Devices, methods, and computer-readable media for integrating sensing and communication

Abstract

Embodiments of this disclosure relate to an apparatus, method, and computer-readable medium for ISAC. A first apparatus identifies auxiliary nodes for a sensing service and obtains auxiliary information about the auxiliary nodes. Then, the first apparatus determines the sensing result of the sensing service based on the auxiliary information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed herein relate generally to the telecommunications field, and more particularly to an apparatus, method, and computer-readable medium for Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC). Background Technology

[0002] ISAC is considered a promising topic for the future expansion of wireless networks. In the early stages of the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), discussions on ISAC likely focused on building communication-based sensing systems.

[0003] To perform the sensing process, the sensing initiating device may need to identify auxiliary nodes for the sensing process to provide auxiliary information according to the sensing requirements. Sensing auxiliary nodes can include not only network devices and terminal devices, but also other types of devices or nodes. Depending on the device type of the auxiliary node, the sensing initiating device should obtain the sensing results. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Generally, the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure provide an apparatus, method, and computer-readable medium for ISAC.

[0005] In a first aspect, a first device is provided. The first device includes a processor. The processor is configured to cause the first device to: identify an auxiliary node for a sensing service; obtain auxiliary information about the auxiliary node; and determine a sensing result of the sensing service based on the auxiliary information.

[0006] In a second aspect, a method for ISAC is provided. The method includes: identifying auxiliary nodes for a sensing service; obtaining auxiliary information about the auxiliary nodes; and determining the sensing result of the sensing service based on the auxiliary information.

[0007] In a third aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided on which instructions are stored. When executed on at least one processor of a device, these instructions cause the device to perform the method according to the second aspect.

[0008] It should be understood that the summary portion is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become more apparent from a more detailed description of some embodiments thereof in the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1A and Figure 1B Example communication networks that can implement the embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated respectively; Figures 2 to 8 Signaling diagrams illustrating example procedures for ISAC according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown respectively; Figure 9 Flowcharts illustrating example methods according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown; and Figure 10 This is a simplified block diagram of an apparatus suitable for implementing embodiments of this disclosure.

[0010] Throughout the accompanying drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0011] The principles of this disclosure will now be described with reference to some exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are described for illustrative purposes only and are intended to assist those skilled in the art in understanding and implementing this disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way. The disclosure described herein can be implemented in various ways other than those described below.

[0012] In the following description and claims, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0013] As used herein, the term "terminal device" refers to any device with wireless or wired communication capabilities. Examples of terminal devices include, but are not limited to: user equipment (UE); personal computers; desktop computers; mobile phones; cellular phones; smartphones; personal digital assistants (PDAs); portable computers; tablets; wearable devices; Internet of Things (IoT) devices; Ultra-reliable and Low-Latency Communication (URLLC) devices; Internet of Everything (IoE) devices; machine-type communication (MTC) devices; devices on vehicles for V2X communication, where X refers to pedestrians, vehicles, or infrastructure / networks; devices for Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB); devices for Small Data Transmission (SDT); mobility devices; devices for Multicast and Broadcast Service (MBS); devices for location services; devices for dynamic / flexible duplexing in commercial networks; RedCap (red-cap) devices; and non-terrestrial networks (NTNs). In the context of a non-terrestrial network, spacecraft or aircraft vehicles are included. These non-terrestrial networks include satellites and high-altitude platforms (HAPs) encompassing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS); extended reality (XR) devices that include different types of reality (such as augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and virtual reality (VR)); unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), often referred to as drones (aircraft without any human pilots); equipment on high-speed trains (HSTs); or image capture devices such as digital cameras and sensors; gaming devices; music storage and playback devices; or internet devices that enable wireless or wired internet access and browsing.The "terminal device" may also have "multicast / broadcast" capabilities to support public safety and mission-critical applications, V2X applications, transparent IPv4 / IPv6 multicast delivery, IPTV, smart TV, radio services, wireless software delivery, group communications, and IoT applications. The "terminal device" may also incorporate one or more Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs), a latter case referred to as multi-SIM. The term "terminal device" is used interchangeably with UE, mobile station, subscriber station, mobile terminal, user terminal, or wireless device.

[0014] The term "network device" refers to a device that provides or hosts a cell or coverage area for terminal devices to communicate. Examples of network devices include, but are not limited to, NodeBs (or NBs), evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs or eNBs), next-generation NodeBs (gNBs), transmission reception points (TRPs), remote radio units (RRUs), radioheads (RHs), remote radio heads (RRHs), IAB nodes, low-power nodes (such as femtonodes and piconodes), reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs), and network-controlled repeaters.

[0015] Terminal devices or network devices may have artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning capabilities. Terminal devices or network devices typically include models that have been trained on specific functions based on a large amount of collected data and can be used to predict some information.

[0016] Terminal or network devices can operate within several frequency ranges, such as FR1 (410MHz to 7125MHz), FR2 (24.25GHz to 71GHz), bands above 100GHz, and terahertz (THz). They can also operate on licensed / unlicensed / shared spectrum. In Multi-Radio Dual Connectivity (MR-DC) applications, terminal devices can be connected to more than one network device. Terminal or network devices can operate in full-duplex, flexible-duplex, and cross-division duplex modes.

[0017] Network devices may feature network energy saving and self-organizing network (SON) / minimization of drive test (MDT) capabilities. Terminals may feature power saving capabilities.

[0018] The embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in test equipment (e.g., signal generator, signal analyzer, spectrum analyzer, network analyzer, test terminal equipment, test network equipment, channel simulator).

[0019] The embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented according to any generation of communication protocols currently known or to be developed in the future. Examples of communication protocols include, but are not limited to, first-generation (1G), second-generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth-generation (5G), 5.5G, 5G-Advanced Networks, or sixth-generation (6G) networks.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term “comprising” and its variations should be understood as open terms meaning “including, but not limited to.” The term “based on” should be understood as “at least partially based on.” The terms “some embodiments” and “one embodiment” should be understood as “at least some embodiments.” The term “another embodiment” should be understood as “at least one other embodiment.” The terms “first,” “second,” etc., may refer to different or the same objects. Other explicit and implicit definitions are given below.

[0021] In some examples, values, processes, or devices are described as “best,” “lowest,” “highest,” “minimum,” “maximum,” etc. It should be understood that such descriptions are intended to indicate that a choice can be made among many alternative functionalities used, and that such a choice is not necessarily better, smaller, higher, or otherwise preferred than other choices.

[0022] Figure 1A A schematic diagram illustrating an example communication network 100A that can implement an embodiment of this disclosure is provided. Figure 1AAs shown, the communication network 100A may include terminal equipment 110, terminal equipment 120, control node 130, access and mobility management function (AMF) 140 and sensing function (SF) 150.

[0023] It should be understood that Figure 1A The number of devices is given for illustrative purposes and does not constitute any limitation on this disclosure. The communication network 100A may include any suitable number of devices suitable for implementing embodiments of this disclosure.

[0024] In some implementations, the terminal device 110 may include at least one of a sensing module and a communication module. For example, such as Figure 1A As shown, the terminal device 110 includes a sensing module 110-1 and a communication module 110-2.

[0025] In some implementations, the sensing module 110-1 in the terminal device 110 may include at least one of the Uu sensing module 110-11 or the sidelink sensing module 110-12.

[0026] In some implementations, Uu sensing modules 110-11 may be configured to perform Uu sensing functions based on network assistance or control, and the Uu sensing functions may include at least one of downlink sensing functions and uplink sensing functions. Sidelink sensing modules 110-12 may be configured to perform sidelink sensing functions.

[0027] Similarly, in some embodiments, the terminal device 120 may include at least one of a sensing module and a communication module. For example, as Figure 1A As shown, the terminal device 120 includes a sensing module 120-1 and a communication module 120-2.

[0028] In some implementations, the control node 130 may include at least one of a sensing module and a communication module. For example, as... Figure 1A As shown, the control node 130 includes a sensing module 130-1 and a communication module 130-2.

[0029] In some implementations, control node 130 may be implemented as a network device (such as a gNB in ​​NR). In such implementations, control node 130 may be referred to as network device 130.

[0030] Alternatively, in some embodiments, control node 130 may be implemented as a roadside unit (RSU). In such embodiments, control node 130 may be referred to as RSU 130.

[0031] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the control node 130 may be implemented as a sense transmit / receive point (TRP). In such embodiments, the control node 130 may be referred to as TRP 130.

[0032] Alternatively, in some embodiments, terminal device 120 may be implemented as a sensing TRP. In such embodiments, terminal device 120 may be referred to as TRP 120.

[0033] In some implementations, AMF 140 may be a node in the core network. AMF 140 may provide matching information about control node 130 or terminal device 110 based on sensing requirements.

[0034] The communications in communication network 100A may conform to any suitable standard, including but not limited to Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), LTE, LTE-Evolution, LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), GSM EDGE Radio Access Network (GERAN), Machine Type Communication (MTC), etc. Furthermore, these communications may be performed according to any generation of communication protocols currently known or to be developed in the future. Examples of communication protocols include, but are not limited to, first-generation (1G), second-generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth-generation (5G), and sixth-generation (6G) communication protocols.

[0035] In some implementations, communication in communication network 100A may include ISAC. Communication networks employing ISAC can share hardware architecture, channel characteristics, and signal processing, and integrate various types of sensing information (such as sensing data from the environment and radar-based sensing information) as well as communication information to achieve higher resource efficiency and provide a smarter, more integrated network solution. ISAC networks can be applied in a wider range of scenarios, including smart homes, smart manufacturing, and environmental monitoring.

[0036] In some implementations, control node 130 may include at least one of the following: The first interface between control node 130 and terminal device 110 The second interface between control node 130 and AMF 140, or The third interface between control node 130 and SF 150.

[0037] In some implementations, terminal device 110 may include at least one of the following: The first interface between control node 130 and terminal device 110 The fourth interface between terminal device 110 and AMF 140, or The fifth interface between terminal device 110 and terminal device 120.

[0038] In implementations where control node 130 is a gNB, the first interface between control node 130 and terminal device 110 can be a Uu interface. In some implementations, sidelink sensing information can be exchanged between control node 130 and terminal device 110 on the Uu interface.

[0039] In some implementations, the Uu sensing process can be performed between the control node 130 and the terminal device 110, and Uu sensing function related information can be exchanged, for example, between the sensing module 130-1 of the control node 130 and the sensing module 110-1 of the terminal device 110.

[0040] In some implementations, the fifth interface between terminal device 110 and terminal device 120 may be a unified air interface, such as a PC5 interface. In such implementations, a sidelink sensing process may be performed between terminal device 110 and terminal device 120, and sidelink sensing function-related information may be exchanged on the PC5 interface (i.e., between sensing module 110-1 of terminal device 110 and sensing module 120-1 of terminal device 120).

[0041] In the example communication network 100A, there is no interface between SF 150 and control node 130. Therefore, SF 150 exchanges information indirectly with control node 130 through AMF 140.

[0042] In the example communication network 100A, terminal device 110 includes a fourth interface between terminal device 110 and AMF 140. AMF 140 can send sensing-related information about terminal device 110 to terminal device 110 via the fourth interface.

[0043] Figure 1B A schematic diagram of another example communication network 100B that can implement embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. Example communication network 100B is similar to example communication network 100A. The difference between example communication network 100B and example communication network 100A is that, in example communication network 100B, control node 130 includes a third interface between control node 130 and SF 150. SF 150 can exchange sensing-related information with sensing module 130-1 in control node 130 via the third interface.

[0044] In addition, in the example communication network 100B, terminal device 110 does not include a fourth interface between terminal device 110 and AMF 140. Terminal device 110 can exchange information with AMF 140 through control node 130.

[0045] To perform the sensing service, at least one auxiliary node may be required that can provide auxiliary information for the sensing service, and at least one auxiliary node for the sensing service should be identified.

[0046] In view of this, the embodiments of this disclosure provide a solution for ISAC. In this solution, a first device identifies auxiliary nodes for the sensing service and obtains auxiliary information about the auxiliary nodes. Then, the first device determines the sensing results of the sensing service based on the auxiliary information. Utilizing the auxiliary nodes and / or auxiliary information, the first device can derive sensing results with higher accuracy, lower latency, and higher reliability.

[0047] In the following text, reference will be made to Figures 2 to 10 Some implementation schemes of this disclosure are described.

[0048] Figure 2 A signaling diagram illustrating an example process 200 for ISAC according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Process 200 may involve a first device 202 and an auxiliary node 204 for sensing services. Hereinafter, for the sake of brevity, the auxiliary node for sensing services is also referred to as an auxiliary node.

[0049] like Figure 2 As shown, the first device 202 can initiate the 210 sensing service.

[0050] The first device 202 is identified by 220 as an auxiliary node 204 for sensing services.

[0051] In some implementations, the first device 202 may support at least one of the following: sensing function or communication function.

[0052] In some implementations, the first device 202 may include a terminal device. For example, the first device 202 may include... Figure 1A or Figure 1B Terminal devices 110 or 120.

[0053] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first device 202 may include a network device. In such embodiments, the first device 202 may include a gNB. For example, the first device 202 may include... Figure 1A or Figure 1B Control node 130 in the middle.

[0054] In some implementations, auxiliary node 204 may be a node that can provide auxiliary information for sensing services.

[0055] In some implementations, the auxiliary node 204 may include a first node with or without sensing capabilities.

[0056] Alternatively, in some implementations, the auxiliary node 204 may include a second node with or without communication capabilities.

[0057] Alternatively, in some embodiments, auxiliary node 204 may include a third node with or without energy storage capabilities. For example, auxiliary node 204 may not have a battery.

[0058] Alternatively, in some implementations, auxiliary node 204 may include a fourth node with a power source.

[0059] Alternatively, in some implementations, auxiliary node 204 may include a fifth node without power.

[0060] Alternatively, in some embodiments, auxiliary node 204 may include a sixth node with active or passive radio signal transmission capability.

[0061] Alternatively, in some implementations, auxiliary node 204 may include a seventh node supporting 3GPP technology.

[0062] Alternatively, in some implementations, auxiliary node 204 may include an eighth node supporting non-3GPP technologies.

[0063] Alternatively, in some implementations, auxiliary node 204 may include a fixed node.

[0064] Alternatively, in some implementations, auxiliary node 204 may include a mobile node.

[0065] In some implementations, auxiliary node 204 may include a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. In such implementations, auxiliary node 204 may include an eighth node supporting non-3GPP technologies.

[0066] Alternatively, in some implementations, auxiliary node 204 may include an Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT) device.

[0067] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the auxiliary node 204 may include terminal equipment. For example, the auxiliary node 204 may include an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or an automated guided vehicle (AGV).

[0068] Alternatively, in some implementations, the auxiliary node 204 may include a sensing transmit / receive point (TRP).

[0069] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the secondary node 204 may include a network device. In such embodiments, the secondary node 204 may include a gNB. For example, the secondary node 204 may include... Figure 1A or Figure 1B Control node 130 in the middle.

[0070] Alternatively, in some implementations, the auxiliary node 204 may include a sensor.

[0071] Alternatively, in some implementations, the auxiliary node 204 may include a camera.

[0072] In some implementations, the first device 202 may identify the auxiliary node 204 via a sensing process of a sensing service.

[0073] Alternatively or additionally, the first device 202 may identify the auxiliary node 204 via a communication process.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, the first device 202 may identify the auxiliary node 204 via an A-IoT-related process.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, the first device 202 may identify the auxiliary node 204 via A-IoT-related signals.

[0076] Continue to refer to Figure 2The first device 202 obtains auxiliary information about the auxiliary node 204 from the second device 230.

[0077] In some implementations, auxiliary information can be used to determine the sensing results of the sensing service.

[0078] Alternatively or additionally, in some implementations, auxiliary information may be used to identify auxiliary nodes that should further participate in the sensing process of the sensing service.

[0079] In some implementations, the first device 202 may obtain auxiliary information about the auxiliary node 204 from the auxiliary node 204 or a network device.

[0080] In some implementations, the auxiliary information may include the identifier (ID) of the auxiliary node 204.

[0081] Alternatively or additionally, in some implementations, the auxiliary information may include the device type of the auxiliary node 204.

[0082] Alternatively or additionally, in some implementations, the auxiliary information may include the capabilities of the auxiliary node 204.

[0083] Alternatively or additionally, in some implementations, the auxiliary information may include the location of the auxiliary node 204.

[0084] Alternatively or additionally, in some implementations, auxiliary information may include the speed of auxiliary node 204.

[0085] Alternatively or additionally, in some implementations, auxiliary information may include the power status of auxiliary node 204.

[0086] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the auxiliary information may include sensor data obtained by the auxiliary node 204. For example, the sensor data may include at least one of the following: distance, temperature, humidity, rainfall, pressure, altitude, wind speed, blood pressure, heart rate, or body temperature.

[0087] Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the auxiliary information may include images captured by the auxiliary node 204.

[0088] Alternatively or additionally, in some implementations, the auxiliary information may include video captured by the auxiliary node 204.

[0089] Then, the first device 202 determines the sensing results of the 240 sensing service based on the auxiliary information.

[0090] Using process 200, the first device 202 can export sensing results with higher accuracy, less latency and higher reliability.

[0091] It should be understood that the number of auxiliary nodes involved in process 200 is for illustrative purposes only and does not imply any limitation. Process 200 may involve any suitable number of auxiliary nodes appropriate for implementing embodiments of this disclosure. For example, a process for ISAC according to some embodiments of this disclosure may involve, for example, Figure 3 The disclosure may involve two or more auxiliary nodes. The scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0092] Figure 3 A signaling diagram illustrating an example process 300 for ISAC according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Process 300 can be considered as an example specific implementation of process 200. Process 300 may involve Figure 2 The first device 202 and the auxiliary node 204, and the auxiliary node 206 for sensing services.

[0093] like Figure 3 As shown, the first device 202 can initiate the 310 sensing service.

[0094] The first device 202 identifies auxiliary nodes for sensing services. For example, the first device 202 may identify auxiliary node 204 and auxiliary node 206 for sensing services.

[0095] In some implementations, the first device 202 may identify auxiliary nodes 204 and 206 via a sensing process of a sensing service.

[0096] Alternatively or additionally, the first device 202 may identify auxiliary nodes 204 and 206 via a communication process.

[0097] Alternatively or additionally, the first device 202 may identify the auxiliary nodes 204 and 206 via an A-IoT-related process.

[0098] Alternatively or additionally, the first device 202 may identify the auxiliary nodes 204 and 206 via A-IoT-related signals.

[0099] Continue to refer to Figure 3 The first device 202 obtains 330 auxiliary information about the auxiliary node. For example, the first device 202 may obtain first auxiliary information about auxiliary node 204 and second auxiliary information about auxiliary node 206.

[0100] In some implementations, the first device 202 may obtain first auxiliary information about the auxiliary node 204 from the auxiliary node 204 or a network device.

[0101] In some implementations, the first device 202 may obtain first auxiliary information about the auxiliary node 206 from the auxiliary node 206 or a network device.

[0102] Then, the first device 202 can identify the capabilities of the auxiliary nodes 340 based on auxiliary information. For example, the first device 202 can identify the capabilities of auxiliary nodes 204 and 206 based on first auxiliary information and second auxiliary information.

[0103] Subsequently, auxiliary node 204 sends a first sensing signal indicating first auxiliary information at time 350. Auxiliary node 206 sends a second sensing signal indicating second auxiliary information at time 360.

[0104] Therefore, the first device 202 can detect, receive and measure the first sensing signal from the auxiliary node 204 and the second sensing signal from the auxiliary node 206.

[0105] Furthermore, the first device 202 determines the sensing result of the 370 sensing service based on the measurement of the first sensing signal and the second sensing signal.

[0106] In some implementations, active identification and proactive provision of auxiliary information by auxiliary nodes for sensing services can be applied. In such implementations, auxiliary node 204 may send an identification signal indicating auxiliary information about auxiliary node 204. For example, auxiliary node 204 may send the identification signal periodically. In some implementations, the identification signal may include at least one of the following: a sensing signal, a discovery signal, or an announcement signal.

[0107] Therefore, the first device 202 can detect and receive the identification signal from the auxiliary node 204. Furthermore, the first device 202 can obtain auxiliary information about the auxiliary node 204 from the identification signal and identify the auxiliary node 204 based on the identification signal.

[0108] Figure 4 A signaling diagram illustrating an example process 400 for ISAC according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Process 400 can be considered as an example specific implementation of process 200. Process 400 may involve Figure 2 The first device 202 and the auxiliary node 204.

[0109] Typically, in process 400, active identification of auxiliary nodes for sensing services and active provision of auxiliary information are applied.

[0110] like Figure 4 As shown, auxiliary node 204 sends a first sensing signal 410. The first sensing signal may indicate at least one of the following: the ID of auxiliary node 204 or the location of auxiliary node 204.

[0111] In addition, the auxiliary node 204 sends a second sensing signal 420. The second sensing signal may indicate other auxiliary information besides the ID and location of the auxiliary node 204. For example, the second sensing signal may indicate at least one of the following: sensor data obtained by the auxiliary node 204, an image captured by the auxiliary node 204, or video captured by the auxiliary node 204.

[0112] Therefore, the first device 202 can detect and receive a first sensing signal and a second sensing signal from the auxiliary node 204 based on the sensing resource set allocation. Subsequently, the first device 202 can obtain the ID and location of the auxiliary node 204 from the first sensing signal and obtain other auxiliary information from the second sensing signal.

[0113] Using process 400, the first device 202 can obtain auxiliary information without establishing a connection with a network device or auxiliary node 204. The type of signal can be used as an identification signal, which can at least provide identification information for the auxiliary node 204.

[0114] Alternatively, in some embodiments, passive identification of auxiliary nodes for sensing services may be applied. In such embodiments, the first device 202 may send a first signal and receive a second signal from the auxiliary node 204. The second signal indicates auxiliary information. The first device 202 may obtain the auxiliary information from the second signal. Furthermore, the first device 202 may identify the auxiliary node 204 based on the second signal.

[0115] In some implementations, the first device 202 may send a first signal to activate the auxiliary node 204.

[0116] In some implementations, the first signal is used as a trigger or activation signal.

[0117] In some implementations, the first signal may include a first sensing signal, and the second signal may include a second sensing signal. Thus, the sensing signal can be used as an activation signal to trigger the identification process for the auxiliary node. The first device 202 can obtain auxiliary information without establishing a connection with the network device or the auxiliary node 204.

[0118] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first signal may include a carrier wave, and the second signal may include a backscattered signal of that carrier wave. In such embodiments, the auxiliary node 204 may be an A-IoT device, and the second signal is triggered or powered by the first signal. Thus, the carrier wave for the A-IoT device can be used to trigger the identification process for the auxiliary node. The first device 202 can obtain auxiliary information without establishing a connection with the network device or the auxiliary node 204.

[0119] Figure 5A signaling diagram illustrating an example process 500 for ISAC according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Process 500 can be considered as an example specific implementation of process 200. Process 500 may involve Figure 2 The first device 202 and the auxiliary node 204.

[0120] Typically, in process 500, a passive identifier is applied to the auxiliary node for sensing services. The auxiliary node 204 has sensing capabilities, and the first device 202 is a gNB.

[0121] like Figure 5 As shown, the first device 202 broadcasts a first sensing signal 510 as a first signal. The first sensing signal is a trigger signal used to detect surrounding auxiliary nodes. The first sensing signal indicates the ID of the sensing group. For example, the first device 202 may use dedicated resources or sequences for the first sensing signal, and the first sensing signal indicates the ID of the sensing group.

[0122] Auxiliary node 204 detects the first sensing signal and belongs to the sensing group indicated by the first sensing signal. Auxiliary node 204 feeds back a second sensing signal and indicates the ID of auxiliary node 204 or the group member ID of auxiliary node 204.

[0123] Then, the first device 202 attempts to detect the second sensing signal, obtain auxiliary information from the second sensing signal, and identify the ID of the auxiliary node 204 530.

[0124] Figure 6 A signaling diagram illustrating an example process 600 for ISAC according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Process 600 can be considered as an example specific implementation of process 200. Process 600 may involve Figure 2 The first device 202 and the auxiliary node 204.

[0125] Typically, in process 600, a passive identifier is applied to the auxiliary node for sensing services. The auxiliary node 204 is an A-IoT device, and the first device 202 is an A-IoT reader device.

[0126] like Figure 6 As shown, the first device 202 sends a 610 carrier wave as a first signal to activate surrounding A-IoT devices.

[0127] The auxiliary node 204, acting as an A-IoT device, detects the carrier wave and transmits a backscattered signal of 620 carrier waves. The backscattered signal indicates auxiliary information. For example, it indicates the device ID of the auxiliary node 204 and the device type of the A-IoT device.

[0128] For example, an A-IoT device can be classified as either Type A or Type B. If the A-IoT device is Type A, it has no energy storage function and no independent signal generation or amplification function. In other words, the A-IoT device performs backscatter transmission. If the A-IoT device is Type B, it has energy storage capability but no independent signal generation function. Again, the A-IoT device performs backscatter transmission. The stored energy can be used to amplify the reflected signal.

[0129] The first device 202, acting as an A-IoT reader, obtains 630 auxiliary information from the backscattered signal.

[0130] In some implementations, the first device 202 can directly determine the auxiliary information as the sensing result of the sensing service. In such implementations, as referenced... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As described, auxiliary information can be provided from auxiliary node 204 via a second signal. First device 202 does not need to process the auxiliary information. That is, the auxiliary information is used as raw data to compose the sensing results. This will refer to... Figure 7 Describe it.

[0131] Figure 7 A signaling diagram illustrating an example process 700 for ISAC according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Process 700 can be considered as an example specific implementation of process 200. Process 700 may involve Figure 2 The first device 202 and the auxiliary node 204.

[0132] Typically, in process 700, auxiliary node 204 acts as a sensor, and first device 202 acts as a sensor collector. First device 202 triggers a sensing process to periodically identify and collect sensor data from surrounding sensors.

[0133] like Figure 7 As shown, the first device 202 indicates a sensing service request 710. For example, the first device 202 may send a first signal, and the first signal includes a sensing service request. Alternatively, the first device 202 may send signaling separate from the first signal, and the signaling includes a sensing service request.

[0134] In some implementations, the sensing service requirement may include a requirement for at least one auxiliary node. For example, the requirement for at least one auxiliary node may include at least one device type of the at least one auxiliary node. Alternatively or additionally, the requirement for at least one auxiliary node may include at least one ID of the at least one auxiliary node. For example, a list of sensor IDs may be assigned to a sensor, and the requirement for at least one auxiliary node may include a list of sensor IDs used to request sensor data from the indicated sensor.

[0135] Alternatively or additionally, sensing service requirements may include requirements for auxiliary information. For example, requirements for auxiliary information may include the type of sensor data.

[0136] The auxiliary node 204, acting as a sensor, detects the first signal and provides auxiliary information according to the sensing service request. If the ID of the auxiliary node 204 matches the assigned ID in the sensor ID list, the auxiliary node 204 sends a 720 feedback sensing signal to provide the required sensor data to the first device 202, which acts as a sensor collector. For example, the auxiliary node 204 may send a second signal that includes the feedback sensing signal.

[0137] In some implementations, the sensor data is a measurement of the ambient temperature.

[0138] Upon receiving a feedback sensing signal, the first device 202 obtains 730 auxiliary information (i.e., sensor data) from the auxiliary node 204, encapsulates the sensor data as a sensing result, and then reports the sensing result to the higher layer.

[0139] Process 700 can be used in scenarios outside of coverage to obtain sensing results, i.e., no network equipment / management is required. It requires less signal exchange and power consumption.

[0140] It should be understood that, despite Figure 7 The example shown only illustrates a single auxiliary node, but process 700 may involve more than one auxiliary node.

[0141] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first device 202 may determine the sensing result of the sensing service based on auxiliary information. The auxiliary information is provided from at least one auxiliary node. The first device 202 may use all or part of the auxiliary information from at least one auxiliary node. This selection may be performed based on the specific implementation of the first device 202. In such embodiments, the first device 202 may use the auxiliary information as input for determining the sensing result, or use the auxiliary information to generate the sensing result. Such embodiments can improve the accuracy and reliability of sensing results based on auxiliary information. Furthermore, the first device 202 may determine the sensing result by combining more types of information (i.e., not only auxiliary information obtained from at least one auxiliary node).

[0142] In such implementations, for at least one auxiliary node with sensing capabilities, the first device 202 and at least one auxiliary node can perform the sending / receiving of sensing signals to generate or export sensing results.

[0143] Figure 8 A signaling diagram illustrating an example process 800 for ISAC according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Process 800 can be considered as an example specific implementation of process 200. Process 800 may involve Figure 2 The first device 202 and the auxiliary node 204, and the auxiliary node 206 for sensing services.

[0144] Typically, in process 800, the first device 202 acts as an in-vehicle device, the auxiliary node 204 acts as a node with sensing capabilities, and the auxiliary node 206 acts as an A-IoT device.

[0145] like Figure 8 As shown, the first device 202 sends an 810 sensing signal to detect and identify nearby auxiliary nodes. The sensing signal is also used as a carrier for A-IoT devices.

[0146] Upon receiving a sensing signal, auxiliary node 206 sends a backscatter signal of the 820 sensing signal. The backscatter signal indicates the ID and location of auxiliary node 206.

[0147] The first device 202 detects the backscattered signal from the auxiliary node 206 and obtains the ID and location of the auxiliary node 206. Furthermore, the first device 202 can detect and measure the echo signal from the auxiliary node 206 of the sensed signal detected by the first device 202, and determine the sensing measurement of the echo signal. For example, the measurement of the echo signal can indicate the distance between the first device 202 and the auxiliary node 206.

[0148] Upon receiving a sensing signal, the auxiliary node 204 determines a measurement of the sensing signal from the first device 202. For example, the measurement of the sensing signal may indicate the distance between the first device 202 and the auxiliary node 204. The auxiliary node 204 then sends a sensing feedback signal to the first device 202. The sensing feedback signal indicates the position of the auxiliary node 204 and the measurement of the sensing signal from the first device 202.

[0149] The first device 202 detects the sensing feedback signal from the auxiliary node 204 and obtains the position of the auxiliary node 204 and the measurement of the sensing signal.

[0150] Then, the first device 202 determines its position based on the auxiliary information from the auxiliary nodes 204 and 206. Furthermore, the first device 202 determines its position as a sensing result.

[0151] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating an example method 900 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, method 900 may be implemented in a first device (such as...) Figures 2 to 8 This is implemented at the first device 202 shown. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... Figures 2 to 8 Method 900 describes any of the methods in it.

[0152] At frame 910, the first device 202 identifies an auxiliary node for sensing services.

[0153] At frame 920, the first device 202 obtains auxiliary information about the auxiliary node.

[0154] At box 930, the first device 202 determines the sensing result of the sensing service based on auxiliary information.

[0155] In some implementations, identifying an auxiliary node includes identifying the auxiliary node via at least one of the following: sensing processes of a sensing service, communication processes, processes related to the Ambient Internet of Things (A-IoT), or signals related to A-IoT.

[0156] In some implementations, the first device 202 supports at least one of the following: sensing function or communication function.

[0157] In some implementations, the first device 202 includes a terminal device or a network device.

[0158] In some implementations, obtaining auxiliary information about the auxiliary node includes obtaining auxiliary information about the auxiliary node from the auxiliary node or network devices.

[0159] In some implementations, the auxiliary node includes at least one of the following: a first node with or without sensing capabilities, a second node with or without communication capabilities, a third node with or without energy storage capabilities, a fourth node with a power supply, a fifth node without a power supply, a sixth node with active or passive radio signal transmission capabilities, a seventh node supporting 3GPP technology, an eighth node supporting non-3GPP technology, a fixed node, or a mobile node.

[0160] In some implementations, auxiliary nodes include at least one of the following: radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, environmental Internet of Things (A-IoT) devices, terminal devices, sensor transceiver points (TRPs), network devices, sensors, or cameras.

[0161] In some implementations, the auxiliary information includes at least one of the following: the identifier of the auxiliary node, the device type of the auxiliary node, the capabilities of the auxiliary node, the location of the auxiliary node, the speed of the auxiliary node, the power status of the auxiliary node, sensor data obtained by the auxiliary node, images captured by the auxiliary node, or videos captured by the auxiliary node.

[0162] In some implementations, identifying an auxiliary node includes: receiving an identification signal from the auxiliary node, wherein the identification signal indicates auxiliary information about the auxiliary node; and identifying the auxiliary node based on the identification signal.

[0163] In some implementations, the identification signal includes at least one of the following: a sensing signal, a detection signal, or an announcement signal.

[0164] In some implementations, identifying an auxiliary node includes: sending a first signal; receiving a second signal from the auxiliary node, wherein the second signal indicates auxiliary information; and identifying the auxiliary node based on the second signal.

[0165] In some implementations, the first signal includes a first sensing signal, and the second signal includes a second sensing signal.

[0166] In some implementations, the first signal includes a carrier wave, and the second signal includes a backscattered signal of that carrier wave.

[0167] In some implementations, the first device also causes the first device to indicate at least one of the following: a request for an auxiliary node, or a request for auxiliary information.

[0168] In some implementations, the requirements for auxiliary nodes include at least one of the following: the device type of the auxiliary node, or the identifier of the auxiliary node.

[0169] In some implementations, determining the sensing result includes: identifying auxiliary information as the sensing result.

[0170] In some implementations, determining the sensing result includes: determining the sensing result of the sensing service based on auxiliary information by at least one of the following: using the auxiliary information as input for determining the sensing result; or using the auxiliary information to generate the sensing result.

[0171] In some implementations, determining the sensing result of the sensing service based on auxiliary information includes: determining the sensing result based on first auxiliary information about a first auxiliary node and second auxiliary information about a second auxiliary node.

[0172] Figure 10 This is a simplified block diagram of a device 1000 suitable for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure. Device 1000 can be considered as follows: Figures 2 to 8 Another example implementation of the first device 202, auxiliary node 204, or auxiliary node 206 shown. Therefore, device 1000 may be implemented at the first device 202, auxiliary node 204, or auxiliary node 206, or may be implemented as at least a part of these devices / nodes.

[0173] As shown in the figure, device 1000 includes a processor 1010, a memory 1020 coupled to the processor 1010, a suitable transceiver 1040 coupled to the processor 1010, and a communication interface coupled to the transceiver 1040. The memory 1020 stores at least a portion of a program 1030. Depending on the requirements, the transceiver 1040 can be used for bidirectional or unidirectional communication. The transceiver 1040 may include at least one of a transmitter 1042 and a receiver 1044. The transmitter 1042 and receiver 1044 may be functional modules or physical entities. The transceiver 1040 has at least one antenna to facilitate communication; however, in practice, the access node mentioned in this application may have several antennas. The communication interface can represent any interface necessary for communication with other network elements, such as the X2 / Xn interface for bidirectional communication between eNBs / gNBs, the S1 / NG interface for communication between the Mobility Management Entity (MME) / Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) / SGW / UPF and eNBs / gNBs, the Un interface for communication between eNBs / gNBs and relay nodes (RNs), or the Uu interface for communication between eNBs / gNBs and terminal equipment.

[0174] The components included in the apparatus and / or device disclosed herein can be implemented in various ways, including software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, one or more units may be implemented using software and / or firmware (e.g., machine-executable instructions stored on a storage medium). As a supplement to or alternative to the machine-executable instructions, some or all of the units in the apparatus and / or device may be implemented at least partially by one or more hardware logic components. For example, but not limited to, exemplary types of hardware logic components that may be used include field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application-specific standard products (ASSPs), system-on-a-chip systems (SOCs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), etc.

Claims

1. A first device, the first device comprising: Processor, the processor being configured to cause the first device to: Identify auxiliary nodes used for sensing services; Obtain auxiliary information about the auxiliary node; as well as The sensing result of the sensing service is determined based on the auxiliary information.

2. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device identifies the auxiliary node by at least one of the following: The sensing process of the sensing service. Communication process, Processes related to the Internet of Things in the Environment (A-IoT), or Signals related to the A-IoT.

3. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device supports at least one of the following: Sensing function, or Communication function.

4. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device includes a terminal device or a network device.

5. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device obtains the auxiliary information about the auxiliary node from the auxiliary node or network device.

6. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary node comprises one of the following: First node with or without sensing function Second node with or without communication function Third nodes with or without energy storage capabilities The fourth node with power supply The fifth node without power A sixth node capable of transmitting active or passive radio signals The seventh node supporting 3GPP technology, Support for the eighth node of non-3GPP technologies Fixed node, or Move the node.

7. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary node comprises one of the following: Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Tags Environmental Internet of Things (A-IoT) devices Terminal equipment Sensing Transmitter Point (TRP) Network equipment Sensor, or camera.

8. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the auxiliary information includes at least one of the following: The identifier of the auxiliary node, The device type of the auxiliary node, The capabilities of the auxiliary nodes, The position of the auxiliary node, The speed of the auxiliary node, The power status of the auxiliary nodes, Sensor data obtained by the auxiliary node, The image captured by the auxiliary node, or The video captured by the auxiliary node.

9. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device identifies the auxiliary node in the following manner: Receive an identification signal from the auxiliary node, wherein the identification signal indicates the auxiliary information regarding the auxiliary node; and The auxiliary node is identified based on the identification signal.

10. The first device according to claim 9, wherein the identification signal includes at least one of the following: Sensing signals, Detect signal, or Notification signal.

11. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device identifies the auxiliary node in the following manner: Send the first signal; Receive a second signal from the auxiliary node, wherein the second signal indicates the auxiliary information; and The auxiliary node is identified based on the second signal.

12. The first device of claim 11, wherein the first signal includes a first sensing signal, and the second signal includes a second sensing signal.

13. The first device of claim 11, wherein the first signal comprises a carrier wave, and the second signal comprises a backscattered signal of the carrier wave.

14. The first device according to claim 1, wherein the first device is further configured to indicate at least one of the following: Requirements for the auxiliary node, or Requirements for the aforementioned auxiliary information.

15. The first device of claim 14, wherein the requirement for the auxiliary node includes at least one of the following: The device type of the auxiliary node, or The identifier of the auxiliary node.

16. The first device of claim 1, wherein the first device determines the sensing result by: The auxiliary information is determined as the sensing result.

17. The first device of claim 1, wherein the first device determines the sensing result of the sensing service based on the auxiliary information by at least one of the following: Use the auxiliary information as input to determine the sensing result; or The auxiliary information is used to generate the sensing results.

18. The first device of claim 1, wherein the first device determines the sensing result of the sensing service based on the auxiliary information in the following manner: The sensing result is determined based on first auxiliary information about the first auxiliary node and second auxiliary information about the second auxiliary node.

19. A method for communication, the method comprising: Identify auxiliary nodes used for sensing services; Obtain auxiliary information about the auxiliary node; as well as The sensing result of the sensing service is determined based on the auxiliary information.

20. A computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed on at least one processor of a device, cause the device to perform the method according to claim 19.

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