Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

A communication method and device can be applied to the field of satellite communication, such as NTN. The method comprises: receiving first configuration information, the first configuration information being used to indicate a first symbol needing to be muted and / or a second symbol not needing to be muted in a positioning reference signal resource; not receiving the positioning reference signal on the first symbol, and / or receiving the positioning reference signal on the second symbol. Through the technical solutions provided in the present application, the interference between positioning reference signals can be reduced, and the positioning accuracy can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Compared to terrestrial communication, satellite communication, due to its wide coverage, lack of geographical limitations, and high reliability, has been widely applied in various fields such as aviation and energy. In satellite communication, the coverage area of ​​a satellite cell is typically large, and when communication services are needed, the location of the terminal equipment is usually required. For example, the location of the terminal equipment can be achieved by measuring signals from multiple satellites and using related technologies reported by the terminal equipment.

[0003] However, due to downlink time offset, the arrival time of signals from different satellites at the terminal device may vary, causing signals that were not originally overlapping in the time domain to overlap in the time domain, thus causing interference between signals and ultimately affecting positioning accuracy. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus that can reduce interference between signals and improve the positioning accuracy of terminal equipment.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a communication method. This method can be applied to a first communication device, which can be a terminal as a finished product, a component or module with terminal functions, a circuit or chip (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core), a chip system, or a processor capable of performing communication functions within the terminal. Alternatively, it can be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal functions. The method includes:

[0006] Receive first configuration information, which is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or a second symbol that does not need to be silenced;

[0007] The positioning reference signal is not received on the first symbol, and / or the positioning reference signal is received on the second symbol.

[0008] The positioning reference signal resource can be understood as the transmission resource of the positioning reference signal (PRS), used to transmit the positioning reference signal. In this application, the positioning reference signal resource can be a time-domain resource used to transmit the positioning reference signal.

[0009] The first symbol refers to a mutating symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, or a symbol that does not need to transmit positioning reference signals. The second symbol refers to an unmuting symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, or a symbol that needs to transmit positioning reference signals. For example, the symbols in this application can be orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols.

[0010] The first symbol and the second symbol can together form a positioning reference signal resource. In other words, the second symbol is any symbol in the positioning reference signal resource other than the first symbol, and vice versa. Thus, when the first configuration information indicates the first symbol, the second symbol is also determined. Alternatively, when the first configuration information indicates the second symbol, the first symbol is also determined.

[0011] For example, the positioning reference signal resource includes six symbols (e.g., denoted as OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, and OFDM#12, or OFDM#7-12). For instance, if OFDM#7 is indicated as the first symbol, then OFDM#8-12 can be identified as the second symbol. Similarly, if OFDM#7-8 is indicated as the first symbol, then OFDM#9-12 can be identified as the second symbol. Likewise, if OFDM#8-12 is indicated as the second symbol, then OFDM#7 can be identified as the first symbol. And so on, without exhaustive list.

[0012] Optionally, the first configuration information is included in the first information. Specifically, the second communication device sends the first information to the first communication device, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the first information from the second communication device. The first information includes the first configuration information. After receiving the first information, the first communication device can obtain the first configuration information from it and determine, based on the first configuration information, the first symbol that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0013] For example, the first information may include, but is not limited to: radio resource control (RRC) signaling, media access control (MAC) control element (CE), i.e., MAC CE, or downlink control information (DCI), etc.

[0014] The above method introduces a symbol-level muting mechanism. By using the first configuration information to indicate the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or the second symbol that does not need to be muted, the granularity of mutating is refined to the symbol level. When different positioning reference signals overlap in the time domain, only the overlapping symbols in the positioning reference signal resource can be mutated, without mutating the entire positioning reference signal resource. This not only reduces interference between positioning reference signals, but also allows for timely measurement of the arrival time difference of different positioning reference signals, thereby improving positioning accuracy.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the first configuration information includes: a first mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the first mute mode is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be mute and / or a second symbol that does not need to be mute.

[0016] The first muting pattern refers to the muting pattern of the positioning reference signal resource, and the first muting pattern corresponds to the symbol in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0017] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resources are carried over multiple cycles, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resources carried over in different cycles can be the same or different.

[0018] For example, a positioning reference signal resource is carried over multiple periods (e.g., period #0, period #1, and period #2), and includes six symbols (denoted as OFDM #7, OFDM #8, OFDM #9, OFDM #10, OFDM #11, and OFDM #12, or OFDM #7-12). For instance, in period #0, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM #7-12 are all second symbols. Similarly, in period #1, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM #7 is the first symbol and OFDM #8-12 are the second symbols. And again, in period #2, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM #7-8 are the first symbols and OFDM #9-12 are the second symbols.

[0019] Through the above implementation method, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resources carried in each cycle can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the first symbol that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resources through the first silence mode.

[0020] In one possible implementation, for each cycle, the positioning reference signal resource is repeated at least once in the cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the cycle includes: the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each of the at least one positioning reference signal resources carried in the cycle.

[0021] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource can be repeated multiple times in one cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource with different repetitions can be the same or different.

[0022] For example, a positioning reference signal resource includes six symbols (denoted as OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, and OFDM#12, or OFDM#7-12), which are repeated multiple times in one cycle (e.g., repetition#0, repetition#1, and repetition#2). For instance, in repetition#0, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM#7-12 are all the second symbols. Similarly, in repetition#1, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM#7 is the first symbol and OFDM#8-12 are the second symbols. Again, in repetition#2, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM#7-8 are the first symbols and OFDM#9-12 are the second symbols.

[0023] Through the above implementation method, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource for each repetition number can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the first symbol that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource through the first silence mode.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the first mute mode includes a first bit map, which corresponds to a symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, wherein a first value in the first bit map is used to indicate a first symbol, and a second value in the first bit map is used to indicate a second symbol.

[0025] The first silence mode can be in bitmap form, and the first bitmap can also be understood as the first silence mode in bitmap form. The number of bits in the first bitmap can be the same as the number of symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and each bit in the first bitmap can correspond to one symbol in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0026] Specifically, the order of the bits in the first figure can correspond to the order of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource. For example, the first bit in the first figure corresponds to the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, the second bit in the first figure corresponds to the second symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, the third bit in the first figure corresponds to the third symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, and so on.

[0027] Each bit in the first image can have either a first value or a second value. When a bit has the first value, it indicates that the corresponding sign is the first sign. When a bit has the second value, it indicates that the corresponding sign is the second sign. For example, the first value can be 0, and the second value can be 1.

[0028] For example, the positioning reference signal resource includes six symbols (e.g., denoted as OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, and OFDM#12, or OFDM#7-12). For instance, if the first symbol is 011111, it indicates that OFDM#7 is the first symbol and OFDM#8-12 are the second symbols. Similarly, if the first symbol is 001111, it indicates that OFDM#7-8 are the first symbols and OFDM#9-12 are the second symbols.

[0029] Through the above implementation method, the first mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource can be in the form of a bitmap, thereby indicating the first symbol that needs to be muted and / or the second symbol that does not need to be muted in the positioning reference signal resource through the values ​​in the bitmap. The bitmap requires less overhead, which helps to reduce the indication overhead.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information is included in the first information, which also includes second configuration information, which is used to indicate the symbols occupied or activated in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0031] Specifically, the second communication device sends first information to the first communication device, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the first information from the second communication device. The first information includes first configuration information and second configuration information, from which the first communication device can obtain the first configuration information and the second configuration information after receiving the first information.

[0032] Based on the second configuration information, the first communication device can determine which symbols are occupied or activated in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource. Based on the first configuration information, the first communication device can determine the silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle. Therefore, by combining the first and second configuration information, the first communication device can determine the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced.

[0033] Through the above implementation method, the symbols occupied or activated in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource can be flexibly configured to assist in indicating the first symbol that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes: symbol offset and symbol count, wherein the symbol offset is used to indicate the starting position of the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle, and the symbol count is used to indicate the number of symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0035] Optionally, the symbol starting position and the number of symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resources in each cycle can be the same or different.

[0036] Through the above implementation method, the symbol offset and number of symbols of the positioning reference signal resources in each cycle can be flexibly configured to indicate the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resources in each cycle.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one period, and the first configuration information includes: a symbol quantity change value and a corresponding at least one valid period, wherein the at least one valid period is contained in at least one period; the symbol quantity change value is used to indicate the quantity change value of the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried over in each valid period relative to the previous period, and / or the quantity change value of the second symbol.

[0038] The change in the number of symbols can be either an increase or a decrease. For example, a positive change indicates an increase in the number of symbols, while a negative change indicates a decrease.

[0039] In one possible design, the symbol quantity change value can be the first symbol quantity change value, used to indicate the change in the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in the corresponding effective period relative to the previous period. When the number of symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resources is the same in each period, the sum of the number of first symbols and the number of second symbols can be considered fixed. Therefore, once the change in the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in a certain effective period relative to the previous period is determined, the change in the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in that effective period relative to the previous period is also determined accordingly.

[0040] In another possible design, the change in the number of symbols can be the change in the number of second symbols, used to indicate the change in the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in the corresponding effective period relative to the previous period. When the number of symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resources is the same in each period, the sum of the number of first symbols and the number of second symbols can be considered fixed. Therefore, once the change in the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in a certain effective period relative to the previous period is determined, the change in the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in that effective period relative to the previous period is also determined accordingly.

[0041] Optionally, there can be multiple valid periods, and the change in the number of symbols corresponding to different valid periods can be the same or different. In other words, the change in the number of symbols can be a fixed value or a dynamically changing value.

[0042] For example, a positioning reference signal resource is carried over multiple periods (e.g., period #0, period #1, and period #2), and includes six symbols (e.g., OFDM #7, OFDM #8, OFDM #9, OFDM #10, OFDM #11, and OFDM #12, or OFDM #7-12). Assuming the effective period includes period #1 and period #2, and the symbol count change is fixed at 1, then in period #1, relative to its previous period (i.e., period #0, where OFDM #7-12 are all second symbols), the number of first symbols increases by one (e.g., OFDM #7 is added), and correspondingly, the number of second symbols decreases by one (e.g., OFDM #7 is removed). Compared to its previous period (i.e., period #1, in which OFDM #7 is the first symbol and OFDM #8-12 are the second symbols), period #2 has one more first symbol (e.g., OFDM #8 is added) and correspondingly, one less second symbol (e.g., OFDM #8 is removed).

[0043] Through the above implementation method, the symbol quantity change value of the positioning reference signal resource in adjacent cycles can be flexibly configured to indicate the quantity change value of the first symbol and / or the quantity change value of the second symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried in adjacent cycles.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period; or, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period.

[0045] In some possible scenarios, the change in the number of the aforementioned symbols is positive during the first period and negative during the second period. For example, in the first three periods, the number of the first symbol increases sequentially (and correspondingly, the number of the second symbol decreases sequentially), and in the last three periods, the number of the first symbol decreases sequentially (and correspondingly, the number of the second symbol increases sequentially).

[0046] The above implementation method allows for flexible configuration of the number of symbols in adjacent cycles, which helps to adapt to different scenario requirements.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information further includes first indication information; when the first indication information is a first value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol start position in the positioning reference signal resource; when the first indication information is a second value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol end position in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0048] For example, the first indication information can be 1 bit of information, with a first value of 0 and a second value of 1.

[0049] In one possible scenario, when the first indication information is a first value, the number of first symbols indicates that the number of symbols begins to increase from the starting position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and correspondingly, the number of second symbols begins to decrease from the starting position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource. Alternatively, when the first indication information is a first value, the number of first symbols indicates that the number of symbols begins to decrease from the starting position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and correspondingly, the number of second symbols begins to increase from the starting position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0050] In another possible scenario, when the first indication information is the second value, the number of first symbols indicates that the number of symbols begins to increase from the end position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and correspondingly, the number of second symbols begins to decrease from the end position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource. Alternatively, when the first indication information is the second value, the number of first symbols indicates that the number of symbols begins to decrease from the end position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and correspondingly, the number of second symbols begins to increase from the end position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0051] Through the above implementation method, the first indication information can be flexibly configured to indicate the direction of change in the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0052] Secondly, this application provides a communication method that can be applied to a first communication device. The first communication device can be a terminal as a finished product, a component or module with terminal functions, a circuit or chip (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core, or a system-in-package (SIP) chip), chip system, or processor) that can be applied to the terminal to perform communication functions. Alternatively, it can be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal functions. The method includes:

[0053] Receive third configuration information, which is used to indicate the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set. The first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set can be dynamically changed in different periods.

[0054] The positioning reference signal is not received on the first positioning reference signal resource, and / or the positioning reference signal is received on the second positioning reference signal resource.

[0055] The first positioning reference signal resource refers to the positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set that need to be silenced, or can be understood as positioning reference signal resources that do not need to transmit positioning reference signals. The second positioning reference signal resource refers to the positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set that do not need to be silenced, or can be understood as positioning reference signal resources that need to transmit positioning reference signals.

[0056] Optionally, the third configuration information is included in the second information. Specifically, the second communication device sends the second information to the first communication device, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the second information from the second communication device. The second information includes the third configuration information. After receiving the second information, the first communication device can obtain the third configuration information from it and determine, based on the third configuration information, the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0057] For example, the second information may include, but is not limited to: radio resource control (RRC) signaling, media access control (MAC) control element (CE), i.e., MAC CE, or downlink control information (DCI), etc.

[0058] For example, the positioning reference signal resource set includes two positioning reference signal resources (e.g., denoted as PRS#1 and PRS#2). PRS#1 repeats twice in each cycle (e.g., denoted as PRS#1_1 and PRS#1_2), and PRS#2 repeats twice in each cycle (e.g., denoted as PRS#2_1 and PRS#2_2). Assume that in a certain cycle (e.g., period #0), PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1 are the second positioning reference signal resources. Optionally, the second communication device does not transmit positioning reference signals on PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2, and correspondingly, the first communication device does not receive positioning reference signals on PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2. Alternatively, the second communication device transmits positioning reference signals on PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives positioning reference signals on PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1. Alternatively, the second communication device either does not transmit positioning reference signals on PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2, but transmits positioning reference signals on PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1, and correspondingly, the first communication device does not receive positioning reference signals on PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2, but receives positioning reference signals on PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1.

[0059] It should be noted that in other periods (e.g., period #1), the first positioning reference signal resource and / or the second positioning reference signal resource may be different from the first positioning reference signal resource and / or the second positioning reference signal resource in period #0. For example, in period #1, PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_1 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_2 are the second positioning reference signal resources.

[0060] The above method introduces dynamically changing muting configuration information. The third configuration information indicates the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be muted. The configuration information can be different in different periods, so as to flexibly adapt to different scenario requirements, reduce interference between positioning reference signals, and thus improve positioning accuracy.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the third configuration information includes: a second mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the second mute mode is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be mute and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be mute.

[0062] The second muting pattern refers to the muting pattern of the positioning reference signal resource set, and the second muting pattern corresponds to the positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0063] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over multiple cycles, and the second silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over in different cycles can be the same or different. At least two of these multiple cycles carry different second silence modes of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0064] For example, a positioning reference signal resource set includes two positioning reference signal resources (e.g., denoted as PRS#1 and PRS#2). PRS#1 repeats twice in each period (e.g., denoted as PRS#1_1, PRS#1_2), and PRS#2 repeats twice in each period (e.g., denoted as PRS#2_1, PRS#2_2). For instance, in period #0, the second silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource set can indicate that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1 are the second positioning reference signal resources. Similarly, in period #1, the second silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource set can indicate that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_1 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_2 are the second positioning reference signal resources.

[0065] Through the above implementation method, the second silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in each cycle can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced through the second silence mode.

[0066] In one possible implementation, the second mute mode includes a second bitmap that corresponds to a positioning reference signal resource in a positioning reference signal resource set. A first value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource, and a second value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a second positioning reference signal resource.

[0067] The second silence mode can be in bitmap form, which can also be understood as a second silence mode in bitmap form. The number of bits in the second bitmap can be the same as the number of positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set, and each bit in the second bitmap can correspond to one positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0068] Specifically, the order of the bits in the first bit diagram can correspond to the order of the positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set. For example, assuming that each positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set repeats twice in one cycle, then the first bit in the second bit diagram corresponds to the first repetition number of the first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set, the second bit in the second bit diagram corresponds to the second repetition number of the first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set, the third bit in the second bit diagram corresponds to the first repetition number of the second positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set, the fourth bit in the second bit diagram corresponds to the second repetition number of the second positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set, and so on.

[0069] Each bit in the second bitmap can have either a first value or a second value. When a bit has the first value, it indicates that the positioning reference signal resource corresponding to that bit is a first positioning reference signal resource. When a bit has the second value, it indicates that the positioning reference signal resource corresponding to that bit is a second positioning reference signal resource. For example, the first value can be 0, and the second value can be 1.

[0070] For example, a positioning reference signal resource set includes two positioning reference signal resources (e.g., denoted as PRS#1 and PRS#2). PRS#1 repeats twice in each cycle (e.g., denoted as PRS#1_1, PRS#1_2), and PRS#2 repeats twice in each cycle (e.g., denoted as PRS#2_1, PRS#2_2). For instance, if the second bitmap is 0110, it indicates that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1 are the second positioning reference signal resources. Similarly, if the second bitmap is 0101, it indicates that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_1 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_2 are the second positioning reference signal resources.

[0071] Through the above implementation, the second mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource set can be in the form of a bitmap. The values ​​in the bitmap indicate the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be muted. The bitmap requires less overhead, which helps to reduce the indication overhead.

[0072] Thirdly, this application provides a communication method that can be applied to a first communication device. The first communication device can be a terminal as a finished product, a component or module with terminal functions, a circuit or chip (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core), a chip system, or a processor that can be applied to the terminal to perform communication functions. Alternatively, it can be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the terminal functions. The method includes:

[0073] Receive fourth configuration information, which is used to indicate the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource. The time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be dynamically changed in different periods.

[0074] Receive positioning reference signals on positioning reference signal resources.

[0075] The time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be understood as the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource in one cycle, which is used to indicate the time slot occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in one cycle.

[0076] Optionally, the fourth configuration information is included in the third information. Specifically, the second communication device sends the third information to the first communication device, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the third information from the second communication device. The second information includes the fourth configuration information. After receiving the third information, the first communication device can obtain the fourth configuration information from it and determine the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource based on the fourth configuration information.

[0077] For example, the third information may include, but is not limited to: radio resource control (RRC) signaling, media access control (MAC) control element (CE), i.e., MAC CE, or downlink control information (DCI), etc.

[0078] For example, suppose that in a certain period (e.g., period #0), the positioning reference signal resource occupies the 5th time slot (denoted as slot #4), and in another period (e.g., period #1), the positioning reference signal resource occupies the 6th time slot (denoted as slot #5). Then, the second communication device transmits the positioning reference signal in slot #4 in period #0 and slot #5 in period #1. Correspondingly, the first communication device receives the positioning reference signal in slot #4 in period #0 and slot #5 in period #1.

[0079] The above method introduces dynamically changing time slot configuration information. The fourth configuration information indicates the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource, which can be different in different periods. This can flexibly adapt to different scenario requirements, reduce interference between positioning reference signals, and thus improve positioning accuracy.

[0080] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0081] The time slot offset of a positioning reference signal resource can be understood as the time slot difference between the starting position of the time slot in one cycle and the starting position of the time slot in that cycle. For each cycle, the starting position of the time slot in that cycle can be determined based on the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource. Then, based on the starting position of the time slot in that cycle and the number of time slots occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle, the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle can be determined.

[0082] Optionally, the number of time slots occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle can be predefined or preconfigured. This application uses an example where the number of time slots occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle is 1.

[0083] For example, the starting position of a time slot in a cycle is denoted as the first time slot (or slot#0). For instance, if the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle is 5, then the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle is the sixth time slot (or slot#5). Similarly, if the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle is 6, then the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle is the seventh time slot (or slot#6).

[0084] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resources are carried across multiple cycles, and the time slot offsets of the positioning reference signal resources carried in different cycles can be the same or different. At least two of these multiple cycles have different time slot offsets for the positioning reference signal resources.

[0085] Through the above implementation method, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in each cycle can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource through the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0086] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a first time slot offset, a change value of the first time slot offset, and the corresponding cycle; the first time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the first cycle of at least one cycle, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource; the change value of the first time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding cycle relative to the positioning reference signal resource carried in the previous cycle.

[0087] The change in the first time slot offset can be either an increase or a decrease. For example, a positive change indicates an increase in the time slot offset, while a negative change indicates a decrease.

[0088] The first time slot offset can be understood as the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in the first cycle. Based on the first time slot offset, its change value, and the corresponding cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle can be determined. For example, based on the first time slot offset and the change value of the first time slot offset in the second cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in the second cycle can be determined. Similarly, based on the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in the second cycle and the change value of the first time slot offset in the third cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in the third cycle can be determined. And so on, without listing all possibilities.

[0089] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over multiple cycles, and the change value of the first time slot offset corresponding to different cycles can be the same or different. In other words, the aforementioned change value of the first time slot offset can be a fixed value or a dynamically changing value.

[0090] Through the above implementation method, the time slot offset change value of the positioning reference signal resource in adjacent cycles can be flexibly configured to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0091] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, and a time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each of the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set; the second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0092] The time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set can be understood as the time slot difference between the starting position of the time slot in one cycle and the starting position of the time slot in that cycle. For each cycle, the starting position of the time slot in the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle can be determined based on the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle. Then, based on the starting position of the time slot in the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle and the second time slot offset, the starting position (or time slot position) of the time slot in the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle can be determined.

[0093] For example, the starting position of a time slot in a cycle is denoted as the first time slot (or slot#0). For instance, if the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is 0, then the starting position of the time slot for the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is the first time slot (or slot#0). Assuming the second time slot offset is 5, then the starting position of the time slot for the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is the sixth time slot (or slot#5). Similarly, if the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is 1, then the starting position of the time slot for the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is the second time slot (or slot#1). Assuming the second time slot offset is 5, then the starting position of the time slot for the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is the seventh time slot (or slot#6).

[0094] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over multiple cycles, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in different cycles can be the same or different. At least two of these multiple cycles carry positioning reference signal resource sets with different time slot offsets.

[0095] Through the above implementation method, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in each cycle can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set through the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set, and thus used to assist in indicating the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0096] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, which is carried over at least one period. The fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, a third time slot offset, a change value of the second time slot offset, and the corresponding period. The third time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the first period of at least one period, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set. The change value of the second time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding period relative to the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the previous period. The second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0097] The change in the second time slot offset can be either an increase or a decrease. For example, a positive change indicates an increase in the time slot offset, while a negative change indicates a decrease.

[0098] The third time slot offset can be understood as the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in the first cycle. Based on the third time slot offset, the change in the second time slot offset, and the corresponding cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in each cycle can be determined. For example, based on the third time slot offset and the change in the second time slot offset corresponding to the second cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in the second cycle can be determined. Similarly, based on the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in the second cycle and the change in the second time slot offset corresponding to the third cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in the third cycle can be determined. And so on, without listing all possibilities.

[0099] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over multiple cycles, and the change value of the second time slot offset corresponding to different cycles can be the same or different. In other words, the aforementioned change value of the second time slot offset can be a fixed value or a dynamically changing value.

[0100] Through the above implementation method, the time slot offset change value of the positioning reference signal resource set in adjacent cycles can be flexibly configured to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in each cycle.

[0101] Fourthly, this application provides a communication method that can be applied to a network device. The network device can be a network equipment as a final product, a component or module with network equipment functions, or a communication chip (e.g., a processor, baseband chip, or chip system) that can be used in a network device. The method includes:

[0102] Send first configuration information, which is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or a second symbol that does not need to be silenced;

[0103] No positioning reference signal is sent on the first symbol, and / or, a positioning reference signal is sent on the second symbol.

[0104] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the first configuration information includes: a first mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the first mute mode is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be mute and / or a second symbol that does not need to be mute.

[0105] In one possible implementation, for each cycle, the positioning reference signal resource is repeated at least once in the cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the cycle includes: the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each of the at least one positioning reference signal resources carried in the cycle.

[0106] In one possible implementation, the first mute mode includes a first bit map, which corresponds to a symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, wherein a first value in the first bit map is used to indicate a first symbol, and a second value in the first bit map is used to indicate a second symbol.

[0107] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information is included in the first information, which also includes second configuration information, which is used to indicate the symbols occupied or activated in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0108] In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes: symbol offset and symbol count, wherein the symbol offset is used to indicate the starting position of the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle, and the symbol count is used to indicate the number of symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0109] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one period, and the first configuration information includes: a symbol quantity change value and a corresponding at least one valid period, wherein the at least one valid period is contained in at least one period; the symbol quantity change value is used to indicate the quantity change value of the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried over in each valid period relative to the previous period, and / or the quantity change value of the second symbol.

[0110] In one possible implementation, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period; or, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period.

[0111] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information further includes first indication information; when the first indication information is a first value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol start position in the positioning reference signal resource; when the first indication information is a second value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol end position in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0112] Fifthly, this application provides a communication method that can be applied to a network device. The network device can be a network equipment as a final product, a component or module with network equipment functions, or a communication chip (e.g., a processor, baseband chip, or chip system) that can be used in a network device. The method includes:

[0113] Send third configuration information, which is used to indicate the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set. The first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set can be dynamically changed in different periods.

[0114] No positioning reference signal is transmitted on the first positioning reference signal resource, and / or a positioning reference signal is transmitted on the second positioning reference signal resource.

[0115] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the third configuration information includes: a second mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the second mute mode is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be mute and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be mute.

[0116] In one possible implementation, the second mute mode includes a second bitmap that corresponds to a positioning reference signal resource in a positioning reference signal resource set. A first value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource, and a second value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a second positioning reference signal resource.

[0117] Sixthly, this application provides a communication method applicable to a network device. The network device can be a network equipment as a final product, a component or module with network equipment functions, or a communication chip (e.g., a processor, baseband chip, or chip system) applicable to a network device. The method includes:

[0118] Send fourth configuration information, which is used to indicate the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource. The time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be dynamically changed in different periods.

[0119] Transmit positioning reference signals on positioning reference signal resources.

[0120] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle;

[0121] The time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the starting position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0122] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a first time slot offset, a change value of the first time slot offset, and the corresponding cycle; the first time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the first cycle of at least one cycle, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource; the change value of the first time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding cycle relative to the positioning reference signal resource carried in the previous cycle.

[0123] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, and a time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each of the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set; the second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0124] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, which is carried over at least one period. The fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, a third time slot offset, a change value of the second time slot offset, and the corresponding period. The third time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the first period of at least one period, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set. The change value of the second time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding period relative to the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the previous period. The second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0125] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a communication device comprising modules, units, or means for performing methods as described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof. These modules, units, or means may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0126] In one possible implementation, the device includes:

[0127] The transceiver unit is configured to receive first configuration information, which indicates a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or a second symbol that does not need to be muted; and to not receive positioning reference signals on the first symbol, and / or to receive positioning reference signals on the second symbol.

[0128] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the first configuration information includes: a first mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the first mute mode is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be mute and / or a second symbol that does not need to be mute.

[0129] In one possible implementation, for each cycle, the positioning reference signal resource is repeated at least once in the cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the cycle includes: the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each of the at least one positioning reference signal resources carried in the cycle.

[0130] In one possible implementation, the first mute mode includes a first bit map, which corresponds to a symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, wherein a first value in the first bit map is used to indicate a first symbol, and a second value in the first bit map is used to indicate a second symbol.

[0131] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information is included in the first information, which also includes second configuration information, which is used to indicate the symbols occupied or activated in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0132] In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes: symbol offset and symbol count, wherein the symbol offset is used to indicate the starting position of the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle, and the symbol count is used to indicate the number of symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0133] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one period, and the first configuration information includes: a symbol quantity change value and a corresponding at least one valid period, wherein the at least one valid period is contained in at least one period; the symbol quantity change value is used to indicate the quantity change value of the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried over in each valid period relative to the previous period, and / or the quantity change value of the second symbol.

[0134] In one possible implementation, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period; or, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period.

[0135] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information further includes first indication information; when the first indication information is a first value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol start position in the positioning reference signal resource; when the first indication information is a second value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol end position in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0136] Eighthly, this application provides a communication device that includes modules, units, or means for performing methods as described in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof. These modules, units, or means may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0137] In one possible implementation, the device includes:

[0138] The transceiver unit is configured to receive third configuration information, which indicates a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be silenced and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced. The first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced can be dynamically changed in different periods. The transceiver unit is configured to not receive positioning reference signals on the first positioning reference signal resource and / or receive positioning reference signals on the second positioning reference signal resource.

[0139] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the third configuration information includes: a second mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the second mute mode is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be mute and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be mute.

[0140] In one possible implementation, the second mute mode includes a second bitmap that corresponds to a positioning reference signal resource in a positioning reference signal resource set. A first value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource, and a second value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a second positioning reference signal resource.

[0141] Ninthly, this application provides a communication device comprising a module, unit, or means for performing a method as described in the third aspect or any possible implementation thereof, wherein the module, unit, or means may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0142] In one possible implementation, the device includes:

[0143] The transceiver unit is configured to receive fourth configuration information, which indicates the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource, and the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be dynamically changed in different periods; and to receive positioning reference signals on the positioning reference signal resource.

[0144] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0145] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a first time slot offset, a change value of the first time slot offset, and the corresponding cycle; the first time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the first cycle of at least one cycle, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource; the change value of the first time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding cycle relative to the positioning reference signal resource carried in the previous cycle.

[0146] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, and a time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each of the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set; the second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0147] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, which is carried over at least one period. The fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, a third time slot offset, a change value of the second time slot offset, and the corresponding period. The third time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the first period of at least one period, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set. The change value of the second time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding period relative to the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the previous period. The second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0148] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a communication device comprising modules, units, or means for performing methods as described in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation thereof. These modules, units, or means may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0149] In one possible implementation, the device includes:

[0150] The transceiver unit is configured to transmit first configuration information, which indicates a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or a second symbol that does not need to be muted; and to not transmit positioning reference signals on the first symbol, and / or to transmit positioning reference signals on the second symbol.

[0151] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the first configuration information includes: a first mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the first mute mode is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be mute and / or a second symbol that does not need to be mute.

[0152] In one possible implementation, for each cycle, the positioning reference signal resource is repeated at least once in the cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the cycle includes: the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each of the at least one positioning reference signal resources carried in the cycle.

[0153] In one possible implementation, the first mute mode includes a first bit map, which corresponds to a symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, wherein a first value in the first bit map is used to indicate a first symbol, and a second value in the first bit map is used to indicate a second symbol.

[0154] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information is included in the first information, which also includes second configuration information, which is used to indicate the symbols occupied or activated in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0155] In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes: symbol offset and symbol count, wherein the symbol offset is used to indicate the starting position of the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle, and the symbol count is used to indicate the number of symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0156] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one period, and the first configuration information includes: a symbol quantity change value and a corresponding at least one valid period, wherein the at least one valid period is contained in at least one period; the symbol quantity change value is used to indicate the quantity change value of the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried over in each valid period relative to the previous period, and / or the quantity change value of the second symbol.

[0157] In one possible implementation, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period; or, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period.

[0158] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information further includes first indication information; when the first indication information is a first value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol start position in the positioning reference signal resource; when the first indication information is a second value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol end position in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0159] In the eleventh aspect, this application provides a communication device comprising modules, units, or means for performing methods as described in the fifth aspect or any possible implementation thereof, wherein the modules, units, or means may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0160] In one possible implementation, the device includes:

[0161] The transceiver unit is configured to transmit third configuration information, which indicates a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be silenced and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced. The first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced can be dynamically changed in different periods. The transceiver unit also indicates that positioning reference signals are not transmitted on the first positioning reference signal resource and / or that positioning reference signals are transmitted on the second positioning reference signal resource.

[0162] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the third configuration information includes: a second mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the second mute mode is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be mute and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be mute.

[0163] In one possible implementation, the second mute mode includes a second bitmap that corresponds to a positioning reference signal resource in a positioning reference signal resource set. A first value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource, and a second value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a second positioning reference signal resource.

[0164] In a twelfth aspect, this application provides a communication device comprising modules, units, or means for performing methods as described in the sixth aspect or any possible implementation thereof, wherein the modules, units, or means may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0165] In one possible implementation, the device includes:

[0166] The transceiver unit is used to transmit fourth configuration information, which indicates the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource, and the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be dynamically changed in different periods; and to transmit positioning reference signals on the positioning reference signal resource.

[0167] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0168] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a first time slot offset, a change value of the first time slot offset, and the corresponding cycle; the first time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the first cycle of at least one cycle, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource; the change value of the first time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding cycle relative to the positioning reference signal resource carried in the previous cycle.

[0169] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, and a time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each of the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set; the second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0170] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, which is carried over at least one period. The fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, a third time slot offset, a change value of the second time slot offset, and the corresponding period. The third time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the first period of at least one period, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set. The change value of the second time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding period relative to the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the previous period. The second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0171] In a thirteenth aspect, this application provides a communication device including a processor for executing computer programs or instructions, which, when executed, cause the methods of any one of the first to sixth aspects or any possible implementations described above to be implemented. Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory. Optionally, the communication device further includes a communication interface, with the processor coupled to the communication interface.

[0172] In a fourteenth aspect, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause the method of any one of the first to sixth aspects or any possible implementation thereof to be implemented.

[0173] In a fifteenth aspect, this application provides a computer program product comprising a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause the method of any one of the first to sixth aspects or any possible implementation thereof to be implemented.

[0174] In a sixteenth aspect, this application provides a chip including a processor for executing computer programs or instructions, which, when executed, cause the methods of any one of the first to sixth aspects or any possible implementations described above to be implemented. Optionally, the chip further includes a communication interface for receiving or transmitting signals.

[0175] In a seventeenth aspect, this application provides a chip including logic circuitry and an input / output interface. The logic circuitry is coupled to the input / output interface and transmits data through the input / output interface to perform the methods of any one of the first to sixth aspects or any possible implementation thereof.

[0176] In an eighteenth aspect, this application provides a communication system comprising a communication device as described in any one of the seventh to ninth aspects or any possible implementation thereof, and / or a communication device as described in any one of the tenth to twelfth aspects or any possible implementation thereof.

[0177] In a nineteenth aspect, this application provides a communication system comprising a first communication device and a second communication device, wherein the first communication device is configured to perform the method of any one of the first to third aspects or any possible implementation thereof, and the second communication device is configured to perform the method of any one of the fourth to sixth aspects or any possible implementation thereof.

[0178] The beneficial effects of aspects four through nineteen mentioned above can be referred to the descriptions of the beneficial effects in aspects one through three, and will not be repeated here.

[0179] Furthermore, in the process of implementing the method of any of the first to sixth aspects and any possible implementation thereof, the processes of sending and / or receiving information in the above methods can be understood as the process of the processor outputting information and / or the process of the processor receiving input information. When outputting information, the processor may output the information to a transceiver (or communication interface, or transmitting module) for transmission by the transceiver. After the information is output by the processor, it may need to undergo further processing before reaching the transceiver. Similarly, when the processor receives input information, the transceiver (or communication interface, or transmitting module) receives the information and inputs it to the processor. Furthermore, after the transceiver receives the information, the information may need to undergo further processing before being input to the processor.

[0180] Based on the above principles, for example, the information sent mentioned in the aforementioned method can be understood as information output by the processor. Similarly, the information received can be understood as information received by the processor from input.

[0181] Alternatively, the operations of transmitting, sending, and receiving involved in the processor can be more generally understood as processor output and receiving, input, etc., unless otherwise specified, or if they do not contradict their actual function or internal logic in the relevant description.

[0182] Optionally, in the process of executing the method of any of the first to sixth aspects and any possible implementation thereof, the processor may be a processor specifically designed to execute these methods, or it may be a processor that executes these methods by executing computer instructions stored in memory, such as a general-purpose processor. The memory may be a non-transitory memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), which may be integrated with the processor on the same chip or disposed on separate chips. This application does not limit the type of memory or the arrangement of the memory and processor. Attached Figure Description

[0183] The accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application are described below.

[0184] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0185] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of an NTN communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0186] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of DL-AOA positioning technology;

[0187] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of DL-AOD positioning technology;

[0188] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overlap of different PRS in the time domain;

[0189] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0190] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a silent mode for a positioning reference signal resource provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0191] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a symbol quantity change value provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0192] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another symbol quantity change value provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0193] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0194] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a silent mode for a positioning reference signal resource set provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0195] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0196] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the time slot offset of a positioning reference signal resource provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0197] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a first time slot offset change value provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0198] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the time slot offset of a positioning reference signal resource set provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0199] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a second time slot offset change value provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0200] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0201] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0202] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0203] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0204] In this application, the words "exemplarily" or "for example" are used to indicate that they are examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplarily" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design options. Rather, the use of the words "exemplarily" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0205] The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish multiple objects, and are not used to limit the order, sequence, priority, or importance of the multiple objects. Furthermore, "first" and "second" are not necessarily different. In addition, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0206] The term "embodiment" as used herein means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will explicitly and implicitly understand that, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between the various embodiments of this application are consistent and can be mutually referenced, and technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0207] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, "more than one" means two or more, "at least two (items)" means two or three or more, and "and / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can mean: 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.

[0208] In the description of this application, "instruction" can include direct and indirect instructions, as well as explicit and implicit instructions. The information indicated by a certain piece of information is called the information to be instructed. In the specific implementation process, there are many ways to instruct the information to be instructed. For example, the information to be instructed can be directly instructed, such as by instructing the information itself or its index. Alternatively, the information to be instructed can be indirectly indicated by instructing other information, where there is a relationship between the indicated other information and the information to be instructed. Another example is that only a part of the information to be instructed can be indicated, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. Furthermore, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (such as an agreement) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing the instruction overhead to some extent.

[0209] It is understood that in the description of this application, "when," "if," and "if" all refer to the device making a corresponding action under certain objective circumstances, and are not time-limited, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when it is implemented, nor do they mean that there are other limitations.

[0210] The technical solutions of this application embodiment can be applied to various communication systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) communication systems, New Radio (NR) communication systems, LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) communication systems, Device-to-Device (D2D) communication systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication systems, Internet of Things (IoT) communication systems, Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT) communication systems, Integrated Sensing and Communication Systems, Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) communication systems, Time Division Duplex (TDD) communication systems, Wireless Projection Communication Systems, Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) communication systems, Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) communication systems, Non-Public Network (NPN) communication systems, and future communication systems (e.g., 6th generation). It can be a 6G communication system, or it can be a non-3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) communication system, without restriction.

[0211] The technical solutions of this application embodiment can also be applied to non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication systems, or scenarios where NTN and terrestrial network (TN) are integrated. The NTN communication system can be a communication system integrated with other communication systems such as 4th generation (4G), 5th generation (5G), or future communication systems, such as NR NTN, IoT NTN, etc.

[0212] For example, please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1As shown, the communication system may include at least one terminal device and at least one network device. The terminal device can be connected to the network device wirelessly or via a wired connection, enabling uplink (UL) or downlink (DL) communication. Terminal devices can also connect to each other wirelessly or via a wired connection, enabling sidelink (SL) communication.

[0213] Terminal devices and network devices, network devices and network devices, and terminal devices and terminal devices can communicate using licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or both simultaneously. This application does not limit the spectrum resources used by terminal devices and network devices.

[0214] The terminal device in this application embodiment is a user-side entity used to receive or transmit signals, providing voice and / or data to the user. The terminal device may also be referred to as a terminal, terminal apparatus, access terminal, user terminal, subscriber unit, user equipment (UE), user station, mobile device, mobile station (MS), mobile station, mobile client, mobile unit, remote station, remote terminal, remote unit, wireless unit, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user apparatus, etc. For example, the terminal device in this application embodiment can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, computer with wireless transceiver function, train, airplane, mobile internet device (MID), virtual reality (VR) terminal, augmented reality (AR) terminal, wireless terminal in industrial control (e.g., robot), wireless terminal in vehicle networking (e.g., in-vehicle equipment, vehicle equipment, in-vehicle module, vehicle), wireless terminal in self-driving, wireless terminal in remote medical care, wireless terminal in smart grid, wireless terminal in transportation safety, wireless terminal in smart city, wireless terminal in smart home, machine type communication (MTC) terminal, cellular phone, smartphone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, wireless data card, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA) Digital assistant (PDA), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, etc.

[0215] exist Figure 1In this example, network devices are exemplified using access network (AN) devices. Access network devices, also known as radio access network (RAN) devices, or simply access networks, are nodes or devices that connect terminal devices to a wireless network. In other words, the access network provides access services to terminal devices, enabling them to access (or connect to) the network. Access networks can support both wired and wireless access.

[0216] The network devices in this application embodiment may include, but are not limited to: base stations (or Node Bs, NBs), next-generation base stations (gNBs), evolved Node Bs (eNBs), radio network controllers (RNCs), base station controllers (BSCs), base transceiver stations (BTSs), home-evolved Node Bs (HeNBs, or home Node Bs, HNBs), base band units (BBUs), access points (APs), wireless relay nodes, wireless backhaul nodes, transmission points (TPs), or transmission and reception points (TRPs), etc. They may also be one or a group of antenna panels of a base station in a 5G system, or network nodes constituting a gNB or TP, such as BBUs or distributed units (DUs), etc. The base station may be a macro base station, micro base station, pico base station, small cell, relay station, or balloon station, etc.

[0217] In some deployments, a gNB may include a centralized unit (CU) and a dedicated unit (DU). The gNB may also include an active antenna unit (AAU). The CU implements some of the gNB's functions, and the DU implements others. For example, the CU handles non-real-time protocols and services, implementing radio resource control (RRC) and packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer functions. The DU handles physical layer protocols and real-time services, implementing radio link control (RLC), media access control (MAC), and physical (PHY) layer functions. The AAU implements some physical layer processing functions, radio frequency processing, and active antenna-related functions. RRC layer information is generated by the CU and is ultimately encapsulated by the DU's PHY layer to become PHY layer information, or it may be derived from PHY layer information. Therefore, in this architecture, higher-layer signaling, such as RRC layer signaling, can be considered as being sent by the DU, or by the DU+AAU. It is understood that network devices can be one or more of the following: CU nodes, DU nodes, and AAU nodes. Furthermore, a CU can be classified as a network device in the radio access network (RAN) or a network device in the core network (CN); this application does not limit this classification.

[0218] Furthermore, the solution provided in this application can be applied to satellite communication systems, such as 5G systems or NTN integrated into future evolved communication systems. In this case, the network equipment can be a satellite with access network equipment functionality, or an access network device deployed on a satellite. In some satellite communication scenarios, the network equipment can also be a satellite communication terminal, such as a portable station, a fixed station, a vehicle-mounted or airborne satellite communication terminal. It should be understood that in these scenarios, the satellite communication terminal communicates with the satellite and can act as a micro base station or satellite data station to further provide data interfaces to user equipment accessing the satellite communication terminal.

[0219] The satellite may include at least one of the following: a geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellite (or geosynchronous orbit satellite) or a non-geostationary earth orbit (NGEO) satellite. A non-geostationary earth orbit satellite may include at least one of the following: a medium earth orbit (MEO) satellite or a low earth orbit (LEO) satellite, without limitation.

[0220] also, Figure 1 The number and types of network devices and terminal devices included in the network architecture shown are merely examples, and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto. For example, it may also include more or fewer terminal devices communicating with the network devices. Similarly, it may include more or fewer network devices communicating with the terminal devices. For the sake of brevity, they are not described one by one in the accompanying drawings.

[0221] Optionally, the communication system may also include Figure 1 Network devices not shown include, for example, core network (CN) devices and data network devices.

[0222] Optionally, the communication system may also include Figure 1 The location server is not shown in the diagram. This location server, also known as a location device, is a network device. In 5G communication systems, this location server can be a location management function (LMF) network element. In other communication systems, this location server can be a location management unit (LMU), a location management center (LMC), or an evolved serving mobile location center (E-SMLC). It is understood that this location server can also be other network elements, nodes, or devices used to determine the location information of terminal devices, such as network elements or nodes in future communication systems used to determine the location information of terminal devices. The name of the location server is not specifically limited in this embodiment.

[0223] In some embodiments, network devices and terminal devices may also be referred to as communication devices, which may be general-purpose devices or special-purpose devices. This application does not specifically limit this.

[0224] This application does not limit the location of the terminal equipment and network equipment; the terminal equipment and network equipment can be in a fixed state or in a mobile state. The terminal equipment and network equipment can be deployed on land, or on water, in the air, etc.

[0225] In this embodiment, network devices deployed in the air can be referred to as non-terrestrial network devices, and network devices deployed on the ground can be referred to as terrestrial network devices. An NTN communication system includes at least one non-terrestrial network device, while network devices in a terrestrial communication system are all terrestrial network devices. Terrestrial network devices, relative to non-terrestrial network devices, are stationary or move at a relatively slow speed. In other words, non-terrestrial network devices, relative to terrestrial network devices, can be high-speed mobile network devices.

[0226] Non-terrestrial network equipment may include satellites, high-altitude platforms (HAPs), drones, hot air balloons, low-Earth orbit satellites, medium-Earth orbit satellites, high-Earth orbit satellites, etc., without limitation. The term "satellite" in this application can refer to a collection of satellites and other network equipment related to satellite communication; therefore, in this application, the descriptions "satellite" and "satellite network equipment" are equivalent.

[0227] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of an NTN communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 The example provided uses an NTN communication system integrated with a 5G communication system. It should be understood that the solutions provided in this application can also be applied to future NTN systems that integrate evolving communication systems. The access network can be a next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN), and the core network can be a 5G core network (5G CN). This architecture can be understood as an NTN-based NG-RAN architecture.

[0228] The interface between the terminal equipment and the access network's wireless link can be called an air interface, such as the NRUu interface. The NG interface, serving as the interface between the access network and the core network, is primarily used for exchanging non-access stratum (NAS) signaling from the core network, as well as user service data. The Xn interface is the interface between access networks, mainly used for exchanging handover signaling. The N6 interface can serve as the interface between the core network and the data network.

[0229] It should be noted that the above interfaces are exemplified using a 5G communication system. Different communication systems may use different names. For instance, in a fourth-generation (4G) communication system, the interface between access networks can be an X2 interface, and the interface between the access network and the core network can be an S1 interface, etc. Of course, in future communications, the names of these interfaces may remain unchanged or be replaced with other names; this application does not limit this.

[0230] An NTN communication system may include at least one terminal device, at least one non-terrestrial network device, and at least one terrestrial network device. For example, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the NTN system includes two terminal devices, two non-terrestrial network devices, and multiple terrestrial network devices. The non-terrestrial network devices are 5G base stations (deployed on satellites), and the terrestrial network devices include ground stations, 5G user plane function (UPF), 5G control plane function (UPF), and data network devices.

[0231] 5G core network equipment consists of multiple functional units, which can be divided into control plane and data plane functional entities, such as... Figure 2 The diagram shows a 5G control plane processing unit and a 5G user plane processing unit. The 5G control plane processing unit may include... Figure 2 The network elements for access and mobility management function (AMF) and session management function (SMF) may also include Figure 2 The network elements not shown include policy control function (PCF), unified data management (UDM), application function (AF), and location management function (LMF). The ground station is responsible for relaying signaling and service data between the satellite (access network equipment) and core network equipment. The functions of terminal equipment and various network devices are described above and will not be repeated here.

[0232] Satellites (such as) Figure 2 The 5G base stations and satellites in China can communicate as follows: Figure 2The satellites shown have inter-satellite links (ISLs). These satellites can be referred to as regenerated satellites with inter-satellite links, and the ISL between two satellites is connected via the Xn interface. Signaling exchange and user data transmission between access network devices can be completed between satellites. Satellites may or may not have inter-satellite links.

[0233] Figure 2 The system architecture shown is a typical architecture in an NTN communication system. In reality, other system architectures can exist, such as transparent satellite access architectures (e.g., RAN architecture with transparent satellite), etc., which are not limited here.

[0234] In a transparent satellite access architecture, terminal devices access the network via an air interface, while 5G base stations are deployed on the ground and connected to ground stations that communicate with the satellite. This means that non-terrestrial network devices and ground stations within terrestrial network devices can act as radio frequency units (RF units), and access networks (such as base stations) within terrestrial network devices can perform RAN (Access Node B) functions (or access service functions). In the scenario corresponding to the transparent satellite access architecture, the satellite's role is: radio frequency filtering, frequency conversion, and amplification. In other words, the satellite can achieve transparent forwarding, acting as a layer 1 relay to regenerate physical layer signals, without involving any higher protocol layers.

[0235] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The number and types of communication devices included in the network architecture shown are merely examples, and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto. The network architecture and business scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0236] Compared to terrestrial communication, satellite communication, due to its wide coverage, lack of geographical limitations, and high reliability, has been widely applied in various fields such as aviation and energy. Currently, satellite communication, as a crucial communication scenario in 5G communication, has been introduced by 3GPP under the name NTN. Satellite communication can provide communication services to areas where terrestrial networks cannot cover or have insufficient coverage; it can also provide stable emergency communication during natural disasters or large-scale events; it can provide high-quality communication services to users on transportation vehicles such as trains, ships, and airplanes; and it can provide specialized services to meet specific business needs.

[0237] In satellite communications, satellite cells typically cover a large area, potentially crossing borders and covering multiple countries and regions. Therefore, when satellites provide communication services such as disaster warnings, emergency calls, and toll collection services in accordance with national or regional laws and regulations, they usually need to know the location of the terminal equipment. On one hand, although ground terminal equipment can obtain its location using a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), GNSS positioning is usually time-consuming, and the terminal equipment is not always covered by multiple GNSS satellites. Furthermore, GNSS satellites are often far from the terminal equipment, resulting in poor signal quality. On the other hand, the location information directly reported by ground terminal equipment may also be tampered with or contain significant errors.

[0238] In this application, positioning technology in terrestrial networks can be used to locate the terminal device in satellite communication by measuring signals from multiple satellites and using related technologies reported by the terminal device.

[0239] The following examples illustrate several positioning technologies used to locate terminal devices.

[0240] (1) Downlink time difference of arrival (DL-TDOA)

[0241] DL-TDOA, also known as Observed Time Difference of Arrival (OTDOA), is a positioning technology where multiple network devices (such as TRPs or base stations) simultaneously send position reference signals (PRS) to a terminal device. The terminal device receives PRS from these devices, measures the time difference of arrival, and reports it to a positioning server. The positioning server then calculates the terminal device's location based on the PRS time difference and the known locations of the network devices.

[0242] In NTN scenarios, when a terminal device uses DL-TDOA for positioning, it can treat multiple non-terrestrial network devices (such as satellites) as multiple TRPs. The terminal device performs positioning by measuring the time difference of arrival of reference signals from different non-terrestrial network devices.

[0243] (2) Uplink time difference of arrival (DL-TDOA)

[0244] In UL-TDOA positioning technology, the terminal device can send sounding reference signals (SRS) to multiple network devices simultaneously. The multiple network devices can receive the SRS from the terminal device and report the time difference of arrival of the SRS to the positioning server. The positioning server can calculate the location of the terminal device based on the time difference of arrival of the SRS and the known locations of the multiple network devices.

[0245] (3) Uplink angle of arrival (UL-AOA)

[0246] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of DL-AOA positioning technology. In DL-AOA positioning technology, multiple network devices can measure the angle of arrival (such as α1, α2, α3, and α4) of the uplink signal from the terminal device based on the beam in which the terminal device is located, and report the measurement results to the positioning server. The positioning server can calculate the location of the terminal device based on the measurement results and the known locations of the multiple network devices.

[0247] (4) Downlink angle of departure (DL-AOD)

[0248] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of DL-AOD positioning technology. In DL-AOD positioning technology, the terminal device can measure the reference signal receiving power (RSRP) of reference signals (such as PRS) from multiple network devices and report the measurement results to the positioning server. The positioning server can calculate the location of the terminal device based on the measurement results and the known locations of the multiple network devices.

[0249] This application uses PRS as an example for illustration. In NTN scenarios, due to the downlink timing drift, the arrival time of PRS from different satellites at the terminal device may vary, causing PRS that were originally non-overlapping in the time domain to overlap in the time domain, thereby causing interference between PRS and ultimately affecting positioning accuracy.

[0250] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overlap of different PRS in the time domain. For example... Figure 5 As shown, at time t0, the PRS (denoted as PRS#1) from satellite 1 (sat#1) and the PRS (denoted as PRS#2) from satellite 2 (sat#2) do not overlap. At time t1, the PRS#1 from sat#1 and the PRS#2 from sat#2 partially overlap. At time t2, the PRS#1 from sat#1 and the PRS#2 from sat#2 completely overlap.

[0251] When PRS#1 from sat#1 and PRS#2 from sat#2 overlap, they will interfere with each other. If PRS#2 from sat#2 is measured directly, the interference will reduce positioning accuracy. If PRS#2 from sat#2 is muted, the terminal device will be unable to measure PRS#2 in a timely manner. Consequently, the terminal device cannot determine the arrival time difference between PRS#1 from sat#1 and PRS#2 from sat#2, which will also affect positioning accuracy.

[0252] Therefore, how to reduce interference between PRS and improve the positioning accuracy of terminal devices is a technical problem to be solved.

[0253] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method and apparatus. By introducing a new mutating mechanism and configuration mechanism, interference between PRS can be reduced and the positioning accuracy of terminal devices can be improved.

[0254] The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below.

[0255] The communication devices involved in this communication method may include a first communication device and a second communication device. The first communication device may be a terminal as a final product, such as the various terminal devices mentioned above; it may also be a component or module with terminal functions; it may be a circuit or chip (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), a chip system, or a processor that can be applied to the terminal to perform communication functions; or it may be a logic node, logic module, or software that can implement all or part of the terminal functions. The second communication device may be a network device as a final product, such as the various network devices mentioned above; it may also be a component or module with network device functions; or it may be a communication chip (such as a processor, baseband chip, or chip system) that can be applied to the network device. The system architecture of the terminal device and the network device can be referred to... Figure 1 or Figure 2 The description will not be repeated here.

[0256] Optionally, this communication method is applicable to NTN communication scenarios, that is, the second communication device in this communication method can be a non-terrestrial network device.

[0257] Please see Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 The illustrated embodiment uses the first communication device and the second communication device as the main entities for interaction to illustrate the method.

[0258] like Figure 6 As shown, the communication method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps S601 to S602.

[0259] S601, the second communication device sends the first configuration information to the first communication device.

[0260] Accordingly, the first communication device receives first configuration information from the second communication device.

[0261] The first configuration information is used to indicate the first symbol in the Positioning Reference Signal Resource (PRS resource) that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced. Here, the Positioning Reference Signal Resource can be understood as the transmission resource of the Positioning Reference Signal (PRS), used for transmitting the positioning reference signal. In this application, the Positioning Reference Signal Resource can be a time-domain resource used for transmitting the positioning reference signal.

[0262] The first symbol refers to a mutating symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, or a symbol that does not need to transmit positioning reference signals. The second symbol refers to an unmuting symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, or a symbol that needs to transmit positioning reference signals. For example, the symbols in this application can be orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols.

[0263] In one possible implementation, the first symbol and the second symbol together constitute a positioning reference signal resource; that is, the second symbol is any symbol in the positioning reference signal resource other than the first symbol, or vice versa. Thus, when the first configuration information indicates the first symbol, the second symbol is also determined. Alternatively, when the first configuration information indicates the second symbol, the first symbol is also determined.

[0264] For example, the positioning reference signal resource includes six symbols (e.g., denoted as OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, and OFDM#12, or OFDM#7-12). For instance, if OFDM#7 is indicated as the first symbol, then OFDM#8-12 can be identified as the second symbol. Similarly, if OFDM#7-8 is indicated as the first symbol, then OFDM#9-12 can be identified as the second symbol. Likewise, if OFDM#8-12 is indicated as the second symbol, then OFDM#7 can be identified as the first symbol. And so on, without exhaustive list.

[0265] Optionally, the first configuration information is included in the first information. Specifically, the second communication device sends the first information to the first communication device, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the first information from the second communication device. The first information includes the first configuration information. After receiving the first information, the first communication device can obtain the first configuration information from it and determine, based on the first configuration information, the first symbol that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0266] For example, the first information may include, but is not limited to: radio resource control (RRC) signaling, media access control (MAC) control element (CE), i.e., MAC CE, or downlink control information (DCI), etc.

[0267] S602, the second communication device does not transmit a positioning reference signal on the first symbol, and / or transmits a positioning reference signal on the second symbol.

[0268] Accordingly, the first communication device does not receive the positioning reference signal on the first symbol, and / or receives the positioning reference signal on the second symbol.

[0269] For example, the positioning reference signal resource includes six symbols (e.g., denoted as OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, and OFDM#12, or OFDM#7-12), assuming OFDM#7 is the first symbol and OFDM#8-12 are the second symbols. Optionally, the second communication device does not transmit the positioning reference signal on OFDM#7, and correspondingly, the first communication device does not receive the positioning reference signal on OFDM#7. Alternatively, the second communication device transmits the positioning reference signal on OFDM#8-12, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the positioning reference signal on OFDM#8-12. Alternatively, the second communication device does not transmit the positioning reference signal on OFDM#7, but transmits the positioning reference signal on OFDM#8-12, and correspondingly, the first communication device does not receive the positioning reference signal on OFDM#7, but receives the positioning reference signal on OFDM#8-12.

[0270] In the above embodiments, a symbol-level muting mechanism is introduced. The first configuration information indicates the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or the second symbol that does not need to be muted, thereby refining the granularity of mutating to the symbol level. When different positioning reference signals overlap in the time domain, only the overlapping symbols in the positioning reference signal resource can be mutated, without mutating the entire positioning reference signal resource. This not only reduces interference between positioning reference signals, but also allows for timely measurement of the arrival time difference of different positioning reference signals, thereby improving positioning accuracy.

[0271] Optionally, the first configuration information includes information indicating the validity period of a first symbol that needs to be silenced and / or a second symbol that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource. Exemplarily, the validity period may include one or more cycles (or validity periods). Alternatively, exemplarily, the validity period may include one or more time periods; for example, the validity period may be a time period from time t1 to time t2, which may include one or more cycles.

[0272] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the first configuration information includes: a first mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle, the first mute mode being used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be mute and / or a second symbol that does not need to be mute.

[0273] The first muting pattern refers to the muting pattern of the positioning reference signal resource, and the first muting pattern corresponds to the symbol in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0274] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resources are carried over multiple cycles, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resources carried over in different cycles can be the same or different.

[0275] For example, a positioning reference signal resource is carried over multiple periods (e.g., period #0, period #1, and period #2), and includes six symbols (denoted as OFDM #7, OFDM #8, OFDM #9, OFDM #10, OFDM #11, and OFDM #12, or OFDM #7-12). For instance, in period #0, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM #7-12 are all second symbols. Similarly, in period #1, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM #7 is the first symbol and OFDM #8-12 are the second symbols. And again, in period #2, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM #7-8 are the first symbols and OFDM #9-12 are the second symbols.

[0276] Through the above implementation method, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resources carried in each cycle can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the first symbol that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resources through the first silence mode.

[0277] In one possible implementation, for each cycle, the positioning reference signal resource is repeated at least once in that cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried in that cycle includes: the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each of the at least one positioning reference signal resources carried in that cycle.

[0278] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource can be repeated multiple times in one cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource with different repetitions can be the same or different.

[0279] For example, a positioning reference signal resource includes six symbols (denoted as OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, and OFDM#12, or OFDM#7-12), which are repeated multiple times in one cycle (e.g., repetition#0, repetition#1, and repetition#2). For instance, in repetition#0, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM#7-12 are all the second symbols. Similarly, in repetition#1, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM#7 is the first symbol and OFDM#8-12 are the second symbols. Again, in repetition#2, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource can indicate that OFDM#7-8 are the first symbols and OFDM#9-12 are the second symbols.

[0280] Through the above implementation method, the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource for each repetition number can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the first symbol that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource through the first silence mode.

[0281] In one possible implementation, the first mute mode includes a first bit map, which corresponds to a symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, wherein a first value in the first bit map is used to indicate a first symbol, and a second value in the first bit map is used to indicate a second symbol.

[0282] The first silence mode can be in bitmap form, and the first bitmap can also be understood as the first silence mode in bitmap form. The number of bits in the first bitmap can be the same as the number of symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and each bit in the first bitmap can correspond to one symbol in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0283] Specifically, the order of the bits in the first figure can correspond to the order of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource. For example, the first bit in the first figure corresponds to the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, the second bit in the first figure corresponds to the second symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, the third bit in the first figure corresponds to the third symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, and so on.

[0284] Each bit in the first image can have either a first value or a second value. When a bit has the first value, it indicates that the corresponding sign is the first sign. When a bit has the second value, it indicates that the corresponding sign is the second sign. For example, the first value can be 0, and the second value can be 1.

[0285] For example, the positioning reference signal resource includes six symbols (e.g., denoted as OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, and OFDM#12, or OFDM#7-12). For instance, if the first symbol is 011111, it indicates that OFDM#7 is the first symbol and OFDM#8-12 are the second symbols. Similarly, if the first symbol is 001111, it indicates that OFDM#7-8 are the first symbols and OFDM#9-12 are the second symbols.

[0286] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a silent mode for a positioning reference signal resource provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 The following diagram illustrates a single slot within each period. It should be understood that the positioning reference signal resource can also be repeated multiple times within a period, occupying multiple slots. The silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each slot can be the same or different.

[0287] like Figure 7 As shown, a slot comprises 14 symbols (denoted as OFDM#0, OFDM#1, OFDM#2, OFDM#3, OFDM#4, OFDM#5, OFDM#6, OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, OFDM#12, and OFDM#13, or OFDM#0-13), with PRS#2 from sat#2 occupying OFDM#7-12. The muting pattern of PRS#2 is valid for periods#0, #1, and #2.

[0288] In period #0, PRS #2 does not overlap with PRS #1 from sat #1. The muting pattern of PRS #2 is 111111, meaning that OFDM #7-12 in PRS #2 are all second symbols (i.e., no muting is required). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #0, it can normally detect PRS #1 and PRS #2.

[0289] In period #1, OFDM #7 in PRS #2 overlaps with PRS #1. The muting pattern of PRS #2 is 011111, meaning that OFDM #7 in PRS #2 is the first symbol (i.e., requiring mutating), while OFDM #8-12 in PRS #2 are the second symbols (i.e., not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #1, it can detect PRS #1 normally, only needing to detect OFDM #8-12 in PRS #2, without needing to detect OFDM #7 in PRS #2.

[0290] In period #2, OFDM #7-8 in PRS #2 overlaps with PRS #1. The muting pattern of PRS #2 is 001111, meaning that OFDM #7-8 in PRS #2 is the first symbol (i.e., requiring mutating), and OFDM #9-12 in PRS #2 is the second symbol (i.e., not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #2, it can detect PRS #1 normally, and only needs to detect OFDM #9-12 in PRS #2, without needing to detect OFDM #7-8 in PRS #2.

[0291] Through the above implementation method, the first mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource can be in the form of a bitmap, thereby indicating the first symbol that needs to be muted and / or the second symbol that does not need to be muted in the positioning reference signal resource through the values ​​in the bitmap. The bitmap requires less overhead, which helps to reduce the indication overhead.

[0292] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information is included in the first information, and the first information further includes second configuration information, which is used to indicate the symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resources in each cycle.

[0293] Specifically, the second communication device sends first information to the first communication device, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the first information from the second communication device. The first information includes first configuration information and second configuration information, from which the first communication device can obtain the first configuration information and the second configuration information after receiving the first information.

[0294] Based on the second configuration information, the first communication device can determine the symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle. Based on the first configuration information, the first communication device can determine the silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle. Therefore, by combining the first and second configuration information, the first communication device can determine the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second symbol that does not need to be silenced.

[0295] by Figure 7 Taking PRS#2 as an example, PRS#2 occupies OFDM#7-12 symbols in period#0, period#1, and period#2. The mutating patterns of PRS#2 in period#0, period#1, and period#2 are 111111, 011111, and 001111, respectively. Therefore, in period#0, OFDM#7-12 do not require mutating. In period#1, OFDM#7 requires mutating, while OFDM#8-12 do not. In period#2, OFDM#7-8 require mutating, while OFDM#9-12 do not.

[0296] It should be understood that, Figure 7 In the example provided, PRS#2 occupies the same number of symbols in each cycle; in other examples, the positioning reference signal resource may occupy different numbers of symbols in each cycle. This application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0297] Through the above implementation method, the symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resources in each cycle can be flexibly configured to assist in indicating the first symbol that needs to be muted and / or the second symbol that does not need to be muted in each cycle.

[0298] In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes: a first symbol offset and a first symbol count, wherein the first symbol offset is used to indicate the starting position of the symbol occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle, and the first symbol count is used to indicate the number of symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0299] by Figure 7 Taking PRS#2 as an example, the starting position of the symbol occupied by PRS#2 in period#0, period#1 and period#2 is OFDM#7, and the number of symbols occupied is 6. Therefore, it can be determined that the symbols occupied by PRS#2 in period#0, period#1 and period#2 are OFDM#7-12.

[0300] It should be understood that, Figure 7 In the example, PRS#2 occupies the same symbol start position and number of symbols in each cycle. In other examples, the symbol start position and number of symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle may also be different. This application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0301] For example, the second configuration information may include multiple sets of {ResourceSymbolOffset, NumSymbols}, where ResourceSymbolOffset represents the aforementioned first symbol offset, and NumSymbols represents the aforementioned number of first symbols. Each set of {ResourceSymbolOffset, NumSymbols} corresponds to a period, used to indicate the starting position and number of symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in that period.

[0302] In another possible embodiment, the second communication device sends second configuration information to the first communication device. Correspondingly, the first communication device receives the second configuration information from the second communication device. The second configuration information indicates the symbols active in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource. Thus, the first communication device can determine the symbols active in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource based on the second configuration information.

[0303] An activated symbol can be understood as a symbol that needs to send a positioning reference signal, or as a symbol that does not need to be muted. The second communication device sends a positioning reference signal on the activated symbol, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the positioning reference signal on the activated symbol.

[0304] In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes: a second symbol offset and a second symbol count, wherein the second symbol offset is used to indicate the starting position of the symbols activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle, and the second symbol count is used to indicate the number of symbols activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0305] by Figure 7Taking PRS#2 as an example, the starting position of the activated symbol in period #0 is OFDM#7, and the number of activated symbols is 6. Therefore, the activated symbols in period #0 are OFDM#7-12. The starting position of the activated symbol in period #1 is OFDM#8, and the number of activated symbols is 5. Therefore, the activated symbols in period #1 are OFDM#8-12. The starting position of the activated symbol in period #2 is OFDM#9, and the number of activated symbols is 4. Therefore, the activated symbols in period #2 are OFDM#9-12.

[0306] For example, the second configuration information may include multiple sets of {ResourceSymbolOffset, NumSymbols}, where ResourceSymbolOffset represents the aforementioned second symbol offset, and NumSymbols represents the aforementioned number of second symbols. Each set of {ResourceSymbolOffset, NumSymbols} corresponds to a period, used to indicate the starting position and number of symbols activated in the positioning reference signal resource during that period.

[0307] Through the above implementation method, the symbol offset and number of symbols of the positioning reference signal resources in each cycle can be flexibly configured to indicate the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resources in each cycle.

[0308] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one period, and the first configuration information includes: a symbol quantity change value and a corresponding at least one valid period. The at least one valid period is included within the aforementioned at least one period. The symbol quantity change value indicates the change in the quantity of a first symbol and / or a change in the quantity of a second symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried in the previous period for each corresponding valid period.

[0309] The change in the number of symbols can be either an increase or a decrease. For example, a positive change indicates an increase in the number of symbols, while a negative change indicates a decrease.

[0310] In one possible design, the symbol quantity change value can be the first symbol quantity change value, used to indicate the change in the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in the corresponding effective period relative to the previous period. When the number of symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resources is the same in each period, the sum of the number of first symbols and the number of second symbols can be considered fixed. Therefore, once the change in the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in a certain effective period relative to the previous period is determined, the change in the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in that effective period relative to the previous period is also determined accordingly.

[0311] In another possible design, the change in the number of symbols can be the change in the number of second symbols, used to indicate the change in the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in the corresponding effective period relative to the previous period. When the number of symbols occupied by the positioning reference signal resources is the same in each period, the sum of the number of first symbols and the number of second symbols can be considered fixed. Therefore, once the change in the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in a certain effective period relative to the previous period is determined, the change in the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in that effective period relative to the previous period is also determined accordingly.

[0312] Optionally, there can be multiple valid periods, and the change in the number of symbols corresponding to different valid periods can be the same or different. In other words, the change in the number of symbols can be a fixed value or a dynamically changing value.

[0313] In some possible NTN scenarios, since the DL timing drift may remain constant over a period of time, the increase in the number of overlapping symbols in each cycle can be a fixed value. In other words, the number of the first symbol (requiring mutating) in the positioning reference signal resource can increase by a fixed value in each cycle. That is, the above-mentioned change in the number of symbols can be a fixed value.

[0314] For example, a positioning reference signal resource is carried over multiple periods (e.g., period #0, period #1, and period #2), and the positioning reference signal resource includes 6 symbols (e.g., OFDM #7, OFDM #8, OFDM #9, OFDM #10, OFDM #11, and OFDM #12, or OFDM #7-12). Assuming the effective periods include period #1 and period #2, and the symbol count variation is fixed at 1 (e.g., starting from the first symbol OFDM #7), then in period #1 relative to its previous period (i.e., period #0, where OFDM #7-12 are all second symbols), the number of first symbols increases by 1 (e.g., OFDM #7 is added), and correspondingly, the number of second symbols decreases by 1 (e.g., OFDM #7 is removed).

[0315] Compared to its previous period (i.e., period #1, in which OFDM #7 is the first symbol and OFDM #8-12 are the second symbols), period #2 has one more first symbol (e.g., OFDM #8 is added) and correspondingly, one less second symbol (e.g., OFDM #8 is removed).

[0316] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a symbol quantity change value provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 8 Let's take one slot in each period as an example for illustration.

[0317] like Figure 8 As shown, a slot comprises 14 symbols (denoted as OFDM#0, OFDM#1, OFDM#2, OFDM#3, OFDM#4, OFDM#5, OFDM#6, OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, OFDM#12, and OFDM#13, or OFDM#0-13), with PRS#2 from sat#2 occupying OFDM#7-12. The validity period of the symbol number change value of PRS#2 includes period#1 and period#2.

[0318] In period #0, PRS #2 does not overlap with PRS #1 from sat #1, and OFDM #7-12 in PRS #2 are all second symbols (i.e., no mutating is required). Therefore, when the first communication device is in period #0 and needs to be located, PRS #1 and PRS #2 can be detected normally.

[0319] In period #1, OFDM #7 in PRS #2 overlaps with PRS #1. Compared to period #0, period #1 adds OFDM #7 as the first symbol, and correspondingly, removes OFDM #7 as the second symbol. That is, in period #1, OFDM #7 in PRS #2 is the first symbol (i.e., requiring mutating), while OFDM #8-12 in PRS #2 are the second symbols (i.e., not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #1, it can detect PRS #1 normally, only needing to detect OFDM #8-12 in PRS #2, without needing to detect OFDM #7 in PRS #2.

[0320] In period #2, OFDM #7-8 in PRS #2 overlaps with PRS #1. Compared to period #1, period #2 adds OFDM #8 as the first symbol, and correspondingly, removes OFDM #8 as the second symbol. That is, in period #2, OFDM #7-8 in PRS #2 are the first symbols (i.e., requiring mutating), and OFDM #9-12 in PRS #2 are the second symbols (i.e., not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #2, it can detect PRS #1 normally, only needing to detect OFDM #9-12 in PRS #2, without needing to detect OFDM #7-8 in PRS #2.

[0321] Through the above implementation method, the symbol quantity change value of the positioning reference signal resource in adjacent cycles can be flexibly configured to indicate the quantity change value of the first symbol and / or the quantity change value of the second symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried in adjacent cycles.

[0322] It should be noted that, in this application, the validity period of the mutating symbol, mutating pattern, or symbol quantity change value is not limited to a periodic form; for example, it can also be in the form of a time period. This application does not impose any restrictions on this. This is a unified explanation.

[0323] In one possible implementation, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in the effective period increases relative to the previous period, while the number of second symbols in the effective period decreases relative to the previous period. Alternatively, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in the effective period decreases relative to the previous period, while the number of second symbols in the effective period increases relative to the previous period.

[0324] In some possible NTN scenarios, the change in the number of symbols mentioned above is positive during the first period and negative during the second period. For example, in the first three periods, the number of the first symbol increases sequentially (and correspondingly, the number of the second symbol decreases sequentially), and in the last three periods, the number of the first symbol decreases sequentially (and correspondingly, the number of the second symbol increases sequentially).

[0325] Please see Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another symbol quantity change value provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 9 Let's take one slot in each period as an example for illustration.

[0326] like Figure 9 As shown, a slot includes 14 symbols (denoted as OFDM#0, OFDM#1, OFDM#2, OFDM#3, OFDM#4, OFDM#5, OFDM#6, OFDM#7, OFDM#8, OFDM#9, OFDM#10, OFDM#11, OFDM#12, and OFDM#13, or OFDM#0-13), with PRS#2 from sat#2 occupying OFDM#7-12. The validity period of the symbol quantity change value includes period#1, period#2, period#3, period#4, and period#5. Among them, the symbol quantity reduction value is fixed at 2 (reducing from the first symbol OFDM#7 of PRS#2), taking effect from period#1, corresponding to period#1, period#2, and period#3. The symbol count increment is fixed at 2 (starting from the first symbol OFDM#7 of PRS#2), and takes effect from period#4, corresponding to period#4 and period#5.

[0327] In period #0, PRS #2 does not overlap with PRS #1 from sat #1, and OFDM #7-12 in PRS #2 are all second symbols (i.e., no mutating is required). Therefore, when the first communication device is in period #0 and needs to be located, PRS #1 and PRS #2 can be detected normally.

[0328] In period #1, OFDM #7-8 in PRS #2 overlaps with PRS #1. Compared to period #0, period #1 adds OFDM #7-8 as the first symbol, and correspondingly, removes OFDM #7-8 as the second symbol. That is, in period #1, OFDM #7-8 in PRS #2 is the first symbol (i.e., requiring mutating), and OFDM #9-12 in PRS #2 is the second symbol (i.e., not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #1, it can detect PRS #1 normally, only needing to detect OFDM #9-12 in PRS #2, without needing to detect OFDM #7-8 in PRS #2.

[0329] In period #2, OFDM #7-10 in PRS #2 overlaps with PRS #1. Compared to period #1, period #2 adds OFDM #9-10 to the first symbol set, and correspondingly, removes OFDM #9-10 from the second symbol set. That is, in period #2, OFDM #7-10 in PRS #2 is the first symbol set (i.e., requiring mutating), while OFDM #11-12 in PRS #2 is the second symbol set (i.e., not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #2, it can detect PRS #1 normally, only needing to detect OFDM #11-12 in PRS #2, without needing to detect OFDM #7-10 in PRS #2.

[0330] In period #3, OFDM#7-12 in PRS#2 overlaps with PRS#1. Compared to period #2, period #3 adds OFDM#11-12 to the first symbol set, and correspondingly reduces OFDM#11-12 to the second symbol set. That is, in period #3, OFDM#7-12 in PRS#2 are all first symbols (i.e., mutating is required). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #3, it can detect PRS#1 normally without needing to detect PRS#2.

[0331] In period #4, OFDM#9-12 in PRS#2 overlaps with PRS#1. Compared to period #3, period #4 reduces the number of OFDM#7-8 as the first symbol, and correspondingly increases the number of OFDM#7-8 as the second symbol. That is, in period #4, OFDM#9-12 in PRS#2 is the first symbol (i.e., requiring mutating), while OFDM#7-8 in PRS#2 is the second symbol (i.e., not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #4, it can detect PRS#1 normally, only needing to detect OFDM#7-8 in PRS#2, without needing to detect OFDM#9-12 in PRS#2.

[0332] In period #5, OFDM#11-12 in PRS#2 overlaps with PRS#1. Compared to period #4, period #5 reduces the number of OFDM#9-10 as the first symbol, and correspondingly increases the number of OFDM#9-10 as the second symbol. That is, in period #5, OFDM#11-12 in PRS#2 is the first symbol (i.e., requiring mutating), and OFDM#7-10 in PRS#2 is the second symbol (i.e., not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #5, it can detect PRS#1 normally, only needing to detect OFDM#7-10 in PRS#2, without needing to detect OFDM#11-12 in PRS#2.

[0333] The above implementation method allows for flexible configuration of the number of symbols in adjacent cycles, which helps to adapt to different scenario requirements.

[0334] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information further includes first indication information. When the first indication information is a first value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol start position in the positioning reference signal resource. When the first indication information is a second value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol end position in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0335] For example, the first indication information can be 1 bit of information, with a first value of 0 and a second value of 1.

[0336] In one possible scenario, when the first indication information is a first value, the number of first symbols indicates that the number of symbols begins to increase from the starting position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and correspondingly, the number of second symbols begins to decrease from the starting position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource. Alternatively, when the first indication information is a first value, the number of first symbols indicates that the number of symbols begins to decrease from the starting position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and correspondingly, the number of second symbols begins to increase from the starting position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0337] In another possible scenario, when the first indication information is the second value, the number of first symbols indicates that the number of symbols begins to increase from the end position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and correspondingly, the number of second symbols begins to decrease from the end position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource. Alternatively, when the first indication information is the second value, the number of first symbols indicates that the number of symbols begins to decrease from the end position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource, and correspondingly, the number of second symbols begins to increase from the end position of the symbols in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0338] by Figure 8 Taking PRS#2 as an example, PRS#2 occupies symbols OFDM#7-12 in each period. That is, the symbol start position of PRS#2 is OFDM#7, and the symbol end position of PRS#2 is OFDM#12. Compared with period#0, period#1 has an increase of OFDM#7 in the first symbol and a decrease of OFDM#7 in the second symbol. Compared with period#1, period#2 has an increase of OFDM#8 in the first symbol and a decrease of OFDM#8 in the second symbol. In other words, the number of the first symbol increases from the symbol start position (i.e., OFDM#7) in PRS#2, and the number of the second symbol decreases from the symbol start position (i.e., OFDM#7) in PRS#2.

[0339] Through the above implementation method, the first indication information can be flexibly configured to indicate the direction of change in the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0340] Please see Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 10 The illustrated embodiment uses the first communication device and the second communication device as the main entities for interaction to illustrate the method.

[0341] like Figure 10 As shown, the communication method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps S1001 to S1002.

[0342] S1001, the second communication device sends third configuration information to the first communication device.

[0343] Accordingly, the first communication device receives third configuration information from the second communication device.

[0344] The third configuration information is used to indicate the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set (PRS resource set). The first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced can be dynamically changed in different periods.

[0345] The first positioning reference signal resource refers to the positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set that need to be silenced, or can be understood as positioning reference signal resources that do not need to transmit positioning reference signals. The second positioning reference signal resource refers to the positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set that do not need to be silenced, or can be understood as positioning reference signal resources that need to transmit positioning reference signals.

[0346] Optionally, the third configuration information is included in the second information. Specifically, the second communication device sends the second information to the first communication device, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the second information from the second communication device. The second information includes the third configuration information. After receiving the second information, the first communication device can obtain the third configuration information from it and determine, based on the third configuration information, the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0347] For example, the second information may include, but is not limited to: radio resource control (RRC) signaling, media access control (MAC) control element (CE), i.e., MAC CE, or downlink control information (DCI), etc.

[0348] S1002, the second communication device does not transmit a positioning reference signal on the first positioning reference signal resource, and / or transmits a positioning reference signal on the second positioning reference signal resource.

[0349] Accordingly, the first communication device does not receive a positioning reference signal on the first positioning reference signal resource, and / or receives a positioning reference signal on the second positioning reference signal resource.

[0350] For example, the positioning reference signal resource set includes two positioning reference signal resources (e.g., denoted as PRS#1 and PRS#2). PRS#1 repeats twice in each cycle (e.g., denoted as PRS#1_1 and PRS#1_2), and PRS#2 repeats twice in each cycle (e.g., denoted as PRS#2_1 and PRS#2_2). Assume that in a certain cycle (e.g., period #0), PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1 are the second positioning reference signal resources. Optionally, the second communication device does not transmit positioning reference signals on PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2, and correspondingly, the first communication device does not receive positioning reference signals on PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2. Alternatively, the second communication device transmits positioning reference signals on PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives positioning reference signals on PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1. Alternatively, the second communication device either does not transmit positioning reference signals on PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2, but transmits positioning reference signals on PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1, and correspondingly, the first communication device does not receive positioning reference signals on PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2, but receives positioning reference signals on PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1.

[0351] It should be noted that in other periods (e.g., period #1), the first positioning reference signal resource and / or the second positioning reference signal resource may be different from the first positioning reference signal resource and / or the second positioning reference signal resource in period #0. For example, in period #1, PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_1 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_2 are the second positioning reference signal resources.

[0352] In the above embodiments, dynamically changing muting configuration information is introduced. The third configuration information indicates the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be muted in the positioning reference signal resource set. The information can be different in different periods, so as to flexibly adapt to different scenario requirements, reduce interference between positioning reference signals, and thus improve positioning accuracy.

[0353] It should be noted that, in this application, the validity period of the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set is not limited to a periodic form; for example, it can also be in the form of a time period, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this. For example, the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set can dynamically change in one or more time periods.

[0354] Optionally, the third configuration information includes information indicating the validity period of a first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced within the positioning reference signal resource set. For example, the validity period may include one or more cycles (or validity periods). Alternatively, for example, the validity period may include one or more time periods; for instance, the validity period may be a time period from time t1 to time t2, which may include one or more cycles.

[0355] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the third configuration information includes: a second mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle, the second mute mode being used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be mute and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be mute.

[0356] The second muting pattern refers to the muting pattern of the positioning reference signal resource set, and the second muting pattern corresponds to the positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0357] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over multiple cycles, and the second silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over in different cycles can be the same or different. At least two of these multiple cycles carry different second silence modes of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0358] For example, a positioning reference signal resource set includes two positioning reference signal resources (e.g., denoted as PRS#1 and PRS#2). PRS#1 repeats twice in each period (e.g., denoted as PRS#1_1, PRS#1_2), and PRS#2 repeats twice in each period (e.g., denoted as PRS#2_1, PRS#2_2). For instance, in period #0, the second silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource set can indicate that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1 are the second positioning reference signal resources. Similarly, in period #1, the second silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource set can indicate that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_1 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_2 are the second positioning reference signal resources.

[0359] Through the above implementation method, the second silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in each cycle can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced through the second silence mode.

[0360] In one possible implementation, the second mute mode includes a second bitmap that corresponds to a positioning reference signal resource in a positioning reference signal resource set. A first value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource, and a second value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a second positioning reference signal resource.

[0361] The second silence mode can be in bitmap form, and the second bitmap can also be understood as a second silence mode in bitmap form. The number of bits in the second bitmap can be the same as the number of repetitions of the positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set, and each bit in the second bitmap can correspond to one positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0362] Specifically, the order of the bits in the second bitmap can correspond to the order of the positioning reference signal resources in the positioning reference signal resource set. For example, assuming that each positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set repeats twice in one cycle, the first bit in the second bitmap corresponds to the first repetition number of the first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set, the second bit in the second bitmap corresponds to the second repetition number of the first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set, the third bit in the second bitmap corresponds to the first repetition number of the second positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set, the fourth bit in the second bitmap corresponds to the second repetition number of the second positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set, and so on.

[0363] Alternatively, two second bitmaps can be used (e.g., denoted as second bitmap #1 and second bitmap #2). Second bitmap #1 corresponds to the first positioning reference signal resource described above, and second bitmap #2 corresponds to the second positioning reference signal resource described above. The first bit in second bitmap #1 corresponds to the first repetition number of the first positioning reference signal resource, and the second bit in second bitmap #1 corresponds to the second repetition number of the first positioning reference signal resource. The first bit in second bitmap #2 corresponds to the first repetition number of the second positioning reference signal resource, and the second bit in second bitmap #2 corresponds to the second repetition number of the second positioning reference signal resource.

[0364] Each bit in the second bitmap can have either a first value or a second value. When a bit has the first value, it indicates that the positioning reference signal resource corresponding to that bit is a first positioning reference signal resource. When a bit has the second value, it indicates that the positioning reference signal resource corresponding to that bit is a second positioning reference signal resource. For example, the first value can be 0, and the second value can be 1.

[0365] For example, a positioning reference signal resource set includes two positioning reference signal resources (e.g., denoted as PRS#1 and PRS#2). PRS#1 repeats twice in each cycle (e.g., denoted as PRS#1_1, PRS#1_2), and PRS#2 repeats twice in each cycle (e.g., denoted as PRS#2_1, PRS#2_2). For instance, if the second bitmap is 0110, it indicates that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1 are the second positioning reference signal resources. Similarly, if the second bitmap is 0101, it indicates that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_1 are the first positioning reference signal resources, and PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_2 are the second positioning reference signal resources.

[0366] Please see Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a silent mode for a positioning reference signal resource set provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 11As shown, the Positioning Reference Signal Resource Set (PRS resource set) includes two positioning reference signal resources (denoted as PRS#1 and PRS#2). PRS#1 repeats twice in each period (denoted as PRS#1_1 and PRS#1_2), and PRS#2 repeats twice in each period (denoted as PRS#2_1 and PRS#2_2). Each period includes 10 slots (denoted as slot#0, slot#1, slot#2, slot#3, slot#4, slot#5, slot#6, slot#7, slot#8, and slot#9). PRS#1_1 and PRS#1_2 occupy slot#3 and slot#5 respectively, and PRS#2_1 and PRS#2_2 occupy slot#6 and slot#8 respectively. The validity period of the muting pattern in the PRS resource set includes period #0, period #1, period #2, and period #3.

[0367] In period #0, the muting pattern of the PRS resource set is 0110. This means that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2 are the first positioning reference signal resources (requiring mutating), while PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1 are the second positioning reference signal resources (not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to locate itself in period #0, it can receive PRS#1 in slot #5 and PRS#2 in slot #6.

[0368] In period #1, the muting pattern of the PRS resource set is 0101. This means that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_1 are the first positioning reference signal resources (requiring mutating), while PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_2 are the second positioning reference signal resources (not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to locate itself in period #1, it can receive PRS#1 in slot #5 and PRS#2 in slot #8.

[0369] In period #2, the muting pattern of the PRS resource set is 0111. This means that PRS #1_1 is the first positioning reference signal resource (requiring mutating), while PRS #1_2, PRS #2_1, and PRS #2_2 are the second positioning reference signal resources (not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs positioning in period #0, it can receive PRS #1 on slot #5 and PRS #2 on slots #6 and #8.

[0370] In period #3, the muting pattern of the PRS resource set is 0110. This means that PRS#1_1 and PRS#2_2 are the first positioning reference signal resources (requiring mutating), while PRS#1_2 and PRS#2_1 are the second positioning reference signal resources (not requiring mutating). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to locate itself in period #3, it can receive PRS#1 in slot #5 and PRS#2 in slot #6.

[0371] Through the above implementation, the second mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource set can be in the form of a bitmap. The values ​​in the bitmap indicate the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be muted. The bitmap requires less overhead, which helps to reduce the indication overhead.

[0372] Please see Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 12 The illustrated embodiment uses the first communication device and the second communication device as the main entities for interaction to illustrate the method.

[0373] like Figure 12 As shown, the communication method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps S1201 to S1202.

[0374] S1201, the second communication device sends fourth configuration information to the first communication device.

[0375] Accordingly, the first communication device receives fourth configuration information from the second communication device.

[0376] The fourth configuration information is used to indicate the time slot position of the Positioning Reference Signal Resource (PRS resource), which can be dynamically changed in different periods.

[0377] The time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be understood as the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource in one cycle, which is used to indicate the time slot occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in one cycle.

[0378] Optionally, the fourth configuration information is included in the third information. Specifically, the second communication device sends the third information to the first communication device, and correspondingly, the first communication device receives the third information from the second communication device. The second information includes the fourth configuration information. After receiving the third information, the first communication device can obtain the fourth configuration information from it and determine the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource based on the fourth configuration information.

[0379] For example, the third information may include, but is not limited to: radio resource control (RRC) signaling, media access control (MAC) control element (CE), i.e., MAC CE, or downlink control information (DCI), etc.

[0380] S1202, the second communication device transmits a positioning reference signal on the positioning reference signal resource.

[0381] Accordingly, the first communication device receives positioning reference signals on the positioning reference signal resources.

[0382] For example, suppose that in a certain period (e.g., period #0), the positioning reference signal resource occupies the 5th time slot (denoted as slot #4), and in another period (e.g., period #1), the positioning reference signal resource occupies the 6th time slot (denoted as slot #5). Then, the second communication device transmits the positioning reference signal in slot #4 in period #0 and slot #5 in period #1. Correspondingly, the first communication device receives the positioning reference signal in slot #4 in period #0 and slot #5 in period #1.

[0383] In the above embodiments, dynamically changing time slot configuration information is introduced. The fourth configuration information indicates the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource, which can be different in different periods. This can flexibly adapt to different scenario requirements, reduce interference between positioning reference signals, and thus improve positioning accuracy.

[0384] It should be noted that, in this application, the validity period of the time slot location of the positioning reference signal resource is not limited to a periodic form; for example, it can also be in the form of a time period, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this. For example, the time slot location of the positioning reference signal resource can dynamically change within one or more time periods.

[0385] Optionally, the fourth configuration information includes information indicating the validity period of the time slot location of the positioning reference signal resource. For example, the validity period may include one or more cycles (or validity periods). Alternatively, for example, the validity period may include one or more time periods, such as a time period from time t1 to time t2, which may include one or more cycles.

[0386] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in each cycle of the at least one cycle. The time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0387] The time slot offset of a positioning reference signal resource can be understood as the time slot difference between the starting position of the time slot in one cycle and the starting position of the time slot in that cycle. For each cycle, the starting position of the time slot in that cycle can be determined based on the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource. Then, based on the starting position of the time slot in that cycle and the number of time slots occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle, the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle can be determined.

[0388] Optionally, the number of time slots occupied by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle can be predefined or preconfigured. This embodiment uses a setting of 1 time slot per cycle for example. This is a general explanation and will not be repeated here.

[0389] For example, the starting position of a time slot in a cycle is denoted as the first time slot (or slot#0). For instance, if the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle is 5, then the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle is the sixth time slot (or slot#5). Similarly, if the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle is 6, then the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource in that cycle is the seventh time slot (or slot#6).

[0390] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resources are carried across multiple cycles, and the time slot offsets of the positioning reference signal resources carried in different cycles can be the same or different. At least two of these multiple cycles have different time slot offsets for the positioning reference signal resources.

[0391] Please see Figure 13 , Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the time slot offset of a positioning reference signal resource provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 13 As shown, each period (e.g., period#0, period#1, and period#2) comprises 10 slots (denoted as slot#0, slot#1, slot#2, slot#3, slot#4, slot#5, slot#6, slot#7, slot#8, and slot#9). Within different periods, the slot offset of PRS#1 is fixed (the slot position of PRS#1 is fixed at the 5th slot, i.e., slot#4), while the slot offset of PRS#2 is dynamically changing, or in other words, the slot position of PRS#2 is dynamically changing. The validity period of the slot offset of PRS#2 includes periods#0, period#1, and period#2.

[0392] In period #0, the slot offset of PRS #2 is 5, meaning that the slot position of PRS #2 is the 6th slot (i.e., slot #5). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #0, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #5.

[0393] In period #1, the slot offset of PRS #2 is 6, meaning that the slot position of PRS #2 is the 7th slot (i.e., slot #6). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #1, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #6.

[0394] In period #2, the slot offset of PRS #2 is 7, meaning that the slot position of PRS #2 is the 8th slot (i.e., slot #7). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #2, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #7.

[0395] Through the above implementation method, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in each cycle can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource through the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0396] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a first time slot offset, a change value of the first time slot offset, and the corresponding cycle. The first time slot offset indicates the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the first cycle of the at least one cycle, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource indicates the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource. The change value of the first time slot offset indicates the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding cycle relative to the positioning reference signal resource carried in the previous cycle.

[0397] The change in the first time slot offset can be either an increase or a decrease. For example, a positive change indicates an increase in the time slot offset, while a negative change indicates a decrease.

[0398] The first time slot offset can be understood as the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in the first cycle. Based on the first time slot offset, its change value, and the corresponding cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle can be determined. For example, based on the first time slot offset and the change value of the first time slot offset in the second cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in the second cycle can be determined. Similarly, based on the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in the second cycle and the change value of the first time slot offset in the third cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in the third cycle can be determined. And so on, without listing all possibilities.

[0399] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over multiple cycles, and the change value of the first time slot offset corresponding to different cycles can be the same or different. In other words, the aforementioned change value of the first time slot offset can be a fixed value or a dynamically changing value.

[0400] Please see Figure 14 , Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a change in the first time slot offset provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 14As shown, each period (e.g., period#0, period#1, and period#2) comprises 10 slots (denoted as slot#0, slot#1, slot#2, slot#3, slot#4, slot#5, slot#6, slot#7, slot#8, and slot#9). Within different periods, the slot offset of PRS#1 is fixed (the slot position of PRS#1 is fixed at the 5th slot, i.e., slot#4), while the slot offset of PRS#2 is dynamically changing (the slot offset change value is fixed at 1), or in other words, the slot position of PRS#2 is dynamically changing. The validity period of the PRS#2 slot offset change value includes both period#1 and period#2.

[0401] In period #0, the slot offset of PRS #2 is 5, meaning that the slot position of PRS #2 is the 6th slot (i.e., slot #5). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #0, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #5.

[0402] In period #1, the slot offset of PRS #2 is 5+1 (i.e., 6), meaning that the slot position of PRS #2 is the 7th slot (i.e., slot #6). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #1, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #6.

[0403] In period #2, the slot offset of PRS #2 is 5+1+1 (i.e., 7), meaning that the slot position of PRS #2 is the 8th slot (i.e., slot #7). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #1, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #7.

[0404] Through the above implementation method, the time slot offset change value of the positioning reference signal resource in adjacent cycles can be flexibly configured to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0405] In one possible implementation, positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, which is carried over at least one cycle. The fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, and a time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in each of the at least one cycle. The time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set. The second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0406] The time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set can be understood as the time slot difference between the starting position of the time slot in one cycle and the starting position of the time slot in that cycle. For each cycle, the starting position of the time slot in the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle can be determined based on the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle. Then, based on the starting position of the time slot in the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle and the second time slot offset, the starting position (or time slot position) of the time slot in the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle can be determined.

[0407] For example, the starting position of a time slot in a cycle is denoted as the first time slot (or slot#0). For instance, if the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is 0, then the starting position of the time slot for the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is the first time slot (or slot#0). Assuming the second time slot offset is 5, then the starting position of the time slot for the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is the sixth time slot (or slot#5). Similarly, if the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is 1, then the starting position of the time slot for the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is the second time slot (or slot#1). Assuming the second time slot offset is 5, then the starting position of the time slot for the positioning reference signal resource set in that cycle is the seventh time slot (or slot#6).

[0408] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over multiple cycles, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in different cycles can be the same or different. At least two of these multiple cycles carry positioning reference signal resource sets with different time slot offsets.

[0409] Please see Figure 15 , Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the time slot offset of a positioning reference signal resource set provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 15As shown, each period (e.g., period#0, period#1, and period#2) includes 10 slots (denoted as slot#0, slot#1, slot#2, slot#3, slot#4, slot#5, slot#6, slot#7, slot#8, and slot#9). Within different periods, the slot offset of PRS#1 is fixed (the slot position of PRS#1 is fixed at the 5th slot, i.e., slot#4). The slot offset (denoted as set_slotoffset) of the positioning reference signal resource set (PRS resource set) where PRS#2 is located is dynamically changing. The slot difference (denoted as PRS_slot offset) between the slot start position of PRS#2 and the slot start position of the PRS resource set is fixed at 5, thus the slot start position (or slot position) of PRS#2 is also dynamically changing. The validity period of the time slot offset (set_slot offset) of the PRS resource set includes period#0, period#1, and period#2.

[0410] In period #0, the set_slot offset is 0, meaning that the starting position of the PRS resource set's time slot is the first slot (i.e., slot #0), and the starting position of the PRS #2's time slot is the 5+1th slot (i.e., the 6th slot, slot #5). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to locate itself in period #0, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #5.

[0411] In period #1, the set_slot offset is 1, meaning that the starting position of the PRS resource set's time slot is the 2nd slot (i.e., slot #1), and the starting position of the PRS #2's time slot is the 5+2th slot (i.e., the 7th slot, slot #6). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to locate itself in period #1, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #6.

[0412] In period #2, the set_slot offset is 2, meaning that the starting position of the PRS resource set's time slot is the 3rd slot (i.e., slot #2), and the starting position of the PRS #2's time slot is the 5+3rd slot (i.e., the 8th slot, slot #7). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to be located in period #1, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #7.

[0413] Through the above implementation method, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in each cycle can be flexibly configured, thereby indicating the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set through the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set, and thus used to assist in indicating the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0414] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, which is carried over at least one period. The fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, a third time slot offset, a change value of the second time slot offset, and the corresponding period. The third time slot offset indicates the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the first period of the at least one period, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set indicates the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource set. The change value of the second time slot offset indicates the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding period relative to the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the previous period. The second time slot offset indicates the time slot difference between the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource and the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0415] The change in the second time slot offset can be either an increase or a decrease. For example, a positive change indicates an increase in the time slot offset, while a negative change indicates a decrease.

[0416] The third time slot offset can be understood as the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in the first cycle. Based on the third time slot offset, the change in the second time slot offset, and the corresponding cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in each cycle can be determined. For example, based on the third time slot offset and the change in the second time slot offset corresponding to the second cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in the second cycle can be determined. Similarly, based on the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in the second cycle and the change in the second time slot offset corresponding to the third cycle, the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in the third cycle can be determined. And so on, without listing all possibilities.

[0417] Optionally, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over multiple cycles, and the change value of the second time slot offset corresponding to different cycles can be the same or different. In other words, the aforementioned change value of the second time slot offset can be a fixed value or a dynamically changing value.

[0418] Please see Figure 16 , Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a second time slot offset change value provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 16 As shown, each period (e.g., period#0, period#1, and period#2) includes 10 slots (denoted as slot#0, slot#1, slot#2, slot#3, slot#4, slot#5, slot#6, slot#7, slot#8, and slot#9). Within different periods, the slot offset of PRS#1 is fixed (the slot position of PRS#1 is fixed at the 5th slot, i.e., slot#4). The slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set (PRS resource set) where PRS#2 is located (denoted as set_slotoffset) is dynamically changing (the change value of the slot offset is fixed at 1). The slot difference between the slot start position of PRS#2 and the slot start position of the PRS resource set (denoted as PRS_slot offset) is fixed at 5, thus the slot start position (or slot position) of PRS#2 is also dynamically changing. The validity period of the time slot offset change value in the PRS resource set includes period#1 and period#2.

[0419] In period #0, the set_slot offset is 0, meaning that the starting position of the PRS resource set's time slot is the first slot (i.e., slot #0), and the starting position of the PRS #2's time slot is the 5+1th slot (i.e., the 6th slot, slot #5). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to locate itself in period #0, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #5.

[0420] In period #1, the set_slot offset is 0+1 (i.e., 1). This means the starting position of the PRS resource set's slot is the 2nd slot (slot #1), and the starting position of the PRS #2 slot is the 5+2nd slot (i.e., the 7th slot, slot #6). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to locate itself in period #1, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #6.

[0421] In period #2, the set_slot offset is 0+1+1 (i.e., 2). This means the starting position of the PRS resource set's slot is the 3rd slot (slot #2), and the starting position of the PRS #2's slot is the 5+3rd slot (i.e., the 8th slot, slot #7). Therefore, when the first communication device needs to locate itself in period #1, it can receive PRS #1 in slot #4 and PRS #2 in slot #7.

[0422] Through the above implementation method, the time slot offset change value of the positioning reference signal resource set in adjacent cycles can be flexibly configured to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set in each cycle.

[0423] The methods of the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. The apparatus embodiments related to the embodiments of this application will be described below.

[0424] Please see Figure 17 , Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0425] like Figure 17 As shown, the communication device 1700 may include a transceiver unit 1701. The transceiver unit 1701 may be software, hardware, or a combination of both.

[0426] The transceiver unit 1701 can implement sending and / or receiving functions, and can also be described as a communication unit. The transceiver unit 1701 can also be a unit integrating an acquisition unit and a sending unit, wherein the acquisition unit is used to implement the receiving function, and the sending unit is used to implement the sending function. Optionally, the transceiver unit 1701 can be used to receive information sent by other devices, and can also be used to send information to other devices.

[0427] In one possible design, the communication device 1700 may correspond to the first communication device in the above method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1700 may be the first communication device in the above method embodiments, or it may be a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system in the first communication device. The communication device 1700 may include units for performing the operations performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiments, and each unit in the communication device 1700 is respectively for implementing the operations performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0428] Optionally, the descriptions of each unit are as follows:

[0429] The transceiver unit 1701 is configured to receive first configuration information, which indicates a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or a second symbol that does not need to be muted; and to not receive positioning reference signals on the first symbol, and / or to receive positioning reference signals on the second symbol.

[0430] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the first configuration information includes: a first mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the first mute mode is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be mute and / or a second symbol that does not need to be mute.

[0431] In one possible implementation, for each cycle, the positioning reference signal resource is repeated at least once in the cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the cycle includes: the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each of the at least one positioning reference signal resources carried in the cycle.

[0432] In one possible implementation, the first mute mode includes a first bit map, which corresponds to a symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, wherein a first value in the first bit map is used to indicate a first symbol, and a second value in the first bit map is used to indicate a second symbol.

[0433] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information is included in the first information, which also includes second configuration information, which is used to indicate the symbols occupied or activated in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0434] In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes: symbol offset and symbol count, wherein the symbol offset is used to indicate the starting position of the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle, and the symbol count is used to indicate the number of symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0435] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one period, and the first configuration information includes: a symbol quantity change value and a corresponding at least one valid period, wherein the at least one valid period is contained in at least one period; the symbol quantity change value is used to indicate the quantity change value of the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried over in each valid period relative to the previous period, and / or the quantity change value of the second symbol.

[0436] In one possible implementation, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period; or, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period.

[0437] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information further includes first indication information; when the first indication information is a first value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol start position in the positioning reference signal resource; when the first indication information is a second value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol end position in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0438] Alternatively, the descriptions of each unit are as follows:

[0439] The transceiver unit 1701 is configured to receive third configuration information, which indicates a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be silenced and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced. The first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced can be dynamically changed in different periods. The transceiver unit 1701 is configured to not receive positioning reference signals on the first positioning reference signal resource and / or receive positioning reference signals on the second positioning reference signal resource.

[0440] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the third configuration information includes: a second mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the second mute mode is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be mute and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be mute.

[0441] In one possible implementation, the second mute mode includes a second bitmap that corresponds to a positioning reference signal resource in a positioning reference signal resource set. A first value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource, and a second value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a second positioning reference signal resource.

[0442] Alternatively, the descriptions of each unit are as follows:

[0443] The transceiver unit 1701 is used to receive fourth configuration information, which indicates the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource, and the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be dynamically changed in different periods; and to receive positioning reference signals on the positioning reference signal resource.

[0444] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0445] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a first time slot offset, a change value of the first time slot offset, and the corresponding cycle; the first time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the first cycle of at least one cycle, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource; the change value of the first time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding cycle relative to the positioning reference signal resource carried in the previous cycle.

[0446] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, and a time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each of the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set; the second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0447] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, which is carried over at least one period. The fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, a third time slot offset, a change value of the second time slot offset, and the corresponding period. The third time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the first period of at least one period, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set. The change value of the second time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding period relative to the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the previous period. The second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0448] In another possible design, the communication device 1700 may correspond to the second communication device in the above method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1700 may be the second communication device in the above method embodiments, or it may be a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system in the second communication device. The communication device 1700 may include units for performing the operations performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiments, and each unit in the communication device 1700 is respectively for implementing the operations performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0449] Optionally, the descriptions of each unit are as follows:

[0450] The transceiver unit 1701 is configured to transmit first configuration information, which indicates a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or a second symbol that does not need to be muted; and to not transmit positioning reference signals on the first symbol, and / or to transmit positioning reference signals on the second symbol.

[0451] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the first configuration information includes: a first mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the first mute mode is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be mute and / or a second symbol that does not need to be mute.

[0452] In one possible implementation, for each cycle, the positioning reference signal resource is repeated at least once in the cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the cycle includes: the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each of the at least one positioning reference signal resources carried in the cycle.

[0453] In one possible implementation, the first mute mode includes a first bit map, which corresponds to a symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, wherein a first value in the first bit map is used to indicate a first symbol, and a second value in the first bit map is used to indicate a second symbol.

[0454] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information is included in the first information, which also includes second configuration information, which is used to indicate the symbols occupied or activated in each cycle of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0455] In one possible implementation, the second configuration information includes: symbol offset and symbol count, wherein the symbol offset is used to indicate the starting position of the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle, and the symbol count is used to indicate the number of symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

[0456] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one period, and the first configuration information includes: a symbol quantity change value and a corresponding at least one valid period, wherein the at least one valid period is contained in at least one period; the symbol quantity change value is used to indicate the quantity change value of the first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried over in each valid period relative to the previous period, and / or the quantity change value of the second symbol.

[0457] In one possible implementation, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period; or, the number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period.

[0458] In one possible implementation, the first configuration information further includes first indication information; when the first indication information is a first value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol start position in the positioning reference signal resource; when the first indication information is a second value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol end position in the positioning reference signal resource.

[0459] Alternatively, the descriptions of each unit are as follows:

[0460] The transceiver unit 1701 is used to transmit third configuration information, which indicates a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be silenced and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced. The first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced can be dynamically changed in different periods; and, positioning reference signals are not transmitted on the first positioning reference signal resource, and / or positioning reference signals are transmitted on the second positioning reference signal resource.

[0461] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the third configuration information includes: a second mute mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the second mute mode is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be mute and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be mute.

[0462] In one possible implementation, the second mute mode includes a second bitmap that corresponds to a positioning reference signal resource in a positioning reference signal resource set. A first value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource, and a second value in the second bitmap is used to indicate a second positioning reference signal resource.

[0463] Alternatively, the descriptions of each unit are as follows:

[0464] The transceiver unit 1701 is used to transmit fourth configuration information, which indicates the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource, and the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be dynamically changed in different periods; and to transmit positioning reference signals on the positioning reference signal resource.

[0465] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource.

[0466] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a first time slot offset, a change value of the first time slot offset, and the corresponding cycle; the first time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the first cycle of at least one cycle, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the start position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource; the change value of the first time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding cycle relative to the positioning reference signal resource carried in the previous cycle.

[0467] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, and a time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each of the at least one cycle; the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set; the second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0468] In one possible implementation, the positioning reference signal resources are included in a positioning reference signal resource set, which is carried over at least one period. The fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, a third time slot offset, a change value of the second time slot offset, and the corresponding period. The third time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the first period of at least one period, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set. The change value of the second time slot offset is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding period relative to the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the previous period. The second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

[0469] According to the embodiments of this application, Figure 17 The various units in the illustrated device can be individually or entirely combined into one or more other units, or some of the units can be further divided into multiple functionally smaller units. This achieves the same operation without affecting the technical effects of the embodiments of this application. The above units are based on logical function division. In practical applications, the function of one unit can be implemented by multiple units, or the function of multiple units can be implemented by one unit. In other embodiments of this application, the above device may also include other units. In practical applications, these functions can also be implemented with the assistance of other units, and can be implemented collaboratively by multiple units.

[0470] It should be noted that the implementation of each unit can also refer to the corresponding description in the above method embodiments.

[0471] Please see Figure 18 , Figure 18This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1800 may include a processor 1801. Optionally, the communication device 1800 may also include a memory 1802. Further optionally, the communication device 1800 may also include a communication interface 1803 and a bus 1804. The processor 1801, memory 1802, and communication interface 1803 are interconnected via the bus 1804. The communication interface 1803 is used for data interaction with other devices.

[0472] The processor 1801 is a module that performs arithmetic and logical operations. It can be one or a combination of processing modules such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a microprocessor unit (MPU). The processor 1801 can also be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0473] The memory 1802 is used to provide storage space, in which data such as the operating system and computer programs can be stored. The memory 1802 includes, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM).

[0474] In one possible design, the communication device 1800 may correspond to the first communication device in the above method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1800 may be the first communication device in the above method embodiments, or it may be a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system in the first communication device. The communication device 1800 may include components for performing the operations performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiments. Furthermore, each component in the communication device 1800 is configured to implement the operations performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiments. The processor 1801 calls a computer program stored in the memory 1802 to execute the method shown in the above method embodiments.

[0475] In another possible design, the communication device 1800 may correspond to the second communication device in the above method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1800 may be the second communication device in the above method embodiments, or it may be a processor, circuit, chip, or chip system in the second communication device. The communication device 1800 may include components for performing the operations performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiments. Furthermore, each component in the communication device 1800 is configured to implement the operations performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiments. The processor 1801 calls a computer program stored in the memory 1802 to execute the method shown in the above method embodiments.

[0476] Alternatively, the communication device 1800 may be a chip or a chip system. For the case where the communication device 1800 is a chip or a chip system, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 19 The diagram shows the structure of the chip.

[0477] like Figure 19 As shown, chip 1900 includes processor 1901 and interface 1902. The number of processors 1901 can be one or more, and the number of interfaces 1902 can be multiple. It should be noted that the functions of processor 1901 and interface 1902 can be implemented through hardware design, software design, or a combination of both; no restrictions are placed here.

[0478] Optionally, the chip 1900 may also include a memory 1903 for storing necessary program instructions and data.

[0479] In this application, processor 1901 can be used to call an implementation program of the communication method in an electronic device provided by one or more embodiments of this application from memory 1903, and execute the instructions contained in the program. Interface 1902 can be used to output the execution result of processor 1901. In this application, interface 1902 can be specifically used to output various messages or information from processor 1901.

[0480] The communication methods provided by one or more embodiments of this application can be referred to the above-described method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0481] According to the method provided in the embodiments of this application, the embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions, which can implement the method shown in the above-described method embodiments when the computer program or instructions are run on a processor.

[0482] According to the method provided in the embodiments of this application, the embodiments of this application also provide a computer program product, which includes a computer program or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are run on a processor, they can implement the method shown in the above-described method embodiments.

[0483] According to the method provided in the embodiments of this application, the embodiments of this application also provide a communication system, which includes at least one of the above-described communication devices 1700, or communication devices 1800, or chip 1900.

[0484] According to the method provided in the embodiments of this application, the embodiments of this application also provide a communication system, which includes a first communication device and a second communication device, wherein the first communication device is used to perform the steps performed by the first communication device in the above method embodiments, and the second communication device is used to perform the steps performed by the second communication device in the above method embodiments.

[0485] It should be understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid-state drive (SSD), a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DRRAM). It should be noted that the memories described herein are intended to include, but are not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0486] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions shown in the embodiments of this application are performed entirely or partially. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a user equipment, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, a computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access, or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium may be a volatile or non-volatile storage medium, or may include both types of storage media.

[0487] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments provided herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0488] 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.

[0489] 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; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0490] 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.

[0491] In addition, 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.

[0492] If a function 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 to the technology, or a portion 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 shown 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, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0493] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive first configuration information, which is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or a second symbol that does not need to be silenced; The positioning reference signal is not received on the first symbol, and / or the positioning reference signal is received on the second symbol.

2. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send first configuration information, which is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or a second symbol that does not need to be silenced; No positioning reference signal is transmitted on the first symbol, and / or a positioning reference signal is transmitted on the second symbol.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the first configuration information includes: a first silent mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; The first mute mode is used to indicate a first symbol in the positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or a second symbol that does not need to be muted.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, For each of the cycles, the positioning reference signal resource is repeated at least once in the cycle, and the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource carried by the cycle includes: the first silence mode of the positioning reference signal resource in each of the at least one positioning reference signal resource carried by the cycle.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the first mute mode includes a first bit map, the first bit map corresponding to a symbol in the positioning reference signal resource, a first value in the first bit map indicating the first symbol, and a second value in the first bit map indicating the second symbol.

6. The method according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that, The first configuration information is included in the first information, and the first information also includes second configuration information, which is used to indicate the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each cycle.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second configuration information includes: symbol offset and symbol count, wherein the symbol offset is used to indicate the starting position of the symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each period, and the symbol count is used to indicate the number of symbols occupied or activated by the positioning reference signal resource in each period.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one period, and the first configuration information includes: a symbol quantity change value and a corresponding at least one valid period, wherein the at least one valid period is included in the at least one period; The symbol quantity change value is used to indicate the quantity change value of the first symbol and / or the quantity change value of the second symbol in the positioning reference signal resource carried in each corresponding effective period relative to the previous period.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resource carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period, and the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resource carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period; or, The number of first symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period decreases relative to the previous period, while the number of second symbols in the positioning reference signal resources carried in each effective period increases relative to the previous period.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The first configuration information also includes first indication information; When the first indication information is a first value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol start position in the positioning reference signal resource; When the first indication information is a second value, it indicates that the number of the first symbol and / or the second symbol changes from the symbol end position in the positioning reference signal resource.

11. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive third configuration information, the third configuration information being used to indicate a first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be silenced and / or a second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced, the first positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced being dynamically changed in different periods; The positioning reference signal is not received on the first positioning reference signal resource, and / or the positioning reference signal is received on the second positioning reference signal resource.

12. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send third configuration information, which is used to indicate the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set. The first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be silenced and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be silenced in the positioning reference signal resource set can be dynamically changed in different periods. No positioning reference signal is transmitted on the first positioning reference signal resource, and / or a positioning reference signal is transmitted on the second positioning reference signal resource.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one cycle, and the third configuration information includes: a second silent mode of the positioning reference signal resource set carried over each cycle in the at least one cycle; The second mute mode is used to indicate the first positioning reference signal resource that needs to be muted and / or the second positioning reference signal resource that does not need to be muted in the positioning reference signal resource set.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The second mute mode includes a second bitmap, which corresponds to a positioning reference signal resource in the positioning reference signal resource set. A first value in the second bitmap is used to indicate the first positioning reference signal resource, and a second value in the second bitmap is used to indicate the second positioning reference signal resource.

15. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive fourth configuration information, which is used to indicate the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource, and the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be dynamically changed in different periods; The positioning reference signal is received on the positioning reference signal resource.

16. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send fourth configuration information, which is used to indicate the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource, and the time slot position of the positioning reference signal resource can be dynamically changed in different periods; A positioning reference signal is transmitted on the positioning reference signal resource.

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The positioning reference signal resource is carried in at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in each cycle of the at least one cycle; The time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the starting position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource.

18. The method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The positioning reference signal resource is carried over at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: first time slot offset, first time slot offset change value and corresponding cycle; The first time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource carried in the first cycle of the at least one cycle, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource. The first time slot offset change value is used to indicate the change value of the time slot offset of the corresponding period relative to the positioning reference signal resource carried by the previous period.

19. The method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The positioning reference signal resources are included in the positioning reference signal resource set, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried in at least one cycle, and the fourth configuration information includes: a second time slot offset, and a time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in each cycle of the at least one cycle; The time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the starting position of the time slot of the positioning reference signal resource set; The second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

20. The method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The positioning reference signal resources are included in the positioning reference signal resource set, the positioning reference signal resource set is carried over at least one period, and the fourth configuration information includes: second time slot offset, third time slot offset, change value of second time slot offset and corresponding period; The third time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set carried in the first cycle of the at least one cycle, and the time slot offset of the positioning reference signal resource set is used to indicate the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set. The second time slot offset change value is used to indicate the change in time slot offset of the corresponding period relative to the positioning reference signal resource set carried by the previous period; The second time slot offset is used to indicate the time slot difference between the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource and the time slot start position of the positioning reference signal resource set.

21. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A unit for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 20.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, The method includes a processor for executing a computer program or instructions, which, when executed, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 20 to be implemented.

23. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 20 to be implemented.

24. A computer program product, characterized in that, It includes a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 20 to be implemented.

25. A chip, characterized in that, The method includes a processor for retrieving and executing a computer program or instructions stored in a memory, such that the method of any one of claims 1 to 20 is implemented.

26. A communication system, characterized in that, The method includes a first communication device and a second communication device, wherein the first communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 1, 3 to 10, and the second communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 2 to 10; or, the first communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 11, 13 to 14, and the second communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 12 to 14; or, the first communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 15, 17 to 20, and the second communication device is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 16 to 20.

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