Communication methods, apparatuses and systems

Abstract

This application provides a communication method, apparatus, and system applied to a satellite communication system. The method includes: a terminal receiving capability information and first configuration information, and accessing a non-terrestrial network according to the first configuration information. The capability information indicates that a first non-terrestrial device supports access to the non-terrestrial network for terminals without valid GNSS location information, and the first configuration information indicates a first access resource configuration. In other words, when a terminal lacks valid GNSS location information, it can access the non-terrestrial network through the first non-terrestrial device, improving the terminal's access success rate, enhancing random access performance, and simultaneously improving the terminal's positioning accuracy.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) include nodes such as satellite networks, high-altitude platforms, and drones. They have significant advantages such as global coverage, long-distance transmission, flexible networking, convenient deployment, and no geographical limitations. They have been widely used in fields such as maritime communication, positioning and navigation, disaster relief, scientific experiments, video broadcasting, and Earth observation.

[0003] For example, a terminal can exchange reference signals with multiple base stations (or transmitting and receiving points, TRPs) and measure their transmission and reception time differences to determine the distance between the terminal and the multiple base stations. The round trip time (RTT) of a base station can be used to plot a circle or a sphere; the intersection of multiple circles or spheres represents the terminal's location, thus enabling terminal positioning. In NTN system architectures, a single-satellite-based RTT positioning method is typically used, where multiple RTT measurements are performed between a satellite and the terminal to assist in positioning. However, this implementation results in lower positioning accuracy and relatively higher power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method, apparatus, and system that can improve the success rate of terminal access to non-terrestrial networks, thereby improving the terminal's access performance and positioning accuracy.

[0005] Firstly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a terminal. Unless otherwise specified, the terminal in this application can refer to the terminal itself, or a component in the terminal (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as a circuit or chip in the terminal responsible for communication functions (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip containing a modem core or a system-in-package (SIP) chip)), or it can be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the terminal functions.

[0006] In this method, the terminal receives capability information, which is used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support the terminal without valid Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) location information to access the non-terrestrial network; receives first configuration information, which is used to instruct the first access resource configuration; and accesses the non-terrestrial network according to the first configuration information.

[0007] This capability information is associated with the first configuration information. It is understood that, since the first non-terrestrial device supports terminals without valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network, this first access resource configuration is used for terminals without valid GNSS location information to perform random access.

[0008] For example, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information (such as non-GNSS / GNSS-relaxed / GNSS-resilient), the terminal accesses the non-terrestrial network according to the first access resource configuration; when the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the terminal accesses the non-terrestrial network according to the access resource configuration. It can be understood that the access resource configuration sent by the first non-terrestrial device is different depending on whether the terminal has valid GNSS location information.

[0009] Using the above method, the terminal receives capability information from a first non-terrestrial device and determines, based on this capability information, that the first non-terrestrial device supports access to the non-terrestrial network for terminals without valid GNSS location information. Simultaneously, the terminal receives first configuration information from the first non-terrestrial device to obtain a first access resource configuration corresponding to the terminal, thereby enabling the terminal to access the non-terrestrial network based on the first access resource configuration. For example, when the terminal lacks valid GNSS location information, the received capability information indicates that the first non-terrestrial device supports access to the non-terrestrial network for terminals without valid GNSS location information. Therefore, the terminal can access the non-terrestrial network through this first non-terrestrial device. This implementation method enables terminals without valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network, improving the terminal's access success rate and transmission performance.

[0010] In some implementations of the first aspect, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a first random access occasion (RO) set and a first preamble set; or, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports enhanced preamble-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a second RO set and a second preamble set.

[0011] Based on the above scheme, for terminals lacking valid GNSS location information, it is possible to further consider whether the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access or enhanced preamble-based assisted access. That is, when the terminal lacks valid GNSS location information, different access resources can be allocated to the terminal based on the access conditions of the non-terrestrial network to improve the terminal's access success rate and transmission performance. For example, when the terminal lacks valid GNSS location information but the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first non-terrestrial device can configure a first RO set and a first preamble set (i.e., a conventional preamble); when the terminal lacks valid GNSS location information but the non-terrestrial network supports enhanced preamble-based assisted access, the first non-terrestrial device can configure a second RO set and a second preamble set (i.e., an enhanced preamble) to adapt to random access by the terminal in different scenarios and improve random access performance.

[0012] In some implementations of the first aspect, accessing a non-terrestrial network based on the first configuration information includes: determining a second RO from a second RO set and obtaining a second preamble from a second preamble set when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles; and accessing the non-terrestrial network based on the second RO and the second preamble.

[0013] Based on the above scheme, for situations where the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles, the terminal can determine the second RO and the second preamble based on the received second RO set and second preamble set, and then execute a random access procedure to improve the success rate of the terminal accessing the non-terrestrial network.

[0014] In some implementations of the first aspect, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the method further includes: receiving second configuration information associated with a reference signal, the second configuration information being used to indicate a first pattern and M second patterns, the first pattern being used by a first non-terrestrial device (i.e., the local cell or a reference TRP) to locate the terminal, and the M second patterns being used to assist M second non-terrestrial devices (i.e., neighboring cells or neighboring TRPs) in locating the terminal, where M is an integer greater than or equal to 1.

[0015] Based on the above scheme, for situations where the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first non-terrestrial device not only allocates a first RO set and a first preamble set (i.e., a conventional preamble) to the terminal, but also indicates a first pattern and M second patterns (e.g., positioning reference signal (PRS) patterns). In other words, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information, the first non-terrestrial device and M second non-terrestrial devices are introduced to assist the terminal's positioning. The terminal performs positioning measurement and calculation based on the configured PRS pattern, obtains its own location information, and then accesses the non-terrestrial network based on the first access resource. This not only improves the terminal's access success rate but also enhances the terminal's positioning accuracy.

[0016] In some implementations of the first aspect, accessing a non-terrestrial network according to the first configuration information includes: when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, accessing the non-terrestrial network according to the second configuration information and the first configuration information.

[0017] Based on the above scheme, for situations where the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the terminal can perform a random access procedure based on the received first RO set and first preamble set, as well as the first pattern indicated by the first non-terrestrial device and M second patterns, thereby improving the success rate of the terminal accessing the non-terrestrial network.

[0018] In some implementations of the first aspect, accessing a non-terrestrial network based on the second configuration information and the first configuration information includes: measuring the received reference signal based on the second configuration information to determine the location and location accuracy of the terminal; if the location accuracy (e.g., positioning error attenuation factor (DOP), geometrical dilution of precision (GDOP), position dilution of precision (PDOP), time dilution of precision (TDOP), horizontal component dilution of precision (HDOP), or vertical component dilution of precision (VDOP)) is less than or equal to a first threshold, determining a third RO from the first RO set and determining a third preamble from the first preamble set; and accessing the non-terrestrial network based on the third RO and the third preamble.

[0019] For example, if the location accuracy is greater than the first threshold, the terminal can re-execute the user equipment (UE)-based positioning procedure, measure the received reference signal according to the second configuration information, determine the terminal's location and location accuracy, until the location accuracy is less than or equal to the first threshold. Alternatively, if the location accuracy is greater than the first threshold, the terminal can also determine whether the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles. For example, if the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles, a random access procedure can be performed using the second RO and the second preamble; this is not limited.

[0020] Based on the above scheme, for situations where the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the terminal can first execute a UE-based positioning process to obtain the terminal's location and location accuracy. Then, by judging whether the location accuracy meets the requirements, it can determine whether to use a regular preamble or an enhanced preamble for random access, thereby improving the terminal's access success rate to the non-terrestrial network and improving the terminal's access performance.

[0021] Optionally, before accessing the non-terrestrial network according to the first configuration information, the method further includes: determining whether the terminal has valid GNSS location information based on the terminal's location and / or GNSS signal strength. For example, when the GNSS signal strength is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, it indicates that the terminal has valid GNSS location information; and / or, when the terminal's location is within the coverage area supported by the non-terrestrial network, it indicates that the terminal has valid GNSS location information.

[0022] In some implementations of the first aspect, the capability information is also used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support terminal access to the non-terrestrial network with valid GNSS location information, and the method further includes: receiving third configuration information, the third configuration information being used to instruct the second access resource configuration; and accessing the non-terrestrial network according to the third configuration information.

[0023] This capability information is associated with the third configuration information. It is understood that, since the first non-terrestrial device supports terminals with valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network, the second access resource configuration is used for terminals with valid GNSS location information to perform random access.

[0024] Based on the above scheme, the first non-terrestrial device also supports terminals with valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network. In other words, the first non-terrestrial device supports both terminals with valid GNSS location information and terminals without valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network. This provides a hybrid access scenario, improves the success rate of device access to the non-terrestrial network, has a wider range of applicable scenarios, and solves the access problem in GNSS failure scenarios.

[0025] In some implementations of the first aspect, where the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the second access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set.

[0026] Based on the above scheme, for a terminal with valid GNSS location information, the first non-terrestrial device can configure a first RO set and a first preamble set (i.e., a conventional preamble), so that the terminal can access the non-terrestrial network based on the acquired RO and preamble, thereby improving the terminal's access success rate and transmission performance.

[0027] In some implementations of the first aspect, accessing a non-terrestrial network based on the first configuration information includes: determining a first RO from a first RO set and determining a first preamble from a first preamble set when the terminal has valid GNSS location information; and accessing the non-terrestrial network based on the first RO and the first preamble.

[0028] Based on the above scheme, when the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the terminal can determine the first RO and the first preamble based on the received first RO set and first preamble set, and then execute a random access procedure to improve the success rate of the terminal accessing non-terrestrial networks.

[0029] In some implementations of the first aspect, the reference signal includes a first reference signal and M second reference signals, and the method further includes: receiving the first reference signal from a first non-ground device based on a first pattern within a first time window, and receiving M second reference signals from M second non-ground devices based on M second patterns, wherein the M second non-ground devices correspond one-to-one with the M second reference signals.

[0030] Based on the above scheme, the terminal can receive the first reference signal and M second reference signals in a specific first time window for subsequent positioning procedures. This not only saves energy consumption on the terminal / network side, but also improves the terminal's positioning accuracy by introducing multiple satellites to interact with the terminal to assist in the terminal's location acquisition in non-GNSS / GNSS-relaxed scenarios. This also assists the terminal in performing subsequent communication procedures, such as initial access, beam management, and mobility management (such as cell handover and cell reselection).

[0031] In some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: obtaining a mapping relationship, which indicates the correspondence between multiple synchronization signaling block (SSB) indices and multiple configuration information, the mapping relationship including the SSB pattern, the SSB period, the scaling factor of the SSB period, or the offset (time / frequency) relative to the SSB, the multiple SSB indices including a first SSB index, the multiple configuration information including second configuration information, the first SSB index corresponding to the second configuration information; and determining a first time window based on the mapping relationship and the received first SSB index.

[0032] Based on the above scheme, the terminal can determine the second configuration information by the correspondence between the acquired SSB index and configuration information, as well as the detected one or more SSB indices (i.e., the first index). Then, by combining the periodic information of the SSB pattern carried in the mapping relationship, the terminal can determine the first time window corresponding to the first pattern and M second patterns. Subsequently, the terminal can receive the first reference signal and M second reference signals within the first time window to achieve positioning. This not only improves positioning accuracy but also reduces the power consumption of the device and reduces the complexity of detecting the terminal positioning reference signal.

[0033] In some implementations of the first aspect, the second configuration information is associated with geographic area information and / or effective time period; wherein, the geographic area information includes at least one of the following: physical cell identifier (PCI), wavelength identifier (or wavelength number), geographic area identifier, mapped cell identifier, or synchronization signal block SSB index; the effective time period includes at least one of the following: reference DOP value, reference GDOP value, length or number of time windows occupied by reference signal, or reference signal time difference (RSTD) value.

[0034] Based on the above scheme, the PRS pattern is associated with geographic area information and / or effective time period. This allows the terminal to adjust the length of the actual PRS time window based on the GDOP value within the effective time period, saving power consumption (if the number of satellites is small, multiple PRS windows may be needed; if the number of satellites is large, only one PRS window may be required). Furthermore, by associating the PRS pattern with geographic area information and / or effective time period, the terminal can receive PRS within a specific geographic location and / or time period. This not only improves positioning accuracy but also reduces the terminal's PRS measurement window and measurement complexity, thereby lowering the terminal's power consumption.

[0035] In some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving wake-up information, the wake-up information being used to activate a first pattern and a second pattern; and, if it is determined that the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information, sending a wake-up signal on predefined time-domain resources and / or frequency-domain resources.

[0036] Based on the above scheme, after receiving the wake-up information, the terminal sends a wake-up signal on the predefined time-frequency resources to request the first non-ground device to send PRS, thereby activating the first PRS pattern and the second PRS pattern. This provides a flexible on-demand PRS activation method that can avoid PRS being always on and save energy consumption on the terminal and network sides.

[0037] Secondly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first non-terrestrial device. Unless otherwise specified, the first non-terrestrial device in this application can refer to the first non-terrestrial device itself, or a component in the first non-terrestrial device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as a circuit or chip in the first non-terrestrial device responsible for communication functions (e.g., a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core), or it can be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first non-terrestrial device.

[0038] In this method, the first non-terrestrial device sends capability information, which is used to indicate that the first non-terrestrial device supports terminals without valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network; and sends first configuration information, which is used to indicate a first access resource configuration, which is used for the terminal to access the non-terrestrial network.

[0039] In some implementations of the second aspect, the capability information is also used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support terminal access to the non-terrestrial network with valid GNSS location information.

[0040] In some implementations of the second aspect, when the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the second access resource configuration includes a first random access opportunity (RO) set and a first preamble set.

[0041] In some implementations of the second aspect, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set; or, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports enhanced preamble-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a second RO set and a second preamble set.

[0042] In some implementations of the second aspect, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the method further includes: transmitting second configuration information associated with the reference signal, the second configuration information being used to indicate a first pattern and M second patterns, the first pattern being used by a first non-terrestrial device to locate the terminal, and the M second patterns being used to assist M second non-terrestrial devices in locating the terminal, where M is an integer greater than or equal to 1.

[0043] In some implementations of the second aspect, the reference signal includes a first reference signal and M second reference signals, and the method further includes: within a first time window, a first non-ground device transmits the first reference signal based on a first pattern, and M second non-ground devices transmit M second reference signals based on M second patterns, wherein the M second non-ground devices, the M second patterns, and the M second reference signals correspond one-to-one.

[0044] In some implementations of the second aspect, the second configuration information is associated with geographic area information and / or effective time period; wherein, the geographic area information includes at least one of the following: Physical Cell Identifier (PCI), Wavelength Identifier, Geographic Area Identifier, Mapped Cell Identifier, or Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) Index; the effective time period includes at least one of the following: Reference Precision Attenuation Factor (DOP) value, Reference Geometric Precision Factor (GDOP) value, Length or Number of Time Windows Occupied by Reference Signal, or Reference Signal Time Difference (RSTD) value.

[0045] In some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending wake-up information for activating a first pattern and a second pattern; receiving a wake-up signal via a first beam set on predefined time-frequency resources; activating a subset of the first pattern associated with a first non-terrestrial device; and sending indication information to M second non-terrestrial networks for indicating the activation of a subset of the second pattern, wherein the first beam set includes beams transmitted by a first satellite and beams transmitted by a second satellite.

[0046] The beneficial effects of the second aspect and some implementations thereof can be referred to the relevant descriptions in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here.

[0047] Thirdly, a communication device is provided. This communication device has the functions described in the first aspect above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the operations involved in the first aspect. These modules, units, or means can be implemented through software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0048] In one possible design, the communication device includes: a communication unit for receiving capability information, which instructs a first non-terrestrial device to support a terminal without valid GNSS location information to access a non-terrestrial network; the communication unit is also configured to receive first configuration information, which instructs a first access resource configuration; and a processing unit for accessing the non-terrestrial network according to the first configuration information.

[0049] The communication unit can perform the receiving and transmitting processes described in the first aspect above, and the processing unit can perform other processes described in the first aspect above besides receiving and transmitting.

[0050] 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 containing a modem module.

[0051] Fourthly, a communication device is provided. This communication device has the functions described in the second aspect above. For example, the communication device includes modules, units, or means corresponding to the operations involved in the second aspect above. These modules, units, or means can be implemented through software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0052] In one possible design, the communication device includes: a communication unit for transmitting capability information, the capability information being used to instruct a first non-terrestrial device to support a terminal without valid GNSS location information to access a non-terrestrial network; the communication unit is also used to transmit first configuration information, the first configuration information being used to instruct a first access resource configuration, the first access resource configuration being used for the terminal to access the non-terrestrial network.

[0053] The communication unit can perform the receiving and transmitting processes described in the second aspect above, and the processing unit can perform other processes described in the second aspect above besides receiving and transmitting.

[0054] The aforementioned communication device may be a first non-ground device, or a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) in the first non-ground device, or a logic node, logic module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first non-ground device.

[0055] Fifthly, a communication device is provided. The communication device includes at least one interface circuit and at least one processor. The at least one processor is coupled to a memory. The memory is used to store part or all of a computer program or instructions necessary for implementing the functions involved in either the first or second aspect described above. The at least one processor is capable of executing the computer program or instructions, such that when the computer program or instructions are executed, the communication device implements the methods in any possible design or implementation of the first or second aspect described above. The interface circuit is used to implement communication functions within the communication device and / or communication functions between the communication device and other devices or components.

[0056] In one possible design, the at least one processor is used to communicate with other devices or components through the interface circuit.

[0057] In one possible design, the communication device may also include the memory.

[0058] 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 containing a modem module.

[0059] The aforementioned communication device may be a first non-ground device, or a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) in the first non-ground device, or a logic node, logic module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first non-ground device.

[0060] Sixthly, a communication system is provided. This communication system includes a first non-terrestrial device for performing the methods described in the second aspect above and any possible implementation thereof.

[0061] In one implementation, the communication system further includes a terminal for performing the methods described in the first aspect and any of its possible implementations.

[0062] In a seventh aspect, a chip or chip system is provided. It includes at least one processing circuit for running a computer program, causing the chip or chip system to perform the methods described in the first or second aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0063] The chip or chip system may include output circuits or interfaces for transmitting information or data, and input circuits or interfaces for receiving information or data.

[0064] Eighthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided. This computer-readable storage medium stores computer program code or instructions, which, when read and executed by a computer, cause the method in any of the possible implementations of the first or second aspect to be implemented.

[0065] Ninthly, a computer program product is provided. The computer program product includes computer program code or instructions that, when read and executed by a computer, cause the method in any of the possible implementations of the first or second aspect to be implemented.

[0066] In a tenth aspect, a computer program is provided. When the computer program is run, it causes the method in any of the possible implementations of the first or second aspect to be implemented.

[0067] It should be understood that the beneficial effects of the third to tenth aspects mentioned above can be referred to the first or second aspects mentioned above and any possible implementation thereof, which will not be elaborated here. Attached Figure Description

[0068] Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to embodiments of this application;

[0069] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the beam operating mode of a satellite communication system applicable to embodiments of this application;

[0070] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system group switching or group reselection;

[0071] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a location identification / authentication method based on single-satellite multiple round trip time (Multi-RTT) is shown.

[0072] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an initial access method;

[0073] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0074] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram in the time domain of a dual Zadoff-Chu sequence provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a timing advance TA provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0076] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the first non-ground device broadcast beam / signal configuration and the positioning reference signal pattern transmitted by multiple non-ground devices, provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0077] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the first and second patterns obtained by the terminal according to an embodiment of this application;

[0078] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a terminal receiving a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS) within a first time window, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0079] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a process for a terminal to access a non-terrestrial network, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0080] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating how different terminals access non-terrestrial networks based on different access resource configurations, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0081] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of an on-demand activation PRS pattern provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0082] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of an open wireless access network architecture applicable to this application;

[0083] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0084] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0085] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the chip system provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0086] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0087] Before introducing the scheme of this application, the following points should be noted.

[0088] First, in this application, unless otherwise specified or there is a logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0089] Second, in this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. In the textual description of this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, and c can mean: a, or, b, or, c, or, a and b, or, a and c, or, b and c, or, a, b, and c. Here, a, b, and c can each be single or multiple.

[0090] Third, in this application, the terms "first," "second," "#1," and "#2," as well as various numerical designations, are used for ease of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. For example, they are used to distinguish different messages, rather than to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such descriptions can be interchanged where appropriate to describe solutions other than those in the embodiments of this application.

[0091] Fourth, in this application, "instruction" or "for instruction" can include both direct and indirect instruction. When describing instruction information as being used to instruct A, it can include whether the instruction information directly or indirectly instructs A, but does not necessarily mean that the instruction information carries A.

[0092] The indication methods involved in the embodiments of this application should be understood to cover various methods that enable the party to be indicated to obtain the information to be indicated. The information to be indicated can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information and sent separately. Moreover, the sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information can be the same or different. This application does not limit the sending method, for example.

[0093] The "instruction information" in the embodiments of this application can be an explicit instruction, that is, a direct instruction through signaling, or an instruction obtained by combining other rules or parameters with the parameters indicated by the signaling, or by deduction. It can also be an implicit instruction, that is, an instruction obtained based on rules or relationships, or based on other parameters, or by deduction. This application does not specifically limit it in this regard.

[0094] Fifth, in this application, "protocol" can refer to a standard protocol in the field of communications, such as fifth-generation (5G) protocols. th This application does not limit the scope of network protocols such as generation (5G), New Radio (NR) protocols, and related protocols applied in future communication systems. "Predefined" may include predefined terms, such as protocol definitions. "Preconfiguration" can be achieved by pre-storing corresponding codes, tables, or other means of indicating relevant information in the device; this application does not limit the implementation method.

[0095] Sixth, in this application, terms such as "message," "information," "signal," or "information element (IE)" can be used interchangeably. There are no restrictions on the name of the message or information, as long as it can achieve the corresponding function.

[0096] "Sending information to XX (device)" can be understood as the destination of the information being that device. This can include sending information to that device directly or indirectly. "Receiving information from XX (device), or receiving information from XX (device)" can be understood as the source of the information being that device. This can include receiving information from that device directly or indirectly. Information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be interpreted similarly, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0097] "Communication" can also be described as data transmission, information transmission, data processing, etc. "Transmission" includes sending and / or receiving. "Transmission" can be described as output. "Sending" can also be understood as the output of a chip interface, and "receiving" can be understood as the input of a chip interface. In other words, "sending" or "receiving" can occur between devices, for example, between network devices and terminal devices via an air interface. "Sending" or "receiving" can also occur within a device, for example, between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within a device via a bus, wiring, or interface.

[0098] For example, "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 instance, "a network device sending information" can be understood as a network device sending information to another device (such as a terminal), or it can be understood as logical module 1 within the network device sending information to logical module 2 within the network device. Similarly, "receiving information" can be understood as one device receiving information from another device, or it can also be understood as one logical module within a device receiving information from another logical module. For instance, "a network device receiving information" can be understood as a network device receiving information from another device (such as a terminal), or it can be understood as logical module 1 within the network device receiving information from logical module 2 within the network device.

[0099] Seventh, in this application, the words "exemplarily," "for example," etc., are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design scheme described as an "example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design schemes. Specifically, the use of the word "example" is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner. In the embodiments of this application, "of," "corresponding, relevant," "corresponding," and "associate" may sometimes be used interchangeably, and it should be noted that their intended meanings are consistent unless their distinctions are emphasized.

[0100] Eighth, in this application, when comparing A and B, the description "when A is greater than or equal to B, execute method A; when A is less than or equal to B, execute method B" can be implemented in a specific way such as "when A is greater than or equal to B, execute method A; when A is less than B, execute method B"; or it can be "when A is greater than B, execute method A; or when A is less than or equal to B, execute method B". This application does not limit this. For ease of description, the implementation methods provided in this application are all illustrated using "when A is greater than or equal to B, execute method A; or when A is less than B, execute method B" as an example. In other words, "<" means less than, "≤" means less than or equal to, and "<" and "≤" can sometimes be interchanged without limitation. Similarly, ">" means greater than, "≥" means greater than or equal to, and ">" and "≥" can sometimes be interchanged without limitation. The examples provided in this application are merely illustrative and do not constitute a limitation on this application.

[0101] The following describes the communication system to which this application applies.

[0102] The technical solution of this application can be applied to non-terrestrial network (NTN) systems such as satellite communication systems and high altitude platform station (HAPS) communication, including integrated communication and navigation (ICaN) systems and GNSS. Satellite communication systems can be integrated with traditional mobile communication systems (i.e., satellite-ground integrated systems, NTN, or terrestrial network (TN) integrated systems). The mobile communication system can be 5G or NR systems, long term evolution (LTE) systems, LTE frequency division duplex (FDD) systems, LTE time division duplex (TDD) systems, universal mobile telecommunication system (UMTS), etc. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to device-to-device (D2D) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT) communication systems, or other communication systems.

[0103] For example, a satellite communication system may include terminals and network equipment (e.g., a first non-terrestrial device).

[0104] The terminal in this application embodiment can be referred to as a User Equipment (UE). The terminal device in this application is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities, capable of communicating with one or more core networks via a satellite base station. The terminal can also be referred to as an access terminal, terminal equipment, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, user agent, or user device, etc. The terminal device can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; it can also be deployed on water (e.g., ships); and it can also be deployed in the air (e.g., airplanes, balloons, and satellites). The terminal device can be a cellular phone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, smartphone, mobile phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), etc.; or, the terminal device can also be a handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, a computing device or other device connected to a wireless modem, vehicle-mounted device, wearable device, drone device, or a terminal in the Internet of Things (IoT), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) network, 5G network, or any form of terminal in future networks, relay user equipment, or a terminal in future networks, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit the type or category of terminal devices.

[0105] In this embodiment, the device for implementing the functions of the terminal device can be the terminal device itself, or it can be a device that supports the terminal device in implementing the functions, such as a chip system or a chip. This device can be installed in the terminal device. In this embodiment, the chip system can be composed of chips, or it can include chips and other discrete devices.

[0106] The network device in this application embodiment may include one or more satellite and ground station devices. The network device can be any device with wireless transceiver capabilities used to communicate with terminal devices; it can also be called an access network device or a wireless access network device, such as a base station. In this application embodiment, the network device can refer to a radio access network (RAN) node (or RAN device, or RAN entity) that connects the terminal device to the wireless network. The RAN can be viewed as a sub-network of the operator's network, serving as the implementation system between service nodes and terminal devices within the operator's network. For example, for a terminal device to access the operator's network, it first goes through the network device, and then connects to the service nodes of the operator's network via the network device. The aforementioned RAN can be the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). rdCellular systems related to the Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as 5G mobile communication systems or future-oriented evolution systems. RAN can also be an open radio access network (O-RAN or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (CRAN), or a wireless fidelity (WiFi) system. RAN can also be a communication system that integrates two or more of the above systems. Network equipment includes, but is not limited to: generation node base stations (gNBs) in 5G systems, evolved node Bs (eNBs) in LTE, radio network controllers (RNCs), node Bs (NBs), base station controllers (BSCs), base transceiver stations (BTSs), home evolved node Bs (HNBs), base band units (BBUs), transmission points (TRPs), transmitting points (TPs), small cell equipment, mobile switching centers, or network equipment in future networks. The names of equipment with access network functions may differ in systems employing different radio access technologies. For ease of description, in the embodiments of this application, the devices that provide wireless communication functions for terminal devices are collectively referred to as access network devices or simply RAN or AN. It should be understood that this document does not limit the specific type of access network device.

[0107] In some deployments, multiple RAN nodes collaborate to assist terminals in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes each implementing some of the base station's functions. For example, a RAN node can be a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU). CUs and DUs can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). RUs can be included in radio frequency equipment or radio frequency units, such as remote radio units (RRUs), active antenna units (AAUs), or remote radio heads (RRHs).

[0108] In different systems, CU (including open CU-CP (O-CU-CP) and open CU-UP (O-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 an open central unit (O-CU), DU can also be called an open distributed unit (O-DU), and RU can also be called an open radio unit (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.

[0109] Network equipment can be fixed or mobile. For example, a helicopter or drone can be configured to act as a mobile base station, and one or more cells can move depending on the location of that mobile base station. In other examples, a helicopter or drone can be configured as a device to communicate with another base station.

[0110] In this embodiment, the apparatus for implementing the functions of the access network device can be a network device or an apparatus capable of supporting the access network device in implementing the functions, such as a chip system or a chip. This apparatus can be installed in the access network device. In this embodiment, the chip system can be composed of chips or can include chips and other discrete components.

[0111] For example, a satellite communication system may also include a core network (CN). The core network may include, but is not limited to, the following network functions (NFs): user plane function (UPF), network exposure function (NEF), network function repository function (NRF), policy control function (PCF), unified data management function (UDM), unified data repository function (UDR), application function (AF), authentication server function (AUSF), access and mobility management function (AMF), and session management function (SMF).

[0112] It is understandable that the aforementioned network elements or functions can be physical entities in hardware devices, software instances running on dedicated hardware, or virtualization functions instantiated on a shared platform (e.g., a cloud platform). Simply put, an NF can be implemented in hardware or software.

[0113] It should be understood that the above naming is defined solely for the purpose of distinguishing different functions and should not constitute any limitation on this application. This application does not preclude the possibility of using other naming conventions in 5G networks and other future networks. For example, in future networks, some or all of the above-mentioned network elements may use the terminology from 5G, or they may use other names, etc.

[0114] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 1As shown, the system architecture 100 may include terminal equipment, satellite base stations (e.g., satellite base station 101 and satellite base station 102), a core network, and a data network (DN). The data network, also known as a packet data network (PDN), is typically a network located outside the operator's network, such as a third-party network. In some implementations, the DN may also be deployed by the operator, meaning the DN is part of the public land mobile network (PLMN). This application does not restrict whether the DN belongs to the PLMN. Various services can be deployed on the DN, providing data and / or voice services to the terminal equipment.

[0115] Each satellite can provide communication, navigation, and positioning services to terminal devices via multiple beams. In this scenario, satellites include low Earth orbit (LEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), high elliptical orbit (HEO), and geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellites. Satellite base station 102 connects to a ground gateway station (such as NTN Gateway), which can also be called a gateway station, signaling station, or ground station equipment. The satellite uses multiple beams to cover the service area, and different beams can communicate via one or more of time-division, frequency-division, and space-division multiplexing. The satellite mentioned in this application embodiment can be a satellite base station, an integrated access backhaul device, an orbital receiver or repeater for relaying information, or a network-side device mounted on the satellite. For ease of description, in this application embodiment, a satellite with access network functionality is referred to as a satellite access network device, or a base station deployed on a satellite is referred to as a satellite base station.

[0116] Taking 5G networks as an example, ground-based terminal devices can communicate with satellite base stations using the 5G New Radio (NR). For instance, satellite base stations can wirelessly communicate with terminal devices via broadcast communication signals and navigation signals. The connection between the terminal device and the satellite base station can be called a service link. Satellite base stations can wirelessly communicate with ground stations (also known as gateway stations, ground access points, or signaling gateways) via the NG interface (e.g., for exchanging signaling such as NAS in the core network and user service data). Satellite base stations can also communicate with the core network via ground access points. Ground stations are primarily responsible for forwarding signaling and service data between satellite base stations and the core network; the connection between satellite base stations and ground stations can be called a feeder link. Simultaneously, inter-satellite links (ISL) exist between satellites to facilitate signaling interaction and user data transmission between 5G access network devices. For example, satellite base station 101 can wirelessly communicate with satellite base station 102 via the Xn interface (e.g., for handover signaling interaction). Normally, the service link between the terminal device and the satellite base station, as well as the feeder link between the satellite base station and the ground station, are connected. That is, uplink and downlink messages between the terminal device and the core network can be transmitted through the satellite base station and the ground station.

[0117] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another satellite communication system applicable to embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the satellite communication system includes satellites 401, 402, and 403. Each satellite can provide communication, navigation, and positioning services to terminal devices via multi-beam communication. In this scenario, the satellites can be LEO or MEO satellites, etc. Satellite 403 connects to ground station equipment (such as…). Figure 2 (The core network equipment shown).

[0118] Satellite communication systems include transparent satellite architecture and non-transparent satellite architecture. For example, Figure 2 Satellites 401 and 402 are non-transparent satellite architectures, while satellite 403 is a transparent satellite architecture. Furthermore, the satellites can operate in staring mode (e.g., earth-fixed or quasi-earth-fixed mode) or non-staring mode (e.g., earth-moving mode).

[0119] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system beam operating mode applicable to embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 3As shown, taking satellite communication as an example, based on the operating mode of the payload (such as a beam), satellite communication systems can generally be divided into staring (earth-fixed or quasi-earth fixed) and non-staring (earth-moving) systems. For example, for non-staring systems, such as... Figure 3 As shown in (a), over a period of time (e.g., times T1, T2, and T3), the satellite beam coverage area moves along with the satellite; for staring systems, as... Figure 3 As shown in (b), over a period of time (e.g., times T1, T2, and T3), the satellite dynamically adjusts the beam direction to make the beam approximately cover the same area of ​​the ground.

[0120] Depending on the payload type, satellite communication systems include transparent satellite architecture and non-transparent satellite architecture. Transparent transmission, also known as bend-tube relay transmission, means that the signal only undergoes frequency conversion and amplification on the satellite; the satellite is transparent to the signal, as if it doesn't exist. Non-transparent transmission, also known as regenerative (on-board access / processing) transmission, means that the satellite has some or all of the base station functions.

[0121] It should be understood that the above Figures 1 to 3 The communication system illustrated uses a satellite communication system combined with a 5G system as an example. This is a simplified diagram for ease of understanding; the satellite communication system may also include other devices, which are not shown in the diagram. Furthermore, when the satellite communication system is combined with other terrestrial communication systems, the network elements and interfaces involved may have other names, and this application does not specifically limit them.

[0122] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another satellite communication system beam operating mode applicable to embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 4 As shown, a satellite can only form four beams at a time. At time T1, beams 0, 1, 4, and 5 are used to cover their corresponding areas (i.e., the beam positions); at time T2, beams 2, 3, 6, and 7 are used to cover their corresponding areas. And so on, serving all areas covered by a single satellite (i.e., the areas corresponding to the 16 beams) through a time-division multiplexing method of T1, T2, T3, and T4.

[0123] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the basic concepts involved in this application will be explained first.

[0124] 1. Wave position;

[0125] The service area of ​​a satellite network is divided into multiple smaller geographical regions, each called a position. Positions can be represented by different shapes (such as polygons, regular hexagons, circles, ellipses, etc.).

[0126] 2. Discontinuous transmission;

[0127] Discontinuous transmission, including discontinuous transmission (DTX) and discontinuous reception (DRX), refers to the temporary cessation of data transmission by communication equipment during communication when no valid data needs to be transmitted, in order to reduce energy consumption. The application of DTX and DRX technologies can effectively reduce the energy consumption of communication equipment during communication, extend the equipment's battery life, and improve the user experience. At the same time, these energy-saving technologies also help reduce the load on communication networks, improving system efficiency and capacity.

[0128] The cell DTX / DRX configuration is shown below: This configuration separately configures the DTX and DRX types, as well as the initialization activation signaling for DTX and DRX. This means that cell DTX (discontinuous cell transmission) can be configured independently. The Cycle parameter represents the period duration of the DTX pattern, and the onDurationTimer defines the duration of the on duration within this cycle. During the on duration, the base station can normally transmit or receive downlink data, equivalent to the 'on' state of the beam in the hopping beam pattern. During the off duration, the base station will reduce the transmission or reception of some downlink signals; the off duration is equivalent to the 'off' state of the beam in the hopping beam pattern. The start offset defines the starting offset time of this cycle. The standard stipulates that the network side will configure the same cell DTX / DRX configuration for all connected terminals within the cell; that is, for each UE, the on duration, start offset, cycle, and other parameters are configured identically.

[0129] 3. Mobility management issues (UE reselection / handover within a specific frequency band);

[0130] In the LEO satellite communication system, the movement of satellite nodes can cause users in a certain area of ​​the spectrum to experience group handover (connected UE) or group reselection (idle UE).

[0131] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system group handover or group reselection. For example... Figure 5As shown, taking group handover as an example, consider the UE cluster within a single beam position in Zone-2, namely UE-G1 (which contains multiple UEs). At time T1, UE-G1 is served by one or more beams of satellite SAT-2; at time T2, the movement of satellite SAT-2 causes that beam position to become unserviceable, and one or more beams of satellite SAT-1 take over the service of UE-G1. Therefore, group handover occurs for UE cluster UE-G1. Furthermore, due to the relatively high speed of the satellites (approximately 7.5 km / s), the frequency of group handover is approximately every few seconds to tens of seconds. In other words, in hopping-beam LEO satellite networks, group handover primarily triggered by network mobility becomes the norm.

[0132] 4. TN positioning method;

[0133] Positioning technology refers to determining the location of a UE by measuring certain parameters of a wireless signal and using specific positioning techniques. These measured parameters typically include radio wave transmission time, Reference Signal Time Difference (RSTD), signal strength, angle of arrival (Angle of Arrival), and angle of departure (Angle of Departure). Typical positioning technologies include: Enhanced Cell ID (E-CID), Downlink Time Difference of Arrival (DL-TDOA), Uplink Time Difference of Arrival (UL-TDOA), Downlink Angle of Departure (DL-AOD), Uplink Angle of Arrival (UL-AOA), or Multi-Round-Trip Time (Multi-RTT). The principles of these technologies are as follows.

[0134] NR E-CID: NR E-CID is basically an evolution of LTE E-CID in NR. It mainly uses the reference signal receiving power (RSRP) or reference signal receiving quality (RSRQ) of the cell measured by the terminal's radio resource management (RRM) as fingerprint information to determine the terminal's location. In addition, it also introduces the cell identifier (ID), angle of arrival (AOA), and timing advance TA information.

[0135] DL-TDOA: DL-TDOA is the evolution of LTE's observed time difference of arrival (OTDOA) in NR. It is mainly based on the terminal's PRS measurement RSTD across multiple base stations. The arrival time difference of a pair of base stations can be plotted as a hyperbola. The intersection of multiple hyperbolas indicates the terminal's location. TDOA technology relies on precise inter-site synchronization, so that the arrival time difference corresponds to the propagation distance difference.

[0136] UL-TDOA: UL-TDOA is the evolution of LTE uplink time difference of arrival (UTDOA) in NR. It is similar to the DL-TDOA method, but the time of arrival (TOA) is obtained by the sounding reference signal (SRS) sent by the network measurement terminal.

[0137] UL-AOA: UL-AOA is a positioning method used by a base station to estimate the direction of a terminal by measuring the uplink signal (e.g., SRS) sent by the terminal. Here, AOA includes the horizontal azimuth angle (A-AOA) and the vertical elevation angle (Z-AOA). The angle estimation method can be determined by the phase relationship between the elements. For high-frequency analog beams, it can be determined by receiving beam scanning fitting. The AOA of a base station can be plotted as a ray (A-AOA + Z-AOA) or a cone (Z-AOA). The intersection of multiple rays or cones represents the terminal's position.

[0138] DL-AOD: DL-AOD is a positioning method for terminals that estimate their orientation by measuring the PRS of multiple base stations. In Rel-16 and Rel-17, DL-AOD mainly involves the terminal measuring the received power of multiple different beams of a base station. The orientation of the terminal is calculated by the relative relationship between the received power of different beams and the inherent radiated power difference of different beams at each angle. The AOD of a base station can be plotted as a ray or a cone, and the intersection of multiple rays or cones is the location of the terminal.

[0139] Multi-RTT: Multi-RTT positioning technology extends the single-site round-trip time (RTT) of LTE E-CID terminals to multiple base stations. It determines the distance between the terminal and multiple base stations by measuring the time difference between their transmit and receive PRS and SRS data. The RTT of one base station can be represented by a circle or a sphere, and the intersection of multiple circles or spheres represents the terminal's location. Unlike TDOA positioning technology, Multi-RTT, which allows the terminal to independently measure RTT with any base station, does not rely on precise inter-station synchronization.

[0140] 5. NTN positioning method;

[0141] Current NR-NTN research mainly focuses on UE location identification / authentication in RRC connected mode, primarily employing a single-satellite-based multi-RTT positioning method (i.e., using multiple round-trip time (RTT) measurements between the satellite and the UE to assist in UE positioning).

[0142] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a single-satellite multi-RTT-based location identification / authentication method is shown. (Example) Figure 6 As shown, satellite 1 (SAT-1) performs an RTT positioning procedure with the UE at times T1, T2, and T3 by transmitting and receiving reference signals to determine the UE's location. The positioning accuracy in this implementation is approximately 5–10 km.

[0143] 6. NR / NTN initial access;

[0144] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an NR / NTN initial access method. Taking a 5G UE access in a standalone network as an example, the initial access process includes cell search and selection, access, RRC connection establishment, initial context establishment, and protocol data unit (PDU) session establishment, among which PDU session establishment is an optional step. Figure 7 As shown, the method includes the following steps; for details not covered, please refer to the relevant descriptions in existing solutions.

[0145] S710, UE performs cell search and selection: the process of UE and NR cell achieving downlink synchronization and selecting the NR cell with the best signal to camp on.

[0146] S720, the UE and gNB perform an access procedure: a necessary process for the UE and the network to establish a radio link. The UE establishes uplink synchronization with the NR cell and obtains uplink resources through the access procedure.

[0147] S730, UE and gNB perform RRC connection establishment: the process of establishing radio signaling bearer 1 (SRB1) between UE and gNB.

[0148] S740, Initial Context Establishment is Performed Between UE, gNB, and 5GC: When making various event decisions or executing various algorithms, the gNB needs to know the UE's context information (or UE's state information) in order to make the most appropriate decision. After the initial context establishment is completed, the gNB can obtain all the UE context it needs.

[0149] Understandably, during the initial UE access process, the UE and the network side need to exchange UE state information (also known as UE context information, such as UE context information). For example, the UE state information includes at least one of the following: PDU session context, security key, mobility constraint list, UE radio capabilities, and UE security capabilities.

[0150] S750, PDU session establishment is performed between UE, gNB and 5GC: PDU session is used to provide PDU connectivity service between UE and data network DN, that is, to support PDU session exchange between UE and DN. Therefore, when UE initiates data service, PDU session establishment process is involved.

[0151] The above descriptions of terms or technologies are provided only to facilitate understanding of the solution and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application.

[0152] Considering the large time-frequency offset and high mobility characteristics of NTN systems, existing positioning strategies for TN are not suitable for NTN networks. Moreover, existing positioning strategies for single NTN satellites achieve relatively low positioning accuracy (e.g., 5–10 km), which is not suitable for high-precision UE positioning (e.g., 10 m–100 m) in non-GNSS or GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) failure scenarios.

[0153] In view of this, this application provides a communication method and a communication device, in which a terminal receives capability information and first configuration information from a first non-terrestrial device, and accesses a non-terrestrial network according to the first configuration information. That is, the received capability information determines that the first non-terrestrial device supports access to the non-terrestrial network for terminals without valid GNSS location information. In other words, when a terminal lacks valid GNSS location information, it can access the non-terrestrial network through the first non-terrestrial device, improving the terminal's access success rate, enhancing random access performance, and simultaneously improving the terminal's positioning accuracy.

[0154] The following detailed description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, will further illustrate the communication method and communication device provided in the embodiments of this application, which can be applied to the above-mentioned... Figures 1 to 4 The communication system shown. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application can be applied to scenarios where the sending end and the receiving end communicate.

[0155] It is understood that this application uses a first non-terrestrial device and a terminal as examples to illustrate the execution of the interaction, but this application does not limit the execution of the interaction. For example, the method executed by the first non-terrestrial device in this application can also be implemented by a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) in the first non-terrestrial device, or by a logic node, logic module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first non-terrestrial device; as another example, the method executed by the terminal in this application can also be implemented by a communication module in the terminal or a circuit or chip (e.g., a modem chip (also known as a baseband chip), or a SoC chip containing a modem core, or a SIP chip) in the terminal responsible for communication functions.

[0156] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in this application. Figure 8 As shown, the method includes the following steps; for details not covered, please refer to existing related descriptions.

[0157] S810, the first non-ground device sends capability information to the terminal;

[0158] Correspondingly, the terminal receives capability information from the first non-ground device.

[0159] In this application, the first non-terrestrial device may be a satellite or a satellite base station, or a component within a satellite or satellite base station (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system, such as circuitry or a chip responsible for communication functions in a satellite or satellite base station), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of a satellite or satellite base station. Exemplarily, the first non-terrestrial device may be a satellite equipped with some or all network equipment functions, or network equipment deployed (or carried) on a satellite; this is not limited.

[0160] In one example, the capability information indicates that the first non-terrestrial device supports access to a non-terrestrial network for terminals that do not have valid GNSS location information (which may be referred to as capability #1).

[0161] In another example, the capability information also indicates that the first non-terrestrial device supports terminal access to the non-terrestrial network with valid GNSS position information (which can be referred to as capability #2).

[0162] In other words, the first non-terrestrial device can not only support terminals with valid GNSS location information to access non-terrestrial networks, but also terminals without valid GNSS location information to access non-terrestrial networks. This provides a hybrid access scenario, which can improve the success rate of device access to non-terrestrial networks, adapt to the access needs of different scenarios, and has a wider range of applications.

[0163] For example, a terminal with valid GNSS location information can be understood as: the terminal supports GNSS function, or the GNSS location information of the terminal is active or valid, or the positioning error of the terminal is less than threshold #1, or the positioning signal strength of the terminal is greater than threshold #2, or the location information of the terminal is available, etc.

[0164] For example, a terminal that does not have valid GNSS location information can be understood as: the terminal does not support GNSS function, or the terminal supports GNSS function but the terminal's GNSS location information is invalid or unavailable, or the terminal's positioning error is greater than or equal to threshold #1, or the positioning signal strength received / measured by the terminal is less than or equal to threshold #2, or the terminal's location information is unavailable, etc.

[0165] Understandably, GNSS location information refers to geographic location information obtained through GNSS. For example, GNSS location information can be the address of a GNSS location, including data such as longitude, latitude, altitude, speed, and direction. Furthermore, GNSS location information can include not only specific physical locations but also speed and time information.

[0166] This application does not limit the manner or form of indication of such capability information.

[0167] In one implementation, the first non-ground device may indicate to the terminal, through one or more capability parameters, that the first non-ground device supports capability #1 and / or capability #2; or, the first non-ground device may indicate to the terminal, through a capability parameter, whether the first non-ground device supports capability #1; or, the first non-ground device may indicate to the terminal, through a capability parameter, whether the first non-ground device supports capability #2; or, if the first non-ground device supports the aforementioned capability #1, it can be assumed that the first non-ground device supports both capability #1 and capability #2; or, the first non-ground device may default to supporting capability #2 without any indication of capability parameters.

[0168] In one implementation, the first non-ground device can indicate whether it supports the capability by whether or not it sends the capability information. For example, if the first non-ground device sends the capability information, it means that the first non-ground device supports the capability indicated by the capability information; if the first non-ground device does not send the capability information, it means that the first non-ground device does not support the capability indicated by the capability information.

[0169] In one implementation, the first non-ground device can indicate whether it supports a certain capability through a capability parameter. For example, the capability parameter can be 1 bit, where bit "1" indicates that the first non-ground device supports the capability, and bit "0" indicates that the first non-ground device does not support the capability. Therefore, when the first non-ground device sends bit "1", it means that the first non-ground device supports capability #1; when the first non-ground device sends bit "0", it means that the first non-ground device does not support capability #2, and vice versa. Alternatively, the capability parameter can be 2 bits, where bit "11" indicates that the first non-ground device supports multiple capabilities, and bit "00" indicates that the first non-ground device does not support multiple capabilities. The bit "01" or "10" indicates that the first non-ground device supports some capabilities. When the first non-ground device sends bit "11", it means that the first non-ground device supports capability #1 and capability #2; when the first non-ground device sends bit "00", it means that the first non-ground device does not support capability #1 and capability #2; when the first non-ground device sends bit "01", it means that the first non-ground device does not support capability #1 but supports capability #2; when the first non-ground device sends bit "10", it means that the first non-ground device supports capability #1 but does not support capability #2.

[0170] In one implementation, if the first non-ground device supports some capabilities indicated by the aforementioned capability information, such as capability #1, then it can be assumed that the first non-ground device supports other capabilities indicated by the capability information, such as capability #2. That is, if the first non-ground device does not indicate the other capabilities, it also means that the first non-ground device supports the other capabilities. This application does not limit this.

[0171] The above descriptions of capability information are merely illustrative examples to facilitate understanding of the solution, and other implementation methods are not excluded.

[0172] S820, the first non-ground device sends the first configuration information to the terminal;

[0173] Correspondingly, the terminal receives first configuration information from the first non-ground device.

[0174] The first configuration information is used to indicate the configuration of the first access resource.

[0175] Understandably, when the capability information indicates that the first non-terrestrial device supports access to the non-terrestrial network for terminals without valid GNSS location information, the first access resource configuration is used for random access by terminals without valid GNSS location information. In this scenario, the terminal has valid GNSS location information. For example, when the capability information indicates that the first non-terrestrial device supports access to the non-terrestrial network for terminals with valid GNSS location information, the method further includes: the first non-terrestrial device sending third configuration information to the terminal; correspondingly, the terminal receives the third configuration information from the first non-terrestrial device, which is used to indicate the second access resource configuration. In this case, the terminal accesses the non-terrestrial network according to the third configuration information; in this scenario, the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information.

[0176] That is, the access resource configuration sent by the first non-terrestrial device is different depending on whether the terminal has valid GNSS location information, for example, the first access resource device and the second access resource device.

[0177] Below, we will illustrate different access resource configurations using three different implementation methods.

[0178] In the first implementation, when the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the second access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set (i.e., a conventional preamble, such as access based on the Zadoff-Chu sequence in the NR protocol).

[0179] In the second implementation, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set (i.e., a conventional preamble, such as access based on the Zadoff-Chu sequence in the NR protocol).

[0180] In the third implementation, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles, the first access resource configuration includes a second RO set and a second preamble set (i.e., enhanced preamble, such as enhanced sequences in the NR protocol, such as access with double Zadoff-Chu sequences, access with enhanced m sequences, longer cyclic prefixes, and larger guard interval configurations).

[0181] For example, the first or second set of ROs may include one or more ROs, and the first or second set of preambles may include one or more preambles; this is not limited. After determining the specific RO and preamble, the terminal may execute a random access procedure to access the non-terrestrial network.

[0182] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram in the time domain of a dual Zadoff-Chu sequence provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 9 As shown, this double Zadoff-Chu sequence includes: a cyclic prefix T CP Leader sequence T SEQ and protection interval T GT The specific meaning is as follows.

[0183] Cyclic prefix T CP The symbols transmitted by the physical random access channel (PRACH) of users at the cell edge undergo multipath transmission through the air radio channel. The time difference of multipath transmission can cause inter-symbol interference. The duration of the cyclic prefix (CP) can also be used to eliminate this type of interference.

[0184] Leader sequence T SEQ The preamble is generated by cyclic shifting of a basic sequence and is the main component of the preamble. The difference in its length and number of repetitions determines the demodulation performance of the preamble.

[0185] Protection interval T GT This is related to the coverage radius of the cell. Generally, the base station scheduler ensures that there are no other transmissions on the uplink resources where the preamble might be sent. In the initial access scenario, the base station considers the uncertainty of preamble reception timing; the arrival times of preambles sent by central users and edge users to the base station differ, and the maximum allowable difference between the two is T. GT Therefore, the size of the guard interval (GT) is also one of the key factors in determining the coverage radius of a cell.

[0186] The above implementation is merely an example to facilitate understanding of the solution, and other implementation methods are not excluded. Furthermore, the specific implementation steps for the assisted access procedure based on UE-based positioning and the assisted access procedure based on enhanced preambles can be found in existing descriptions; for the sake of brevity, they will not be elaborated here.

[0187] Regarding the second implementation method described above, where the terminal lacks valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first non-terrestrial device can configure multi-satellite positioning-related reference signals for the terminal. This involves providing a broadcast / scanning pattern for the reference signals, using multiple satellites (i.e., M second non-terrestrial devices) to assist the terminal's positioning and improve positioning accuracy. The reference signals can be PRS, SSB, SRS, channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS), or other reference signals, without limitation. For ease of description, this application uses PRS as an example. In this application, one PRS can correspond to one or more spectral positions; for ease of description, this application uses one PRS corresponding to one spectral position as an example.

[0188] Optionally, before performing step S830, the method may further include step S801 (not shown in the figure). This application does not specifically limit the execution order of steps S801, S810, or S820.

[0189] S801, the first non-ground device sends the second configuration information (such as PRSpattern) associated with the reference signal to the terminal;

[0190] Correspondingly, the terminal receives the second configuration information associated with the reference signal.

[0191] The second configuration information is used to indicate a first pattern (e.g., a first PRS pattern) and M second patterns (e.g., second PRS patterns). The first pattern is used by a first non-ground device to locate the terminal, and the M second patterns are used to assist M second non-ground devices in locating the terminal. M is an integer greater than or equal to 1.

[0192] For example, the serving cell of a terminal can also be referred to as the terminal's local cell. The serving cell refers to the area where the first non-terrestrial device currently providing service to the terminal is located. The serving cell is the basic unit for terminal communication and data transmission. The serving cell consists of the wireless signal coverage area within the coverage range of the first non-terrestrial device; its signal coverage range and signal quality can affect the stability and reliability of terminal communication. The terminal's neighboring cells (or neighboring areas) refer to cells adjacent to the terminal's serving cell. There can be one or more neighboring cells, typically referring to the area covered by M second non-terrestrial devices adjacent to the signal coverage range of the current serving cell. The main function of neighboring cells is to achieve continuity and seamlessness in mobile communication, ensuring that the terminal can communicate and transmit data uninterruptedly during movement.

[0193] For example, the second configuration information may be broadcast by the first non-ground device or sent directly to the terminal by the first non-ground device; there is no limitation on this.

[0194] Optionally, the first pattern and the M second patterns can also be predefined or preconfigured, and there is no limitation on this.

[0195] For example, the M second patterns can be implemented based on a dedicated positioning broadcast beam (such as a PRS beam), whose coverage can exceed the coverage of the communication broadcast beam (such as an SSB beam), and can support beam-hopping scanning (such as beam levels DTX or DRX).

[0196] For example, the second pattern may include at least one PRS resource set, which is associated with a neighboring cell (or TRP identifier) ​​and NTN-config information (such as ephemeris information, ephemeris validity period, uplink synchronization reference point, Doppler shift, timing drift, etc.).

[0197] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a timing advance TA provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the Transmission Time (TA) in NTN consists of two parts: one is the transmission delay from the terminal device to the satellite (represented by the service link RTT), and the other is the transmission delay from the satellite to the reference point (RP) (represented by the Common TA). The Common TA is calculated by the network side and sent to the terminal device, while the service link RTT is calculated by the terminal device based on GNSS location information and satellite location information. The terminal device calculates the total TA (i.e., Figure 10 T in TA Then the total TA is reported to the network.

[0198] For example, different neighboring cells correspond to different second patterns, that is, different neighboring cells have different PRS resource set configurations, or in other words, different neighboring cells are associated with separate PRS resource set configurations. The PRS resource set configuration may include at least one of the following: positioning period, time offset, frequency domain start position and bandwidth, polarization, parameter set (numerology), comb size, repetition, and muting. The numerology includes subcarrier spacing, cyclic prefix length, transmission time interval (TTI) length, or system bandwidth.

[0199] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the first non-terrestrial device broadcast beam / signal configuration and the positioning reference signal pattern transmitted by multiple non-terrestrial devices, provided in an embodiment of this application. The horizontal axis represents the time domain, and the vertical axis represents the frequency domain, as shown below. Figure 11 As shown in (a), it includes SAT-1 (i.e., the first non-terrestrial device), SAT-2… and SAT-N (i.e., the second non-terrestrial device, where M = N-1), and six geographic regions (e.g., wave positions bw1, bw2,…, bw6). Broadcast / scan patterns for communication broadcast beams (such as SSB beams) and location broadcast beams (such as PRS beams) can be seen in… Figure 11 (b) Figure 11 (c) and Figure 11 (d). Specifically, such as Figure 11 As shown in (b), SAT-1's SSB beam covers bw1 and bw2. To assist neighboring satellites (i.e., the second non-ground device) in positioning, SAT-1's PRS beam coverage includes its own SSB beam coverage areas bw1 and bw2, as well as assisting in terminal positioning within the coverage areas of other neighboring satellites, namely bw3, bw4, and bw5. In summary, SAT-1's PRS beam coverage includes {bw1, bw2, bw3, bw4, bw5}. Figure 11 As shown in (c), SAT-2's SSB beam covers bw2, bw3, and bw4. To assist neighboring satellite positioning, SAT-2's PRS beam coverage includes its own SSB beam coverage of bw2, bw3, and bw4, as well as assisting in terminal positioning within the coverage areas of other neighboring satellites, namely bw1, bw5, and bw6. In summary, SAT-2's PRS beam coverage includes {bw1, bw2, bw3, bw4, bw5, bw6}. Figure 11As shown in (d), SAT-N's SSB beam covers bw5 and bw6. To assist neighboring satellite positioning, SAT-N's PRS beam coverage includes its own SSB beam coverage of bw5 and bw6, as well as assisting in terminal positioning within the coverage areas of other neighboring satellites, namely bw2, bw3, and bw4. In summary, SAT-N's PRS beam coverage includes {bw2, bw3, bw4, bw5, bw6}.

[0200] Below, in conjunction with Figure 12 An example is given for a first pattern (e.g., a first PRS pattern) and a second pattern (e.g., a second PRS pattern) transmitted by a first non-ground device and acquired by a terminal.

[0201] For example, the first PRS pattern and the second PRS pattern are associated with different activation configurations, such as a mutating pattern or a DTX / DRX pattern.

[0202] In the first implementation, the terminal can obtain the first PRS pattern and the second PRS pattern based on the complete PRS pattern (i.e., the second configuration information) and mutating pattern sent by the first non-ground device. The periods of the first PRS pattern and the second PRS pattern are the same by default.

[0203] In the second implementation, the terminal can obtain the first PRS pattern and the second PRS pattern based on the complete PRS pattern (i.e., the second configuration information) and DTX pattern sent by the first non-ground device. The DTX patterns of different neighboring cells can be different.

[0204] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a first pattern (e.g., a first PRS pattern) transmitted by a first non-terrestrial device (e.g., SAT-1) and a second pattern (e.g., a second PRS pattern) acquired by a terminal, as provided in an embodiment of this application. The horizontal axis represents the time domain, and the vertical axis represents the frequency domain. Figure 12 As shown in (a), the PRS beam coverage of SAT-1 includes {bw1, bw2, bw3, bw4, bw5}. Figure 12As shown in (b), the complete PRS pattern (or PRS resource set, corresponding to PRS set-0) sent by SAT-1 includes the time offset, periodicity, and the starting system frame number (SFN) (e.g., SFN#0).

[0205] The specific implementations of different PRS patterns include: The first PRS pattern transmitted by SAT-1 corresponds to the SSB beam coverage area C1 of SAT-1, and its PRS resource set is PRS set-1. For example, PRS set-1 is obtained based on PRS set-0+110000. The second PRS pattern transmitted by SAT-1 corresponds to the PRS beam coverage area C2 of SAT-1, and C1 can be a subset of C2. For example, to assist satellite SAT-2 in positioning, the second PRS pattern is PRS set-2, associated with time offset-2 and periodicity-2. For example, PRS set-2 is obtained based on PRS set-0+001110; to assist satellite SAT-N in positioning, the second PRS pattern is PRS set-N, associated with time offset-N and periodicity-N. For example, PRS set-N is obtained based on PRS set-0+001011, and so on, without further explanation.

[0206] In summary, the first non-terrestrial device sends a first pattern (e.g., a first PRS pattern) and M second patterns (e.g., second PRS patterns) to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the first pattern and the M second patterns from the first non-terrestrial device, obtains measurement quantities (e.g., ToA, fracture obliquity angle (FoA), RSRP, or RSTD, etc.) by measuring the reference signal (e.g., PRS), and performs a UE-based positioning procedure to assist communication in non-GNSS / GNSS-relaxed scenarios (such as initial access and mobility management). When the measurement quantity involves time / frequency related information, the reference point (corresponding to...) Figure 10 The RP in NTN is usually the uplink time synchronization reference point, which is the alignment point between the downlink and uplink frames of the NTN (or it can be an offset N). TA_offset (The alignment point after that).

[0207] To save power consumption on the terminal or network side, the first non-terrestrial device can send the PRS pattern within a specific time window. Correspondingly, the terminal can receive the PRS pattern within a specific time window to reduce unnecessary resource waste.

[0208] In one implementation, the reference signal includes a first reference signal and M second reference signals. The method further includes: within a first time window, the terminal receives the first reference signal from a first non-ground device based on a first pattern, and receives M second reference signals from M second non-ground devices based on M second patterns, wherein the M second non-ground devices, the M second patterns, and the M second reference signals correspond one-to-one.

[0209] For example, the first time window includes at least one of the following parameters: period, duration, offset, expected signal arrival time difference (expectedRSTD), expected signal arrival time difference uncertainty (expectedRSTD-uncertainty), timing drift rate, or Doppler shift, etc.

[0210] This application does not limit the method for determining the first time window.

[0211] In the first example, the terminal obtains the mapping relationship and determines a first time window based on the mapping relationship and the received first SSB index. The mapping relationship indicates the correspondence between multiple SSB indices and multiple configuration information of the first non-ground device. The mapping relationship includes the SSB pattern, the SSB period, the scaling factor of the SSB period, and the offset (time / frequency) relative to the SSB. The multiple SSB indices include the first SSB index, and the multiple configuration information includes second configuration information. The first SSB index corresponds to the second configuration information.

[0212] The SSB pattern can be understood as the configuration of the SSB, including the time-frequency resources occupied by the SSB, time offset, time domain start position or size, frequency domain start position or bandwidth, etc. The SSB period refers to the transmission cycle of the SSB, for example, transmitting the SSB once every one symbol. The scaling factor of the SSB period is usually used to describe the proportion of the SSB period's size change in space. For example, based on the SSB period (e.g., 20ms) and the scaling factor (e.g., 4), the PRS period (e.g., 20*4=80ms) is determined. Based on this, the second configuration information is determined according to the received first SSB index (e.g., SSB-index=1) and the mapping relationship, and then the first time window for receiving the first pattern and M second patterns (e.g., the PRS pattern) is determined.

[0213] For example, the mapping relationship can be obtained from the first non-terrestrial device, such as by the first non-terrestrial device configuring or indicating the mapping relationship via signaling. For instance, the first non-terrestrial device can indicate the mapping relationship to the terminal via radio resource control (RRC), downlink control information (DCI), or system information block (SIB) signaling. Alternatively, the mapping relationship can be predefined or preconfigured. Predefinition can include pre-defined features, such as protocol definitions, while preconfiguration can be achieved by pre-storing corresponding codes, tables, functions, text, strings, or other means that can be used to indicate relevant information (e.g., mapping relationships) in the first non-terrestrial device and / or the terminal. This application does not limit the specific implementation method.

[0214] In the second example, the terminal obtains a mapping relationship that indicates the correspondence between the PRS pattern and the DRX pattern (e.g., including duration, offset, and period). The terminal can receive the PRS within the DRX duration, i.e., the first time window is within the DRX duration.

[0215] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating how a terminal receives a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS) within a first time window, as provided in an embodiment of this application. The horizontal axis represents the time domain, and the vertical axis represents the frequency domain. For example... Figure 13 As shown in (a), the terminal receives a first reference signal (corresponding to a first pattern, first PRS pattern) from a first non-ground device (e.g., SAT-1) and M second reference signals (corresponding to second patterns, second PRS patterns) from a second non-ground device within time window 1 (i.e., the first time window). The first PRS pattern is used by SAT-1 to locate the terminal's serving cell, and the second PRS pattern is used by other satellites (e.g., SAT-2, ..., SAT-N) to locate the terminal's neighboring cells. Figure 13 As shown in (b), the terminal receives a first reference signal (corresponding to the first pattern, the first PRS pattern) sent from a first non-ground device (e.g., SAT-1) and M second reference signals (corresponding to the second pattern, the second PRS pattern) sent from a second non-ground device within time window 2 (i.e., the first time window). The first PRS pattern is used by SAT-1 to locate the terminal's serving cell, and the second PRS pattern is used by other satellites (e.g., SAT-2, ..., SAT-N) to locate the terminal's neighboring cells.

[0216] In one implementation, the aforementioned second configuration information (e.g., the first PRS pattern and the second PRSpattern) can be associated with geographic area information and / or effective time period. The geographic area information includes at least one of the following: one or more PCIs (or PCI list information), one or more waveform identifiers (or waveform list information), one or more mapped cell identifiers (or Mapped Cell ID list information), or one or more SSB indices (or SSB index list). The effective time period includes at least one of the following: reference DOP value, reference GDOP value, the length or number of time windows occupied by the reference signal, or the reference signal time difference (RSTD) value. It is understood that a smaller GDOP value results in higher positioning accuracy; a larger GDOP value results in lower positioning accuracy.

[0217] For example, the terminal can adjust the length of the PRS pattern time window based on the GDOP value within a given time period to save power consumption. For example, if the number of satellites is small, multiple time windows can be set, such as time periods [t1, t2] (e.g., corresponding to reference GDOP 1, the length of the PRS pattern time window is 1), time periods [t2, t3] (e.g., corresponding to reference GDOP 2, the length of the PRS pattern time window is 2), and time periods [t3, t4] (e.g., corresponding to reference GDOP 3, the length of the PRS pattern time window is 3); if the number of satellites is large, a single PRS window can be set, and there is no limitation on this.

[0218] Based on this, the terminal can receive a first reference signal (corresponding to the first PRS pattern) and a second reference signal (corresponding to the second PRS pattern) within a specific geographical location area and / or effective time period. This can not only improve positioning accuracy, but also reduce the number of PRS measurement windows and measurement complexity of the terminal, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the device.

[0219] S830: The terminal accesses the non-terrestrial network based on the first configuration information.

[0220] Understandably, the terminal in this scenario does not have valid GNSS location information, and the capability information in step S810 indicates that the first non-terrestrial device supports the terminal without valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network.

[0221] Optionally, for scenarios where the terminal has valid GNSS location information, and the capability information in step S810 indicates that the first non-terrestrial device supports the terminal with valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network, the method further includes: the terminal accessing the non-terrestrial network according to the third configuration information.

[0222] The following section provides examples illustrating the specific implementation methods for accessing non-terrestrial networks based on different access resource configurations, considering whether the terminal has valid GNSS location information.

[0223] In the first implementation, when the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the terminal determines the first RO from the first RO set and the first preamble from the first preamble set; and accesses the non-terrestrial network based on the first RO and the first preamble.

[0224] For example, the first RO can be any RO in the first set of ROs, and the first preamble can be any preamble in the first set of preambles.

[0225] In the second implementation, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles, the terminal determines the second RO from the second RO set and obtains the second preamble from the second preamble set; and accesses the non-terrestrial network based on the second RO and the second preamble.

[0226] For example, the second RO can be any RO in the second set of ROs, and the second preamble can be any preamble in the second set of preambles.

[0227] In the third implementation, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the terminal accesses the non-terrestrial network according to the second configuration information and the first configuration information.

[0228] For example, the terminal measures the reference signal according to the second configuration information to determine the location and location accuracy of the terminal; if the location accuracy is less than or equal to the first threshold (i.e., the location accuracy meets the requirements), the terminal determines the third RO from the first RO set and the third preamble from the first preamble set; and the terminal accesses the non-terrestrial network based on the third RO and the third preamble.

[0229] For example, the terminal measures the reference signal according to the second configuration information to determine the terminal's location and location accuracy. If the location accuracy is greater than the first threshold (i.e., the location accuracy does not meet the requirements), the terminal can re-execute the UE-based positioning procedure, that is, the terminal measures the received reference signal according to the second configuration information to determine the terminal's location and location accuracy until the location accuracy is less than or equal to the first threshold. Alternatively, if the location accuracy is greater than the first threshold, the terminal can also determine whether the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles. For example, if the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles, the terminal can use the second RO and the second preamble to execute the random access procedure, without limitation.

[0230] Position accuracy refers to the precision or error in determining a user's location using a navigation satellite system. It is typically expressed as the square root of the sum of the squares of the errors in latitude, longitude, and elevation. Whether a position accuracy meets the requirements can be understood as follows: assuming the first preamble set configured on the network side supports a cell radius range of X meters (e.g., X = 500m), then if the position accuracy is less than or equal to X meters, it is considered to meet the requirements; conversely, if the position accuracy is greater than X meters, it is considered to fail to meet the requirements. X is greater than or equal to 0, and no specific limitation is imposed.

[0231] For example, the third RO can be any RO in the first RO set, and the third preamble can be any preamble in the first preamble set.

[0232] Optionally, this application does not limit whether the first RO and the third RO are the same, nor does it limit whether the first preamble and the third preamble are the same.

[0233] Regarding the terminal accessing the non-terrestrial device based on the selected RO and preamble in the above implementation method, the specific implementation method can be found in the relevant descriptions of existing random access procedures, which will not be explained here for the sake of brevity.

[0234] Below, in conjunction with Figure 14 and Figure 15 This paper provides an example illustrating the process by which a terminal selects an appropriate access method to access a non-terrestrial network based on received capability information, access resource configuration, and the terminal's own location area or access TRP or SSB group information.

[0235] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a process for a terminal to access a non-terrestrial network, as provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 14 As shown, the terminal first detects the downlink synchronization signal (such as SSB) on the synchronization grid to complete downlink synchronization, then obtains system messages (e.g., master information block (MIB), or SIB1, or SIB19) and capability information, and then determines the access method to the non-terrestrial network based on the terminal's location information and capability information, and then executes the random access procedure based on the received access resource configuration. The specific execution steps are as follows.

[0236] Optionally, before performing step S830, the method further includes step S802 (not shown in the figure).

[0237] S802, the terminal determines whether it has valid GNSS location information based on its location and / or GNSS signal strength.

[0238] For example, when the GNSS signal strength is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, it indicates that the terminal has valid GNSS location information; conversely, when the GNSS signal strength is less than the preset threshold, it indicates that the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information.

[0239] For example, when the location of the terminal is within (or located in) a coverage area supported by a non-terrestrial network, it indicates that the terminal has valid GNSS location information; conversely, when the location of the terminal is not within (or located in) a coverage area supported by a non-terrestrial network, it indicates that the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information.

[0240] For example, when the GNSS signal strength is greater than or equal to a preset threshold and the location of the terminal is within (or located in) a coverage area supported by a non-terrestrial network, it indicates that the terminal has valid GNSS location information; conversely, when the GNSS signal strength is less than the preset threshold, or the location of the terminal is not within (or located in) a coverage area supported by a non-terrestrial network, it indicates that the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information.

[0241] Branch 1: When the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the terminal can select any preamble (i.e., the first preamble) from the configured first preamble set and any RO (i.e., the first RO) from the first RO set. Then, it determines the time and frequency precompensation information based on its own position and ephemeris information, and finally performs random access based on the selected preamble and / or RO, i.e., access to the non-terrestrial network.

[0242] Branch Two: When the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information, the terminal determines whether the network supports location-based assisted access. If not, the terminal re-determines whether it has valid GNSS location information; or, it executes Branch Three. Conversely, if it does support GNSS location information, the terminal executes a UE-based positioning process based on the received capability information and the second configuration information related to PRS to obtain the terminal's location information and location accuracy. Then, it determines whether the location accuracy meets the requirements. If the location accuracy meets the requirements, the terminal can select any preamble (i.e., the third preamble) from the configured first preamble set and any RO (i.e., the third RO) from the first RO set. Then, it determines the time-frequency precompensation information based on its own location and ephemeris information, and finally performs random access based on the selected preamble and / or RO, i.e., access to the non-terrestrial network. Conversely, if the location accuracy does not meet the requirements, the terminal can re-execute the UE-based positioning process until the location accuracy is less than or equal to the first threshold; or, if the location accuracy does not meet the requirements, the terminal can also execute Branch Three, without limitation.

[0243] For the method of determining whether the position accuracy meets the requirements, please refer to the relevant description of step S820 above. For the sake of brevity, it will not be explained here.

[0244] Branch 3: When the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information, the terminal determines whether the network side supports assisted access based on enhanced preamble. If not, the terminal re-determines whether it has valid GNSS location information; or, it executes Branch 2. Conversely, if supported, the terminal can select any preamble (i.e., the second preamble) from the configured second preamble set and any RO (i.e., the second RO) from the second RO set. Then, based on its own position and ephemeris information, it determines the time-frequency precompensation information, and finally performs random access based on the selected preamble and / or RO, i.e., accessing the non-terrestrial network.

[0245] Optionally, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information, and the network side does not support assisted access based on enhanced preamble or location-based assisted access, the terminal may not execute the access to non-terrestrial network procedure until it has valid GNSS location information and / or time-frequency precompensation information, and then execute the access to non-terrestrial network procedure through branch one.

[0246] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram illustrating how different terminals access non-terrestrial networks based on different access resource configurations, as provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 15 As shown, UEs in different locations can access non-terrestrial networks through different satellite SATs.

[0247] The network side supports three capabilities (capabilities can be associated with SSB sets or geographic region sets, meaning different access methods are supported at different locations), and different operations can be performed on terminals located in different regions:

[0248] Example 1: For a UE (GNSS-capable UE) with valid GNSS location information, such as UE2, which has relatively accurate location information, such as UE2's positioning error being less than or equal to X (e.g., X = 500m), UE2 can be randomly accessed through regular preamble groups (i.e., the first preamble set).

[0249] Example 2: For a UE that does not have valid GNSS location information (GNSS-relaxed UE), such as UE1, located in the first area (e.g., in a different SSB set A1, or geographical area A2), UE1 can use enhanced preamble packets (i.e., the second preamble set) for random access.

[0250] Example 3: For a UE (GNSS-capable UE) that does not have valid GNSS location information, such as UE3, located in the second area (e.g., in a different SSB set B1, or geographical area B2), UE3 receives PRS configuration information from SAT-1. That is, UE3 can perform a multi-satellite assisted positioning procedure with SAT-1, SAT-2, and SAT-3 and obtain the positioning measurement results of UE3. When the position accuracy of the positioning results meets the requirements, UE3 can perform random access based on regular preamble groups (i.e., the first preamble set).

[0251] Based on this, a hybrid access method for complex scenarios is provided, which supports GNSS-capable UEs or GNSS-relaxed UEs to access non-terrestrial networks in appropriate ways in different locations and areas, improves the access success rate of different UEs, adapts to the access requirements of different scenarios, and is applicable to different access scenarios.

[0252] To reduce power consumption on the network side or terminal, this application also provides a flexible, on-demand method for activating PRS. By sending WUS to wake up PRS, the first pattern and the second pattern are activated, avoiding PRS from being always on and saving energy consumption.

[0253] Optionally, the method further includes the following steps S803-S805 (not shown in the figure).

[0254] S803, the first non-ground device sends a wake-up message to the terminal;

[0255] Correspondingly, the terminal receives wake-up information from the first non-ground device.

[0256] The wake-up information is used to activate a first pattern (such as a first PRS pattern) and / or a second pattern (such as a second PRS pattern).

[0257] S804, if it is determined that the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information, the terminal sends a wake-up signal to the first non-ground device on predefined time domain resources and / or frequency domain resources;

[0258] Correspondingly, the first non-ground device receives the wake-up signal from the terminal via a first beam set on predefined time-domain and / or frequency-domain resources.

[0259] S805, the first non-terrestrial device activates a subset of the first pattern associated with the first non-terrestrial device, and sends indication information to M second non-terrestrial networks, the indication information being used to indicate the activation of a subset of the second pattern, the first beam set including beams transmitted by the first satellite and beams transmitted by the second satellite.

[0260] Understandably, a wake-up signal is a mechanism used in wireless networks to reduce terminal power consumption. The wake-up signal can be seen as a supplement to the connected discontinuous reception (C-DRX) mechanism, aiming to reduce terminal power consumption by minimizing unnecessary wake-ups. In this application, the wake-up signal refers to a signal used to wake up a first non-terrestrial device to transmit a first pattern and M second patterns (or, to transmit a first signal and M second signals), such as WUS or other representations.

[0261] In other words, the first non-terrestrial device performs WUS signal energy detection on predefined time-domain and / or frequency-domain resources. If a WUS signal is received and detected through the first beam set, the first PRS pattern subset associated with the first beam set is activated. Simultaneously, the first non-terrestrial device sends a second PRS pattern activation instruction to M second non-terrestrial devices to instruct the activation of the second PRS pattern subset within the geographic area associated with the first beam set.

[0262] S806, the terminal receives the PRS (i.e., the first reference signal and the second reference signal) within the expected PRS time window, completes positioning-related measurements and position calculations, and assists in accessing the non-terrestrial network based on the positioning results.

[0263] Optionally, if the terminal does not receive the reference signal within the expected time window after sending the wake-up signal, the power of the wake-up signal can be increased, and then the above steps S804 to S806 can be re-executed.

[0264] For example, the desired time window for the terminal can be configured or indicated by the first non-ground device, or it can be predefined or preconfigured by the protocol, without limitation. For instance, the first non-ground device can carry relevant parameters of the desired time window in the configuration information indicating the wake-up signal to the terminal, such as one or more of the following: period, duration, offset, expected signal arrival time difference (expectedRSTD), expected signal arrival time difference uncertainty (expectedRSTD-uncertainty), timing drift rate, or Doppler shift. Thus, the terminal can perform PRS detection within the desired time window after sending the wake-up signal. Optionally, the length of the desired time window can be greater than or equal to the length of the first time window, without limitation.

[0265] Based on this, after receiving the wake-up signal through the first beam set, the first non-terrestrial device can activate or instruct the activation of the first PRS pattern subset and the second PRS pattern subset within the geographical location area associated with the first beam set, thereby reducing the PRS transmission time and thus reducing the energy consumption of the network side and the terminal.

[0266] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of an on-demand activation PRS pattern provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 16 As shown, the beam coverage of SAT-1 includes UE-1, UE-2, and UE-3. UE-1 and UE-3 lack valid GNSS location information, while UE-2 has valid location information. Therefore, for UE-1 and UE-3, which lack valid GNSS location information, SAT-2 can send PRS (Pressure Signal Representation) to UE-1 and UE-3 to assist SAT-1 in locating the UEs within its coverage area. In contrast, SAT-3 can activate PRS on demand, sending PRS to UE-1 to assist SAT-1 in locating UE-1 within its coverage area. Similarly, SAT-N can activate PRS on demand, sending PRS to UE-3 to assist SAT-1 in locating UE-3 within its coverage area. This reduces the energy consumption of SAT-3 and SAT-N and avoids the PRS being constantly active.

[0267] Based on the above method, the terminal receives capability information from the first non-terrestrial device and determines, based on this capability information, that the first non-terrestrial device supports terminals without valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network. Simultaneously, the terminal receives first configuration information from the first non-terrestrial device to obtain the corresponding access resource configuration. This allows the terminal to access the non-terrestrial network based on its own location information and access resource configuration, providing a hybrid access scenario that adapts to different access requirements, improves the terminal's access success rate, and also enhances the terminal's positioning accuracy. Furthermore, by activating PRS on demand and configuring the reception and transmission of PRS in specific location areas and / or effective time periods, or within specific time windows, energy consumption on both the terminal and network sides is saved, assisting communication in GNSS-capable and / or non-GNSS / GNSS-relaxed scenarios (such as initial access and mobility management).

[0268] As mentioned above, the network equipment (e.g., RAN) involved in the technical solution of this application can be O-RAN. Under the O-RAN architecture, the RAN intelligent controller (RIC) can directly control both the gNB-CU and the gNB-DU, requiring the above-mentioned... Figure 8The "network device" involved in the communication method shown can be extended to "CU" and "DU". Optionally, in various embodiments of this application, if the network device is a CU-DU separated architecture, the CU can forward the information to the DU after receiving the information from the core network element; or, the DU can forward the information to the CU after receiving the information from the terminal. The remaining steps can be referred to the above. Figure 8 The relevant descriptions will not be repeated here.

[0269] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) architecture applicable to this application. For example... Figure 17 As shown, the O-RAN architecture includes: a first network unit, a second network unit, a third network unit, an O-eNB, an O-CU-CP, an O-CU-UP, an O-DU, an O-RU, and an O-cloud.

[0270] The aforementioned network elements (also referred to as nodes) can be interconnected. For example, the first network unit connects to the O-cloud via the O2 interface; the first network unit connects to the third network unit, O-eNB, O-CU-CP, O-CU-UP, O-DU, and O-RU via the O1 interface; the first network unit connects to the O-RU via the open fronthaul M-Plane interface; the O-DU connects to the O-RU via the open fronthaul M-Plane interface and the open fronthaul C / U / S-Plane interface; the third network unit connects to the O-eNB, O-CU-CP, O-CU-UP, and O-DU via the E2 interface; the O-CU-CP connects to the O-DU via the F1-c interface; the O-CU-UP connects to the O-DU via the F1-u interface; and the O-CU-CP connects to the O-CU-UP via the E1 interface. Figure 17 For a detailed description of the interface shown, please refer to the existing standards; it will not be repeated here.

[0271] For example, the first network unit can be a service management and orchestration framework (SMO), or a network unit with similar functionality to an SMO; there is no limitation in this regard. The second network unit can be a Non-RT RIC, or a network unit with similar functionality to a Non-RT RIC; there is no limitation in this regard. The third network unit can be a Near-RT RIC, or a network unit with similar functionality to a Near-RT RIC; there is no limitation in this regard.

[0272] O-RAN aims to achieve an intelligent and open access network. A key feature of the O-RAN architecture is the separation of hardware and software, enabling the virtualization of network functions and the standardization of hardware. Furthermore, O-RAN incorporates artificial intelligence (AI).

[0273] The above combination Figures 1 to 17 The communication method embodiments of this application have been described in detail below, and will be discussed in conjunction with... Figures 18 to 20 This application describes in detail the communication device-side embodiments. It should be understood that the descriptions of the device embodiments correspond to the descriptions of the method embodiments; therefore, any parts not described in detail can be found in the preceding method embodiments.

[0274] Figure 18 This is a possible exemplary block diagram of the communication device involved in the embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 18 As shown, the communication device 1000 may include modules or units for implementing the methods described in the above embodiments. In one possible design, the communication device 1000 includes a communication unit 1003 and a processing unit 1002. Optionally, the communication device 1000 may further include a storage unit 1001 for storing device program code and / or data. The communication unit 1003 may also be referred to as an input / output circuit, input / output interface, communication interface, transceiver unit, communication module, transceiver module, transceiver circuit, or interface unit, etc. The transceiver unit includes a receiving unit and / or a sending unit; the sending unit may also be referred to as an output unit, and the receiving unit may also be referred to as an input unit. The processing unit 1002 can read instructions and / or data from the storage unit 1001 to enable the device to implement the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0275] The communication device 1000 can be a terminal as described in the above embodiments, such as a terminal or a communication module (e.g., a circuit, a chip, or a chip system) in a terminal, or a logic node or logic module that can implement all or part of the terminal functions.

[0276] For example, in one embodiment, the communication unit 1003 is used to receive capability information, which is used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support the access of a terminal without valid GNSS location information to the non-terrestrial network; the communication unit 1003 is also used to receive first configuration information, which is used to instruct the first access resource configuration; the processing unit 1002 is used to access the non-terrestrial network according to the first configuration information.

[0277] In one possible design, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set; or, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports enhanced preamble-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a second RO set and a second preamble set.

[0278] In one possible design, the processing unit 1002 is further configured to determine a second RO from a second RO set and obtain a second preamble from a second preamble set when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles; the processing unit 1002 is further configured to access the non-terrestrial network based on the second RO and the second preamble.

[0279] In one possible design, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the communication unit 1003 is further configured to receive second configuration information associated with the reference signal. The second configuration information is used to indicate a first pattern and M second patterns. The first pattern is used by the first non-terrestrial device to locate the terminal, and the M second patterns are used to assist the M second non-terrestrial devices in locating the terminal. M is an integer greater than or equal to 1.

[0280] In one possible design, the processing unit 1002 is further configured to access the non-terrestrial network according to the second configuration information and the first configuration information when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access.

[0281] In one possible design, the processing unit 1002 is further configured to measure the reference signal according to the second configuration information to determine the location and position accuracy of the terminal; the processing unit 1002 is further configured to determine a third RO from the first RO set and a third preamble from the first preamble set if the position accuracy is less than or equal to a first threshold; the processing unit 1002 is further configured to access the non-terrestrial network based on the third RO and the third preamble.

[0282] In one possible design, the capability information is also used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support terminal access to the non-terrestrial network with valid GNSS location information, and the communication unit 1003 is also used to receive third configuration information, which is used to instruct the second access resource configuration; the processing unit 1002 is also used to access the non-terrestrial network according to the third configuration information.

[0283] In one possible design, assuming the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the second access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set.

[0284] In one possible design, the processing unit 1002 is further configured to determine a first RO from a first RO set and a first preamble from a first preamble set when the terminal has valid GNSS location information; the processing unit 1002 is further configured to access a non-terrestrial network based on the first RO and the first preamble.

[0285] In one possible design, the communication unit 1003 is also used to receive a first reference signal based on a first pattern within a first time window, and to receive M second reference signals based on M second patterns, wherein the M second non-ground devices correspond one-to-one with the M second reference signals.

[0286] In one possible design, the processing unit 1002 is further configured to obtain a mapping relationship, which indicates the correspondence between multiple SSB indices and multiple configuration information. The mapping relationship includes the pattern of the SSB, the period of the SSB, and the scaling factor of the period of the SSB. The multiple SSB indices include a first SSB index, and the multiple configuration information includes second configuration information. The first SSB index corresponds to the second configuration information. The processing unit 1002 is further configured to determine a first time window based on the mapping relationship and the first SSB index.

[0287] In one possible design, the second configuration information is associated with geographic area information and / or effective time period; wherein, the geographic area information includes at least one of the following: Physical Cell Identifier (PCI), Wavelength Identifier, Geographic Area Identifier, Mapped Cell Identifier, or Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) Index; the effective time period includes at least one of the following: Reference Precision Attenuation Factor (DOP) value, Reference Geometric Precision Factor (GDOP) value, Length or Number of Time Windows Occupied by Reference Signal, or Reference Signal Time Difference (RSTD) value.

[0288] In one possible design, the receiving communication unit 1003 is also used to receive wake-up information, which is used to activate the first pattern and the second pattern; the communication unit 1003 is also used to send a wake-up signal on predefined time-domain resources and / or frequency-domain resources when it is determined that the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information.

[0289] In one possible design, when the communication device 1000 is a terminal or a communication module within a terminal, the function of the processing unit 1002 can be implemented by one or more processors. Specifically, the processor may include a modem chip, or a system-on-a-chip (SoC) chip or a SIP chip containing a modem core. The function of the communication unit 1003 can be implemented by transceiver circuitry.

[0290] In one possible design, when the communication device 1000 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 1002 can be implemented by a circuit system in the aforementioned chip that includes one or more processors or processor cores. The function of the communication unit 1003 can be implemented by the interface circuitry or data transceiver circuitry on the aforementioned chip.

[0291] The communication device 1000 can be the network side in the above embodiments, such as the first non-ground device or the communication module (e.g., circuit, chip or chip system) in the first non-ground device, or a logic node or logic module that can realize all or part of the functions of the first non-ground device.

[0292] For example, in one embodiment, the communication unit 1003 is used to send capability information, which is used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support the terminal without valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network; the communication unit 1003 is also used to send first configuration information, which is used to instruct the first access resource configuration, which is used for the terminal to access the non-terrestrial network.

[0293] In one possible design, the capability information is also used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support terminal access to the non-terrestrial network with valid GNSS location information, and the communication unit 1003 is also used to send third configuration information, which is used to instruct the second access resource configuration for terminal access to the non-terrestrial network.

[0294] In one possible design, assuming the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the second access resource configuration includes a first random access opportunity (RO) set and a first preamble set.

[0295] In one possible design, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set; or, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports enhanced preamble-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a second RO set and a second preamble set.

[0296] In one possible design, when the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the communication unit 1003 is also used to send second configuration information associated with the reference signal. The second configuration information is used to indicate a first pattern and M second patterns. The first pattern is used by the first non-terrestrial device to locate the terminal, and the M second patterns are used to assist the M second non-terrestrial devices in locating the terminal. M is an integer greater than or equal to 1.

[0297] In one possible design, the communication unit 1003 is also used to reference signals including a first reference signal and M second reference signals. The method further includes: within a first time window, a first non-ground device transmits the first reference signal based on a first pattern, and M second non-ground devices transmit M second reference signals based on M second patterns, wherein the M second non-ground devices correspond one-to-one with the M second reference signals.

[0298] In one possible design, the second configuration information is associated with geographic area information and / or effective time period; wherein, the geographic area information includes at least one of the following: Physical Cell Identifier (PCI), Wavelength Identifier, Geographic Area Identifier, Mapped Cell Identifier, or Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) Index; the effective time period includes at least one of the following: Reference Precision Attenuation Factor (DOP) value, Reference Geometric Precision Factor (GDOP) value, Length or Number of Time Windows Occupied by Reference Signal, or Reference Signal Time Difference (RSTD) value.

[0299] In one possible design, the communication unit 1003 is further configured to send wake-up information to activate the first pattern and the second pattern; the communication unit 1003 is further configured to receive a wake-up signal via a first beam set on predefined time-frequency resources; the processing unit 1002 is configured to activate a subset of the first pattern associated with the first non-terrestrial device, and to send indication information to M second non-terrestrial networks, the indication information indicating the activation of a subset of the second pattern, the first beam set including beams transmitted by the first satellite and beams transmitted by the second satellite.

[0300] In one possible design, when the communication device 1000 is a first non-terrestrial device or a communication module within a first non-terrestrial device, the function of the processing unit 1002 can be implemented by one or more processors. Specifically, the processor may include a chip. The function of the communication unit 1003 can be implemented by transceiver circuitry.

[0301] In one possible design, when the communication device 1000 is a circuit or chip responsible for communication functions in the first non-terrestrial device, the function of the processing unit 1002 can be implemented by a circuit system in the chip including one or more processors or processor cores. The function of the communication unit 1003 can be implemented by interface circuits or data transceiver circuits on the chip.

[0302] Understandably, the division of units in the above-mentioned device is merely a logical functional division. One function can correspond to one functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one functional unit. In actual implementation, all or some units can be integrated onto a single physical entity, or distributed across different physical entities. Furthermore, the aforementioned functional units can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both.

[0303] 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 microprocessor units (MPUs), 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.

[0304] In one example, storage unit 1001 may include random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory or electrically erasable programmable memory and / or registers, etc.

[0305] Furthermore, the aforementioned communication unit 1003 can also be a transceiver circuit (e.g., it may include a receiving circuit and a transmitting circuit), and the processing unit 1002 can be a processing circuit. In embodiments of this application, Figure 18 The device mentioned can be the terminal or the first non-ground device in the foregoing embodiments, or it can be a chip or a chip system, such as a SoC. The communication unit 1003 can be an input / output circuit or a communication interface. The processing unit 1002 is a processor, microprocessor, or integrated circuit integrated on the chip. No limitations are imposed here.

[0306] Figure 19 This is a schematic block diagram of the communication device 2000 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 19As shown, the communication device 2000 includes a transceiver 2020 and a processor 2010. The transceiver 2020 is used for receiving and / or transmitting signals. The processor 2010 and the transceiver 2020 communicate with each other through an internal connection path. The processor 2010 is used to execute instructions to control the transceiver 2020 to transmit and / or receive signals.

[0307] Optionally, the communication device 2000 may further include a memory 2030 for storing computer programs or instructions and / or data. The memory 2030 communicates with the processor 2010 and transceiver 2020 via internal connection paths. The memory 2030 stores instructions, and the processor 2010 can execute the instructions stored in the memory 2030. The processor 2010 is coupled to the memory 2030 and is used to execute the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory 2030, or to read the data stored in the memory 2030, to perform the methods in the above-described method embodiments.

[0308] Optionally, the transceiver 2020 may include a transmitter and / or a receiver to respectively implement the sending and receiving operations in the embodiments; if the transceiver 2020 is an input / output interface, then it sends the corresponding output and receives the corresponding input.

[0309] Optionally, there may be one or more processors 2010.

[0310] Optionally, there may be one or more transceivers 2020.

[0311] Optionally, the memory 2030 may be one or more.

[0312] Alternatively, the memory 2030 can be integrated with the processor 2010, or it can be set up separately.

[0313] As an example, processor 2010 may have Figure 18 The processing unit 1002 shown has the function of a storage unit, the memory 2030 can have the function of a storage unit, and the transceiver 2020 can have... Figure 18 The function of the communication unit 1003 shown.

[0314] As one approach, the communication device 2000 is used to implement operations performed by a communication device (such as a terminal, or a first non-ground device) in the various method embodiments described above. For example, the processor 2010 is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in the memory 2030 to implement the relevant operations of the communication device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0315] Alternatively, if the transceiver 2020 is replaced with an input / output circuit or input / output interface, the communication device 2000 can be considered as a chip or chip system.

[0316] In one implementation, the communication device 2000 is used to implement the various processes and steps corresponding to the terminal in the above method embodiments.

[0317] In another implementation, the communication device 2000 is used to implement the various processes and steps corresponding to the first non-ground device in the above method embodiments.

[0318] Optionally, the memory 2030 may include read-only memory and random access memory, and provide instructions and data to the processor. A portion of the memory may also include non-volatile random access memory. For example, the memory may also store device type information. The processor 2010 may be used to execute instructions stored in the memory, and when the processor 2010 executes instructions stored in the memory, the processor 2010 is used to perform the various steps and / or processes of the method embodiments corresponding to the terminal or the first non-ground device described above.

[0319] In implementation, each step of the above method can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor hardware or by instructions in software. The steps of the method claimed in the embodiments of this application can be directly implemented by a hardware processor, or by a combination of hardware and software modules in the processor. The software modules can reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. This storage medium is located in memory, and the processor reads information from the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method. To avoid repetition, detailed descriptions are omitted here.

[0320] It should be noted that the processor in the embodiments of this application can be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. During implementation, each step of the above method embodiments can be completed by the integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software form. The processor can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. The processor in the embodiments of this application can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the method applied in conjunction with the embodiments of this application can be directly embodied as being executed by a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules can be located in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. This storage medium is located in memory, and the processor reads the information in the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0321] It is understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0322] Figure 20 This is a schematic block diagram of the chip system 3000 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 20 As shown, the chip system 3000 (or processing system) includes logic circuitry 3010 and input / output interface 3020.

[0323] The logic circuit 3010 can be a processing circuit in the chip system 3000. The logic circuit 3010 can be coupled to a memory unit, calling instructions from the memory unit, enabling the chip system 3000 to implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application. The input / output interface 3020 can be an input / output circuit in the chip system 3000, outputting processed information from the chip system 3000, or inputting data or signaling information to be processed into the chip system 3000 for processing.

[0324] As one option, the chip system 3000 is used to implement the operations performed by the first non-ground device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0325] For example, logic circuit 3010 is used to implement the processing-related operations performed by the first non-ground device in the above method embodiment, such as... Figure 19 The illustrated embodiment shows the processing-related operations performed by the first non-ground device; the input / output interface 3020 is used to implement the sending and / or receiving-related operations performed by the first non-ground device in the above method embodiment, such as... Figure 19 The first non-ground device in the illustrated embodiment performs transmission and / or reception-related operations.

[0326] As an alternative, the chip system 3000 is used to implement the operations performed by the terminal in the various method embodiments described above.

[0327] For example, logic circuit 3010 is used to implement the processing-related operations performed by the terminal in the above method embodiments, such as... Figure 19 The illustrated embodiment shows the processing-related operations performed by the terminal; the input / output interface 3020 is used to implement the sending and / or receiving-related operations performed by the terminal in the above method embodiment, such as... Figure 19 The terminal in the illustrated embodiment performs sending and / or receiving related operations.

[0328] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for implementing the methods executed by a communication device (e.g., a terminal and / or a first non-terrestrial device) in the above-described method embodiments.

[0329] This application also provides a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, implement the methods described above, performed by a communication device (e.g., a terminal and / or a first non-terrestrial device).

[0330] This application also provides a communication system, which includes the terminal and / or the first non-terrestrial device described in the above embodiments.

[0331] The explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant contents in any of the devices provided above can be found in the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0332] In the various embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned processes does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0333] This application will present various aspects, embodiments, or features relating to systems that may include multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It should be understood and appreciated that individual systems may include additional devices, components, modules, etc., and / or may not include all the devices, components, modules, etc. discussed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, combinations of these approaches are also possible.

[0334] In this application, examples may reference each other without logical contradiction. For example, methods and / or terms between method embodiments may reference each other, functions and / or terms between device embodiments may reference each other, and functions and / or terms between device examples and method examples may reference each other.

[0335] It should be understood that the above embodiments are mainly illustrated using devices in existing network architectures as examples, and the specific form of the devices is not limited in the embodiments of this application. For example, any device that can achieve the same function in the future is applicable to the embodiments of this application.

[0336] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0337] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0338] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0339] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this implementation scheme according to actual needs.

[0340] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0341] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, essentially, or the part that contributes to existing solutions, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0342] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The capability information is used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support terminal access to the non-terrestrial network for terminals that do not have valid Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) location information. Receive first configuration information, which is used to indicate the configuration of the first access resource; Access the non-terrestrial network based on the first configuration information.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles, the first access resource configuration includes a second random access opportunity (RO) set and a second preamble set.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, Accessing the non-terrestrial network according to the first configuration information includes: Determine the second RO from the second RO set, and obtain the second preamble from the second preamble set; Access to the non-terrestrial network is based on the second RO and the second preamble.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: The system receives second configuration information associated with a reference signal. The second configuration information is used to indicate a first pattern and M second patterns. The first pattern is used by the first non-ground device to locate the terminal, and the M second patterns are used to assist M second non-ground devices in locating the terminal. M is an integer greater than or equal to 1.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, Accessing the non-terrestrial network according to the first configuration information includes: Access the non-terrestrial network according to the second configuration information and the first configuration information.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, Accessing the non-terrestrial network based on the second configuration information and the first configuration information includes: The reference signal is measured based on the second configuration information to determine the location and position accuracy of the terminal; If the positional accuracy is less than or equal to the first threshold, a third RO is determined from the first RO set, and a third preamble is determined from the first preamble set; Access to the non-terrestrial network is based on the third RO and the third preamble.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The capability information is further used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support terminals with valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network, and the method further includes: Receive third configuration information, the third configuration information being used to indicate the second access resource configuration; Access the non-terrestrial network based on the third configuration information.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the second access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Determine the first RO from the first RO set, and determine the first preamble from the first preamble set; Access to the non-terrestrial network is based on the first RO and the first preamble.

11. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The reference signal includes a first reference signal and M second reference signals, and the method further includes: Within a first time window, the first reference signal from the first non-ground device is received based on the first pattern, and the M second reference signals from the M second non-ground devices are received based on the M second patterns, wherein the M second non-ground devices correspond one-to-one with the M second reference signals.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain a mapping relationship, which is used to indicate the correspondence between multiple SSB indices and multiple configuration information. The mapping relationship includes the SSB pattern, the SSB period, and the scaling factor of the SSB period. The multiple SSB indices include a first SSB index, and the multiple configuration information includes a second configuration information. The first SSB index corresponds to the second configuration information. The first time window is determined based on the mapping relationship and the received first SSB index.

13. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, 12, characterized in that, The second configuration information is associated with geographic region information and / or effective time period; The geographic area information includes at least one of the following: Physical Cell Identifier (PCI), Wavelength Identifier, Geographic Area Identifier, Mapped Cell Identifier, or Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) Index; The effective time period includes at least one of the following: the reference accuracy attenuation factor DOP value, the reference geometric accuracy factor GDOP value, the length or number of time windows occupied by the reference signal, or the reference signal time difference RSTD value.

14. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, 12 or 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive wake-up information, the wake-up information being used to activate the first pattern and the M second patterns; If it is determined that the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information, a wake-up signal is sent on predefined time-domain and / or frequency-domain resources.

15. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send capability information, which is used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support terminals that do not have valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network; Send first configuration information, which is used to indicate a first access resource configuration, and the first access resource configuration is used for the terminal to access the non-terrestrial network.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, When the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports assisted access based on enhanced preambles, the first access resource configuration includes a second random access opportunity (RO) set and a second preamble set.

17. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, When the terminal does not have valid GNSS location information and the non-terrestrial network supports location-based assisted access, the first access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The method further includes: The system transmits second configuration information associated with a reference signal. The second configuration information is used to indicate a first pattern and M second patterns. The first pattern is used by the first non-ground device to locate the terminal, and the M second patterns are used to assist M second non-ground devices in locating the terminal. M is an integer greater than or equal to 1.

19. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that, The capability information is further used to instruct the first non-terrestrial device to support terminals with valid GNSS location information to access the non-terrestrial network, and the method further includes: Send third configuration information, which is used to indicate a second access resource configuration, and the second access resource configuration is used for the terminal to access the non-terrestrial network.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, When the terminal has valid GNSS location information, the second access resource configuration includes a first RO set and a first preamble set.

21. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The second configuration information is associated with geographic region information and / or effective time period; The geographic area information includes at least one of the following: Physical Cell Identifier (PCI), Wavelength Identifier, Geographic Area Identifier, Mapped Cell Identifier, or Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) Index; The effective time period includes at least one of the following: the reference accuracy attenuation factor DOP value, the reference geometric accuracy factor GDOP value, the length or number of time windows occupied by the reference signal, or the reference signal time difference RSTD value.

22. The method according to claim 18 or 21, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a wake-up message, which is used to activate the first pattern and the second pattern; On predefined time-frequency resources, the wake-up signal is received through the first beam set; Activate a subset of the first pattern associated with the first non-terrestrial device, and send indication information to the M second non-terrestrial networks, the indication information being used to indicate the activation of a subset of the second pattern, the first beam set including beams transmitted by the first satellite and beams transmitted by the second satellite.

23. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes at least one processor, said at least one processor being configured to execute a computer program or instructions to cause the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14 to be performed, or to cause the method as described in any one of claims 15 to 22 to be performed.

24. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium is used to store a computer program or instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 22 to be performed.

25. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes a computer program or instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 22 to be performed.

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