Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The application relates to a communication method and device, and relates to the technical field of communication. In the method, a first non-ground network device acquires indication information of a second non-ground network device, and the first non-ground network device sends first context information to the second non-ground network device, wherein the first context information indicates a context change amount. The first non-ground network device is a source non-ground network device, and the second non-ground network device is a target non-ground network device. By using the context transmission mechanism provided in the application, the continuity of a service can be improved. In addition, when the switching of the first device from the first non-ground network device to the second non-ground network device is same-group switching, only the context change amount is transmitted, the continuity of the service can be ensured, information interaction can be reduced, and the switching efficiency 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] In non-terrestrial networks (NTN) communication systems (such as satellite communication systems), satellites can be classified into geostationary orbit satellites and non-geostationary orbit satellites based on their orbital altitude. Non-geostationary orbit satellites are those that move relative to the ground, such as medium Earth orbit (MEO) and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. For NEO satellites, a single satellite has a relatively small coverage area on the ground, and the satellite moves at high speed relative to the ground. Therefore, multiple satellites are typically deployed simultaneously in one orbit to compensate for the coverage limitations of a single satellite. Generally, multiple satellites in the same orbit orbit the Earth along the same trajectory. For MEO and LEO satellites, since each satellite periodically covers a physical area on the ground, this area may be covered by different satellites in the same orbit at different times. Therefore, terminals communicating within this physical area need to frequently switch between multiple satellites. Based on this, improving service continuity is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a communication method and apparatus that can improve service continuity.

[0004] The present application is described below from different aspects. It should be understood that the different implementation methods and beneficial effects described below can be referenced from each other.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a communication method that can be applied to a network-side communication device, such as a first non-terrestrial network device on the network side, or a module (e.g., circuit, chip, or chip system) for the first non-terrestrial network device, or a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first non-terrestrial network device. It should be understood that the first non-terrestrial network device involved in this application can be a non-terrestrial network device with base station processing capabilities, or it can be a non-terrestrial network device with core network element processing capabilities, or it can simultaneously have both base station processing capabilities and core network element processing capabilities. For ease of understanding, the following description will exemplify that the first non-terrestrial network device at least has base station processing capabilities. Optionally, the first non-terrestrial network device can be, for example, a satellite, a high-altitude platform, etc., and is not limited thereto. In this method, the first non-terrestrial network device obtains indication information from a second non-terrestrial network device. The first non-terrestrial network device sends first context information to the second non-terrestrial network device, the first context information indicating a context change. Wherein, the first non-terrestrial network device is the source non-terrestrial network device, and the second non-terrestrial network device is the target non-terrestrial network device. Typically, when the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group, the first non-terrestrial network device sends the first context information to the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0006] This application defines a context transmission mechanism for handover of a first device between non-terrestrial network devices, which is beneficial for improving service continuity. Furthermore, when the handover of the first device from the first non-terrestrial network device to the second non-terrestrial network device is a group handover, only the context change is transmitted. This not only ensures service continuity but also reduces information interaction and improves handover efficiency.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0008] In this implementation, the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device may be the device's own identifier, such as a satellite identifier, the identifier of the base station carried on the satellite, or the identifier of the network function carried on the satellite. Alternatively, the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device may also be the identifier of the cell managed by the second non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, when the second non-terrestrial network device manages multiple cells, the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device may be the identifier of the target cell.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device may also include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0010] In this implementation, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device can also include the identifier of the group to which it belongs. Therefore, it helps the first non-terrestrial network device to decide whether the first non-terrestrial network device and the second non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group of non-terrestrial network devices, and it is highly operable.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the context change amount includes:

[0012] Newly created context information; or,

[0013] Updated context information; or,

[0014] Context information for releasing or deleting.

[0015] In this implementation, the context change could be an increase in the context (context increment) or a decrease in the context (context decrement). This approach, which only transmits context changes, improves handover efficiency.

[0016] In one possible implementation, obtaining the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device includes:

[0017] The device receives an indication from the first device for the second non-terrestrial network device, which belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0018] In this implementation, the first device can select the second non-terrestrial network device and send the instruction information of the second non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device, which is highly operable.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the method further includes;

[0020] The device receives indication information from the first device for multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices, wherein the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices.

[0021] In this implementation, the first device can send indication information of at least one candidate non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device, so that the first non-terrestrial network device can determine the second non-terrestrial network device from the at least one candidate non-terrestrial network device.

[0022] In one possible implementation, obtaining the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device includes:

[0023] The second non-terrestrial network device is determined from the plurality of candidate non-terrestrial network devices, and the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0024] In this implementation, the first non-terrestrial network device can preferentially select a candidate non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device from multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices as the second non-terrestrial network device. Therefore, only the context change amount needs to be transmitted in subsequent handover, which is beneficial to improving handover efficiency.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0026] The system sends indication information about the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs to the first device. For example, in this application, the indication information about the group to which the non-terrestrial network device belongs may be, for example, the identifier or index of the group. For ease of description, the indication information about the group to which the non-terrestrial network device belongs will be used as the identifier of the group in the following description.

[0027] Optionally, the indication information of the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs can be carried in a private message or a broadcast message. For example, a private message could be an RRC message.

[0028] In this implementation, the first non-terrestrial network device can carry the identifier of its group in the broadcast message, which helps the first device to preferentially select the non-terrestrial network device in the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device when selecting the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0030] The system sends indication information of multiple non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs to the first device. For example, the indication information of multiple non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which a certain non-terrestrial network device (e.g., the first non-terrestrial network device) belongs in this application may be, for example, the identifiers or indexes of the multiple non-terrestrial network devices. For ease of description, the indication information of multiple non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs will be used as the identifiers of the multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the following description.

[0031] Optionally, the indication information of multiple non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs can be carried in a dedicated message or a broadcast message. For example, a dedicated message may be an RRC message.

[0032] In this implementation, the first non-terrestrial network device sends the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs to the first device. This helps the first device to prioritize non-terrestrial network devices in the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device when selecting a second non-terrestrial network device.

[0033] In one possible implementation, multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group are located on the same orbit, or multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group serve the same area.

[0034] In this implementation, non-terrestrial network devices on the same track are grouped together, or non-terrestrial network devices serving the same service area are grouped together. This grouping method helps to transmit only context changes during subsequent handovers within the same group, thereby improving handover efficiency.

[0035] Secondly, this application provides a communication method that can be applied to network-side communication devices, such as a first non-terrestrial network device on the network side, or a module (e.g., circuit, chip, or chip system) for the first non-terrestrial network device, or a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first non-terrestrial network device. It should be understood that the first non-terrestrial network device involved in this application can be a non-terrestrial network device with base station processing capabilities, or it can be a non-terrestrial network device with core network element processing capabilities, or it can simultaneously have both base station processing capabilities and core network element processing capabilities. For ease of understanding, the following description will exemplify that the first non-terrestrial network device at least has base station processing capabilities. Optionally, the first non-terrestrial network device can be, for example, a satellite, a high-altitude platform, etc., and is not limited thereto. In this method, the first non-terrestrial network device obtains indication information from a second non-terrestrial network device, determines that the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device do not belong to the same group, and sends second context information to the second non-terrestrial network device, the second context information indicating a complete context.

[0036] In this implementation, the first non-terrestrial network device can first determine whether the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group. When it is determined that the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device do not belong to the same group (i.e., it is determined to be a handover between different groups), the full context can be sent to the second non-terrestrial network device, which can improve the continuity of services and has high applicability.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0038] Send a second message to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs, the second message indicating the release or deletion of the second context information.

[0039] In this implementation, in inter-group handover scenarios, storage overhead can be saved by instructing at least one other non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device to release the stored second context information.

[0040] In one possible implementation, sending the second information to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs includes:

[0041] After the handover is complete, the second information is sent to at least one other non-terrestrial network device; or,

[0042] When the first non-terrestrial network device moves out of the service area where the first device is located, the second information is sent to at least one other non-terrestrial network device.

[0043] In this implementation, at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the same group can be instructed to release the stored second context information after the handover is completed or the device moves out of the service area where the first device is located, which helps to save storage overhead.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device may also include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0046] In one possible implementation, multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group are located on the same orbit, or multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group serve the same area.

[0047] Thirdly, this application provides a communication method that can be applied to a first device, which can be a terminal-side communication device or a network-side communication device. For ease of understanding, this application mainly refers to the first device as a terminal-side communication device, such as a terminal or a communication / processing module for a terminal, or a circuit or chip in the terminal responsible for communication functions (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core), or a circuit or chip in the terminal responsible for processing functions (such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), an artificial intelligence (AI) processor, or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)). Taking the application of this method to a terminal as an example, in this method, the terminal obtains indication information of at least one non-terrestrial network device. The indication information of one of the non-terrestrial network devices includes the identifier of the non-terrestrial network device and the identifier of the group to which the non-terrestrial network device belongs. The terminal then sends an indication of a second non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device. This second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the at least one non-terrestrial network device and is in the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device. Specifically, the first non-terrestrial network device is the source non-terrestrial network device, and the second non-terrestrial network device is the target non-terrestrial network device.

[0048] In this embodiment, the terminal can obtain the identifiers of different non-terrestrial network devices and the identifiers of the groups to which the non-terrestrial network devices belong. The terminal can then select a non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device, which is highly operable.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0050] Receive instruction information from at least one of the non-terrestrial network devices.

[0051] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0052] The system receives indication information about non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs. For example, the indication information about non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs may be, for example, the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0053] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0054] From the at least one non-terrestrial network device, select a candidate non-terrestrial network device that belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0055] Fourthly, this application provides a communication method that can be applied to network-side communication devices, such as a second non-terrestrial network device on the network side, or a module (e.g., circuit, chip, or chip system) for the second non-terrestrial network device, or a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second non-terrestrial network device. It should be understood that the second non-terrestrial network device involved in this application can be a non-terrestrial network device with base station processing capabilities, or it can be a non-terrestrial network device with core network element processing capabilities. For ease of understanding, the following description will exemplify the second non-terrestrial network device having base station processing capabilities. Optionally, the second non-terrestrial network device can be, for example, a satellite, a high-altitude platform, etc., and is not limited thereto. In this method, the second non-terrestrial network device sends indication information of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the first device; the second non-terrestrial network device receives first context information from the first non-terrestrial network device, the first context information indicating a context change amount, the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group, the first non-terrestrial network device is the non-terrestrial network device that provided services to the first device before the handover, and the second non-terrestrial network device is the non-terrestrial network device that provides services to the first device after the handover.

[0056] In one possible implementation, the context change amount includes:

[0057] Newly created context information; or,

[0058] Updated context information; or,

[0059] Context information for releasing or deleting.

[0060] Fifthly, this application provides a communication device comprising units, modules, or means for implementing any of the methods described in the first to fourth aspects, or any possible implementations of any of the aspects. These modules, units, or means may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0061] Sixthly, this application provides a communication device including a processor. The processor is configured to cause the communication device to implement the methods shown in any of the first to fourth aspects, or any possible implementation thereof.

[0062] Optionally, the communication device further includes a transceiver for sending and receiving information.

[0063] Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory storing a computer program; the processor and transceiver are used to invoke the computer program in the memory, causing the communication device to implement the method shown in any of the first to fourth aspects, or any possible implementation of any of the aspects.

[0064] In one possible design, the communication device can be a chip that implements the above method or a device containing a chip.

[0065] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a communication device comprising one or more processors, which implement, via logic circuits or executable code instructions, any of the methods described in the first to fourth aspects, or any possible implementation thereof.

[0066] Optionally, the communication device further includes an interface circuit for receiving signals from other communication devices outside the communication device and transmitting them to the processor, or sending signals from the processor to other communication devices outside the communication device.

[0067] Optionally, the communication device may further include a memory for storing part or all of the computer programs or instructions necessary to implement the functions involved in the first aspect above.

[0068] The aforementioned communication device may be a terminal, a communication module in a terminal, or a chip in a terminal that is responsible for communication functions, such as a modem chip (also known as a baseband chip) or a SoC or SIP chip that contains a modem module.

[0069] The aforementioned communication device may be a first non-terrestrial network device, a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) in the first non-terrestrial network device, or a logic node, logic module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0070] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed by a computer, implement the method shown in any of the first to fourth aspects, or any possible implementation thereof.

[0071] Ninthly, this application provides a computer program product that, when read and executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the methods in the first to fourth aspects, or any possible implementation thereof.

[0072] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a chip system including at least one processor and an interface, the processor being configured to read and execute a computer program or instructions in a memory, wherein when the computer program or instructions are executed, the chip performs the method as described in any one of the first or fourth aspects, or the method shown in any possible implementation of any of the aspects.

[0073] Eleventhly, this application provides a communication system that may include a terminal and a first non-terrestrial network device. The first non-terrestrial network device is used to perform the method shown in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof, or the first non-terrestrial network device is used to perform the method shown in the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof. The terminal is used to perform the method shown in the third aspect or any possible implementation thereof. Optionally, the communication system may further include a second non-terrestrial network device, which is used to perform the method shown in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0074] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system used in the embodiments of this application;

[0075] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the O-RAN system provided in this application;

[0076] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the network element function division and protocol layer structure of an O-RAN device provided in this application;

[0077] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a RAN architecture based on NTN;

[0078] Figure 5 This application provides the initial context establishment and synchronization process;

[0079] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of satellite grouping provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0080] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0081] Figure 8-1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the determination of a second access network device by a first device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0082] Figure 8-2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the determination of a second access network device by a first non-terrestrial network device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0083] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating how the first device learns information about the group to which a non-terrestrial network device belongs, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0084] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the same-track switching and different-track switching scenarios provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0085] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a possible communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0086] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a possible communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0087] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a possible communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0088] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0089] In the description of this application, terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, " / " means "or," for example, A / B can mean A or B. "And / or" in this document is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. Additionally, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "multiple" refers to two or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or multiple items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c; a and b; a and c; b and c; or a and b and c. Where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0090] The terms “comprising” and “having”, and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the steps or units listed, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to such process, method, product, or apparatus.

[0091] In this application, the words "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or illustration. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary," "for example," or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Rather, the use of the words "exemplary," "for example," or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0092] It is understood that in 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 when it is implemented, nor do they imply any other limitations.

[0093] In this application, the use of singular pronouns for elements is intended to indicate "one or more," rather than "one and only one," unless otherwise specified. The terms "system" and "network" in the embodiments of this application are used interchangeably.

[0094] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, "B corresponding to A" means that there is a correspondence between A and B, and B can be determined based on A. Determining B based on A does not mean that B is determined solely based on A; B can also be determined based on A and / or other information.

[0095] To better understand the embodiments of this application, the system architecture involved in the embodiments of this application will be described first below:

[0096] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as: Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, and LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems. The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application can also be applied to other communication systems, such as Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) systems, LTE Advanced (LTE-A) systems, the 5th generation (5G) systems, New Radio (NR) systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems, or other future communication systems, or other wireless communication systems employing wireless access technologies, all of which can adopt the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

[0097] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system used in the embodiments of this application. It should be noted that... Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of one possible, non-limiting system. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the communication system 10 includes a radio access network (RAN) 100 and a core network (CN) 200. Optionally, the communication system 10 may also include an Internet 300. The RAN 100 includes at least one RAN node (e.g., Figure 1 110a and 110b (collectively referred to as 110) and at least one terminal (such as Figure 1 RAN 100, denoted as RAN 120a-120j, is collectively referred to as RAN 120. RAN 100 may also include other RAN nodes, such as wireless relay equipment and / or wireless backhaul equipment. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image). Terminal 120 is connected to RAN node 110 wirelessly. RAN node 110 is connected to core network 200 wirelessly or via wired connection. The core network elements in core network 200 and RAN node 110 in RAN 100 can be different physical devices, or they can be the same physical device integrating core network logical functions and radio access network logical functions, or they can be a single physical device integrating some core network element functions and some RAN node 110 functions. Terminals can be interconnected with each other, and RAN nodes 110 can be interconnected with each other via wired or wireless connection. Figure 1 This is just a schematic diagram. The communication system may also include other network devices, such as wireless repeaters and wireless backhaul devices. Each device may also contain different functional units. Figure 1 It is not shown in the middle.

[0098] RAN 100 can be a cellular system related to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as 4G, 5G mobile communication systems, or future-oriented evolution systems. RAN 100 can also be an open access network (O-RAN or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (CRAN), or a wireless fidelity (WiFi) system. RAN 100 can also be a communication system that integrates two or more of the above systems.

[0099] RAN node 110, sometimes also referred to as radio access network equipment, access network device, access network apparatus, RAN entity, or access node, constitutes part of the communication system and is used to help terminals achieve wireless access. Multiple RAN nodes 110 in the communication system 10 can be of the same type or different types. In some scenarios, the roles of RAN node 110 and terminal 120 are relative, for example... Figure 1 Network element 120i can be a helicopter or a drone, and it can be configured as a mobile base station. For terminals 120j that access RAN 100 through network element 120i, network element 120i is a base station; however, for base station 110a, network element 120i is a terminal. RAN node 110 and terminal 120 are sometimes referred to as communication devices, for example... Figure 1 Network elements 110a and 110b can be understood as communication devices with base station functions, while network elements 120a-120j can be understood as communication devices with terminal functions.

[0100] In one possible scenario, RAN node 110 can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), an access point (AP), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB), a base station in a future mobile communication system, or an access node in a WiFi system, etc. Figure 1 110a), micro base stations or indoor stations (such as Figure 1 The RAN node 110 can be a relay node or donor node, or a wireless controller in a CRAN scenario. Optionally, the RAN node 110 can also be a server, wearable device, vehicle, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, the access network device in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology can be a roadside unit (RSU). All or part of the functions of the RAN node 110 in this application can also be implemented through software functions running on hardware, or through virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). The RAN node 110 in this application can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the RAN node 110.

[0101] In another possible scenario, multiple RAN nodes 110 collaborate to assist the terminal in achieving wireless access, with each RAN node 110 implementing a portion of the base station's functions. For example, a RAN node 110 can be a centralized unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU), etc. CUs and DUs can be configured separately or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio equipment or radio units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs).

[0102] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples. Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0103] For example, please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the O-RAN system provided in this application. Figure 2 This is just an illustration; the O-RAN system may also include... Figure 2 Other components besides those shown. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the access network equipment (e.g., an eNB, gNB, or next-generation access network equipment) communicates with the core network elements in the CN via the backhaul link and with the terminal via the air interface.

[0104] Specifically, the BBU in the access network equipment communicates with the core network elements in the CN through a backhaul link, and the RU in the access network equipment communicates with at least one terminal through an air interface. The BBU communicates with at least one RU through a fronthaul link. The BBU and RU may or may not be co-located. The BBU includes at least one CU and at least one DU, which can communicate through at least one midhaul link.

[0105] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the network element functional division and protocol layer structure of an O-RAN device. In some examples, the CU (Core Unit) is a logical node carrying the radio resource control (RRC) layer, service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) layer, packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer, and other control functions of the access network device. The CU connects to network nodes such as the core network through interfaces, which can be interfaces such as E2 interfaces. Optionally, the CU may have some core network functions. The CU (e.g., the PDCP layer and higher layers) connects to the DU (e.g., the RLC layer and lower layers) through interfaces, which can be interfaces such as F1 interfaces. In some examples, these interfaces (e.g., the F1 interface) can provide control plane (C-Plane) and user plane (U-Plane) functions (e.g., interface management, system information management, UE context management, RRC message transmission, etc.). F1AP is the application protocol of the F1 interface, and in some examples, the signaling procedures of F1 are defined. The F1 interface supports the control plane F1-C and the user plane F1-U.

[0106] In some examples, the CU can be split into CU-CP (control unit-control plane) and CU-UP (control unit-user plane). CU-CP is a logical node carrying the RRC layer and PDCP-C (control plane part of PDCP) layer, used to implement the CU's control plane functions. CU-CP can interact with network elements in the core network used to implement control plane functions. These network elements in the core network can be access and mobility function (AMF) elements, such as the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) in a 5G system. The AMF element is responsible for mobility management in the mobile network, such as terminal location updates, terminal registration with the network, and terminal handover. CU-UP is a logical node carrying the SDAP layer and PDCP-U (user plane part of PDCP) layer, used to implement the CU's user plane functions. CU-UP can interact with network elements in the core network used to implement user plane functions. These network elements in the core network, such as the user plane function (UPF) in a 5G system, are responsible for data forwarding and receiving in the terminal. The above CU and DU configurations are merely examples; the functions of the CU and DU can be configured as needed. For instance, the CU or DU can be configured to have more protocol layer functions, or only some protocol layer processing functions. For example, some RLC layer functions and protocol layer functions above the RLC layer can be placed in the CU, while the remaining RLC layer functions and protocol layer functions below the RLC layer can be placed in the DU. Furthermore, the functions of the CU or DU can be divided according to service type or other system requirements, such as by latency. Functions that require low latency can be placed in the DU, while functions that do not require low latency can be placed in the CU.

[0107] In some examples, a DU is a logical node that carries the radio link control (RLC) layer, medium access control (MAC) layer, higher physical layer (Higher PHY) layer, and other functions. In some examples, a DU can control at least one RU. The DU connects to the RU through interfaces, which can be fronthaul interfaces. In some examples, the Higher PHY layer includes the PHY layer processing, such as forward error correction (FEC) encoding and decoding, scrambling, modulation, and demodulation.

[0108] In some examples, the RU is a logical node that carries both lower physical layer (PHY) and radio frequency (RF) processing. In some examples, the RU can be a 3GPP transmission reception point (TRP), a remote radio head (RRH), or other similar entities. In some examples, the Low-PHY includes PHY processing functions such as fast Fourier transform (FFT), inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT), digital beamforming, and filtering. The RU communicates with one or more terminals via a wireless link.

[0109] The DU and RU can be co-located or not. The DU and RU exchange control plane and user plane information via a fronthaul link through the Lower-Layer Split CUS-Plane (LLS-CUS) interface. LLS-CUS may include LLS-C and LLS-U interfaces providing the control plane (C-Plane) and user plane (U-Plane), respectively. In some examples, the control plane (C-Plane) refers to real-time control between the DU and RU. The DU and RU exchange management information via an LLS-M interface on the fronthaul link; the management plane (M-Plane) refers to non-real-time management operations between the DU and RU.

[0110] DU and RU can cooperate to implement the functions of the PHY layer. A DU can be connected to one or more RUs. The functions of DU and RU can be configured in various ways depending on the design. For example, a DU can be configured to implement baseband functions, and an RU can be configured to implement mid-RF functions. Another example is that a DU can be configured to implement higher-level functions in the PHY layer, and an RU can be configured to implement lower-level functions in the PHY layer, or to implement both lower-level and RF functions. Higher-level functions in the physical layer can include a portion of the physical layer's functions that are closer to the MAC layer, while lower-level functions in the physical layer can include another portion of the physical layer's functions that are closer to the mid-RF side.

[0111] A terminal is a device or module that connects to the aforementioned communication system and possesses corresponding communication functions. Terminals can also be referred to as terminal equipment, user equipment (UE), user devices, access terminals, user units, user stations, mobile stations, mobile stations (MS), remote stations, remote terminals, mobile devices, user terminals, terminal units, terminal stations, terminal devices, wireless communication equipment, user agents, or user devices, etc. Terminals typically contain communication modules, circuits, or chips that perform the corresponding communication functions. They can also be configured with program instructions for performing these functions. Terminals can be widely used in various scenarios, such as device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), the Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality, augmented reality, industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, and smart cities. The terminal can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, computer with wireless transceiver function, wearable device, vehicle, drone, helicopter, airplane, ship, robot, robotic arm, smart home device, transportation vehicle with wireless communication function, communication module, roadside unit (RSU) with terminal function, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit the device form of the terminal.

[0112] Core network elements, also known as core network equipment or core network nodes, are network elements that are part of the core network.

[0113] For example, core network elements may include access and mobility management functions (AMF), primarily used for access management, mobility management, connection (state) management, registration management, and so on. Depending on the specific function of each module, AMF can be further subdivided into mobility management (MM), access management (AM), connection management (CM), registration management (RM), and so on.

[0114] For example, core network elements can also include session management functions (SMFs), which are mainly used to establish and manage user sessions, configure packet forwarding rules and quality of service (QoS) processing rules for username functions, etc. For modular implementations, SMFs can also be represented by the abbreviation SM.

[0115] For example, core network elements may also include user plane functions (UPFs), which are mainly used to provide forwarding services for user plane data packets.

[0116] It should be noted that the network function (NF) described in this application may be a core network network function or a RAN network function, and this application does not limit it.

[0117] For ease of description, the following description uses a base station as an example of RAN node 110. Base stations and terminals can be fixed or mobile. Base stations and terminals can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; they can also be deployed on water; and they can be deployed on aircraft, balloons, and satellites. The embodiments of this application do not limit the application scenarios of the base stations and terminals.

[0118] The roles of base stations and terminals can be relative, for example, Figure 1The helicopter or drone 120i can be configured as a mobile base station. For terminals 120j accessing the wireless access network 100 via 120i, terminal 120i is a base station; however, for base station 110a, 120i is a terminal, meaning that 110a and 120i communicate via a wireless air interface protocol. Of course, 110a and 120i can also communicate via a base station-to-base station interface protocol; in this case, 120i is also a base station relative to 110a. Therefore, both base stations and terminals can be collectively referred to as communication devices. Figure 1 The 110a and 110b in the text can be referred to as communication devices with base station functions. Figure 1 The 120a-120j in the text can be referred to as communication devices with terminal functions.

[0119] Communication between base stations and terminals, between base stations, and between terminals can be conducted using licensed spectrum, unlicensed spectrum, or both simultaneously. Communication can be conducted using spectrum below 6 GHz, spectrum above 6 GHz, or both simultaneously. The embodiments of this application do not limit the spectrum resources used for wireless communication.

[0120] In the embodiments of this application, the functions of the base station can be executed by modules (such as chips) within the base station, or by a control subsystem that includes base station functions. This control subsystem, including base station functions, can be a control center in the aforementioned application scenarios such as smart grids, industrial control, intelligent transportation, and smart cities. Similarly, the functions of the terminal can be executed by modules (such as chips or modems) within the terminal, or by a device that includes terminal functions.

[0121] In this application, the base station sends downlink signals or downlink information to the terminal, with the downlink information carried on the downlink channel; the terminal sends uplink signals or uplink information to the base station, with the uplink information carried on the uplink channel. To communicate with the base station, the terminal needs to establish a radio connection on a cell controlled by the base station. The cell with which the terminal has established a radio connection is called the terminal's serving cell. When the terminal communicates with this serving cell, it is also susceptible to interference from signals from neighboring cells.

[0122] In this application, "sending information" can be understood as one device sending information to another device, or it can also be understood as one logical module within a device sending information to another logical module. For example, "base station sending information" can be understood as the base station sending information to another device (such as a terminal), or it can be understood as logical module 1 in the base station sending information to logical module 2 in the base station.

[0123] In this application, "receiving information" can be understood as one device receiving information from another device, or it can also be understood as a logical module within a device receiving information from another logical module. For example, "base station receiving information" can be understood as the base station receiving information from another device (such as a terminal), or it can be understood as logical module 1 in the base station receiving information from logical module 2 in the base station.

[0124] The communication between different devices involved in this application can refer to direct communication between different devices (i.e., without the need for relaying or forwarding by other devices), or communication between different devices through other devices (i.e., requiring relaying or forwarding by other devices), or communication between a functional unit within a device and other devices through another functional unit. In other words, "sending information to… (e.g., a terminal)" or the relevant illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the destination of the information being the terminal. This can include sending information directly or indirectly to the terminal. "Receiving information from… (e.g., a terminal)" or "receiving information from… (e.g., a terminal)" or "receiving information sent (e.g., by a terminal)" or the relevant illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the source of the information being the terminal. This can include receiving information directly or indirectly from the terminal. Information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, analog-to-digital conversion, amplification, filtering, etc., but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be understood in a similar way, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0125] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, some knowledge / terms used in the solutions of this application are introduced below. It should be noted that these explanations are for the purpose of making the embodiments of this application easier to understand, and should not be regarded as limiting the scope of protection claimed by this application.

[0126] 1. NTN

[0127] NTN, or non-terrestrial network, is a general term for networks involving flying objects, including satellite communication networks, high altitude platform stations (HAPS), and air-to-ground networks.

[0128] HAPS is carried by airborne platforms, primarily aircraft, balloons, and airships, using high-altitude platform stations as mobile communication base stations and providing mobile services using the same frequency bands as terrestrial mobile networks. In other words, by deploying base stations or parts of their functions on non-terrestrial network equipment (such as ships, high-altitude platforms, drones, or satellites), seamless communication coverage is provided to terminals, thereby improving the reliability of the communication system. It should be noted that, for ease of understanding, the following description uses satellites as an example of non-terrestrial network equipment in NTN, and should not be considered a specific limitation of this application.

[0129] Satellite communication networks rely on onboard platforms, primarily including geostationary orbit satellites and non-geostationary orbit satellites. Geostationary orbit satellites are those that are stationary relative to the ground, such as geostationary earthbiting (GEO) satellites. Non-geostationary orbit satellites are those that move relative to the ground, such as low earthbiting (LEO) satellites and medium earth orbiting (MEO) satellites. The embodiments in this application are mainly applicable to scenarios involving non-geostationary orbit satellites. Based on the relationship between the satellite and the base station, several architectures can be categorized as follows.

[0130] For example, please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a RAN architecture based on NTN. (For example...) Figure 4 As shown, the RAN architecture based on NTN can include terminals, RAN (or NG-RAN), core network equipment (or core network elements, core network nodes, etc.) and data network (or Internet).

[0131] in, Figure 4Figure (a) illustrates a transparent satellite architecture. Also known as a transparent satellite architecture, the RAN (Radio Area Network) can include remote radio units (RRUs) and base stations. The RRU can include a satellite and an NTN gateway. Terminals communicate with base stations via a user-universal terrestrial radio access network (UU) interface. The satellite enables transparent payload transmission between users and base stations. The satellite and NTN gateway can be considered as remote radio units of the base station, achieving transparent signal forwarding. This means the satellite supports functions such as radio frequency filtering, frequency conversion, and amplification, while maintaining the original signal waveform. Satellite forwarding is transparent to the terminal; the satellite primarily acts as a Layer 1 (L1) relay, regenerating physical layer signals (i.e., radio frequency filtering, frequency conversion, and amplification), without involving other higher protocol layers. Among them, base stations and core network equipment can communicate through the next-generation (NG) interface, and exchange non-access stratum (NAS) signaling of the core network and service data of the terminal through the NG interface.

[0132] like Figure 4 (b) and Figure 4 In (c), all are regenerable star architectures. Figure 4 Figure (b) illustrates a regenerative satellite architecture without an inter-satellite link. The RAN includes satellites and NTN gateways. The satellites act as base stations, possessing base station processing functions. The satellites communicate with the NTN gateways via the satellite radio interface (SRI). Terminals communicate with base stations via the Uu interface. Base stations and core network equipment can communicate via the NG interface, exchanging core network NAS signaling and terminal service data.

[0133] Figure 4Figure (c) illustrates a regenerative satellite architecture with an inter-satellite link. The RAN includes satellites and NTN gateways. The satellites act as base stations, possessing the processing functions of base stations. Satellites communicate with the NTN gateways via SRI. Satellites can communicate with each other via the Xn interface on the inter-satellite link (ISL). Terminals communicate with base stations via the Uu interface, and base stations and core network equipment communicate via the NG interface. The NG interface facilitates the exchange of NAS signaling from the core network and service data from the terminals.

[0134] Figure 4 Figure (d) illustrates a regenerative satellite architecture with DU processing capabilities for base stations. The satellite acts as a DU, possessing DU processing functionality. The CU and DU can jointly perform the functions of a base station. The CU and DU communicate via the F1 interface, and the DU communicates with the NTN gateway via the F1 interface on the SRI. Terminals communicate with DUs via the Uu interface, and the CU and core network equipment communicate via the NG interface, exchanging NAS signaling from the core network and service data from the terminals.

[0135] For example, in another satellite architecture with integrated access and backhaul (IAB) functionality, the satellite acts as an IAB node. The IAB node provides wireless backhaul services to nodes (such as terminals) that wirelessly access the wireless backhaul node. Here, wireless backhaul service refers to data and / or signaling backhaul services provided via the wireless backhaul link.

[0136] An NTN gateway, generally referring to a ground station, provides data forwarding between the NTN and TN.

[0137] The following text primarily uses the regenerator satellite architecture as an example, considering base stations deployed on satellites, allowing terminals to access the core network via onboard base stations. The core network can be, for example, a 4G core network, such as an evolved packet core (EPC), a 5G core network (5GC), or a future generation mobile network core network, etc., without limitation. The core network can include mobility management network elements and location network elements, with mobility management network elements primarily used for mobility and access management, and location network elements used for terminal positioning. For example, using EPC, the mobility management network element could be a mobility management entity (MME), and the location network element could be an evolved serving mobile location center (E-SMLC). Similarly, using 5GC, the mobility management network element could be an access and mobility management function (AMF), and the location network element could be a location management function (LMF).

[0138] 2. Terminal context and service context

[0139] The terminal context may include at least one of the following: the terminal's identity information under the current serving network element (such as the serving cell controlled by the serving base station), the network information accessed by the terminal, the information of the service used by the terminal, and the information of other serving network elements associated with the terminal. The service context may include at least one of the following: the service identifier, the service parameters, and the information of the terminal using the service.

[0140] For example, the terminal context created by the RAN side may include at least one of the following: terminal identifier, terminal's Next Generation Application Protocol (NGAP) identifier, access stratum (AS) security context, terminal capability information, signaling radio bearer (SRB) configuration information, and data radio bearer (DRB) configuration information. The terminal's NGAP identifier is an identifier assigned by the base station to the terminal for establishing an NGAP signaling connection with the AMF network element, and / or, the terminal's NGAP identifier may also be an identifier assigned by the AMF to the UE for establishing an NGAP signaling connection with the base station. The service context created by the RAN side may include, for example, the identifier of the service provided by the RAN, service parameters, and information about the terminal using the service.

[0141] For example, the terminal context created by the AMF may include at least one of the following: the terminal's identifier (e.g., a permanent identifier), a temporary identifier assigned to the terminal by the AMF, information about the RAN to which the terminal is connected, the terminal's location information, information about the services used by the terminal, and information about the network element providing services to the terminal.

[0142] For example, the service context created by SMF may include at least one of the following: service identifier, terminal identifier, network information corresponding to the service (such as slice information), and QoS information. Taking a connection session context as an example, it includes a session identifier, terminal identifier, the terminal's Internet Protocol (IP) address, QoS information, etc.

[0143] The following is combined Figure 5 This section provides an illustrative explanation of the establishment and synchronization process for the initial context (e.g., the initial context may include the initial terminal context and / or the initial business context). For example... Figure 5 The non-terrestrial network devices shown (e.g., the first non-terrestrial network device, other non-terrestrial network device 1, other non-terrestrial network device 2) can have base station processing functions (e.g., RAN). Optionally, the non-terrestrial network device can also be a core network element (e.g., an AMF with access and mobility management functions, an SMF with session management functions, etc.). It should be noted that the device names involved in this application, such as AMF and SMF, are only examples, and the names of devices with the same functions in future networks may change. In addition, the non-terrestrial network devices in this application can have, in addition to having, the processing functions of a base station (e.g., RAN), the processing functions of a base station (e.g., RAN). Figure 5 The processing functions of RAN, AMF, and SMF shown may also include other network functions, which are not limited in this application. Among them:

[0144] S501, the terminal and the first non-terrestrial network device establish a connection.

[0145] In one possible implementation, the terminal may send a connection establishment request message to the first non-terrestrial network device. Correspondingly, the first non-terrestrial network device receives the connection establishment request message from the terminal, which requests the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the first non-terrestrial network device. Exemplarily, this connection establishment request message may be, for example, an RRC configuration request message, a registration request message, or a service request message, etc., and is not limited thereto. For the first non-terrestrial network device, it may send a connection establishment response message to the terminal, which indicates acceptance of the connection establishment, or indicates rejection of the connection establishment. This application mainly illustrates the scenario where the first non-terrestrial network device accepts the connection establishment.

[0146] S502, the terminal sends a request message to the first non-terrestrial network device. Correspondingly, the first non-terrestrial network device receives the request message from the terminal.

[0147] For example, the request message can be a registration request message, a service request message, a session establishment request message, a data service request message, etc., and is not limited thereto. For example, step S502 can be understood as the terminal requesting a specific service (or network service) from the network side after the terminal successfully establishes a connection with the first non-terrestrial network device or at the same time as the terminal successfully establishes a connection with the first non-terrestrial network device, where it is not limited whether the service is provided by the RAN side or the core network side.

[0148] Generally, if the terminal requests services from the RAN side, only step 1 in S502 is executed. If the terminal requests services from the core network side, the RAN can send the request message to the AMF, etc. For example, if it is a terminal location report or registration request, steps 1-2 are executed. Optionally, the AMF, etc., can further forward the request message to the corresponding network function (such as the SMF) based on the content of the request. For example, if it is a session establishment request, data service request, computing service request, AI service request, etc., steps 1-3 are executed.

[0149] S503, The first non-terrestrial network device creates an initial terminal context and / or an initial service context.

[0150] Generally, when a first non-terrestrial network device (e.g., RAN, AMF, or SMF) receives a request message from a terminal, it can determine whether it can provide the corresponding service to the terminal. Specifically, the first non-terrestrial network device can determine whether it can provide the corresponding service based on the terminal's subscription information or network policy information. If the first non-terrestrial network device can provide the service to the terminal, it creates a corresponding terminal context and / or service context. Hereinafter, the context created by the first non-terrestrial network device when it first provides service to the terminal after establishing a connection is described as the initial terminal context and / or initial service context. If the first non-terrestrial network device cannot provide the service to the terminal, it rejects the terminal's request. This application mainly illustrates the ability of a first non-terrestrial network device to provide services to a terminal.

[0151] Optionally, if the network function providing services to the terminal is deployed on the TN (i.e., terrestrial), the on-board network function (such as RAN, AMF) can send the terminal's request message to the NTN gateway, which then forwards the terminal's request message to the corresponding terrestrial network function. The on-board network function can record the binding relationship between the terminal and the terrestrial network function within the context. How the terrestrial network function provides services to the terminal is beyond the scope of this application and will not be discussed further here.

[0152] Optionally, the terminal context and / or service context created when providing services to the terminal may also include the identifier of the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs; that is, the terminal context and / or service context also include the identifier of the group to which the non-terrestrial network device connected to the terminal belongs. Optionally, the group can also be described as a cluster, set, list, etc. Multiple first non-terrestrial network devices belonging to a group can also be referred to as multiple first non-terrestrial network devices belonging to a cluster, etc. This application does not limit the terminology used for the group.

[0153] For example, S503 includes at least one of S503a, S503b, and S503c. When the first non-terrestrial network device is RAN, RAN executes S503a to create an initial terminal context and / or an initial service context; when the first non-terrestrial network device is AMF, AMF executes S503b to create an initial terminal context; when the first non-terrestrial network device is SMF, SMF executes S503c to create an initial service context.

[0154] S504. After the first non-terrestrial network device creates an initial terminal context and / or an initial service context for the terminal, it sends the initial terminal context and / or initial service context to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the same group (e.g., other non-terrestrial network device 1, other non-terrestrial network device 2, etc.). Accordingly, at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the same group receives the initial terminal context and / or initial service context from the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0155] In other words, the initial terminal context and / or initial service context need to be synchronized among non-terrestrial network devices in the same group.

[0156] Optionally, over time, the terminal context and / or service context stored in the non-terrestrial network device providing services to the terminal may be updated. Especially during handover, in order to ensure service continuity, the source non-terrestrial network device usually needs to perform context synchronization with the target non-terrestrial network device, such as context synchronization for intra-group handover and inter-group handover. The following embodiments will describe different situations separately, and will not be elaborated here.

[0157] Optionally, when transmitting or synchronizing context between non-terrestrial network devices, inter-satellite links can be used, or data can be forwarded or cached via ground stations or other satellites (such as high-orbit satellites). Data caching can be understood as satellites in the same group storing context data in a centralized node (such as a terrestrial network element or a high-orbit network element). These nodes are generally stationary relative to the Earth. When a satellite needs to switch over, it can retrieve the latest synchronization data from this node, thereby reducing inter-satellite data transmission. Furthermore, the data only remains at the location where the service occurs and does not move around the Earth, improving data security.

[0158] 3. Cell

[0159] A cell is described from the perspective of resource management, mobility management, or service units. The coverage area of ​​each base station can be divided into one or more cells, and each cell can correspond to one or more frequency points. In other words, each cell can be regarded as an area formed by the coverage of one or more frequency points.

[0160] It should be noted that a cell can be an area within the coverage range of a base station's wireless network. In the embodiments of this application, different cells can correspond to the same or different base stations. For example, in some embodiments, there is a one-to-one relationship between a base station and a cell, that is, one base station manages one cell. In other embodiments, there is a one-to-many relationship between a base station and a cell, that is, the same base station can manage at least two different cells.

[0161] In the mobile communication system of this application embodiment, due to the movement of the terminal's location, the communication link between the terminal and the base station changes. The base station will instruct the terminal to perform cell handover based on the terminal's movement. For ease of distinction and understanding, the cells described in this application embodiment are divided into the following three categories:

[0162] (1) Source cell: The cell that provides services to the terminal before the terminal performs a cell handover;

[0163] (2) Candidate cell: A cell that a terminal can switch to during cell handover if it meets the handover conditions. This at least one cell is called a candidate cell;

[0164] (3) Target cell: The cell that the terminal eventually hands over to. This cell is one of the candidate cells that the terminal hands over to.

[0165] As described above, the first non-terrestrial network device involved in the embodiments of this application can be a non-terrestrial network device with base station processing capabilities, or it can be a non-terrestrial network device with core network element processing capabilities, or it can simultaneously have both base station processing capabilities and core network element processing capabilities. For ease of understanding, the following description will exemplify that the first non-terrestrial network device has at least base station processing capabilities. In the following embodiments, the non-terrestrial network device managing the radio resources of the source cell is referred to as the first non-terrestrial network device, and the non-terrestrial network device managing the radio resources of the target cell is referred to as the second non-terrestrial network device. The first and second non-terrestrial network devices involved in this application are devices in a cross-site handover scenario, that is, the first and second non-terrestrial network devices are different devices. Optionally, the non-terrestrial network device managing the radio resources of the candidate cell can also be referred to as the third non-terrestrial network device, and optionally, the third non-terrestrial network device can also be referred to as the candidate non-terrestrial network device, wherein the second non-terrestrial network device is a special case of the third non-terrestrial network device.

[0166] 4. Serving the community

[0167] In order to communicate with non-terrestrial network devices, a terminal needs to establish a wireless connection with a cell controlled by the non-terrestrial network device. The cell with which the terminal has established a wireless connection can be called the terminal's serving cell.

[0168] In this embodiment, before the terminal performs a cell handover, the source cell is the terminal's serving cell. After the terminal performs a cell handover, the target cell becomes the terminal's new serving cell.

[0169] 5. Non-terrestrial network equipment group

[0170] Alternatively, "group" can be described as a cluster, set, list, or cluster. For example, when the non-terrestrial network devices are satellites, the non-terrestrial network device group can also be referred to as a satellite group, satellite cluster, satellite set, satellite list, or satellite cluster. In one possible design, multiple non-terrestrial network devices within the same group reside in the same orbit, or non-terrestrial network devices in the same orbit belong to the same group. In another possible design, multiple non-terrestrial network devices within the same group serve the same area, or multiple non-terrestrial network devices serving the same area constitute a group.

[0171] The service area in this application can be understood as the coverage area of ​​the non-terrestrial network equipment, or the service area can also be understood as a pre-defined geographical area (e.g., a city, a country, etc.) located within the coverage area of ​​the non-terrestrial network equipment.

[0172] Optionally, for non-terrestrial network devices serving the same area, their orbits may be different; that is, the orbits of non-terrestrial network devices in the same group may also be different.

[0173] Generally, groups can be represented by group identifiers, with different group identifiers used to mark different groups. Optionally, the group identifier can also be described as a group identifier (ID), group index, group index, or group number, etc., without limitation. Optionally, when non-terrestrial network devices within the same group reside on the same track, the descriptions of the group identifier and the track identifier can be interchanged, or the group identifier can also be represented by the track identifier. For ease of distinction, the track identifier will be uniformly described as a track identifier in the following text, where one track identifier is used to mark one / one track. Optionally, the track identifier can also be called a track number, etc.

[0174] Optionally, in addition to using an orbital identifier, the orbit can also be represented by orbital parameters, or it can be represented by an orbital identifier / orbital parameters combined with constellation information; this application is not limited to this. Constellation information includes, for example, a constellation identifier or constellation name, where the constellation name may include, for example, Starlink, OneWeb, or the Global Positioning System (GPS). Orbital parameters may include, for example, one or more of the following: orbital inclination, total number of satellites, orbital plane information, or a phase factor used to characterize the relative distance between satellites on adjacent orbital planes.

[0175] Optionally, group identifiers / orbit identifiers can be directly represented by separate identifiers, or they can be indirectly / implicitly represented by identifiers of non-terrestrial network devices. For example, taking satellite identifiers as an example, satellites 11, 12, and 13 in Table 1 or Table 2 below can indicate that these satellites belong to group 1 / orbit 1; satellites 21, 22, and 23 can indicate that these satellites belong to group 1 / orbit 2. Here, the 11 in satellite 11 is the satellite identifier. Satellite identifiers can also take other forms; this is just one example. For ease of understanding, the following text will mainly use the method of directly representing group identifiers / orbit identifiers as separate identifiers as an example.

[0176] For example, please see Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of satellite grouping provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 6 As shown in (a), group 1 includes satellites operating in orbit 1, or satellites operating in orbit 1 are grouped together; group 2 includes satellites operating in orbit 2, or satellites operating in orbit 2 are grouped together. Optionally, when the satellites in the same group are in the same orbit, the group identifier can be an orbit identifier, as shown in Table 1 below, orbit 1 includes satellite 11, satellite 12, and satellite 13; orbit 2 includes satellite 21, satellite 22, and satellite 23.

[0177] Table 1

[0178] Orbit ID Satellite Identifier (SAT ID) Track 1 Satellite 11, Satellite 12, Satellite 13 Track 2 Satellite 21, Satellite 22, Satellite 23 … …

[0179] like Figure 6 As shown in (b), non-terrestrial network devices serving the same area can be grouped together, as shown in Table 2 below. Group 1 includes satellites 11, 12, and 13, which correspond to service area 1; Group 2 includes satellites 21, 22, and 23, which correspond to service area 2.

[0180] Table 2

[0181] Group ID Satellite Identifier (SAT ID) Group 1 Satellite 11, Satellite 12, Satellite 13 Group 2 Satellite 21, Satellite 22, Satellite 23 … …

[0182] like Figure 6 As shown in (c), Group 1 includes satellites operating in orbits 1 and 2, as shown in Table 3 below. The service areas of satellites in orbit 1 and satellites in orbit 2 are the same.

[0183] Table 3

[0184]

[0185] For ease of description, we will use satellites as an example of non-terrestrial network equipment. For non-geostationary satellites (such as medium Earth orbit and low Earth orbit satellites), a single satellite has a relatively small coverage area on the ground, and the satellite moves at high speed relative to the ground. Therefore, multiple satellites are typically deployed simultaneously in one orbit to compensate for the coverage limitations of a single satellite and improve communication capacity and quality. Generally, for multiple satellites in the same orbit, they orbit the Earth along the same trajectory. Since each satellite periodically covers a physical area on the ground, this physical area may be covered by different satellites in the same orbit at different times. Therefore, terminals communicating within this physical area need to frequently switch between multiple satellites. Based on this, ensuring service continuity is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed.

[0186] Based on this, this application proposes a communication method and apparatus that can improve service continuity.

[0187] It should be noted that 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, including 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 other information and the information to be instructed. Furthermore, only a part of the information to be instructed can be indicated, while the other parts are known, pre-agreed upon, or deducible. Additionally, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing instruction overhead to some extent.

[0188] In this application, the descriptions of "message" and "signaling" can be used interchangeably. For example, an RRC message can also be called an RRC signaling. The descriptions of "index," "ID," and "number" can also be used interchangeably. For example, a group identifier can also be called a group index or group number; an orbit identifier can also be called an orbit index or orbit number; and a satellite identifier can also be called a satellite index or satellite number. Optionally, the full English name of ID may be identifier, indication, indicator, index, identity, or identification, etc., without limitation. Identifier, indication, indicator, index, identity, and identification can be used interchangeably. Optionally, this application does not limit the names of network elements / devices / network functions in a communication system. For example, in communication systems of different standards, each network element / device / network function may have other names; or, for example, when multiple network elements / network functions are integrated into the same physical device, that physical device may also have other names.

[0189] The communication method and apparatus provided in this application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is understood that this application uses a non-terrestrial network device (e.g., a first non-terrestrial network device, a second non-terrestrial network device) and a first device as examples to illustrate the execution subject of the interaction, but this application does not limit the execution subject of the interaction. For example, the method executed by the non-terrestrial network device in this application can also be implemented by a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) for the non-terrestrial network device, or a logic node, logic module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the non-terrestrial network device; the method executed by the first device in this application can also be implemented by a communication / processing module in the first device or a circuit or chip (e.g., a modem chip (also known as a baseband chip), or a SoC chip / SIP chip containing a modem core, or a GPU / AI processor / ASIC) in the first device responsible for communication / processing functions. Exemplarily, the non-terrestrial network device can be, for example, a satellite, or a high-altitude platform, etc. For ease of understanding, the non-terrestrial network device will be understood as a satellite in the following text. Furthermore, the satellite in the embodiments of this application at least has the processing capability of a base station (or the functions of a base station are deployed on the satellite). For example, the first device may be a terminal, a base station, or other network functions. For ease of understanding, the first device will be understood as a terminal in the following text.

[0190] It should be noted that in one possible design (a), for a non-terrestrial network device, the non-terrestrial network device may only store / maintain the identifier of its group, or in other words, the non-terrestrial network device is pre-configured / configured with the identifier of its group.

[0191] In another possible design (ii), a non-terrestrial network device may only store / maintain the membership information of its group, or the non-terrestrial network device may be pre-configured / configured with the identifiers of the various non-terrestrial network devices included in its group.

[0192] In another possible design (iii), a non-terrestrial network device can store / maintain both the identifier of its group and the member information of its group (or store / maintain the identifiers of at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the same group). In other words, a non-terrestrial network device can store / maintain the correspondence between the identifier of its own group and the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in the group. Optionally, the non-terrestrial network device can also additionally store / maintain the correspondence between the identifiers of other groups and the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in other groups, as shown in Tables 1, 2, or 3 above, which illustrate the correspondence between track identifiers / group identifiers and non-terrestrial network device identifiers.

[0193] Optionally, the packet-related information stored in each non-terrestrial network device in designs (I) to (III) above can be pre-configured, or it can be dynamically configured through a ground-based or space-based control platform / control center; this application does not limit this. In another possible design (IV), the correspondence between the group identifier and the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in the group can be predefined, such as protocol predefined. The following sections mainly describe the implementation of designs (I) to (III) above.

[0194] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. It should be understood that... Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the method of this application, showing the detailed communication steps or operations of the method. However, these steps or operations are merely examples, and other operations may be performed in the embodiments of this application. Figure 7 Variations of various operations within it. Furthermore, Figure 7 Each step in the process can be followed separately according to... Figure 7 The different orders presented may be executed, and it is possible that they are not intended to be executed. Figure 7 All operations within. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the communication method may include the following steps:

[0195] S701, The first non-terrestrial network device obtains the instruction information from the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0196] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the first non-terrestrial network device is the source non-terrestrial network device, and the second non-terrestrial network device is the target non-terrestrial network device. The indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device is used to indicate the second non-terrestrial network device. For example, the indication information may include the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device; optionally, the indication information may also include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs, etc., without limitation. Alternatively, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device may include the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device and / or the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs, or it may be described as including one or more of the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device and the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs. Optionally, as described above, when the identifier of the group can be indirectly / implicitly represented by the identifier of the non-terrestrial network device, even if the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device does not directly include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs, it can still simultaneously indicate which non-terrestrial network device the second non-terrestrial network device is and the group to which it belongs through the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device. The following text will primarily use the example of a group being identified by a separate identifier.

[0197] For example, the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device can be the identifier of the non-terrestrial network device itself, such as a satellite identifier / satellite number, the identifier of the base station carried on the satellite, or the identifier of the network function carried on the satellite. Alternatively, the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device can also be represented by the identifier (cell ID) of the cell managed / controlled by the second non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, when a second non-terrestrial network device manages multiple cells, the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device can be represented by the identifier of the target cell.

[0198] In one possible implementation (1), the first non-terrestrial network device obtaining the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device can be understood as follows: the first device (e.g., a terminal) sends the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device, and correspondingly, the first non-terrestrial network device receives the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device from the first device (e.g., the terminal). That is, the first device can determine / select / filter the second non-terrestrial network device and send the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device; or, in other words, the second non-terrestrial network device is selected by the first device and reported to the first non-terrestrial network device, such as... Figure 8-1As shown in steps S7011 and S7012, specifically, in S7011, the terminal selects a second non-terrestrial network device; in S7012, the terminal sends indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, in implementing (1), the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device in step S7012 may include the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, it may also include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs, which is determined according to the actual situation and is not limited thereto.

[0199] In one possible scenario (1-1), when the first device cannot obtain information about the group to which each non-terrestrial network device belongs, the first device may select the non-terrestrial network device with the best channel quality or, for other reasons, select a non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device, and send indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device. Accordingly, the first non-terrestrial network device receives the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device from the first device and determines whether the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device based on the received indication information. Optionally, in scenario (1-1), the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device sent by the first device may specifically include the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0200] In one possible scenario (1-2), when the first device can obtain information about the groups to which each non-terrestrial network device belongs, the first device may preferentially select a non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device and send an indication message for the second non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device. Alternatively, the first device may select a non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device whose channel quality is greater than a quality threshold (hereinafter referred to as the first quality threshold for ease of distinction) as the second non-terrestrial network device and send an indication message for the second non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device. For example, the first device may select a non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device with the best channel quality as the second non-terrestrial network device. When there is no non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device, the first device may select the non-terrestrial network device with the best channel quality or select a non-terrestrial network device for other reasons as the second non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, in this case (1-2), the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device sent by the first device may specifically include the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device, and optionally, may also include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0201] Optionally, the first device can obtain information about the group to which the non-terrestrial network device belongs by means of:

[0202] In method (I), each non-terrestrial network device can send the identifier of the group to which it belongs to the first device. The identifier of the group to which one of the non-terrestrial network devices belongs can be carried in a broadcast message sent by that non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, the broadcast message may also include the identifier of the non-terrestrial network device that sent the broadcast message. For example... Figure 9 As shown in (a), when the first non-terrestrial network device maintains the identifier of the group to which it belongs, and the third non-terrestrial network device maintains the identifier of the group to which it belongs (i.e., step S900a), the broadcast message sent by the first non-terrestrial network device may include the identifier of the group to which it belongs, and the broadcast message sent by the third non-terrestrial network device may include the identifier of the group to which it belongs. Optionally, the broadcast message sent by the first non-terrestrial network device may also include the identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device, and the broadcast message sent by the third non-terrestrial network device may also include the identifier of the third non-terrestrial network device (i.e., step S901a). That is, under the above design (a), that is, when each non-terrestrial network device maintains the identifier of its group, each non-terrestrial network device can send a broadcast message carrying the identifier of the group to which it belongs to the first device. Therefore, the first device can determine whether there is a non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device based on the received identifier of the group to which the non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0203] For example, consider three non-terrestrial network devices: Non-terrestrial Network Device 1, Non-terrestrial Network Device 2, and Non-terrestrial Network Device 3. Assume the first non-terrestrial network device is Non-terrestrial Network Device 1, and it belongs to group 1 (identified as 1). If the first device knows that Non-terrestrial Network Device 2 belongs to group 2 (identified as 2) and Non-terrestrial Network Device 3 belongs to group 3 (identified as 3), then the first device can determine that there is no non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as Non-terrestrial Network Device 1. This is because the group identifiers of Non-terrestrial Network Device 2 and Non-terrestrial Network Device 3 are different from those of the group to which Non-terrestrial Network Device 1 belongs. Furthermore, if Non-terrestrial Network Device 2 also belongs to group 1 (identified as 1) and Non-terrestrial Network Device 3 belongs to group 2 (identified as 2), then the first device can determine that Non-terrestrial Network Device 1 and Non-terrestrial Network Device 2 belong to the same non-terrestrial network device group. This is because the identifier of the group to which non-terrestrial network device 1 belongs is different from the identifier of the group to which non-terrestrial network device 2 belongs, and the identifier of the group to which non-terrestrial network device 3 belongs is different from the identifier of the group to which non-terrestrial network device 1 belongs.

[0204] In method (II), the first non-terrestrial network device can send the identifiers of all non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs, for example, Figure 9 As shown in (b), when the first non-terrestrial network device maintains the identifiers of each non-terrestrial network device included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs, and the third non-terrestrial network device maintains the identifiers of each non-terrestrial network device included in the group to which the third non-terrestrial network device belongs (i.e., step S900b), the broadcast message / private message sent by the first non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device and the identifiers of all non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs, and the broadcast message sent by the third non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the third non-terrestrial network device (i.e., step S901b). That is to say, under the above design (ii), that is, when each non-terrestrial network device stores / maintains the member information of its group, the first non-terrestrial network device can carry the identifiers of all non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs in the broadcast message / private message. For example, the private message can be a radio resource control (RRC) message, a medium access control control element (MAC CE), or downlink control information (DCI), etc. Therefore, the first device can determine whether there is a non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device based on the identifier of at least one other non-terrestrial network device carried in a broadcast message (such as a system information broadcast, SIB) sent by at least one other non-terrestrial network device, and in combination with the identifiers of all non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs, carried in a broadcast message / private message sent by the first non-terrestrial network device. For example, the private message may be an RRC message.

[0205] For example, taking non-terrestrial network device 1 as the first non-terrestrial network device, assuming that the first device can know that the group to which non-terrestrial network device 1 belongs includes non-terrestrial network device 1, non-terrestrial network device 2 and non-terrestrial network device 3, then when the first device receives a broadcast message from non-terrestrial network device 2, it can determine that non-terrestrial network device 1 and non-terrestrial network device 2 belong to the same group based on the non-terrestrial network device identifier 2 carried in the broadcast message. When the first device receives a broadcast message from non-terrestrial network device 4, it can determine that non-terrestrial network device 1 and non-terrestrial network device 4 do not belong to the same group based on the non-terrestrial network device identifier 4 carried in the broadcast message.

[0206] For example, Figure 9 As shown in (c), when the first non-terrestrial network device maintains the correspondence between the identifier of the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs and the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in the group, and the third non-terrestrial network device maintains the correspondence between the identifier of the group to which the third non-terrestrial network device belongs and the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in the group (i.e., step S900c), the broadcast message / private message sent by the first non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device and the correspondence between the identifier of the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs and the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in the group. The broadcast message sent by the third non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the third non-terrestrial network device (i.e., step S901c). That is to say, under the above design (iii), that is, when each non-terrestrial network device maintains the correspondence between the identifier of its own group and the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in the group, the first non-terrestrial network device can carry the correspondence between the identifier of the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs and the identifiers of all non-terrestrial network devices included in the group in the broadcast message / private message. For example, the private message can be an RRC message, MAC CE, or DCI, etc. Therefore, the first device can determine whether there is a non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device based on the identifier of at least one other non-terrestrial network device carried in the broadcast message sent by at least one other non-terrestrial network device, and in combination with the correspondence between the group identifier carried in the broadcast message / private message sent by the first non-terrestrial network device and the non-terrestrial network device identifier.

[0207] For example, taking non-terrestrial network device 1 as the first non-terrestrial network device, assuming the first device can know that non-terrestrial network device 1 belongs to group 1, and that group 1 includes non-terrestrial network device 1, non-terrestrial network device 2, and non-terrestrial network device 3, then when the first device receives a broadcast message from non-terrestrial network device 2, it can determine that non-terrestrial network device 1 and non-terrestrial network device 2 belong to the same group based on the non-terrestrial network device identifier 2 carried in the broadcast message. When the first device receives a broadcast message from non-terrestrial network device 4, it can determine that non-terrestrial network device 1 and non-terrestrial network device 4 do not belong to the same group based on the non-terrestrial network device identifier 4 carried in the broadcast message.

[0208] In method (III), the first device can locally maintain / store the correspondence between the identifiers of different groups and the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in the group, or the first device's external storage or cloud space stores the correspondence between the identifiers of different groups and the identifiers of the non-terrestrial network devices included in the group. That is, it is not necessary to send the group information of the non-terrestrial network devices to the first device through the non-terrestrial network devices. Therefore, the first device can determine whether there is a non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device based on the stored identifier of the first non-terrestrial network device and the identifiers of at least one other non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, in this method (1-2-3), the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device sent by the first device may specifically include the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device, and optionally, may also include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0209] For example, suppose group 1 includes non-terrestrial network device 1, non-terrestrial network device 2, and non-terrestrial network device 3; group 2 includes non-terrestrial network device 4 and non-terrestrial network device 5, and the first device has the above-mentioned correspondence stored locally. Then, when the first non-terrestrial network device is non-terrestrial network device 1, and receives a broadcast message from non-terrestrial network device 2 and non-terrestrial network device 4, the first device can determine that non-terrestrial network device 2 and non-terrestrial network device 1 belong to the same group, and non-terrestrial network device 4 and non-terrestrial network device 1 do not belong to the same group.

[0210] In method (IV), if it is design (IV) as described above, the terminal can obtain information about the group to which different non-terrestrial network devices belong based on the protocol content. For example, after the terminal accesses the core network, it can obtain relevant information from the user policy configured for the terminal by the policy control function (PCF). Specifically, when the terminal sends a registration request, it can carry a satellite access capability indication in the registration request. Correspondingly, after the AMF receives the registration request, it can send the capability indication carried in the registration request to the PCF along with the policy request message. Therefore, the PCF can add information about the group to which the non-terrestrial network devices belong to in the configured user policy based on the capability indication and send it to the terminal through the AMF.

[0211] In one possible implementation (2), the first non-terrestrial network device obtains the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device, which can be understood as: the first non-terrestrial network device selects one non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device from the indication information of one or more non-terrestrial network devices fed back by the first device; or, the first non-terrestrial network device selects one non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device based on the measurement results of each non-terrestrial network device fed back by the first device, such as... Figure 8-2As shown in steps S7011 and S7012, specifically, in S7011, the terminal sends the indication information of the non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device, or the measurement result; in S7012, the first non-terrestrial network device selects the second non-terrestrial network device. That is, the first non-terrestrial network device itself can determine / select / filter the second non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, in this implementation (2), the indication information of one or more non-terrestrial network devices fed back by the first device or the measurement results of each non-terrestrial network device fed back by the first device may include the identifier of the non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, it may also include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs, which is determined according to the actual situation and is not limited thereto.

[0212] In one possible scenario (2-1), the first device (e.g., a terminal) can send information and measurement results from all measured non-terrestrial network devices to the first non-terrestrial network device, selecting candidate non-terrestrial network devices with relatively good channel quality (e.g., selecting candidate non-terrestrial network devices whose channel quality is greater than or equal to a quality threshold (hereinafter referred to as the second quality threshold for ease of distinction)). Here, the indication information for the candidate non-terrestrial network devices may include, for example, the identifier of the candidate non-terrestrial network device. Optionally, the candidate non-terrestrial network device may also be referred to as the third non-terrestrial network device. It should be noted that when the first device reports / sends only one candidate non-terrestrial network device to the first non-terrestrial network device, that candidate non-terrestrial network device is usually the second non-terrestrial network device. When a first device reports / sends multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices to a first non-terrestrial network device, and these candidate non-terrestrial network devices include both those belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device and those not belonging to the same group, the first non-terrestrial network device can preferentially select a candidate non-terrestrial network device belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device from among the multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices as the second non-terrestrial network device. For example, the first non-terrestrial network device can determine from among the multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices that the channel quality is greater than or equal to a quality threshold (hereinafter referred to as the third quality threshold for ease of distinction) and that belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device. Alternatively, the first non-terrestrial network device can select from among the multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices that has the best channel quality and belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device. When the first device reports / sends multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices to the first non-terrestrial network device, and the multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices include only non-terrestrial network devices belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device, or only non-terrestrial network devices not belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device, the first non-terrestrial network device can select a candidate non-terrestrial network device whose channel quality is greater than or equal to a quality threshold (hereinafter referred to as the fourth quality threshold for easy distinction) from the multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices as the second non-terrestrial network device. For example, the first non-terrestrial network device selects the candidate non-terrestrial network device with the best channel quality from the multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices as the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0213] In one possible scenario (2-2), the first device may not perform any screening and instead directly send the measurement results of all non-terrestrial network devices it has measured to the first non-terrestrial network device. Correspondingly, the first non-terrestrial network device receives the measurement results from the first device. Therefore, based on the measurement results, the first non-terrestrial network device can preferentially select terrestrial network devices belonging to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device and whose channel quality is greater than or equal to a quality threshold (hereinafter referred to as the fifth quality threshold for ease of distinction) as the second non-terrestrial network device. If no non-terrestrial network device belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device, then based on the measurement results, a terrestrial network device with a channel quality greater than or equal to a quality threshold (hereinafter referred to as the sixth quality threshold for ease of distinction) is selected as the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0214] As can be seen from the above implementations (1) to (2), the selection of the second non-terrestrial network device (or target non-terrestrial network device) can be implemented by the first device (i.e., implementation (1)), or the selection of the second non-terrestrial network device can also be implemented by the first non-terrestrial network device (i.e., implementation (2)). However, regardless of who makes the decision on the second non-terrestrial network device, the non-terrestrial network device in the same group as the current non-terrestrial network device (i.e., the first non-terrestrial network device) is preferentially selected as the second non-terrestrial network device. This is because non-terrestrial network devices in the same group can share context, which can reduce the number of contexts transmitted during the handover process and improve the handover efficiency.

[0215] Optionally, the values ​​of the first to sixth quality thresholds may be the same or different, and this application does not limit this. Optionally, the values ​​of the first to sixth quality thresholds may be predefined, such as those predefined by the protocol, or they may be preconfigured or configured, and this is not limited.

[0216] S702, when the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group, the first non-terrestrial network device sends the first context information to the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0217] The first context information indicates the amount of context change. Optionally, the amount of context change may be an increase in the context, referred to as context increment, or a decrease in the context, referred to as context decrement, etc. For example, the amount of context change may include one or more of the following: newly created context information, updated context information, and released / deleted / discarded context information.

[0218] The newly created context information mentioned above can be understood as a terminal context created for the first device (e.g., a terminal) that is newly accessing / accessing for the first time, or a service context created for the newly accessed service. Optionally, "new creation" can also be understood as the creation of a context from scratch.

[0219] The updated context information can be understood as existing context or changes to existing context. These changes could be additions, reductions, or alterations. Optionally, an update can also be understood as a modification of an existing context. This modification could involve adding content, deleting content from an existing context, or changing one piece of content in an existing context to another.

[0220] The aforementioned released / deleted / discarded context information can be understood as an invalidated context, or a context released due to the disconnection of the connection between the first device and the first non-terrestrial network device, or a context released due to the disconnection of services. Optionally, deletion can be understood as deleting a complete piece of context information, such as all contexts corresponding to a certain terminal, or all contexts corresponding to a certain service.

[0221] For example, different services typically have different QoS requirements. When a terminal stops using certain services with high QoS requirements during the service period of the first non-terrestrial network device, such as switching from voice service to SMS service, the QoS information will change. Therefore, when the terminal switches from the first non-terrestrial network device to the second non-terrestrial network device, the context change amount sent by the first non-terrestrial network device to the second non-terrestrial network device may include the changed QoS information.

[0222] For example, to protect user privacy, the temporary identifier of a terminal is usually updated periodically. When the temporary identifier of a terminal is updated during the service of the first non-terrestrial network device, if the terminal subsequently switches from the first non-terrestrial network device to the second non-terrestrial network device, the context change amount sent by the first non-terrestrial network device to the second non-terrestrial network device may include the updated temporary identifier of the terminal.

[0223] Optionally, step S702 can also be understood as: the first non-terrestrial network device determines whether the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group. When the first non-terrestrial network device determines / confirms that the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group, the first non-terrestrial network device sends the first context information to the second non-terrestrial network device. Alternatively, the first non-terrestrial network device can first determine whether the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group, and only after confirming that the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group will it send the context change amount to the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0224] Optionally, the first context information may include context changes for one or more first devices. For example, if the handover between non-terrestrial network devices is for a single first device, then the first context information may include the context changes for one first device. Or, for example, if the handover between non-terrestrial network devices uses a group handover of first devices, then the first context information can be understood as the context changes for all first devices within the service area of ​​the non-terrestrial network devices.

[0225] Optionally, the first context information may be carried in, for example, a handover request message, a context update message, or a link update message. Optionally, the first context information may also be carried in other messages, without limitation.

[0226] S703, if the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device do not belong to the same group, the first non-terrestrial network device sends second context information to the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0227] The second context information indicates the complete context. Optionally, the complete context can also be replaced with the description complete context information, full context, or full context information.

[0228] Optionally, step S703 can also be understood as: the first non-terrestrial network device determines whether the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group. When the first non-terrestrial network device determines / determines that the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device do not belong to the same group, the first non-terrestrial network device sends the second context information to the second non-terrestrial network device. Alternatively, the first non-terrestrial network device can first determine whether the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group, and only send the full context information to the second non-terrestrial network device when it determines that the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device do not belong to the same group.

[0229] Optionally, the first non-terrestrial network device may also send second information to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the same group to which it belongs, the second information indicating the release or deletion of second context information. For example, the first non-terrestrial network device may send the second information to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the same group to which it belongs upon or after handover completion. Handover completion means that the first device switches from the source cell to the target cell and uses the target cell's radio resources to communicate with the second non-terrestrial network device corresponding to the target cell. As another example, the first non-terrestrial network device may also send the second information to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the same group to which it belongs when it moves out of its service area. This implementation method, which instructs at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device to release stored second context information in inter-group handover scenarios, can save storage overhead.

[0230] To make the embodiments of this application clearer, please refer to Figure 10 , Figure 10 The diagram illustrates scenarios of same-track switching and different-track switching. For example... Figure 10 As shown in (a), taking the example of satellites in the same group having the same orbit and satellites in different groups having different orbits, when the first device switches from the first non-terrestrial network device to the second non-terrestrial network device as a same-orbit switch, the source satellite only needs to send context change data to the target satellite. Figure 10 As shown in (b), when the first device switches from the first non-terrestrial network device to the second non-terrestrial network device as an inter-orbit switch, the source satellite needs to send the complete context, or full context, to the target satellite.

[0231] This application defines a context transmission mechanism for a first device when switching between different non-terrestrial network devices, thereby improving service continuity. Specifically, when the first device switches from a first non-terrestrial network device to a second non-terrestrial network device in a same-track switch, only the context change is transmitted, which ensures service continuity while reducing information interaction and improving switching efficiency. When the first device switches from a first non-terrestrial network device to a second non-terrestrial network device in a different group switch, the full context is transmitted, which improves service continuity and has high applicability.

[0232] Optionally, the above Figure 7 The illustrated embodiments can also be applied to O-RAN scenarios. It should be understood that in O-RAN scenarios, Figure 10 The base station function in the non-terrestrial network equipment involved can be replaced by CU (e.g., CU-CP or CU-UP), DU, or RU, etc.

[0233] The following will combine Figures 11-13 The communication device provided in this application will be described in detail.

[0234] It is understood that, in order to achieve the functions in the above embodiments, the communication device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and method steps described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed in this application, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application scenario and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0235] Figures 11-13 The diagram illustrates the possible structures of communication devices provided in embodiments of this application. These communication devices can be used to implement the functions of terminals or non-terrestrial network devices in the above method embodiments, and thus also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiments. In the embodiments of this application, the communication device can be as follows: Figure 1 One of the terminals 120a-120j shown, or it could be as follows: Figure 1 The RAN node shown is 110a or 110b. Alternatively, it can also be a module (such as a chip) applied to a terminal or non-terrestrial network device.

[0236] like Figure 11 As shown, the communication device 1100 includes a processing unit 1110 and a transceiver unit 1120. The transceiver unit 1120 and the processing unit 1110 can be software, hardware, or a combination of both. Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a storage unit for storing device program code and / or data. Figure 11 Not shown in the image.

[0237] The transceiver unit 1120 can implement sending and / or receiving functions. Optionally, the transceiver unit 1120 can also be called a communication unit or an acquisition unit, etc. The transceiver unit 1120 may further include a receiving unit and / or a sending unit, wherein the receiving unit is used to implement the receiving function, and the sending unit is used to implement the sending function. Optionally, the transceiver unit 1120 can be used to receive information sent by other devices, and can also be used to send information to other devices.

[0238] Communication device 1100 is used to achieve the above. Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 The terminal-side communication device in the method embodiment shown can function as follows: for example, the terminal-side communication device can be a terminal or a communication module in the terminal, or a circuit or chip in the terminal responsible for communication functions, or the communication device 1100 can be used to implement the above. Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 The network-side communication device in the method embodiment shown can be a non-terrestrial network device, a module (e.g., circuit, chip, or chip system) in a non-terrestrial network device, or a logic node, logic module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of a non-terrestrial network device.

[0239] It should be understood that the non-terrestrial network equipment involved in this application (e.g., the first non-terrestrial network equipment or the second non-terrestrial network equipment) can be a non-terrestrial network equipment with base station processing capabilities, or a non-terrestrial network equipment with core network element processing capabilities, or a non-terrestrial network equipment can simultaneously have both base station processing capabilities and core network element processing capabilities. For ease of understanding, the following description will use the example of a non-terrestrial network equipment having at least base station processing capabilities.

[0240] When the communication device 1100 is used to implement Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 In the method embodiment shown, when the terminal is functioning, the communication device 1100 can be a terminal or a chip applied to the terminal, etc., wherein:

[0241] Processing unit 1110 is configured to acquire indication information of at least one non-terrestrial network device, wherein the indication information of one non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the non-terrestrial network device and the identifier of the group to which the non-terrestrial network device belongs;

[0242] The transceiver unit 1120 is used to send indication information of a second non-terrestrial network device to a first non-terrestrial network device. The second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the at least one non-terrestrial network device and the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device. The first non-terrestrial network device is the source non-terrestrial network device, and the second non-terrestrial network device is the target non-terrestrial network device.

[0243] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1120 is further configured to:

[0244] Receive instruction information from at least one of the non-terrestrial network devices.

[0245] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1120 is further configured to:

[0246] Receive indication information from non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0247] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1110 is further configured to:

[0248] From the at least one non-terrestrial network device, select a candidate non-terrestrial network device that belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0249] In one possible design, when the communication device 1100 is a terminal or a communication module within a terminal, the functionality of the processing unit 1110 can be implemented by one or more processors. Specifically, the processor may include a modem chip, or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or SIP chip containing a modem core. The functionality of the transceiver unit 1120 can be implemented by transceiver circuitry.

[0250] In one possible design, when the communication device 1100 is a circuit or chip in a terminal responsible for communication functions, such as a modem chip or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) or SIP chip containing a modem core, the function of the processing unit 1110 can be implemented by a circuit system in the aforementioned chip that includes one or more processors or processor cores. The function of the transceiver unit 1120 can be implemented by the interface circuitry or data transceiver circuitry on the aforementioned chip.

[0251] When the communication device 1100 is used to implement Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 When the first non-terrestrial network device functions as shown in the method embodiment, the communication device 1100 can be the first non-terrestrial network device or a chip applied to the first non-terrestrial network device, etc., wherein:

[0252] Processing unit 1110 is used to acquire indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device;

[0253] The transceiver unit 1120 is used to send first context information to the second non-terrestrial network device, wherein the first context information indicates a context change amount; wherein the first non-terrestrial network device is a source non-terrestrial network device and the second non-terrestrial network device is a target non-terrestrial network device.

[0254] Optionally, the processing unit 1110 is also used to determine the first context information.

[0255] In one possible implementation, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0256] In one possible implementation, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device may also include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0257] In one possible implementation, the context change amount includes:

[0258] Newly created context information; or,

[0259] Updated context information; or,

[0260] Context information for releasing or deleting.

[0261] In one possible implementation, when obtaining the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device, the processing unit 1110 is configured to receive the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device from the first device through the transceiver unit 1120, wherein the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group.

[0262] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1120 is further used for;

[0263] The device receives indication information from the first device for multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices, wherein the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices.

[0264] In one possible implementation, when acquiring the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device, the processing unit 1110 is specifically used for:

[0265] The second non-terrestrial network device is determined from the plurality of candidate non-terrestrial network devices, and the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device.

[0266] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1120 is further configured to:

[0267] Send the group information to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs to the first device.

[0268] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1120 is further configured to:

[0269] Send indication information to the first device of multiple non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0270] In one possible implementation, multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group are located on the same orbit, or multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group serve the same area.

[0271] When the communication device 1100 is used to implement Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 When the first non-terrestrial network device functions as shown in the method embodiment, the communication device 1100 can be the first non-terrestrial network device or a chip applied to the first non-terrestrial network device, etc., wherein:

[0272] Processing unit 1110 is used to acquire indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device;

[0273] The processing unit 1110 is used to determine that the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device do not belong to the same group;

[0274] The transceiver unit 1120 is used to send second context information to the second non-terrestrial network device, the second context information indicating the complete context.

[0275] Optionally, the processing unit 1110 is also used to determine the second context information.

[0276] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1120 is further configured to: send second context information to the second non-terrestrial network device, the second context information indicating a complete context. Optionally, the processing unit 1110 is further configured to determine the second context information.

[0277] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1120 is further configured to:

[0278] Send a second message to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs, the second message indicating the release or deletion of the second context information.

[0279] In one possible implementation, when sending the second information to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs, the transceiver unit 1120 is specifically used for:

[0280] After the handover is complete, the second information is sent to at least one other non-terrestrial network device; or,

[0281] When the first non-terrestrial network device moves out of the service area where the first device is located, the second information is sent to at least one other non-terrestrial network device.

[0282] In one possible implementation, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device.

[0283] In one possible implementation, the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device may also include the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs.

[0284] In one possible implementation, multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group are located on the same orbit, or multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group serve the same area.

[0285] When the communication device 1100 is used to implement Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 When the second non-terrestrial network device functions as shown in the method embodiment, the communication device 1100 can be the second non-terrestrial network device or a chip applied to the second non-terrestrial network device, etc., wherein:

[0286] The transceiver unit 1120 is used to send indication information of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the first device;

[0287] The transceiver unit 1120 is used to receive first context information from the first non-terrestrial network device. The first context information indicates a context change amount. The second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device belong to the same group. The first non-terrestrial network device is the non-terrestrial network device that provided services to the first device before the handover, and the second non-terrestrial network device is the non-terrestrial network device that provides services to the first device after the handover.

[0288] In one possible implementation, the context change amount includes:

[0289] Newly created context information; or,

[0290] Updated context information; or,

[0291] Context information for releasing or deleting.

[0292] For a more detailed description of the aforementioned processing unit 1110 and transceiver unit 1120, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 The relevant descriptions in the method embodiments shown.

[0293] It is understood that the division of units in the above-described device is merely a logical functional division. Each function can correspond to a functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one functional unit. In actual implementation, all or some units can be integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be distributed across different physical entities. Furthermore, the aforementioned functional units can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both. Whether a function is executed 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.

[0294] In one example, the functional unit in any of the above devices may be one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the above methods, such as: one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microcontroller units (MCUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a combination of at least two of these integrated circuit forms.

[0295] In one example, the storage unit may include random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, or electrically erasable programmable memory and / or registers, etc.

[0296] like Figure 12 As shown, the communication device 1200 includes a processor 1210, and optionally an interface circuit 1220. The processor 1210 and the interface circuit 1220 are coupled to each other. It is understood that the interface circuit 1220 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, the communication device 1200 may also include a memory 1230 for storing computer programs or instructions executed by the processor 1210, or storing input data required by the processor 1210 to execute instructions, or storing data generated by the processor 1210 after executing computer programs or instructions.

[0297] When the communication device 1200 is used to implement Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 In the method shown, processor 1210 is used to implement the functions of the processing unit 1110, and interface circuit 1220 is used to implement the functions of the transceiver unit 1120.

[0298] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to a terminal, the terminal chip implements the functions of the terminal in the above method embodiments. The terminal chip receives information sent to the terminal by non-terrestrial network devices through other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the terminal; or, the terminal chip sends information to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the terminal, which is information sent by the terminal to non-terrestrial network devices.

[0299] When the aforementioned communication device is a module applied to a non-terrestrial network device, the non-terrestrial network device module implements the functions of the non-terrestrial network device in the above method embodiments. The non-terrestrial network device module receives information from other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) within the non-terrestrial network device; this information is sent by the terminal to the non-terrestrial network device. Alternatively, the non-terrestrial network device module sends information to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) within the non-terrestrial network device; this information is sent by the non-terrestrial network device to the terminal. Here, the non-terrestrial network device module can be the baseband chip of the non-terrestrial network device, or it can be a CU, DU, or other module, or it can be a device under an open radio access network (O-RAN) architecture, such as an open CU, open DU, etc.

[0300] like Figure 13 As shown, the communication device includes a processor 1310, a memory 1320, and a transceiver 1330. The processor 1310 is mainly used for processing communication protocols and communication data; controlling terminal / non-terrestrial network equipment; executing software programs; and processing data from software programs. The memory 1320 can store computer program code, software programs, and data. The transceiver 1330 includes a transmitter 1331, a receiver 1332, and radio frequency circuitry (…). Figure 13 (not shown in the image), antenna 1333, etc.

[0301] The processor 1310 can also be referred to as a processing unit, processing board, processing module, or processing device. The transceiver 1330 can also be referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, or transceiver device.

[0302] Optionally, the devices in transceiver 1330 used to implement the receiving function can be considered as receiving modules, and the devices in transceiver 1330 used to implement the transmitting function can be considered as transmitting modules. That is, transceiver 1330 includes a receiver and / or a transmitter. A transceiver may also be called a transceiver unit, transceiver module, or transceiver circuit, etc. A receiver may also be called a receiver unit, receiving module, or receiving circuit, etc. A transmitter may also be called a transmitter, transmitting module, or transmitting circuit, etc.

[0303] Processor 1310 is used to perform the above Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 The terminal-side processing actions in the illustrated embodiment. Transceiver 1330 is used to perform the above-described actions. Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 The embodiment shown illustrates the transmit and receive operations on the terminal side. Alternatively, the processor 1310 is used to perform the above-described operations. Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 The network-side processing actions in the illustrated embodiment. Transceiver 1330 is used to perform the above-described actions. Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 The example shown illustrates the network-side send and receive operations.

[0304] When the communication device 1300 is a chip, the chip includes a processor and a transceiver. The transceiver can be an input / output circuit or a communication interface. The processor can be a processing module integrated on the chip, a microprocessor, or an integrated circuit. In the above method embodiments, the terminal's transmitting operation can be understood as the chip's output, and the terminal's receiving operation can be understood as the chip's input. Similarly, in the above method embodiments, the transmitting operation of the non-terrestrial network device can be understood as the chip's output, and the receiving operation of the non-terrestrial network device can be understood as the chip's input.

[0305] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions for implementing the methods executed by a terminal or non-terrestrial network device in the above method embodiments.

[0306] For example, when the computer program is executed by a computer, it enables the computer to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments, which are executed by a terminal or a non-terrestrial network device.

[0307] This application also provides a computer program product containing a program or instructions, which, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to implement the method described in the above method embodiments, executed by a terminal or non-terrestrial network device.

[0308] This application also provides a communication system, which includes the terminal and the non-terrestrial network device described in the above embodiments. The terminal is used to perform some or all of the operations performed by the terminal in the above method embodiments, and the non-terrestrial network device is used to perform some or all of the operations performed by the non-terrestrial network device in the above method embodiments.

[0309] This application also provides a chip device, including a processor, for calling a computer program or computer instructions stored in the memory, so that the processor executes the above-described... Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 The method provided in the illustrated embodiment.

[0310] In one possible implementation, the input of the chip device corresponds to the above. Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9The receiving operation in the illustrated embodiment corresponds to the output of the chip device described above. Figure 7 , Figure 8-1 , Figure 8-2 , Figure 9 The sending operation in the illustrated embodiment.

[0311] Optionally, the processor is coupled to the memory via an interface.

[0312] Optionally, the chip device may also include a memory in which computer programs or computer instructions are stored.

[0313] It is understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application may be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0314] The method steps in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or in software instructions executable by a processor. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disks, portable hard disks, CD-ROMs, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. The storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Alternatively, the ASIC can reside in a non-terrestrial network device or terminal. The processor and storage medium can also exist as discrete components in a non-terrestrial network device or terminal.

[0315] 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. The 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 described 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, the 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.

[0316] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0317] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers described above does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a first non-terrestrial network device or a chip in the first non-terrestrial network device, including: Obtain indication information from the second non-terrestrial network device; Send first context information to the second non-terrestrial network device, the first context information indicating the amount of context change; The first non-terrestrial network device is the source non-terrestrial network device, and the second non-terrestrial network device is the target non-terrestrial network device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The indication information for the second non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indication information for the second non-terrestrial network device also includes the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The context changes include: Newly created context information; or, Updated context information; or, Context information for releasing or deleting.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device includes: The device receives an indication from the first device for the second non-terrestrial network device, which belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The method further includes; The device receives indication information from the first device for multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices, wherein the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the multiple candidate non-terrestrial network devices.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the indication information of the second non-terrestrial network device includes: The second non-terrestrial network device is determined from the plurality of candidate non-terrestrial network devices, and the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the group information to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs to the first device.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send indication information to the first device of multiple non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group are located on the same track, or multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group serve the same area.

11. A communication method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a first non-terrestrial network device or a chip in the first non-terrestrial network device, including: Obtain indication information from the second non-terrestrial network device; It was determined that the second non-terrestrial network device and the first non-terrestrial network device did not belong to the same group; and Send a second context information to the second non-terrestrial network device, the second context information indicating the complete context.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second message to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs, the second message indicating the release or deletion of the second context information.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, Sending the second information to at least one other non-terrestrial network device in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs includes: After the handover is complete, the second information is sent to at least one other non-terrestrial network device; or, When the first non-terrestrial network device moves out of the service area where the first device is located, the second information is sent to at least one other non-terrestrial network device.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The indication information for the second non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the second non-terrestrial network device.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11-14, characterized in that, The indication information for the second non-terrestrial network device also includes the identifier of the group to which the second non-terrestrial network device belongs.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11-15, characterized in that, Multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group are located on the same track, or multiple non-terrestrial network devices in the same group serve the same area.

17. A communication method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a first device or a chip in the first device, including: Obtain indication information for at least one non-terrestrial network device, wherein the indication information for one non-terrestrial network device includes the identifier of the non-terrestrial network device and the identifier of the group to which the non-terrestrial network device belongs; Send an indication message for a second non-terrestrial network device to a first non-terrestrial network device, wherein the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the at least one non-terrestrial network device and the second non-terrestrial network device belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device; The first non-terrestrial network device is the source non-terrestrial network device, and the second non-terrestrial network device is the target non-terrestrial network device.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive instruction information from at least one non-terrestrial network device.

19. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive indication information from non-terrestrial network devices included in the group to which the first non-terrestrial network device belongs.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17-19, characterized in that, The method further includes: From the at least one non-terrestrial network device, select a candidate non-terrestrial network device that belongs to the same group as the first non-terrestrial network device as the second non-terrestrial network device.

21. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes units or modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 1-10, or units or modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 11-16, or units or modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 17-20.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a processor configured to execute a computer program or instructions that cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-10, or cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 11-16, or cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 17-20; or, The device includes a processor and a transceiver, the transceiver being used to send and receive information, and the processor being used to execute a computer program or instructions to cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-10, or to cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 11-16, or to cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 17-20; or... The device includes a processor and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is used to receive signals from other communication devices besides the communication device and transmit them to the processor, or to send signals from the processor to other communication devices besides the communication device. The processor is used to execute computer programs or instructions to cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-10, or to cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 11-16, or to cause the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 17-20; or... The device includes a processor and a memory, wherein the processor is configured to invoke a computer program stored in the memory, causing the communication device to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-10, or the processor is configured to implement the method as described in any one of claims 11-16, or the processor is configured to implement the method as described in any one of claims 17-20.

23. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed by a communication device, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-10, or the method as described in any one of claims 11-16, or the method as described in any one of claims 17-20.

24. A computer program product, characterized in that, It includes computer program code that, when run on a computer, implements the method of any one of claims 1-10, or implements the method of any one of claims 11-16, or implements the method of any one of claims 17-20.

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