the first network element can send a request to the base station to request the base station to instruct the terminal device accessed through the base station to transmit the second sensing signal.

[0165] Optionally, the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal can be signals of the same format. That is, ground equipment and non-ground equipment can transmit sensing signals in the same format. Accordingly, when acquiring the echo signal of the sensing signal, the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal can be acquired simultaneously. Alternatively, the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal can also be signals of different formats, and the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal can be acquired by different devices.

[0166] In this embodiment, the non-ground device can actively transmit the first sensing signal, or it can transmit the first sensing signal upon request from the first network element. These will be described separately below.

[0167] Implementation method 1: Non-ground equipment actively transmits the first sensing signal.

[0168] In the first implementation, the non-ground device can actively transmit the first sensing signal. Specifically, the non-ground device can transmit the first sensing signal periodically, or it can transmit the first sensing signal continuously. This reduces the interaction between ground network elements and non-ground devices, thus reducing overhead.

[0169] In other words, regardless of whether the first network element requires non-ground equipment for assisted sensing, the non-ground equipment transmits the first sensing signal. When ground equipment is not required for assisted sensing, the first sensing signal from the non-ground equipment can be omitted, and the sensing measurement result can be obtained based on the second sensing signal from the ground equipment. When non-ground equipment is required for assisted sensing, the echo signal of the first sensing signal can be collected, thereby combining the second sensing signal from the ground equipment and the first sensing signal from the non-ground equipment to obtain the sensing measurement result.

[0170] For example, in some application scenarios, such as emergency rescue and disaster relief, high sensing accuracy is required. Therefore, non-ground equipment such as aerial platforms (e.g., drone platforms, airship platforms) can be configured to continuously transmit first sensing signals for perception. Ground equipment can be handheld devices used by search and rescue personnel. These handheld devices can transmit second sensing signals to perceive the surrounding environment. When the sensing capability of the handheld device does not meet the sensing accuracy requirements, the first network element can combine the first sensing signal from the aerial platform and the second sensing signal from the handheld device to obtain the sensing result.

[0171] Optionally, the first sensing signal may be, for example, an SSB signal. Alternatively, the first sensing signal may also be other signals with sensing capabilities broadcast by non-terrestrial equipment.

[0172] Implementation method 2: Non-ground equipment transmits the first sensing signal according to the request of the first network element.

[0173] In the second implementation, the non-ground equipment does not actively transmit the first sensing signal, but transmits the first sensing signal based on the request of the first network element.

[0174] In other words, when non-ground equipment is not required for assisted sensing, the first network element does not send a request, and the non-ground equipment does not transmit the first sensing signal. The first network element performs sensing based on the second sensing signal transmitted by the ground equipment. When non-ground equipment is required for assisted sensing, the first network element can send a request to request the non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal, thereby combining the second sensing signal from the ground equipment and the first sensing signal from the non-ground equipment to obtain the sensing measurement result. This ensures the accuracy of the sensing measurement result. Furthermore, when no request is received, the non-ground equipment does not transmit the first sensing signal, reducing the signals that the non-ground equipment needs to transmit and lowering its energy consumption.

[0175] In some potential application scenarios, the first network element can send a request to a non-terrestrial device to request the non-terrestrial device to transmit a first sensing signal, without going through the relay of the second network element. Specifically, the first network element can send a sensing assistance request to the non-terrestrial device. The non-terrestrial device can then transmit the first sensing signal based on the sensing assistance request. For example, in an NTN scenario, if the first network element is integrated into a gateway station, the first network element can directly send a sensing assistance request to the non-terrestrial device through the gateway station's antenna.

[0176] Alternatively, in some other possible application scenarios, the first network element can also request other devices in the communication system to transmit the first sensing signal from a non-terrestrial device. For example, the first network element can send a request to other network elements (hereinafter referred to as the second network element) in the communication system. The second network element can instruct the non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal based on the request from the first network element. Optionally, the second network element can also instruct the non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal through the relay of other network elements. That is, the first network element can instruct the non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal through relay of one or more devices.

[0177] Optionally, the first network element and the non-terrestrial device can belong to the same core network or different core networks. For example, in an NTN scenario, if the first network element belongs to NTN, then the first network element and the non-terrestrial device belong to the same core network; if the first network element belongs to TN, then the first network element and the non-terrestrial device belong to different core networks. If the first network element and the non-terrestrial device belong to different core networks, then the first network element can instruct the non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal through a network element in the core network to which the non-terrestrial device belongs. That is, the aforementioned first network element and second network element can belong to different core networks.

[0178] For an explanation of how to instruct non-terrestrial equipment to transmit the first sensing signal via the second network element, please refer to the following text. Figure 4 The description of the corresponding embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0179] S303: Ground equipment collects the first and second sensing signals.

[0180] In order to perform sensing based on the sensing signals, it is necessary to collect the echo signals of the sensing signals. In this embodiment, the ground equipment can collect the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal. Specifically, since the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal have already propagated in space, the signal collected by the ground equipment can also be referred to as the echo signal. That is, the ground equipment can collect the echo signals of the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal.

[0181] To collect echo signals in a targeted manner, ground equipment can collect the echo signal of the first sensing signal based on relevant information of the first sensing signal, and collect the echo signal of the second sensing signal based on relevant information of the second sensing signal. The relevant information of the sensing signal describes the sensing signal. For example, the relevant information may include the coverage time, coverage area, and format of the sensing signal, such as the time-division pattern design. For an introduction to the relevant information of the sensing signal, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 4 The relevant descriptions of the auxiliary sensing information of the first sensing signal in the corresponding embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0182] exist Figure 3 In the described implementation, the ground equipment is used both to transmit sensing signals and to collect the echo signals of the sensing signals. Furthermore, the ground equipment is simultaneously used to collect the echo signals of the first sensing signal and the echo signals of the second sensing signal. Accordingly, the ground equipment may include a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna. The transmitting antenna is used to transmit the second sensing signal. The receiving antenna is used to collect the first and second sensing signals. Optionally, the receiving antenna may include at least two sets of antennas, used respectively for collecting the first sensing signal and collecting the second sensing signal.

[0183] In some other possible implementations, the ground equipment transmitting the second sensing signal and the ground equipment collecting the first and second sensing signals can be different devices deployed on the ground. For example, the ground equipment transmitting the second sensing signal can be a terminal device, and the ground equipment collecting the first and second sensing signals can be a base station. That is, the base station can instruct a terminal device accessed through the base station to transmit the second sensing signal and collect the echo signal of the second sensing signal, as well as the echo signal of the first sensing signal.

[0184] In some other possible implementations, the ground equipment for acquiring the first sensing signal and the ground equipment for acquiring the second sensing signal can also be different devices. This will not be elaborated upon here.

[0185] S304: The first network element obtains the sensing measurement results.

[0186] Based on the collected first and second sensing signals, the corresponding sensing measurement results can be obtained. Accordingly, the first network element can obtain sensing measurement results assisted by non-ground equipment.

[0187] In some possible implementations, the sensing measurement results can be obtained by the first network element. Accordingly, the first network element obtaining the sensing measurement results includes the first network element determining the sensing measurement results based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal.

[0188] Specifically, after acquiring the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal, the ground equipment can report the acquired first sensing signal and the second sensing signal to the first network element. The first network element can obtain the sensing measurement results by analyzing the reported first sensing signal and the second sensing signal. Optionally, the ground equipment can also perform preliminary processing on the acquired first sensing signal and the second sensing signal and report the pre-processed first sensing signal and the second sensing signal. Alternatively, the ground equipment can also report the original version of the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal; this embodiment of the application does not limit this approach.

[0189] Alternatively, in some other possible implementations, the sensing measurement results can also be obtained by other devices and reported to the first network element. Accordingly, the first network element acquiring the sensing measurement results includes the first network element receiving the sensing measurement results reported by other devices.

[0190] Optionally, the sensing measurement results can be determined by ground equipment. Specifically, after acquiring the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal, the ground equipment can analyze the first and second sensing signals to obtain the sensing measurement results. Then, the ground equipment can report the sensing measurement results to the first network element so that the first network element receives the sensing measurement results. Alternatively, the sensing measurement results can also be obtained by other equipment. For example, the ground equipment or the first network element can transmit the first and second sensing signals to a server or server cluster to invoke the server or server cluster to obtain the sensing measurement results.

[0191] In addition to the two implementation methods mentioned above, the first network element can also obtain the sensing measurement results through other means, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0192] By introducing the initial sensing signal from non-ground equipment, the coverage area of ​​the sensing signal is expanded, and the accuracy of the sensing signal is enhanced, thereby improving the accuracy of the sensing measurement results. In other words, when the sensing signal from ground equipment cannot meet the accuracy requirements of the first network element, the initial sensing signal from non-ground equipment can be introduced. Utilizing the advantages of non-ground equipment, higher-precision sensing measurement results can be obtained to meet the needs of the first network element. Thus, using non-ground equipment to assist sensing can improve sensing accuracy.

[0193] The above combination Figure 3 This paper introduces some implementation methods for incorporating non-ground-based equipment for assisted sensing. (In the preceding text...) Figure 3 In the implementation method described, non-ground equipment can actively transmit the first sensing signal, or it can transmit the first sensing signal based on a request from the first network element. The following section will combine... Figure 4 This paper introduces some implementation methods for the first network element to request non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0194] Specifically, see Figure 4 This figure is a schematic diagram of another sensing method provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 The method shown can be applied to application scenarios where a first network element requests a non-terrestrial device to transmit a first sensing signal through other network elements. For example, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0195] S401: The first network element obtains the first information.

[0196] To determine whether non-ground equipment is needed to assist in sensing, the first network element can first obtain the first information.

[0197] For an introduction to the first information and how the first network element obtains the first information, please refer to the above text, which will not be repeated here.

[0198] S402: The first network element determines, based on the first information, that the sensing capability of the ground equipment does not meet the sensing accuracy requirements.

[0199] exist Figure 4 In the described implementation, the first network element can determine whether ground equipment is needed to assist in sensing based on the first information. Specifically, the first network element can determine whether the sensing capability of the ground equipment meets the sensing accuracy requirements based on the first information. If the sensing capability of the ground equipment does not meet the sensing accuracy requirements, the first network element can continue to execute the following steps, such as S403.

[0200] For an explanation of how to determine whether the sensing capability of ground equipment meets the sensing accuracy requirements, please refer to the above text, which will not be repeated here.

[0201] S403: The first network element sends a first request to the second network element.

[0202] After determining that the sensing capability information of the ground equipment does not meet the sensing accuracy requirements, the first network element can request the non-ground equipment to transmit a first sensing signal to assist in sensing. Specifically, the first network element can send a first request to request the non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal. Optionally, the second network element can be located on a satellite.

[0203] exist Figure 4 In the described implementation, the first network element requests the non-terrestrial equipment to transmit a first sensing signal through the second network element. Accordingly, the first network element sends a first request to the second network element, requesting the second network element to instruct the non-terrestrial equipment to transmit the first sensing signal. The second network element is connected to the first network element and is capable of instructing the non-terrestrial equipment to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0204] For example, in Figure 1b In the implementation shown, non-ground equipment 21 and network element 23 belong to core network A, while ground equipment 22 and network element 24 belong to core network B. Since network element 24, as the first network element, belongs to the same core network as ground equipment 22, it can obtain the first information reported by ground equipment 22. Because network element 24 belongs to a different core network than non-ground equipment 21, it cannot directly send requests to non-ground equipment 21. Therefore, network element 23 can act as the second network element. Network element 24 can send a first request to network element 23, requesting network element 23 to instruct the non-ground equipment to transmit a first sensing signal.

[0205] In some application scenarios, the core network A mentioned above can be NTN, and the core network B can be TN. That is to say, for sensing network elements in the terrestrial network, if it is confirmed that the sensing signal from the terrestrial equipment cannot meet the sensing accuracy requirements, the sensing network element can send a request to network elements in the non-terrestrial network to request the non-terrestrial equipment to transmit sensing signals to assist in sensing.

[0206] The first request may include relevant information for guiding non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal. This "relevant information for guiding non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal" may include any one or more of the following: the identifier of the non-ground equipment, information indicating the transmission time of the first sensing signal, information indicating the coverage area of ​​the first sensing signal, and the format information of the first sensing signal. These will be described in detail below.

[0207] First, let's introduce the identification of non-ground equipment.

[0208] In some application scenarios, there may be multiple non-terrestrial devices capable of transmitting sensing signals. For example, in an NTN network, multiple satellites may be capable of transmitting sensing signals. However, during actual sensing, one or more specific non-terrestrial devices may be needed to transmit the initial sensing signal.

[0209] Therefore, in some implementations, the first network element can identify non-terrestrial devices that need to transmit the first sensing signal and send the identifiers of these non-terrestrial devices to the second network element in the first request. For example, assuming the non-terrestrial device is a satellite that needs to sense a certain area, the first network element can combine ephemeris information to determine which satellites can cover the area to be sensed by transmitting the first sensing signal, and provide the satellite identifiers to the second network element in the first request, so that the second network element can instruct the corresponding satellite to transmit the first sensing signal. That is, the first network element can determine the non-terrestrial devices based on ephemeris information.

[0210] Thus, by identifying non-ground devices, in scenarios where multiple non-ground devices exist, specific non-ground devices can be instructed to transmit the first sensing signal. This can avoid confusion in the first sensing signal and reduce the energy consumption of non-ground devices.

[0211] The following section describes "relevant information used to indicate the transmission time of the first sensing signal".

[0212] Continuous transmission of the first sensing signal by non-terrestrial equipment incurs significant energy consumption. Therefore, to conserve energy for non-terrestrial equipment, it can be instructed to transmit the first sensing signal within a specific time window. Accordingly, the first network element can carry relevant information indicating the transmission time of the first sensing signal in the first request, so that the non-terrestrial equipment can transmit the first sensing signal at the corresponding time.

[0213] Optionally, the first request may include a start time and an end time for transmitting the first sensing signal. Non-ground equipment may transmit the first sensing signal within a time window between the start and end times.

[0214] Alternatively, the first request may also include the start time and the length of the time window for transmitting the first sensing signal. The non-ground device may begin transmitting the first sensing signal at the start time and start timing, ceasing transmission of the first sensing signal after the timing duration reaches the length of the time window.

[0215] Alternatively, the first request may only include the length of the time window. The non-terrestrial device may begin transmitting the first sensing signal and timing itself after receiving an instruction from the second network element, and stop transmitting the first sensing signal after the timing duration reaches the length of the time window. This application does not limit the specific implementation of the "related information for indicating the transmission time of the first sensing signal" in its embodiments.

[0216] The following section describes "Relevant information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first sensing signal".

[0217] Because non-ground devices are deployed off-ground, their transmitted sensing signals can cover a wide area. However, in practical applications, non-ground devices often need to assist ground devices in sensing specific areas, rather than sensing overly large areas. Therefore, the first network element can carry relevant information indicating the coverage area of ​​the first sensing signal in the first request. Based on this information, the non-ground device can transmit the first sensing signal within its coverage area, thereby achieving assisted sensing within that area. That is, assuming sensing of a target area is required, the first request can include relevant information about the target area.

[0218] Optionally, the first request may include geographic coordinate information of the target area. The non-terrestrial device can adjust the angle of the transmitted first sensing signal based on the geographic coordinate information to ensure that the first sensing signal covers the corresponding target area.

[0219] Alternatively, the first request may include a region identifier for the target area. The non-ground device can determine the required coverage area of ​​the first sensing signal based on the region identifier, and adjust the angle of the transmitted first sensing signal to ensure coverage of the corresponding target area.

[0220] Alternatively, the first request may also include the location of the ground equipment. The non-ground equipment can determine the target area based on the location of the ground equipment and preset parameters, thereby adjusting the angle of the transmitted first sensing signal to ensure that the first sensing signal covers the corresponding target area. The preset parameters may, for example, include a preset radius. The non-ground equipment can define the target area as a prototype region centered on the location of the ground equipment and with a preset radius.

[0221] It is understandable that the actual coverage area of ​​the first sensing signal may be larger than the target area. Alternatively, the actual coverage area of ​​the first signal may be smaller than the target area.

[0222] In some application scenarios, the location of non-ground equipment may change. As the location of the non-ground equipment changes, the coverage area of ​​the sensing signals emitted by it may also change. In some scenarios, the sensing signals emitted by the non-ground equipment may fail to cover the target area as the non-ground equipment moves. Accordingly, based on relevant information about the target area, the time window for the non-ground equipment to emit the first sensing signal can also be determined. That is, the relevant information about the target area can be considered as the aforementioned "relevant information used to indicate the emission time of the first sensing signal".

[0223] The format information of the first sensing signal is described below.

[0224] To distinguish between different sensing signals, the format information of the first sensing signal transmitted by non-terrestrial equipment can be restricted. Accordingly, the first network element can carry the format information of the first sensing signal in the first request, so that the non-terrestrial equipment transmits the first sensing signal according to the format information. Optionally, the format information of the first sensing signal may include information such as the type of the first sensing signal and the time-division pattern design of the first sensing signal. This application embodiment does not limit the format information of the first sensing signal.

[0225] It is understandable that in some other possible implementations, the first network element may not need to send the first request through the second network element. For example, if the first network element and the non-terrestrial device belong to the same core network, the first network element can directly send a request to the non-terrestrial device through the gateway station in the core network to request the non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal. Alternatively, the first network element can also request the non-terrestrial device to transmit the first sensing signal through a terminal device, other non-terrestrial devices, or other devices as relays. Other implementations of requesting non-terrestrial devices to transmit the first sensing signal will not be elaborated here.

[0226] Optionally, if the first network element is a sensing network element, the first network element can send a first request through the interface between the sensing network element and other network elements. Optionally, the interface between the sensing network element and other network elements may include any one or more of the following interfaces: NS1 interface, NS3 interface, NS4 interface, NS5 interface, NS6 interface, NS7 interface, N33 interface, NL5 interface, NL2 interface, NL1 interface, and NL9 interface.

[0227] S404: In accordance with the first request, the second network element instructs the non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0228] After receiving the first request, the second network element can instruct the non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal to assist the first network element in sensing.

[0229] If multiple non-ground devices exist, the second network element can instruct each non-ground device to transmit a first sensing signal. Alternatively, the second network element can also instruct its corresponding multiple non-ground devices to transmit the first sensing signal. Or, the second network element can also identify one or more specific non-ground devices from among the multiple non-ground devices and instruct these non-ground devices to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0230] Specifically, the second network element can send indication information to the non-ground equipment to instruct the non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal. Optionally, if the non-ground equipment is a non-ground device in the NTN, the second network element can send the indication information to the non-ground equipment through equipment such as satellite base stations and gateways.

[0231] The indication information can be carried in the registration request message and / or the update request message. The registration request message can be, for example, an Attach Request message, and the update request message can be, for example, a TAU Request. It is understood that the first information can also be sent through other messages, and this embodiment of the application does not limit this.

[0232] Optionally, similar to the first request, the indication information may include any one or more of the following: an identifier of the non-ground equipment, information indicating the transmission time of the first sensing signal, information indicating the coverage area of ​​the first sensing signal, and format information of the first sensing signal.

[0233] It is understandable that the information in the indication message can come from the first request or be determined by the second network element based on the first request. That is, the first request may include a limited amount of information. After receiving the first request, the second network element can parse the information in the first request to determine other information used to indicate the transmission of the first sensing signal.

[0234] For example, in some implementations, the non-ground device is a satellite, and the first request includes information about the target area. Upon receiving the first request, the second network element can determine the identifier of the non-ground device and the time window for the non-ground device to transmit the first sensing signal based on the target area information. Specifically, the first network element can combine the satellite's ephemeris information and the target area information to determine which satellites' transmitted sensing signals can cover the target area, thereby identifying the non-ground device that needs to transmit the first sensing signal. Furthermore, combining the ephemeris information, the first network element can also determine the start time when the first sensing signal transmitted by the non-ground device can cover the target area, and the time when the first sensing signal transmitted by the non-ground device cannot cover the target area, thus obtaining the time window for the non-ground device to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0235] Optionally, the second network element can also determine information for instructing the transmission of the first sensing signal based on the capability information of the non-ground equipment. The capability information of the non-ground equipment indicates its ability to transmit sensing signals. For example, the capability information of the non-ground equipment may include its signal transmission power, beam pointing range, etc. Thus, based on the aforementioned determination using ephemeris information, the introduction of information such as beam pointing range and signal transmission power for the non-ground equipment further refines the time window for transmitting the first sensing signal, ensuring that the first sensing signal from the non-ground equipment can cover the target area, and that the power of the first sensing signal in the target area is sufficient to meet the requirements of the sensing function.

[0236] Optionally, the capability information of non-terrestrial equipment can be pre-stored in the second network element. Alternatively, the second network element can also obtain the capability information of non-terrestrial equipment from other devices. For example, the second network element can query the capability information of non-terrestrial equipment from a server. Or, for another example, the second network element can obtain the capability information of non-terrestrial equipment from non-terrestrial equipment or other devices. For instance, if the non-terrestrial equipment includes a satellite, the satellite or satellite base station can report the satellite's capability information to the second network element.

[0237] In addition to instructing non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal, the second network element can also return relevant information about the first sensing signal to the first network element.

[0238] For example, if the first sensing signal does not include the identifier of a non-ground device, and the second network element determines the non-ground device that transmitted the first sensing signal based on the first request, then the second network element can return the identifier of the non-ground device to the first network element so that the first network element can determine the source of the first sensing signal. As another example, if the first sensing signal does not include the time window in which the non-ground device transmitted the first sensing signal, and the second network element determines the time window in which the first sensing signal was transmitted based on the first request, then the second network element can return the relevant information of that time window to the first network element so that the first network element can determine the time when the first sensing signal can be collected.

[0239] Specifically, the second network element can return auxiliary sensing information to the first network element. This auxiliary sensing information is used to acquire the first sensing signal. In other words, the ground equipment (or other equipment acquiring the first sensing signal) can distinguish the first sensing signal from other sensing signals based on the auxiliary sensing signal, thereby acquiring the first sensing signal.

[0240] Optionally, the auxiliary sensing information may include any one or more of the following: the identifier of the non-ground device, information indicating the transmission time of the first sensing signal, information indicating the coverage area of ​​the first sensing signal, and format information of the first sensing signal.

[0241] Based on the identifiers of the non-ground devices, the device acquiring the first sensing signal can determine the source of the first sensing signal. Optionally, if multiple non-ground devices are emitting sensing signals, the sensing signals from different non-ground devices can be distinguished based on their identifiers. Based on information indicating the transmission time of the first sensing signal, the time for acquiring the first sensing signal can be determined. For example, based on the time window in which the first sensing signal is emitted by the non-ground device and the propagation time of the first sensing signal, the time window for the first sensing signal to reach the target area can be calculated, thereby acquiring the first sensing signal within the corresponding time window.

[0242] In the implementation described above, the auxiliary sensing information is sent from the second network element to the first network element. Alternatively, the auxiliary sensing information can also be obtained through other means. For example, the second network element can send a first request to a server or other device. Based on the first request, the server or other device can determine the auxiliary sensing information and send it to both the second and first network elements respectively.

[0243] S405: Ground equipment transmits a second sensing signal.

[0244] S406: Ground equipment collects the first and second sensing signals.

[0245] S407: The first network element obtains the sensing measurement results based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal.

[0246] For a description of steps S405, S406 and S407 above, please refer to the above text, and they will not be repeated here.

[0247] exist Figure 4 In the described implementation, when the sensing accuracy of the ground equipment is insufficient, the first network element can send a first request to the second network element, requesting the second network element to instruct the non-ground equipment to transmit a first sensing signal. This introduces the first sensing signal from the non-ground equipment, expanding the coverage area of ​​the sensing signal, enhancing its accuracy, and thus improving the accuracy of the sensing measurement results. Therefore, using non-ground equipment to assist sensing can improve sensing accuracy.

[0248] The following section provides a detailed introduction based on practical application scenarios.

[0249] First, let's introduce the application scenarios.

[0250] See Figure 1c This figure is a schematic diagram of an application scenario provided by an embodiment of this application. Figure 1cIn the implementation shown, the communication system includes satellite 311, satellite 312, satellite 313, satellite base station 32, core network element 33, core network element 34, ground base station 35, terminal equipment 361, terminal equipment 362 and terminal equipment 363.

[0251] Among them, satellites 311, 312, 313, satellite base station 32, and core network element 33 belong to NTN, while core network element 34 and ground base station 35 belong to TN. Core network element 33 and core network element 34 belong to different core networks. Core network element 33 can be a sensing element in NTN, such as an SF network element or a sensing management function network element in NTN. Core network element 34 can be a sensing element in TN, such as an SF network element or a sensing management function network element in TN.

[0252] Core network element 33 can send messages to satellites 311, 312, and 313 via satellite base station 33. Terminal devices 361, 362, and 363 are located in the target area to be sensed and access the communication system through ground base station 35.

[0253] The following is combined with Figure 5 ,by Figure 1c Using the application scenario shown as an example, this section introduces the implementation method for sensing target areas. For details, please refer to... Figure 5 This figure is a schematic diagram of another sensing method provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 The method shown can be applied to the first Figure 1c Application scenarios. For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0254] S501: Satellite base station 32 announces the sensing capability information of non-ground equipment to core network element 33.

[0255] S502: Core network element 33 announces the sensing capability information of non-ground equipment to core network element 34.

[0256] Before performing sensing, the sensing capability can be announced to the core network element 34.

[0257] Specifically, satellite base station 32 can announce the sensing capabilities of non-terrestrial equipment to core network element 33. Terrestrial base station 35 can announce the corresponding sensing capabilities of the terrestrial base station, i.e., the first information, to core network element 34.

[0258] The sensing capability of non-terrestrial equipment refers to the sensing capability of the satellite corresponding to satellite base station 32. If... Figure 1cSatellites 311, 312, and 313 all possess sensing capabilities, and satellite base station 32 can notify the core network element 33 of the sensing capabilities of satellites 311, 312, and 313. Optionally, the sensing capability information of non-ground equipment may include information such as the satellite's signal transmission power and beam pointing range.

[0259] To facilitate the core network element 34's determination of whether to introduce non-terrestrial equipment for assisted sensing, core network element 33 can notify core network element 34 of the sensing capability information of the non-terrestrial equipment. In addition to the sensing capability information of the non-terrestrial equipment, core network element 33 can also notify core network element 34 of other information, such as ephemeris information.

[0260] S503: Ground base station 35 announces the first information to core network element 34.

[0261] S504: Core network element 34 determines, based on the first information, that the sensing accuracy of the ground equipment does not meet the sensing accuracy conditions.

[0262] exist Figure 5 In the described implementation, the terminal device acts as a ground device transmitting the second sensing signal. To facilitate the core network element 34 in determining whether non-ground equipment is needed to assist in sensing, the ground base station 35 can determine first information based on the terminal device's sensing capabilities and send the first information to the core network element 34. Based on the first information, the core network element 34 can determine whether the sensing accuracy of the ground device meets the sensing accuracy requirements.

[0263] For example, the ground base station 35 can instruct terminal devices 361, 362, and 363 to transmit sensing signals and collect sensing signals. The ground base station 35 can report the collected sensing signals as first information to the core network element 34. By analyzing the data reported by the ground base station 35, the core network element 34 can determine whether the sensing accuracy of the ground equipment meets the sensing accuracy conditions. If it does not meet the conditions, the following step S505 can be executed.

[0264] S505: Core network element 34 sends the first request to core network element 33.

[0265] If the sensing accuracy of the ground equipment cannot meet the sensing accuracy requirements, core network element 34 can introduce non-ground equipment to assist in sensing. Specifically, core network element 34 can generate a first request and send it to core network element 33. The first request may include any one or more of the following information: location information of the ground base station 35, target area information, and time window information. Based on the information in the first request, core network element 33 can determine the first sensing signal required by core network element 34.

[0266] S506: The core network element 33 determines the satellite 311 based on the first request, and instructs the satellite 311 to transmit the first sensing signal through the satellite base station 32.

[0267] Upon receiving the first request, core network element 33 can determine the non-terrestrial equipment transmitting the first sensing signal based on the first request. Specifically, core network element 33 can combine ephemeris information to select from satellites 311, 312, and 313 the satellite whose location the first sensing signal can cover. Figure 5 In the implementation method described, core network element 33 selects satellite 311 as the satellite to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0268] It is understood that multiple satellites may be selected in some other possible implementations. Optionally, multiple satellites may be selected to transmit the first sensing signal simultaneously, and / or multiple satellites may be selected to transmit the first sensing signal sequentially. Sequential transmission of the first sensing signal may, for example, include: instructing satellite 311 to transmit the first sensing signal when the first sensing signal transmitted by satellite 311 can cover the target area. As satellites 311 and 312 move, if the first sensing signal transmitted by satellite 311 can no longer cover the target area, while the first sensing signal transmitted by satellite 312 can cover the target area, then satellite 311 is instructed to stop transmitting the first sensing signal, and satellite 312 is instructed to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0269] After satellite 311 is identified, core network element 33 can notify satellite base station 32. Optionally, core network element 33 can send an instruction to satellite 311 through satellite base station 32 to instruct satellite 311 to transmit the first sensing signal, or core network element 33 can send a request to satellite base station 32 to request satellite base station 32 to instruct satellite 311 to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0270] Optionally, core network element 33 may send information related to the first request to satellite base station 32, so that satellite 311 transmits the first sensing signal according to the requirements of core network element 34. Optionally, the aforementioned "information related to the first request" may include any one or more of the following: time window information for transmitting the first sensing signal, format information of the first sensing signal, and target area information. The format information of the first sensing signal may include, for example, the time-division pattern design information of the first sensing signal.

[0271] S507: Core network element 33 sends auxiliary sensing information to core network element 34.

[0272] To facilitate the acquisition of the echo signal of the first sensing signal, core network element 33 can send auxiliary sensing information to core network element 34. The auxiliary sensing information is used to acquire the echo signal of the first sensing signal. Optionally, the auxiliary sensing information may include any one or more of the following: the identifier of satellite 311, information about the time window of the first sensing signal, format information of the first sensing signal, and information about the target area.

[0273] S508: Core network element 34 sends auxiliary sensing information and a second request to ground base station 35.

[0274] To facilitate the ground base station 35 in collecting the echo signal of the first sensing signal, the core network element 34 can send auxiliary sensing information to the ground base station 35 so that the ground base station 35 can collect the first sensing signal based on the auxiliary sensing information.

[0275] In addition, core network element 34 also sends a second request to ground base station 35. The second request is used to request the ground equipment to transmit a second sensing signal. Optionally, the second request may include configuration information of the second sensing signal, such as time window information for transmitting the second sensing signal, format information of the second sensing signal, and target area information.

[0276] S509: Ground base station 35, in accordance with the second request, instructs terminal equipment 361, terminal equipment 362 and terminal equipment 363 to transmit a second sensing signal.

[0277] After receiving the second request, the ground base station 35 can instruct the terminal device to transmit a second sensing signal according to the second request. Figure 5 In the described implementation, the ground base station 35 can instruct devices accessing the network through the ground base station 35 to transmit a second sensing signal. Therefore, the ground base station 35 can instruct terminal devices 361, 362, and 363 to transmit the second sensing signal.

[0278] Optionally, the ground base station 35 can configure the format of the second sensing signal for each terminal device. The sensing signals transmitted by different terminal devices can have the same or different formats.

[0279] It is understandable that in some other possible implementations, the second sensing signal can also be transmitted by the ground base station, which will not be elaborated here.

[0280] S510: Ground base station 35 collects the second sensing signal and collects the first sensing signal based on auxiliary sensing information.

[0281] Ground base station 35 can collect second sensing signals and collect first sensing signals based on auxiliary sensing information.

[0282] Optionally, if the auxiliary sensing information does not include the time window information for satellite 311 to transmit the first sensing signal, the ground base station 35 can collect the first sensing signal based on the ephemeris information. For example, the auxiliary sensing information may include the identifier of satellite 311. The ground base station 35 can determine, based on the identifier of satellite 311, combined with the ephemeris information and the target area information, when the first sensing signal from satellite 311 will arrive at the target area, and thus collect the first sensing signal at the corresponding time.

[0283] S511: The ground base station 35 merges and filters the first and second sensing signals it collects, and then reports them to the core network element 34.

[0284] After collecting the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal, the ground base station 35 can merge and filter the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal, and then report the merged and filtered data to the core network element 35.

[0285] Alternatively, in some other possible implementations, the ground base station 35 may also report the raw data collected to the core network 35.

[0286] S512: Core network element 34 obtains the sensing measurement results based on the data reported by the ground base station 35.

[0287] After receiving the data reported by the ground base station 35, the core network element 34 can obtain the sensing measurement results based on the data reported by the ground base station 35. Thus, the sensing measurement results are obtained based on the second sensing signal transmitted by the terminal device and the first sensing signal transmitted by the satellite. By integrating different sensing signals from the ground and non-ground sources, the accuracy of the sensing measurement results can be improved, resulting in accurate sensing measurement results.

[0288] It should be noted that, Figure 5 This is only one specific implementation method. In real-world applications, other implementation methods can also be used to achieve this.

[0289] The present application has been described above from a methodological perspective. Other embodiments provided by the present application will be further described below.

[0290] Please see Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an implementation of the communication device provided in this application. The communication device 600 includes a transceiver unit 601 and a processing unit 602. The communication device 600 can realize the functions of the communication device (including the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment) in the above method embodiments, and therefore can also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiments.

[0291] In this embodiment, the communication device 600 can be a satellite network element located on the first satellite, or an integrated circuit or component, such as a chip, inside the satellite network element. The communication device 600 can also be a terminal device, or an integrated circuit or component, such as a chip, inside the terminal device. Furthermore, the communication device 600 can be a terrestrial network element, or an integrated circuit or component, such as a chip, inside the terrestrial network element. Finally, the communication device 600 can also be an external server, or an integrated circuit or component, such as a chip, inside the external server.

[0292] In one example, the communication device 600 is applied to a first device, and the communication device 600 includes a transceiver unit 601 and a processing unit 602.

[0293] Transceiver unit 601 is used for the first network element to acquire first information, the first information indicating the sensing capability of the ground equipment;

[0294] The transceiver unit 601 is further configured to, in response to the ground equipment's sensing capability not meeting the sensing accuracy condition, obtain a sensing measurement result, wherein the sensing measurement result is obtained based on a first sensing signal and a second sensing signal, wherein the first sensing signal is transmitted by a non-ground equipment and the second sensing signal is transmitted by a ground equipment.

[0295] In one possible implementation, the ground equipment includes a base station and / or terminal equipment.

[0296] In one possible implementation, the first sensing signal is a synchronization signal block signal.

[0297] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 601 is used to request the non-ground device to transmit a first sensing signal.

[0298] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 601 is specifically used to send a first request to the second network element, the first request being used to request the second network element to instruct the non-ground device to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0299] In one possible implementation, the first request includes sensing area information, which is used to indicate the geographical area covered by the first sensing signal.

[0300] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 601 is further configured to acquire auxiliary sensing information, which is used to collect the first sensing signal; and to send the auxiliary sensing information to the device receiving the first sensing signal.

[0301] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 601 is further configured to send a sensing assistance request to the non-ground device, the sensing assistance request being used to request the non-ground device to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0302] In one possible implementation, the non-ground equipment includes a satellite, and the processing unit 602 is used to determine the non-ground equipment based on ephemeris information.

[0303] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 601 is further configured to acquire the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal reported by the ground equipment, and determine the sensing measurement result based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal; or, acquire the sensing measurement result determined and reported by the ground equipment based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal.

[0304] In one possible implementation, the first information includes at least one of the following: the sensing accuracy information of the ground device, the historical sensing accuracy information of the ground device, or the location information of the ground device.

[0305] In one possible implementation, the first information includes the sensing accuracy information of the ground device, which includes the point cloud density of point cloud data obtained from the sensing signals from the ground device.

[0306] In one possible implementation, the preset condition includes the point cloud density being greater than a preset point cloud density threshold.

[0307] In one possible implementation, the non-ground equipment includes any one or more of a satellite, an unmanned aerial vehicle platform, or a high-altitude communication platform station.

[0308] In one example, the communication device 600 is applied to a second network element, and the communication device 600 includes a transceiver unit 601 and a processing unit 602.

[0309] The transceiver unit 601 is used to obtain a first request from the first network element;

[0310] The acquisition unit 602 is used to instruct a non-ground device to transmit a first sensing signal according to the first request. The first network element is used to obtain a sensing measurement result based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal, wherein the second sensing signal comes from the ground device.

[0311] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 601 is specifically used to send indication information to the non-ground device according to the first request, the indication information being used to instruct the non-ground device to transmit the first sensing signal.

[0312] In one possible implementation, the non-ground equipment includes a satellite, and the transceiver unit 601 is specifically used to send the indication information to the satellite via a satellite base station.

[0313] In one possible implementation, the indication information includes at least one of the following: the time when the non-ground device transmits the first sensing signal, the coverage area of ​​the first sensing signal, or the format of the first sensing signal.

[0314] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 602 is used to determine the non-ground equipment.

[0315] In one possible implementation, the first request includes information about the area to be sensed, and the processing unit 602 is configured to determine the non-ground device based on the information about the area to be sensed.

[0316] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 601 is further configured to send auxiliary sensing information to the first network element, the auxiliary sensing information being used to determine the first sensing signal.

[0317] Please see Figure 7 This is another schematic structural diagram of the communication device 700 provided in this application. The communication device 700 includes at least an input / output interface 702. The communication device 700 can be a chip or an integrated circuit.

[0318] Optionally, the communication device also includes logic circuitry 701.

[0319] in, Figure 6 The transceiver unit 601 shown can be a communication interface, which can be... Figure 7 The input / output interface 702 may include an input interface and an output interface. Alternatively, the communication interface may also be a transceiver circuit, which may include an input interface circuit and an output interface circuit.

[0320] The logic circuit 701 and the input / output interface 702 can also perform other steps executed by the communication device in any embodiment and achieve corresponding beneficial effects, which will not be elaborated here.

[0321] In one possible implementation, Figure 6 The processing unit 602 shown can be Figure 7 The logic circuit 701 in the middle.

[0322] Optionally, the logic circuit 701 can be a processing device, the functions of which can be partially or entirely implemented in software.

[0323] Optionally, the processing apparatus may include a memory and a processor, wherein the memory is used to store a computer program, and the processor reads and executes the computer program stored in the memory to perform the corresponding processing and / or steps in any of the method embodiments.

[0324] Optionally, the processing device may consist of only a processor. A memory for storing computer programs is located outside the processing device, and the processor is connected to the memory via circuitry / wires to read and execute the computer programs stored in the memory. The memory and processor may be integrated together or physically independent of each other.

[0325] Optionally, the processing device may be one or more chips, or one or more integrated circuits. For example, the processing device may be one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), system on-chips (SoCs), central processors (CPUs), network processors (NPs), digital signal processors (DSPs), microcontroller units (MCUs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), or other integrated chips, or any combination of the above chips or processors.

[0326] Please see Figure 8 The communication device 800 provided in the above embodiments of this application can specifically be the communication device that serves as the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment in the above embodiments.

[0327] The present invention is a possible logical structure diagram of the communication device 800, which may include, but is not limited to, at least one processor 801 and a communication port 802.

[0328] Further optionally, the device may also include at least one of a memory 803 and a bus 804. In the embodiments of this application, the at least one processor 801 is used to control the operation of the communication device 800.

[0329] Furthermore, the processor 801 can be a central processing unit, a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array, or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. It can implement or execute the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the disclosure of this application. The processor can also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as a combination of one or more microprocessors, a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, etc. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0330] It should be noted that, Figure 8 The communication device 800 shown can be used to implement the steps implemented by the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment in the aforementioned method embodiments, and to achieve the corresponding technical effects of the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment. Figure 8 The specific implementation of the communication device shown can be referred to the description in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0331] Please see Figure 9 The above-described embodiment of the communication device 900, provided as an example of the embodiments of this application, is a structural schematic diagram. Specifically, the communication device 900 can be a communication device serving as a first network element, a second network element, and a ground device as described in the above embodiments. The structure of this communication device can be referenced from... Figure 6 The structure shown.

[0332] The communication device 900 includes at least one processor 910 and at least one network interface 940. Optionally, the communication device further includes at least one memory 920, at least one transceiver 930, and one or more antennas 950. The processor 910, memory 920, transceiver 930, and network interface 940 are connected, for example, via a bus. In this embodiment, the connection may include various interfaces, transmission lines, or buses, etc., and this embodiment is not limited thereto. The antenna 950 is connected to the transceiver 930. The network interface 940 enables the communication device to communicate with other communication devices through a communication link. For example, the network interface 940 may include a network interface between the communication device and core network equipment, such as an S1 interface, or a network interface between the communication device and other communication devices (e.g., other satellites, ground network elements, terminal equipment, and external devices), such as an X2 or Xn interface.

[0333] The processor 910 is primarily used to process communication protocols and communication data, control the entire communication device, execute software programs, and process data from the software programs, for example, to support the communication device in performing the actions described in the embodiments. The communication device may include a baseband processor and a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor is primarily used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU is primarily used to control the entire communication device, execute software programs, and process data from the software programs. Figure 9 The processor 910 can integrate the functions of a baseband processor and a central processing unit. Those skilled in the art will understand that the baseband processor and the central processing unit can also be independent processors interconnected via technologies such as buses. Those skilled in the art will understand that the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment can include multiple baseband processors to adapt to different network standards, and the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment can include multiple central processing units to enhance their processing capabilities. The various components of the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment can be connected via various buses. The baseband processor can also be described as a baseband processing circuit or a baseband processing chip. The central processing unit can also be described as a central processing circuit or a central processing chip. The function of processing communication protocols and communication data can be built into the processor or stored in memory as a software program, with the processor executing the software program to implement the baseband processing function.

[0334] The memory is primarily used to store software programs and data. The memory 920 can exist independently or be connected to the processor 910. Optionally, the memory 920 can be integrated with the processor 910, for example, integrated within a single chip. The memory 920 can store program code that executes the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and its execution is controlled by the processor 910. The various types of computer program code being executed can also be considered as drivers for the processor 910.

[0335] Figure 9 Only one memory and one processor are shown. In actual first network element, second network element, and ground equipment, multiple processors and multiple memories may exist. Memory can also be called storage medium or storage device, etc. Memory can be a storage element on the same chip as the processor, i.e., an on-chip storage element, or it can be a separate storage element; this application does not limit this.

[0336] Transceiver 930 can be used to support the reception or transmission of radio frequency (RF) signals between a communication device and a terminal. Transceiver 930 can be connected to antenna 950. Transceiver 930 includes a transmitter Tx and a receiver Rx. Specifically, one or more antennas 950 can receive RF signals. The receiver Rx of transceiver 930 receives the RF signals from the antennas, converts the RF signals into digital baseband signals or digital intermediate frequency (IF) signals, and provides the digital baseband signals or IF signals to processor 910 so that processor 910 can perform further processing on the digital baseband signals or IF signals, such as demodulation and decoding. Furthermore, the transmitter Tx in transceiver 930 is also used to receive modulated digital baseband signals or IF signals from processor 910, convert the modulated digital baseband signals or IF signals into RF signals, and transmit the RF signals through one or more antennas 950. Specifically, the receiver Rx can selectively perform one or more stages of downmixing and analog-to-digital conversion on the radio frequency signal to obtain a digital baseband signal or a digital intermediate frequency (IF) signal. The order of these downmixing and IF conversion processes is adjustable. The transmitter Tx can selectively perform one or more stages of upmixing and digital-to-analog conversion on the modulated digital baseband signal or digital IF signal to obtain a radio frequency signal. The order of these upmixing and IF conversion processes is also adjustable. The digital baseband signal and the digital IF signal can be collectively referred to as digital signals.

[0337] The transceiver 930 can also be called a transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver device, etc. Optionally, the device in the transceiver unit that performs the receiving function can be regarded as the receiving unit, and the device in the transceiver unit that performs the transmitting function can be regarded as the transmitting unit. That is, the transceiver unit includes a receiving unit and a transmitting unit. The receiving unit can also be called a receiver, input port, receiving circuit, etc., and the transmitting unit can be called a transmitter, transmitter, or transmitting circuit, etc.

[0338] It should be noted that, Figure 9 The communication device 900 shown can be used to implement the steps performed by the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment in the aforementioned method embodiments, and achieve the corresponding technical effects. Figure 9 The specific implementation of the communication device 900 shown can be referred to the description in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0339] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium that stores one or more computer-executable instructions. When the computer-executable instructions are executed by a processor, the processor executes a method as described in the foregoing embodiments of possible implementations of the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment.

[0340] This application also provides a computer program product (or computer program) that stores one or more computers. When the computer program product is executed by the processor, the processor executes the method described above for possible implementations of the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment.

[0341] This application also provides a chip system including at least one processor for supporting a communication device in implementing the functions involved in the possible implementations of the communication device described above. Optionally, the chip system further includes an interface circuit that provides program instructions and / or data to the at least one processor. In one possible design, the chip system may also include a memory for storing the program instructions and data necessary for the communication device. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices, wherein the communication device may specifically be any one or more of the first network element, the second network element, and the ground equipment in the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0342] This application also provides a communication system, which includes a first network element, a second network element, and ground equipment in any of the above embodiments.

[0343] In the several 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 apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, or indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0344] 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.

[0345] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit. If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

Claims

1. A sensing method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a first network element, and the method includes: The first network element acquires the first information, which indicates the sensing capability of the ground equipment. In response to the ground equipment's sensing capability not meeting the sensing accuracy condition, the first network element obtains a sensing measurement result, which is obtained based on a first sensing signal and a second sensing signal. The first sensing signal is transmitted by a non-ground equipment, and the second sensing signal is transmitted by a ground equipment.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ground equipment includes base stations and / or terminal equipment.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first sensing signal is a synchronization signal block signal.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Before obtaining the sensing measurement results, the method further includes: The first network element requests the non-ground equipment to transmit a first sensing signal.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first network element requests the non-terrestrial equipment to transmit a first sensing signal, including: The first network element sends a first request to the second network element, the first request being used to request the second network element to instruct the non-ground equipment to transmit the first sensing signal.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first request includes sensing area information, which indicates the geographical area covered by the first sensing signal.

7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, After sending the first request, the method further includes: The first network element acquires auxiliary sensing information, which is used to collect the first sensing signal. The first network element sends the auxiliary sensing information to the device that receives the first sensing signal.

8. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first network element requests the non-terrestrial equipment to transmit a first sensing signal, including: The first network element sends a sensing assistance request to the non-ground device, the sensing assistance request being used to request the non-ground device to transmit the first sensing signal.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The non-terrestrial equipment includes a satellite, and the method further includes, prior to sending the second request: The first network element determines the non-ground equipment based on ephemeris information.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The first network element obtains sensing measurement results based on the first and second sensing signals emitted by the non-terrestrial equipment, including: The first network element acquires the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal reported by the ground equipment, and determines the sensing measurement result based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal; or, The first network element acquires the sensing measurement results determined and reported by the ground equipment based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: The sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment, the historical sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment, or the location information of the ground equipment.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first information includes the sensing accuracy information of the ground equipment, which includes the point cloud density of the point cloud data obtained from the sensing signals from the ground equipment.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The preset conditions include the point cloud density being greater than a preset point cloud density threshold.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The non-ground equipment includes any one or more of satellite, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platforms, or high-altitude communication platform stations.

15. A signal transmission method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a second network element, and the method includes: The second network element receives the first request from the first network element; The second network element instructs the non-ground equipment to transmit a first sensing signal according to the first request. The first network element is used to obtain sensing measurement results based on the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal, whereby the second sensing signal comes from the ground equipment.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The second network element instructs the non-terrestrial equipment to transmit the first sensing signal according to the first request, including: According to the first request, the second network element sends an instruction message to the non-ground device, the instruction message being used to instruct the non-ground device to transmit the first sensing signal.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The non-ground equipment includes a satellite, and the second network element sends indication information to the non-ground equipment including: The second network element sends the instruction information to the satellite via the satellite base station.

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The instruction information includes at least one of the following: The time at which the non-ground device transmits the first sensing signal, the coverage area of ​​the first sensing signal, or the format of the first sensing signal.

19. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that, Before instructing the non-ground device to transmit the first sensing signal, the method further includes: The second network element identifies the non-ground equipment.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The first request includes information about the area to be sensed; The second network element determines that the non-ground equipment includes: The second network element determines the non-ground device based on the information of the area to be sensed.

21. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 20, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second network element sends auxiliary sensing information to the first network element, and the auxiliary sensing information is used to determine the first sensing signal.

22. A signal acquisition method, characterized in that, The method is applied to ground equipment, including: Collect a first sensing signal and a second sensing signal, wherein the first sensing signal is emitted by a non-ground device and the second sensing signal is emitted by the ground device; The first sensing signal and the second sensing signal are used to determine the sensing measurement result.

23. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 22.

24. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes at least one processor coupled to a memory; the at least one processor is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 22.

25. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed by a communication device, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 22.

26. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 22.

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