Communication method, apparatus, and storage medium

Abstract

The application provides a communication method, device and storage medium, which can be applied to a satellite communication system (for example, an NTN) or a satellite-ground integrated communication system. The method comprises the following steps: a terminal device sends a PRS measurement report to a first TRP, the PRS measurement report is used to trigger the switching of the TRP; and the terminal device switches from the first TRP to a second TRP in the case that a switching command is received or a switching condition is met, and a PRS resource set associated with the second TRP and a PRS resource set associated with a neighboring TRP of the second TRP are used to position the terminal device. The switching of the PRS is triggered by the measurement report of the PRS, which is beneficial to improving the positioning accuracy and the stability / continuity of the positioning accuracy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to a communication method, apparatus, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Positioning technology refers to determining the location of a terminal by measuring certain parameters of a wireless signal and using specific positioning techniques. These parameters typically include the radio wave transmission time, reference signal time difference (RSTD), signal strength, angle of arrival, and angle of departure.

[0003] Currently, non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) mainly study terminal location identification / authentication in the radio resource control (RRC) connected state, and adopt a single-satellite-based multiple round trip time (multi-RTT) positioning method. Specifically, the positioning of the terminal device is assisted by multiple RTT measurements between a satellite and the terminal device.

[0004] However, this method has low positioning accuracy, and the positioning service is prone to interruption as the satellite moves. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method, apparatus, and storage medium, which helps to improve the positioning accuracy of the terminal and ensure the continuity of positioning services.

[0006] Firstly, a communication method is provided that can be applied to the terminal side, such as a terminal device or a communication module within a terminal device, or a circuit or chip (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a system-on-chip (SoC) chip or system-in-package (SIP) chip containing a modem core) within the terminal device. The following description uses a terminal device as an example.

[0007] The method includes: sending a measurement report of a positioning reference signal (PRS), which is used to trigger a handover of a transmit / receive point (TRP); and, upon receiving a handover command or meeting handover conditions, switching from a first TRP to a second TRP, wherein the PRS resource set associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource sets associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP are used to locate the terminal device.

[0008] Wherein, the first TRP is the service TRP before the handover, and the second TRP is the service TRP after the handover.

[0009] When switching from the first TRP to the second TRP, the PRS resource set usually also switches accordingly. The PRS resource set associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource set associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP are used to locate the terminal device.

[0010] In this application, the service TRP can also be replaced with the reference TRP, and the adjacent TRP can also be replaced with the neighbor TRP.

[0011] For example, TRP corresponds to a satellite or a partial set of satellite functions.

[0012] In this application, the handover of a TRP is triggered by a PRS measurement report. This PRS measurement report can reflect the positioning performance of one or more candidate TRPs. After handover to a second TRP based on a handover command or handover conditions, the second TRP becomes the serving TRP of the terminal device. The second TRP and its adjacent TRPs work together to provide positioning services for the terminal device, which is beneficial to improving positioning accuracy and the stability / continuity of positioning accuracy. Furthermore, in satellite network scenarios, because the coverage of the PRS differs from that of traditional communication signals (such as synchronization signal blocks (SBBs)), handover triggered by measurement reports based on traditional SBBs can lead to a sharp decline in positioning performance. Handover triggered by measurement reports based on PRSs, however, is more aligned with the requirements of positioning performance, thus improving positioning accuracy and its stability.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, sending a PRS measurement report includes: sending the PRS measurement report when a first event is met, the first event including one or more of the following: the clock of the terminal device is at a first preset time; the position dilution of precision (PDOP) is greater than or equal to a first threshold within a first duration; the rate of change of PDOP is greater than or equal to a second threshold within a second duration; the rate of change of positioning precision is greater than or equal to a third threshold within a third duration; the PRS beam coverage duration of at least N TRPs in the first TRP set is less than or equal to a fourth threshold, where N is a positive integer, and the first TRP set includes the first TRP and its adjacent TRPs; or the signal quality of the PRS is less than or equal to a fifth threshold.

[0014] In this application, the terminal device triggers the reporting of the PRS measurement report when the first event is met. This reduces the signaling overhead of the report and makes the triggered TRP handover or PRS handover more effective.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving first configuration information, wherein the first configuration information indicates a first event.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the measurement report of the PRS includes one or more of the following: the signal quality of the PRS of layer 1, the signal quality of the PRS of layer 3, PDOP, or positioning accuracy.

[0017] The signal quality of the PRS in Layer 1 can be described as the signal quality of the PRS in the physical layer, or the signal quality of the PRS in lower layers. The signal quality of the PRS in Layer 3 can be described as the signal quality of the PRS in the RRC layer, or the signal quality of the PRS in higher layers.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the switching condition includes: the clock of the terminal device is in a first time period, and / or the terminal device is in a first position.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving second configuration information, the second configuration information indicating the switching condition.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the switching command is carried by the medium access control element (MAC CE). In this implementation, the PRS measurement report is, for example, a Layer 1 measurement report.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: activating a first parameter and / or a second parameter associated with the second TRP, wherein the first parameter is used to determine the center position of the search window of the PRS, and the second parameter is used to determine the offset value of the search window of the PRS.

[0022] In this application, after the TRP switch, the set of TRPs that cooperate to provide positioning services to the terminal device changes. Therefore, it is necessary to update the search window used to receive PRS, which helps to improve the efficiency of receiving PRS.

[0023] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving an on-demand synchronization signal; and, based on the on-demand synchronization signal, completing downlink synchronization with the second TRP.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the on-demand synchronization signal is an SSB, a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS), or a tracking reference signal (TRS).

[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, before sending the measurement report of the PRS, or after switching from the first TRP to the second TRP, the method further includes: receiving first information indicating one or more PRS resource sets associated with one or more TRPs, the one or more TRPs including the second TRP.

[0026] Since the one or more PRS resource sets are associated with one or more TRPs, the first information indicating the one or more PRS resource sets can also be regarded as indicating the one or more RTPs.

[0027] In conjunction with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, each of the pre-configured one or more PRS resource sets is associated with one or more NTN configuration information sets. These pre-configured one or more PRS resource sets include the PRS resource sets associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource sets associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP. After switching to the second TRP, the second TRP and its associated NTN configuration information are also activated and can be used to achieve uplink and downlink synchronization with the second TRP.

[0028] The pre-configured one or more PRS resource sets can be the one or more PRS resource sets indicated by the first information, that is, the first TRP pre-configures one or more PRS resource sets to the terminal device through the first information.

[0029] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the NTN configuration information includes one or more of the following: ephemeris information, information for uplink and downlink synchronization, scheduling information (e.g., scheduling offset), timing offset (drift), or Doppler shift.

[0030] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, one or more pre-configured PRS resource sets are associated with a positioning frequency layer, which is transmitted in the form of a reference configuration. The one or more PRS resource sets and one or more PRS resources in each PRS resource set are transmitted in the form of a candidate configuration, which helps to reduce signaling overhead. The one or more pre-configured PRS resource sets include the PRS resource sets associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource sets associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP.

[0031] The pre-configured one or more PRS resource sets can be the one or more PRS resource sets indicated by the first information, that is, the first TRP pre-configures one or more PRS resource sets to the terminal device through the first information.

[0032] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first information is included in the RRC reconfiguration message.

[0033] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving second information, the second information being used to indicate the effective time and / or effective location corresponding to each PRS resource set in one or more PRS resource sets. In this way, the terminal device can activate the corresponding PRS resource set at different times and / or locations, which helps to reduce the number of TRP handovers. The one or more PRS resource sets may be the one or more PRS resource sets indicated in the first information.

[0034] Secondly, a communication method is provided that can be applied to the network side, such as a network device or a communication module within a network device, or a circuit or chip (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core) responsible for communication functions within a network device. The network device may include a TRP, and the following description uses a first TRP as an example.

[0035] The method includes: receiving a measurement report from a PRS, the measurement report of which is used to trigger a switch of a TRP; and sending a switch command based on the measurement report of the PRS, the switch command being used to switch from a first TRP to a second TRP.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the first TRP sends a handover command, including sending the handover command to the terminal device. Specifically, the handover command indicates a switch from the first TRP to the second TRP.

[0037] In another possible implementation, the first TRP sends a handover command, which includes: the first TRP sending the handover command to the second TRP, specifically for requesting access to the second TRP or switching to the second TRP.

[0038] Wherein, the first TRP is the service TRP before the handover, and the second TRP is the service TRP after the handover.

[0039] When switching from the first TRP to the second TRP, the PRS resource set usually also switches accordingly. The PRS resource set associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource set associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP are used to locate the terminal device.

[0040] In this application, the service TRP can also be replaced with the reference TRP, and the adjacent TRP can also be replaced with the neighbor TRP.

[0041] For example, TRP corresponds to a satellite or a partial set of satellite functions.

[0042] In this application, the handover of a TRP is triggered by a PRS measurement report. This PRS measurement report can reflect the positioning performance of one or more candidate TRPs. The first TRP can determine the target TRP, i.e., the second TRP, based on the PRS measurement report and send a handover command. After handover from the first TRP to the second TRP, the second TRP becomes the serving TRP of the terminal device. The second TRP and its adjacent TRPs work together to provide positioning services for the terminal device, which is beneficial to improving positioning accuracy and the stability / continuity of positioning accuracy. In addition, in satellite network scenarios, because the coverage of the PRS is different from that of traditional communication signals (such as SBB), handover triggered by measurement reports based on traditional SBBs will lead to a sharp drop in positioning performance. However, handover triggered by measurement reports based on PRSs is more in line with the requirements of positioning performance, thus improving positioning accuracy and the stability of positioning accuracy.

[0043] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending first configuration information, the first configuration information indicating a first event, the first event being an event that triggers the reporting of the measurement report of the PRS.

[0044] In this application, the first TRP is a trigger event for the terminal device to pre-configure the measurement report of the PRS. In this way, when the first event is met, the terminal device triggers the reporting of the measurement report of the PRS. This can reduce the signaling overhead of the reporting on the one hand, and make the triggered TRP handover or PRS handover more effective on the other hand.

[0045] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first event includes one or more of the following: the clock of the terminal device is at a first preset time; the PDOP is greater than or equal to a first threshold within a first duration; the rate of change of PDOP is greater than or equal to a second threshold within a second duration; the rate of change of positioning accuracy is greater than or equal to a third threshold within a third duration; the PRS beam coverage duration of at least N TRPs in the first TRP set is less than or equal to a fourth threshold; or the signal quality of the PRS is less than or equal to a fifth threshold, where N is a positive integer, and the first TRP set includes the first TRP and its adjacent TRPs.

[0046] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the measurement report of the PRS includes one or more of the following: the signal quality of the PRS of layer 1, the signal quality of the PRS of layer 3, PDOP, or positioning accuracy.

[0047] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the handover command is sent to the terminal device based on the first TRP, and the handover command is carried in the MAC CE.

[0048] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending second configuration information, the second configuration information indicating the switching condition, the switching condition being used to trigger the switching of the TRP.

[0049] In this application, the first TRP can pre-configure the handover conditions for the terminal device, so that the terminal device can perform TRP handover when the handover conditions are met, which helps to reduce the handover latency of the TRP.

[0050] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the switching conditions include: the clock of the terminal device is in a first time period, and / or the terminal device is in a first position.

[0051] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, before receiving the measurement report of the PRS, or after sending the switching command, the method further includes: sending first information indicating one or more PRS resource sets associated with one or more TRPs, the one or more TRPs including a second TRP.

[0052] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, each of the pre-configured one or more PRS resource sets is associated with one or more NTN configuration information sets. These pre-configured one or more PRS resource sets include the PRS resource sets associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource sets associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP. After switching to the second TRP, the second TRP and its associated NTN configuration information are also activated, which can be used to achieve uplink and downlink synchronization with the second TRP.

[0053] The pre-configured one or more PRS resource sets can be the one or more PRS resource sets indicated by the first information, that is, the first TRP pre-configures one or more PRS resource sets to the terminal device through the first information.

[0054] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the NTN configuration information includes one or more of the following: ephemeris information, information for uplink and downlink synchronization, scheduling information (e.g., scheduling offset), timing offset (drift), or Doppler shift.

[0055] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, one or more pre-configured PRS resource sets are associated with a positioning frequency layer, which is transmitted in the form of a reference configuration. The one or more PRS resource sets, and one or more PRS resources within each PRS resource set, are transmitted in the form of candidate configurations. This helps reduce signaling overhead. The one or more pre-configured PRS resource sets include the PRS resource sets associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource sets associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP.

[0056] The pre-configured one or more PRS resource sets can be the one or more PRS resource sets indicated by the first information, that is, the first TRP pre-configures one or more PRS resource sets to the terminal device through the first information.

[0057] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first information is included in the RRC reconfiguration message.

[0058] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: sending second information, the second information being used to indicate the effective time and / or effective location corresponding to each PRS resource set in one or more PRS resource sets. In this way, the terminal device can activate the corresponding PRS resource set at different times and / or locations, which helps to reduce the number of TRP handovers. The one or more PRS resource sets may be the one or more PRS resource sets indicated in the first information.

[0059] It should be understood that the second aspect of this application corresponds to the technical solution of the first aspect of this application, and the beneficial effects achieved by each aspect and the corresponding feasible implementation are similar, and will not be repeated here.

[0060] Thirdly, a communication method is provided that can be applied to the terminal side, such as a terminal device or a communication module within a terminal device, or a circuit or chip in the terminal device responsible for communication functions (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core). The following description uses a terminal device as an example.

[0061] The method includes: receiving first information and second information, wherein the first information indicates one or more PRS resource sets, and the second information indicates the effective time and / or effective location corresponding to each PRS resource set in the one or more PRS resource sets; receiving third information, wherein the third information indicates a switch from a second TRP set to a third TRP set; and switching from the second TRP set to the third TRP set. Wherein, when the clock of the terminal device is in a second time period and / or the terminal device is in a second location, the first PRS resource set associated with the third TRP is used to locate the terminal device, the first PRS resource set is valid in the second time period and / or the second location, and the third TRP is any TRP in the third TRP set; wherein, after switching from the second TRP set to the third TRP set, the service TRP of the terminal device remains unchanged.

[0062] The first TRP is the serving TRP of the terminal device, also known as the reference TRP. The first TRP and its adjacent TRPs work together to provide positioning services for the terminal device.

[0063] In this application, the service TRP of the terminal device can remain unchanged, but changes to the set of adjacent TRPs and / or PRS resource sets are triggered based on time and / or location, which helps to reduce the number of TRP switching.

[0064] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, each PRS resource set in the one or more PRS resource sets is associated with one or more NTN configuration information.

[0065] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the NTN configuration information includes one or more of the following: ephemeris information, information for uplink and downlink synchronization, scheduling information (e.g., scheduling offset), timing offset (drift), or Doppler shift.

[0066] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the method further includes: activating a first parameter and / or a second parameter associated with the third TRP set, wherein the first parameter is used to determine the center position of the search window of the PRS, and the second parameter is used to determine the offset value of the search window of the PRS.

[0067] In this application, after switching from the second TRP set to the third TRP set, the TRP set and / or PRS resource set that cooperate to provide positioning services for the terminal device changes. Therefore, it is necessary to update the search window used to receive PRS, which helps to improve the efficiency of receiving PRS.

[0068] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the one or more PRS resource sets are associated with a positioning frequency layer, which is transmitted in the form of a reference configuration, and the one or more PRS resource sets and one or more PRS resources in each PRS resource set are transmitted in the form of a candidate configuration, which helps to reduce signaling overhead.

[0069] Fourthly, a communication method is provided that can be applied to the network side, such as a network device or a communication module within a network device, or a circuit or chip within a network device responsible for communication functions (such as a modem chip, also known as a baseband chip, or a SoC chip or SIP chip containing a modem core). The network device includes a TRP, and the following description uses a first TRP as an example.

[0070] The method includes: sending first information and second information, wherein the first information indicates one or more PRS resource sets, and the second information indicates the effective time and / or effective location corresponding to each PRS resource set in the one or more PRS resource sets; and sending third information, wherein the third information indicates a switch from a second TRP set to a third TRP set. After switching from the second TRP set to the third TRP set, the service TRP of the terminal device remains unchanged.

[0071] The first TRP is the serving TRP of the terminal device, also known as the reference TRP. The first TRP and its adjacent TRPs work together to provide positioning services for the terminal device.

[0072] In this application, the service TRP of the terminal device can remain unchanged, and changes to the set of adjacent TRPs and / or PRS resource sets can be triggered based on time and / or location, which helps to reduce the number of TRP switching.

[0073] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, each of the one or more PRS resource sets is associated with one or more NTN configuration information.

[0074] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the NTN configuration information includes one or more of the following: ephemeris information, information for uplink and downlink synchronization, scheduling information (e.g., scheduling offset), timing offset (drift), or Doppler shift.

[0075] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes: sending a first parameter and / or a second parameter associated with the third TRP set, wherein the first parameter is used to determine the center position of the search window of the PRS, and the second parameter is used to determine the offset value of the search window of the PRS.

[0076] In this application, after switching from the second TRP set to the third TRP set, the TRP set and / or PRS resource set that cooperate to provide positioning services for the terminal device changes. Therefore, it is necessary to update the search window used to receive PRS, which helps to improve the efficiency of receiving PRS.

[0077] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the one or more PRS resource sets are associated with a positioning frequency layer, which is transmitted in the form of a reference configuration, and the one or more PRS resource sets and one or more PRS resources in each PRS resource set are transmitted in the form of a candidate configuration, which helps to reduce signaling overhead.

[0078] It should be understood that the fourth aspect of this application corresponds to the technical solution of the third aspect of this application, and the beneficial effects achieved by each aspect and the corresponding feasible implementation are similar, so they will not be repeated here.

[0079] Fifthly, a communication apparatus is provided for executing the method in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects. Specifically, the apparatus includes a module for executing the method in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0080] In one design, the device may include modules that perform the methods / operations / steps / actions described in any of the above aspects. These modules may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0081] In another design, the device is a communication chip, which may include input circuitry or interface for transmitting information or data, and output circuitry or interface for receiving information or data.

[0082] In another design, the device is a terminal device or TRP, which may include a transmitter for sending information or data and a receiver for receiving information or data.

[0083] In another design, the device is used to perform the methods in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects, and the device can be configured in a terminal device or a TRP.

[0084] A sixth aspect provides a communication device comprising at least one processor for calling and running a computer program from a memory, such that the device performs a method in any possible implementation of any of the preceding aspects.

[0085] Optionally, the device further includes a memory for storing instructions and data. The memory is coupled to the processor, which, when executing the instructions stored in the memory, can implement the methods described in the foregoing aspects.

[0086] Optionally, the device may also include a transmitter and a receiver, which may be separate or integrated together and referred to as a transceiver.

[0087] In a seventh aspect, a computer program product is provided, the computer program product comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions), which, when the computer program is run, causes a computer to perform a method in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects.

[0088] Eighthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods in any possible implementation of any of the preceding aspects.

[0089] A ninth aspect provides a communication system including the terminal device of the first aspect and the first TRP of the second aspect. Optionally, the communication system further includes a second TRP.

[0090] In a tenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including the terminal device of the third aspect and the first TRP of the fourth aspect. The communication system also includes a second TRP.

[0091] Eleventhly, a processing apparatus is provided, comprising a processor and an input / output interface, for example, applied in a terminal device, for implementing the functions or methods involved in the first or third aspect above. The processing apparatus may, for example, be a chip system. In one feasible implementation, the chip system further includes a memory for storing program instructions and data necessary for implementing the functions of the methods described in the first aspect above.

[0092] The chip system mentioned above can be a SOC chip or a baseband chip, etc. The baseband chip can include a processor, channel encoder, digital signal processor, modem and interface module, etc.

[0093] In specific implementation, the input signal received by the input interface can be received and input by, for example, but not limited to, a receiver, and the signal output by the output interface can be output to, for example, but not limited to, a transmitter and transmitted by the transmitter. Furthermore, the input interface and output interface can be integrated into a single interface, which is used as both an input interface and an output interface at different times. This application does not limit the specific implementation methods of the processor and various interfaces.

[0094] In a twelfth aspect, a processing apparatus is provided, comprising a processor and an input / output interface, for example, applied in a network device, for implementing the functions or methods involved in the second or fourth aspect described above. The processing apparatus may, for example, be a chip system. In one feasible implementation, the chip system further includes a memory for storing program instructions and data necessary for implementing the functions of the methods described in the first aspect.

[0095] The chip system mentioned above can be a SOC chip or a baseband chip, etc. The baseband chip can include a processor, channel encoder, digital signal processor, modem and interface module, etc.

[0096] In specific implementation, the input signal received by the input interface can be received and input by, for example, but not limited to, a receiver, and the signal output by the output interface can be output to, for example, but not limited to, a transmitter and transmitted by the transmitter. Furthermore, the input interface and output interface can be integrated into a single interface, which is used as both an input interface and an output interface at different times. This application does not limit the specific implementation methods of the processor and various interfaces.

[0097] In a thirteenth aspect, this application provides a chip system including at least one processor for supporting the implementation of the functions involved in any possible implementation of any of the above aspects, such as receiving or processing data involved in the above methods.

[0098] In one possible design, the chip system also includes a memory for storing program instructions and data, which may be located within or outside the processor.

[0099] Optionally, the chip system may consist of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0100] It should be understood that the fifth aspect of this application corresponds to the technical solution of the thirteenth aspect of this application, and the beneficial effects obtained by each aspect and the corresponding feasible implementation are similar, so they will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0101] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system applicable to embodiments of this application;

[0102] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an O-RAN architecture;

[0103] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram of a non-staring satellite communication system;

[0104] Figure 3B This is a schematic diagram of a staring satellite communication system;

[0105] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a UE group handover;

[0106] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a layer 3 switching method;

[0107] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of an LTM switching method;

[0108] Figure 7A This is a schematic diagram of a broadcast / scanning pattern for a communication beam;

[0109] Figures 7B to 7D This is a schematic diagram of the broadcast / scanning patterns of positioning beams from different satellites;

[0110] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the mutual transmission and reception of PRS and SRS between terminal equipment and base station;

[0111] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of multi-RTT positioning based on a single satellite;

[0112] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0113] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a PRS search window provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0114] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a PRS configuration provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0115] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating satellite-associated NTN configuration information provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0116] Figures 14 to 16 This is a schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0117] Figure 17A and Figure 17B This is a schematic diagram of TRP switching provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0118] Figure 18 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0119] Figures 19A to 19D This is a schematic diagram of TRP switching provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0120] Figure 20 and Figure 21 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0121] Before introducing the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application, the following points should be made first.

[0122] First, in the embodiments shown below, the terms and English abbreviations, such as PRS, TRP, switching command, switching conditions, etc., are exemplary examples given for ease of description and should not constitute any limitation on this application. This application does not preclude the possibility of defining other terms that can achieve the same or similar functions in existing or future agreements.

[0123] Second, in the embodiments shown below, the terms "first," "second," and various numerical designations are merely for descriptive convenience to distinguish identical or similar items with substantially the same function and purpose. For example, "first information" and "second information" are only used to distinguish different information and do not limit their order, nor are they used to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first," "second," etc., do not limit the quantity or execution order, and that "first," "second," etc., are not necessarily different.

[0124] Third, "at least one" means one or more, while "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 alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. 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, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0125] Fourth, in this application, "instruction" can include direct and indirect instructions, explicit and implicit instructions, and instructions used for determination. The information indicated by a certain piece of information (such as first information) is called the information to be instructed. For example, the first instruction information in the embodiments of this application indicates one or more contents. In specific implementation, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also indirectly indicate the information to be instructed by indicating other information, where there is a correlation between the other information and the information to be instructed; or it can only indicate a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction can be implemented by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol predefined) arrangement of various information, thereby reducing the instruction overhead to a certain extent. This application does not limit the specific method of instruction. It is understood that for the sender of the instruction information, the instruction information can be used to indicate the information to be instructed; for the receiver of the instruction information, the instruction information can be used to determine the information to be instructed.

[0126] Fifth, the correspondences shown in the tables of this application can be configured or predefined. The values ​​of the information in each table are merely examples and can be configured to other values; this application is not limiting. When configuring the correspondences between information and parameters, it is not necessarily required to configure all the correspondences shown in each table. For example, the correspondences shown in some rows of the tables in this application may not be configured. Furthermore, appropriate modifications and adjustments can be made based on the above tables, such as splitting, merging, etc. The names of the parameters shown in the headings of the above tables can also use other names that the communication device can understand, and the values ​​or representations of the parameters can also be other values ​​or representations that the communication device can understand. When implementing the above tables, other data structures can also be used, such as arrays, queues, containers, stacks, linear lists, pointers, linked lists, trees, graphs, structures, classes, heaps, hash tables, or hash tables, etc.

[0127] Sixth, in this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send first indication information to a terminal device" can be understood as the destination of the first indication information being the terminal device, which may include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission via the air interface by other units or modules. "Receive first indication information from a network device" can be understood as the source of the first indication information being the network device, which may include direct reception from the network device via the air interface or indirect reception from the network device via the air interface by other units or modules. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of the chip interface.

[0128] In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between a terminal and a base station; or they can occur within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, wiring, or interface.

[0129] Seventh, in this application, "when," "if," and "if" all refer to the device taking corresponding actions under certain objective circumstances, not to a time limit, nor to requiring the device to perform a judgment action, nor implying any other limitations. Unless otherwise specified, "if" and "if" are interchangeable, and "when" and "under the circumstances" are interchangeable. "When" and "if" / "if" are interchangeable.

[0130] Eighth, in this application, the words "exemplarily" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplarily" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of the words "exemplarily" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0131] Ninth, in this application, the solutions in each embodiment can be used in a reasonable combination, and the explanations or descriptions of various terms, similar operations, or steps appearing in the embodiments can be referenced or explained to each other in the various embodiments, without limitation.

[0132] The methods and apparatus provided in this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), 5th Generation (5G) systems, New Radio (NR) systems, or other communication systems that may emerge in the future. The methods provided in this application can also be applied to NTN communication systems, or scenarios where NTN and terrestrial networks (TN) are integrated. The NTN communication system can be an NTN system integrated with 4G, 5G, and any future generation of communication systems, such as NR NTN, Internet of Things (IoT) NTN, etc. The NTN communication system can be, for example, a satellite communication system, and can also include unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), high altitude platform stations (HAPS), and other airborne access network equipment; this application does not limit this.

[0133] Satellite communication systems include terminal equipment and network equipment. The terminal equipment in this application embodiment may also be referred to as a terminal, user equipment, access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device. The terminal devices in the embodiments of this application may be mobile phones, tablet computers, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, virtual reality (VR) terminals, augmented reality (AR) terminals, mixed reality (MR) terminals, extended reality (XR) terminals, holographic display terminals, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in autonomous driving, wireless terminals in telemedicine, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, cellular phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, terminals in 5G networks, or terminals in future evolved networks, etc. Terminal equipment can also be a communication module, satellite phone, or its components with satellite communication capabilities, or a satellite communication terminal, such as a very small aperture terminal (VSAT) (commonly referred to as a VSAT terminal), portable station, fixed station, vehicle-mounted or airborne satellite communication terminal, etc. It should be understood that a satellite communication terminal can serve as a micro base station to further provide data interfaces to accessed user equipment.

[0134] Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that utilize wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Wearable devices are portable devices worn directly on the body or integrated into the user's clothing or accessories. Wearable devices are not merely hardware devices; they achieve powerful functions through software support, data interaction, and cloud interaction. Broadly defined, wearable smart devices include those with comprehensive functions, large sizes, and the ability to perform complete or partial functions without relying on a smartphone, such as smartwatches or smart glasses. They also include devices focused on a specific application function that require the use of other devices, such as smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0135] Furthermore, the terminal device can also be a terminal device in an Internet of Things (IoT) system. IoT is an important component of future information technology development, and its main technical characteristic is connecting objects to networks through communication technologies, thereby realizing an intelligent network that enables human-machine interconnection and machine-to-machine interconnection. This application does not limit the specific form of the terminal device.

[0136] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the terminal device can be a means for implementing the functions of the terminal device, or a means for supporting the terminal device in implementing the functions, such as a chip system, which can be installed in the terminal. In the embodiments of this application, the chip system can be composed of chips, or it can include chips and other discrete devices.

[0137] Network equipment can also be satellites (or satellite base stations) or high altitude platform stations (HAPS), or base station equipment mounted on satellites / HAPS. Satellites can include at least one of the following: geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellites (or geosynchronous orbit satellites) or non-geostationary earth orbit (NGEO) satellites. Non-geostationary earth orbit satellites can include at least one of the following: medium earth orbit (MEO) satellites or low earth orbit (LEO) satellites. There are no restrictions here. Network equipment can also be gateway stations (or ground stations, earth stations, signaling stations, gateways, or gateway stations).

[0138] GEO satellites, also known as geostationary orbit satellites or synchronous orbit satellites, have an orbital altitude of up to 35,786 kilometers (km). Their main advantages are that they are stationary relative to the ground and can provide a large coverage area. However, GEO satellites also have relatively prominent disadvantages: such as the large distance from Earth requiring a large-diameter antenna; a relatively large transmission delay of around 0.5 seconds, which cannot meet the needs of real-time services; and relatively scarce orbital resources, high launch costs, and inability to provide coverage to polar regions.

[0139] NGEO satellites can include medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. MEO satellites have an orbital altitude of 2000–35786 km and can achieve global coverage with a relatively small number of satellites, but their transmission latency is higher than that of LEO satellites. They are mainly used for positioning and navigation.

[0140] LEO satellites orbit at altitudes ranging from 300 to 2000 km. Compared to MEO and GEO satellites, LEO satellites have lower orbital altitudes, resulting in shorter data propagation delays, lower power consumption, and relatively lower launch costs. Therefore, LEO satellite communication networks have received widespread attention in recent years.

[0141] Ground station equipment includes, for example, equipment in the core network (CN) of existing mobile communication architectures (such as the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) access architecture for 5G networks) or equipment in the CN of future mobile communication architectures. The CN, as the bearer network, provides the interface to the data network, offering terminal devices communication connectivity, authentication, management, policy control, and data service delivery. The CN can further include: Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Session Management Function (SMF), Authentication Server Function (AUSF), Policy Control Function (PCF), User Plane Function (UPF), and other network elements. The AMF element manages terminal access and mobility, primarily responsible for terminal authentication, UE mobility management, and UE paging functions.

[0142] Network equipment may also include, but is not limited to: evolved node B (eNB), baseband unit (BBU), access point (AP), wireless relay node, wireless backhaul node, transmission point (TP), or TRP in a wireless fidelity (WIFI) system. This network equipment may also be a gNB, TRP, or TP in a 5G system or future communication system, or one or a group of antenna panels (including multiple antenna panels) of a base station in a 5G system. Furthermore, this network equipment may be a network node constituting a gNB or TP, such as a BBU, a central unit (CU), or a distributed unit (DU). Alternatively, this network equipment may also be a device performing network-side functions in a device-to-device (D2D) communication system, a machine-to-machine (M2M) communication system, an IoT, a vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication system, or other communication systems.

[0143] A TRP (Telephone Array Reserved) is an antenna array consisting of one or more antenna elements that is available for network use. It is located in a specific geographical location within a specific area, and one TRP corresponds to one coverage area. Network equipment can include TRPs, base stations, sector equipment, radio frequency equipment, baseband equipment, etc.

[0144] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a satellite communication system applicable to embodiments of this application. The satellite communication system includes satellites 101, 102, and 103. Each satellite can provide communication, navigation, and positioning services to terminal devices via multiple beams. In this scenario, the satellites are, for example, LEO satellites. Satellite 103 is connected to ground station equipment. The satellites use 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 satellites communicate wirelessly with terminal devices through broadcast communication signals and navigation signals, and can also communicate wirelessly with ground station equipment. The satellites mentioned in this application embodiment can be satellite base stations, or may include orbital receivers or repeaters for relaying information, or network-side equipment mounted on the satellite.

[0145] 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 signal 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. For example, satellites 101 and 102 in the diagram are non-transparent satellite architectures, while satellite 103 is a transparent satellite architecture.

[0146] It should be understood that the network element in this application can also be replaced by entity, network entity, device, communication device, communication module, node, communication node, etc.

[0147] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an open-RAN (O-RAN) architecture. O-RAN proposes a RAN architecture based on open standards and interfaces, decomposing the RAN into three main functional layers: CU, DU, and radio unit (RU). These functional layers can be connected through open interfaces, enabling interoperability between equipment from different vendors. O-RAN also introduces virtualization technology, decoupling RAN functions from dedicated hardware and deploying them on open hardware and cloud platforms, achieving software-based and flexible RAN implementation. Furthermore, O-RAN utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) technology to integrate a radio intelligent controller (RIC) into the RAN, enabling real-time monitoring, optimization, and management of the RAN.

[0148] The main difference between O-RAN and traditional RAN lies in the fact that O-RAN divides wireless system equipment into standard subsystem components, which are developed independently in layers. It achieves layered decoupling and interoperability between different vendors through open internal interfaces. It includes different components such as Open Cloud (O-Cloud), RU, DU, CU (control plane, CP), CU (user plane, UP), and RIC. By establishing a unified testing and certification mechanism, it ensures compatibility and consistency between O-RAN components provided by different vendors.

[0149] The O-RAN standard is a supplement and enhancement to the 3GPP standard. As shown in the figure, based on the E1, F1, NG, Xn, and X2 defined by 3GPP, O-RAN further opens up the standard by defining interfaces such as O1, O2, E2, A1, and Open-FH.

[0150] To facilitate understanding of the technical solution of this application, the relevant technologies involved in this application are introduced below.

[0151] 1. NTN

[0152] NTN, comprising nodes such as satellite networks, high-altitude platforms, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), boasts significant advantages including global coverage, long-distance transmission, flexible networking, convenient deployment, and independence from geographical limitations. It has been widely applied in various fields, including maritime communication, positioning and navigation, disaster relief, scientific experiments, video broadcasting, and Earth observation. Terrestrial networks (TN) and satellite networks integrate, leveraging each other's strengths to form a seamless, globally integrated sea, land, air, space, and ground communication network, meeting users' ubiquitous and diverse service needs.

[0153] As an important component of NTN, the next-generation satellite network generally exhibits a trend towards ultra-dense and heterogeneous architecture: First, the scale of the satellite network has grown from 66 satellites in the Iridium constellation to 720 satellites in a single constellation, and eventually extended to the Starlink ultra-dense LEO satellite constellation of over 12,000 satellites; Second, the satellite communication network exhibits heterogeneous characteristics, evolving from a traditional single-layer communication network to a multi-layer communication network, and the functions of the satellite communication network are becoming more complex and diversified, gradually becoming compatible with and supporting functions such as navigation enhancement, Earth observation, and multi-dimensional information on-orbit processing.

[0154] The beam operating modes of satellite communication systems: The operating modes of satellite payloads (such as beams) are earth-fixed, quasi-earth-fixed, or earth-moving. Based on the operating mode of the payload (such as beams), satellite communication systems include earth-fixed (or quasi-earth-fixed) satellite communication systems and earth-moving satellite communication systems.

[0155] like Figure 3A The non-staring satellite communication system shown in the figure has a satellite beam coverage area that moves along with the satellite over a period of time (e.g., time T1, T2, T3).

[0156] like Figure 3B The staring satellite communication system shown in the figure can achieve approximately coverage of the same area on the ground by dynamically adjusting the beam direction over a period of time (e.g., time T1, T2, T3).

[0157] Mobility management issues in satellite communication systems (UE reselection / handover within a band): In LEO satellite communication systems, satellite movement can cause group handover (connected UEs) or group reselection (idle UEs) within a certain band. Taking group handover as an example, such as... Figure 4As shown, a single beam position within region #2 includes UE group #1 (containing multiple UEs). At time T1, UE group #1 is served by one or more beams of satellite #2. At time T2, the movement of satellite #2 causes the beam position containing UE group #1 to become unserviceable, and one or more beams of satellite #1 take over the service of UE group #1. Therefore, a group handover occurs for UE group #1. Furthermore, due to the relatively high speed of satellites (approximately 7.5 km / s), group handovers occur approximately every few seconds to tens of seconds. In other words, in a hopping-beam LEO satellite network, group handovers triggered by satellite movement are commonplace.

[0158] Understandably, 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 squares, rectangles, circles, ellipses, pentagons, hexagons, etc.

[0159] 2. Measurement

[0160] Measurements can include beam-level measurements and cell-level measurements. Beam-level measurements refer to network devices configuring terminal devices to measure and report information related to one or more beams in a cell, such as beam identifiers and / or beam measurement results. Cell-level measurements refer to terminal devices, according to network device configuration, measuring one or more beams in a cell and performing Layer 3 averaging on the measurement results to obtain the cell measurement outcome. In connected mode, after obtaining beam quality at the physical layer, Layer 1 filtering can be performed. After Layer 1 filtering, at the RRC layer, cell quality is obtained by selecting one or more suitable beams, and Layer 3 filtering can be performed.

[0161] Layer 1 measurement typically refers to beam-level measurement. Beam-level measurement includes at least one of the following: SSB measurement, CSI-RS measurement, or TRS measurement. The SSB can be composed of three parts: primary synchronization signals (PSS), secondary synchronization signals (SSS), and the physical broadcast channel (PBCH). The SSB can also be a cell-defining SSB (CD-SSB), a non-cell-defining SSB (NCD-SSB), a flexible SSB, or an on-demand SSB, among other SSB signals.

[0162] Layer 3 measurement: In some cases, Layer 3 measurement refers to radio resource management (RRM) measurement. In others, it is a cell-level measurement. In still others, RRM measurement can be understood as Layer 3 measurement.

[0163] 3. Switch

[0164] The purpose of handover is to ensure service continuity. The change of serving cell that occurs when a terminal device in the RRC connected state moves can also be called Layer 3 mobility.

[0165] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a Layer 3 handover method 500. Handover method 500 is completed through Layer 3 (i.e., RRC) control. The handover shown in handover method 500 can be referred to as Layer 3 handover, Layer 3 mobility, RRC handover, Layer 3 triggered handover, or higher-level handover, etc.

[0166] Switching method 500 includes steps S501 to S508. The steps in method 500 are briefly described below.

[0167] S501, the source TRP sends the measurement configuration to the terminal device.

[0168] Optionally, this measurement configuration is a Layer 3 measurement configuration. The Layer 3 measurement configuration can be configured for the end device via measConfig.

[0169] For example, a Layer 3 measurement configuration may include the following parameters: measurement objective (MO), reporting configuration, quantity configuration, or measurement gap.

[0170] S502, the terminal device sends a measurement report to the source TRP.

[0171] The measurement report in this step is either a Layer 3 measurement report or a Layer 3 measurement result. A Layer 3 measurement report may include the signal quality of the serving cell and neighboring cells.

[0172] S503, the source TRP executes the handover decision.

[0173] Handover decision, also known as mobility handover decision, can be made by the source TRP based on Layer 3 measurement results and / or its own handover algorithm. For example, if the source TRP has poor signal quality but the target TRP has good signal quality, the source TRP may decide to trigger a handover.

[0174] S504, the source TRP sends a handover request message to the target TRP.

[0175] If the source TRP decides to trigger a handover, the source TRP sends a handover request message to the target TRP. The handover request may include one or more of the following: target cell identifier (ID), key, terminal device ID in the source cell, and access layer configuration.

[0176] S505, the target TRP sends a handover response message to the source TRP.

[0177] Optionally, the target TRP may send a handover response message to the source TRP after performing admission control.

[0178] S506, the source TRP sends a handover command to the terminal device. This handover command can be sent via an RRC reconfiguration message, and may contain configuration information from the target TRP.

[0179] Optionally, after receiving the switching command, the terminal device disconnects from the source TRP.

[0180] S507, the terminal device completes the synchronization process with the target TRP. This synchronization process can be achieved through a random access channel (RACH) procedure to access the target TRP. After accessing the target TRP, the terminal device can transmit data with the target TRP.

[0181] S508, the terminal device sends a handover completion indication to the target TRP. This handover completion indication is used to confirm the successful completion of the RRC reconfiguration process. The handover completion indication can be sent via an RRC reconfiguration completion message.

[0182] In addition to the Layer 3 triggered handovers mentioned above, mobility handover also includes Layer 1 / L2 triggered mobility (LTM) handover. LTM handover can also be called low-layer handover, Layer 1 / Layer 2 handover, low-layer mobility handover, or Layer 1 / Layer 2 triggered handover. LTM is a handover method designed to reduce handover latency and downtime, improving user experience and service continuity for terminal devices. LTM handover can be triggered by Layer 1 signaling (e.g., downlink control information (DCI)) and / or Layer 2 signaling (e.g., MAC CE) to allow the terminal device to perform the handover.

[0183] The main idea of ​​the LTM handover process is as follows: The base station configures one or more candidate cells based on the measurement reports (e.g., RRM measurement reports or Layer 3 measurement reports) reported by the terminal device, and provides the terminal device with the pre-configuration information of one or more candidate cells (which may be called LTM candidate cells) through RRC messages. After receiving the pre-configuration information from the base station, the terminal device sends a measurement report (e.g., a Layer 1 measurement report) to the base station, and the base station decides to trigger LTM handover based on the measurement reports reported by the terminal device.

[0184] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of an LTM switching method 600. Figure 6 The switching method 600 shown is based on L1 / L2 triggered switching. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the switching method 600 may include steps S601 to S609. The steps in method 600 are briefly described below.

[0185] S601, the terminal device sends a layer 3 measurement report to the source TRP.

[0186] The Layer 3 measurement report may include the serving TRP and the signal quality of adjacent TRPs measured by the terminal device based on communication signals. Communication signals may include, for example, SSB, CSI-RS, and TRP.

[0187] S602, the source TRP decides to use LTM and prepares a set of candidate TRPs corresponding to LTM. The set of candidate TRPs may include one or more TRPs.

[0188] S603, the source TRP sends an RRC reconfiguration message to the terminal device, which contains configuration information of the candidate TRP set.

[0189] S604, the terminal device sends an RRC reconfiguration complete message to the source TRP.

[0190] S605, the terminal device completes uplink and downlink synchronization with the candidate TRP.

[0191] S606, The terminal device sends a Layer 1 measurement report to the source TRP.

[0192] For example, the Layer 1 measurement report includes measurement results or quantities obtained based on communication signal measurements.

[0193] Optionally, prior to S606, the terminal device obtains a Layer 1 measurement report related to the candidate TRP.

[0194] S607, the source TRP sends a handover command to the terminal device, instructing the terminal device to hand over to the target TRP.

[0195] S608, the terminal device disconnects from the source TRP and applies the configuration information of the target TRP.

[0196] S609, the terminal device switches to the target TRP or accesses the target TRP by executing the RACH procedure, thus completing LTM.

[0197] 4. Coverage of communication beams and coverage of positioning beams

[0198] Taking three satellites (Satellite #1, Satellite #2, and Satellite #3) and six geographical regions (denoted as wavefronts bw-1, bw-2, ..., bw-6) as an example, the broadcast / scan patterns of the communication beams (such as SSB beams) of Satellite #1, Satellite #2, and Satellite #3 are as follows: Figure 7A As shown, the SSB beam coverage area of ​​satellite #1 includes bw-1 and bw-2, the SSB beam coverage area of ​​satellite #2 includes bw-2, bw-3 and bw-4, and the SSB beam coverage area of ​​satellite #3 includes bw-5 and bw-6.

[0199] The coverage area of ​​a satellite's positioning beam (such as the PRS beam) is different from the coverage area of ​​its communication beam.

[0200] Satellite #1's SSB beam coverage area includes bw-1 and bw-2. Furthermore, to assist in positioning with neighboring satellites, Satellite #1's PRS beam, in addition to covering its own communication beam range of bw-1 and bw-2, also needs to assist in positioning of terminal devices within the coverage areas of other satellites, namely bw-3, bw-4, and bw-5. In summary, as... Figure 7B As shown, the PRS beam coverage area of ​​satellite #1 is {bw-1,bw-2,bw-3,bw-4,bw-5}.

[0201] Satellite #2's SSB beam coverage area includes bw-2, bw-3, and bw-4. Furthermore, to assist in positioning with neighboring satellites, Satellite #2's PRS beam, in addition to covering its own communication beam range of bw-2, bw-3, and bw-4, also needs to assist in positioning of terminal devices within the coverage areas of other satellites, namely bw-1, bw-5, and bw-6. In summary, as... Figure 7C As shown, the PRS beam coverage area of ​​satellite #2 is {bw-1,bw-2,bw-3,bw-4,bw-5,bw-6}.

[0202] Satellite #3's SSB beam coverage area includes bw-5 and bw-6. Furthermore, to assist in positioning with neighboring satellites, satellite #3's PRS beam, in addition to covering its own communication beam range of bw-5 and bw-6, also needs to assist in positioning of terminal devices within the coverage areas of other satellites, namely bw-2, bw-3, and bw-4. In summary, as... Figure 7DAs shown, the PRS beam coverage of satellite #3 is {bw-2,bw-3,bw-4,bw-5,bw-6}.

[0203] Satellite #1, satellite #2 and satellite #3 are respectively associated with PRS resource set #1, PRS resource set #2 and PRS resource set #3. For example, each satellite can start transmitting PRS after offsetting a certain time unit from time slot 0 of system frame number (SFN) 0.

[0204] 5. Positioning methods in TN

[0205] Positioning technology refers to determining the location of a terminal device by measuring certain parameters of a wireless signal and using specific positioning techniques. These measurement parameters may include the strength of the reference signal (such as reference signal received power (RSRP) and reference signal received quality (RSRQ)), the transmission time of the radio wave, the reference signal time difference (RSTD), the reference signal frequency difference (RSFD), the angle of arrival (AoA), and the angle of departure (AoD).

[0206] Typically, positioning technologies include the following:

[0207] Enhanced cell identity (E-CID): Primarily based on cell quality measured by the RRM of the terminal device as fingerprint information to determine the location of the terminal device. In addition, cell ID, AoA, and timing advance (TA) information are also introduced.

[0208] Downlink Time Difference of Arrival (DL-TDoA): Primarily based on the Remote Sensing Time Difference (RSTD) of the PRS (Pressure Suppression Ratio) measured by the terminal equipment at multiple stations. The arrival time difference of a pair of base stations can be plotted as a hyperbola (a hyperboloid), and the intersection of multiple hyperbolas represents the location of the terminal equipment. TDoA technology relies on precise inter-station synchronization, so the arrival time difference can correspond to the propagation distance difference.

[0209] Uplink time difference of arrival (UL-TDoA): Similar to DL-TDoA, the difference is that the time of arrival (ToA) is obtained by the base station through the sounding reference signal (SRS) sent by the measurement terminal equipment.

[0210] Uplink Angles of Arrival (UL-AoA): The base station estimates the orientation of the terminal device by measuring the uplink signal (e.g., SRS) transmitted by the terminal device. UL-AoA includes the horizontal azimuth angle (A-AoA) and the vertical elevation angle (Z-AoA). Angle estimation can be determined by the phase relationship between elements; for high-frequency analog beams, it can be determined by receiving beam scanning fitting. The UL-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 location of the terminal device.

[0211] Downlink angle of departure (DL-AoD): The terminal equipment measures the PRS transmitted by multiple stations to estimate the direction of the terminal equipment. For example, DL-AoD mainly measures the received power of multiple different beams of the base station by the terminal equipment. The direction of the terminal equipment 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. The intersection of multiple rays or cones is the position of the terminal equipment.

[0212] Multi-RTT: Multi-RTT technology extends the round trip time (RTT) measurement of terminal devices to multiple base stations. It involves the terminal device exchanging PRS and SRS with multiple base stations (or multiple TRPs) and measuring the time difference between their transmission and reception. This determines the distance between the terminal device and the multiple base stations. 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 location of the terminal device. Because the terminal device can independently complete RTT measurements with any base station, multi-RTT differs from TDoA positioning technology in that it does not rely on precise inter-station synchronization.

[0213] Figure 8This diagram illustrates the exchange of PRS and SRS between a terminal device and a base station. The terminal device sends an RTT measurement request to the base station, and the base station receives the RTT measurement request. At time T0, the terminal device sends an SRS to the base station. At time T1, the base station measures ToA based on the received SRS. At time T2, the base station sends a PRS to the terminal device. At time T3, the terminal device measures ToA based on the received PRS. Where RTT = (T3 - T0) - (T2 - T1).

[0214] Due to the large time-frequency offset and high mobility characteristics of NTN systems, current positioning strategies for TN are not applicable to NTN networks.

[0215] 6. Location methods in NTN

[0216] Current NR-NTN research primarily focuses on terminal device location identification / authentication in RRC connected state, mainly employing a single-satellite-based multi-RTT positioning method, such as... Figure 9 As shown, delta-1 represents the change in RTT at time T2 relative to the initial time, and delta-2 represents the change in RTT at time T3 relative to the initial time. The positioning of the terminal device is assisted by RTT measurement between a satellite and the terminal device.

[0217] Currently, single-satellite positioning methods for NTN have relatively low positioning accuracy, approximately 5–10 kilometers, making them unsuitable for high-precision positioning of terminal devices in non-GNSS or GNSS failure scenarios, such as 10–100 meters. Furthermore, in constellation scenarios (especially LEO constellations), rapid movement of satellite nodes causes rapid changes in the positioning topology (such as PDOP, geometric dilution precision (GDOP)), resulting in poor positioning performance stability. Moreover, positioning services are prone to interruption as satellites move.

[0218] In view of this, this application provides a positioning method in which the terminal device can trigger the switching of the TRP through layer 1 or layer 3 triggering, and then provide positioning services to the terminal device through the switched serving TRP and its adjacent TRPs, which is beneficial to improve positioning accuracy and ensure the continuity of positioning services.

[0219] Before introducing the technical solution of this application, let's first introduce the terminology involved in this application.

[0220] Location Frequency Layer: In NR, a location frequency layer is defined as a set of PRS resource sets on one or more TRPs that have the same parameter set (numerology), the same center frequency, and the same point A (point A). NR supports 12 location frequency layers, and each location frequency layer can have up to 24 TRPs. Furthermore, NR supports up to 8 downlink PRS resource sets per TRP and up to 64 downlink PRS resources per PRS resource set.

[0221] All PRS resource sets defined in the positioning frequency layer are configured with one or more of the following common parameters: carrier spacing, cyclic prefix, or frequency domain location reference point.

[0222] A PRS resource set comprises one or more PRS resources. The parameters involved in a PRS resource set include one or more of the following: the PRS resource set identifier (resource setID), the PRS resource set repetition period, the number of repetitions, the slot offset, the comb type, the starting resource block (RB), the number of RBs occupied, or the silent mode. The repetition period of a PRS resource set can be from 2... μ The PRS is selected from a set of time slots: ×{4,5,8,10,16,20,32,40,64,80,160,320,640,1280,2560,5120}, where μ = 0,1,2,3; the repetition count represents the number of times the PRS is repeated within one period; the time slot offset represents the initial time slot offset of the PRS resource set in the time domain; the comb type affects the distribution of the PRS in the frequency domain, such as comb-2 and comb-4; the starting RB represents the starting RB position of the PRS resource set in the frequency domain; the number of RBs occupied represents the number of RBs occupied by the PRS resource; and the silent mode is used to avoid conflicts with other models and defines the time slots in which the PRS is not transmitted.

[0223] The parameters involved in PRS resources include one or more of the following: resource ID, sequence generation parameters, or quasi-co-location relationship (QCL). The resource ID identifies the specific PRS resource; the sequence generation parameters include the initial sequence seed, sequence ID, etc., used to generate the PRS sequence; the QCL relationship indicates the quasi-co-location relationship between the PRS and other reference signals (e.g., CSI-RS), assisting the terminal equipment in channel estimation.

[0224] This application uses the example of TRP sending a PRS resource set to the terminal device as an illustration, where the PRS resource set is a downlink PRS resource set.

[0225] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0226] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method 1000 provided in an embodiment of this application. Method 1000 includes steps S1001 and S1002, and optionally, method 1000 further includes steps S1003 to S1006. The steps are described in detail below.

[0227] S1001, the terminal device sends a PRS measurement report to the first TRP, which is used to trigger a TRP handover. Accordingly, the first TRP receives the PRS measurement report.

[0228] The first TRP is the terminal device's current serving TRP. For example, the first TRP is the terminal device's current serving satellite, or reference satellite.

[0229] The PRS measurement report can be replaced with a description of the PRS measurement results.

[0230] A PRS measurement report can be understood as a measurement report containing PRS-related measurements, or in other words, a PRS measurement report that supports the reporting of PRS-related measurements. Here, PRS-related measurements can be understood as measurements obtained based on PRS measurements. PRS-related measurements may include one or more of the following: signal quality, PDOP, or positioning accuracy obtained based on PRS measurements.

[0231] In one possible implementation, the PRS measurement report is a Layer 1 measurement report, and the signal quality obtained based on the PRS measurement can include the signal quality of the Layer 1 PRS. The Layer 1 PRS signal quality can be understood as the PRS signal quality obtained after obtaining the PRS beam quality at the physical layer, followed by Layer 1 or Layer 2 filtering. Layer 1 typically refers to the physical layer (i.e., the PHY layer).

[0232] In another possible implementation, the PRS measurement report is a Layer 3 measurement report, and the signal quality obtained based on the PRS measurement can include the signal quality of the Layer 3 PRS. The signal quality of the Layer 3 PRS can be understood as obtaining cell quality at the RRC layer by selecting one or more suitable PRS beams after Layer 1 filtering. Layer 3 filtering can be performed, and Layer 3 typically refers to the Radio Resource Control layer (i.e., the RRC layer).

[0233] Signal quality parameters include RSR, RSRQ, and signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR).

[0234] The signal quality of the Layer 1 PRS can be described as: the signal quality of the Physical Layer PRS, or the signal quality of the lower-layer PRS. The signal quality of the Layer 3 PRS can be described as: the signal quality of the RRC Layer PRS, or the signal quality of the higher-layer PRS.

[0235] S1002, upon receiving a handover command or meeting the handover conditions, the terminal device switches from the first TRP to the second TRP. The PRS resource set associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource sets associated with its adjacent TRPs are used for locating the terminal device.

[0236] After receiving the PRS measurement report, the first TRP can make a mobility handover decision based on the PRS measurement report. It is understood that the PRS measurement report includes PRS-related measurement results or quantities of one or more candidate TRPs. The first TRP can select a target TRP from the one or more candidate TRPs based on the PRS-related measurement results or quantities. In this embodiment, the target TRP is referred to as the second TRP. Subsequently, the terminal device can handover from the first TRP to the second TRP upon receiving a handover command, or handover from the first TRP to the second TRP if the handover conditions are met.

[0237] It is understandable that after switching from the first TRP to the second TRP, the PRS resource set used for positioning also switches, changing from the PRS resource set associated with the first TRP to the PRS resource set associated with the second TRP. After the switch is complete, the second TRP and its adjacent TRPs send PRS to the terminal device. The terminal device measures the PRS from multiple TRPs to achieve positioning of the terminal device. This application does not limit the specific positioning technology used by the terminal device in its embodiments.

[0238] In this embodiment, the TRP switching is triggered by the PRS measurement report. This PRS measurement report reflects the positioning performance of one or more candidate TRPs. The first TRP can select a target TRP with better positioning performance from these candidate TRPs, i.e., the second TRP. The terminal device can then switch from the first TRP to the second TRP. After the switch, the second TRP becomes the serving TRP, or reference TRP, of the terminal device. The second TRP and its adjacent TRPs collaboratively provide positioning services to the terminal device, which helps improve positioning accuracy and stability. Furthermore, in satellite network scenarios, because the coverage of the PRS differs from that of traditional communication signals (such as SSB), switching triggered by traditional SSB measurement reports leads to a sharp decline in positioning performance. Switching triggered by PRS measurement reports, however, better matches the positioning performance requirements and helps ensure the continuity of positioning services.

[0239] In one possible implementation, the terminal device sends a PRS measurement report, including: the terminal device sends a PRS measurement report when a first event is met. The first event includes one or more of the following: the terminal device's clock is at a first preset time; the PDOP is greater than or equal to a first threshold within a first duration; the rate of change of PDOP is greater than or equal to a second threshold within a second duration; the rate of change of positioning accuracy is greater than or equal to a third threshold within a third duration; the PRS beam coverage duration of at least N TRPs in the first TRP set is less than or equal to a fourth threshold; or the PRS signal quality is less than or equal to a fifth threshold, where N is a positive integer, and the first TRP set includes the first TRP and its adjacent TRPs.

[0240] It is understandable that any of the events mentioned in the first event can be combined to trigger the reporting of the PRS measurement report.

[0241] For example, when the terminal device's clock reaches a first preset time and the PDOP is greater than or equal to a first threshold within a first duration, the terminal device sends a PRS measurement report. Similarly, when the terminal device's clock reaches a first preset time and the rate of change of PDOP is greater than or equal to a second threshold within a second duration, the terminal device sends a PRS measurement report. Furthermore, when the PDOP is greater than or equal to a first threshold within a first duration and the rate of change of positioning accuracy is greater than or equal to a third threshold within a third duration, the terminal device sends a PRS measurement report.

[0242] The PRS signal quality event, which is less than or equal to the fifth threshold, can be used in conjunction with several other events to improve the accuracy of measurement report submissions and handover. These signal quality events include, for example, RSRP, RSRQ, or SINR.

[0243] For example, when the clock of the terminal device reaches the first preset time and the signal quality of the PRS is less than or equal to the fifth threshold, the terminal device sends a measurement report of the PRS.

[0244] Optionally, the first event may also include one or more of the following: the clock of the terminal device is in a preset time period, the coverage elevation angle of the PRS beam of at least M TRPs in the first TRP set is less than the elevation angle threshold, the remaining service time period of at least K TRPs in the first TRP set is less than the fifth threshold, or the service time of at least S TRPs in the first TRP set has expired, where M, K, and S are positive integers.

[0245] Optionally, method 1000 further includes S1003: the first TRP sends first configuration information to the terminal device, the first configuration information indicating the aforementioned first event. Furthermore, the first event can also be predefined by the protocol, and this embodiment does not limit this. S1003 can be executed before S1001.

[0246] In one possible implementation, the first TRP sends first configuration information to the terminal device based on the terminal device's positioning service type (such as positioning duration, positioning accuracy, positioning cycle, etc.).

[0247] For example, if the location service type is short-term location service, the location duration is short and there is no need to perform TRP switching. Therefore, the first TRP does not need to send the first configuration information to the terminal device.

[0248] For example, if the location service type is long-term location service, the location duration is relatively long, and a TRP handover may be required. Therefore, the first TRP can send the first configuration information to the terminal device.

[0249] In one possible implementation, the first event can also be used in conjunction with the signal quality measurement result based on PRS. For example, if the terminal device satisfies the first event and the signal quality of PRS is less than a threshold, it sends a PRS measurement report. The signal quality of PRS can be the signal quality of Layer 1 or Layer 3. Exemplarily, the PRS signal can be RSRP, RSRQ, or SINR.

[0250] The following provides a detailed explanation of how terminal devices perform handover when they receive a handover command.

[0251] The first TRP sends a handover command to the terminal device, indicating a switch from the first TRP to the second TRP, that is, switching the terminal device's serving TRP from the first TRP to the second TRP. This handover command can indicate the switch from the first TRP to the second TRP by instructing the activation of a PRS resource set, wherein the activated PRS resource set is the PRS resource set associated with the second TRP.

[0252] It is understandable that a PRS resource set is associated with a TRP, a TRP can be associated with one or more PRS resource sets, and different TRPs are associated with different PRS resource sets. These different PRS resource sets can have different periodicity.

[0253] The first TRP sends a handover command to the terminal device in the following two scenarios:

[0254] Scenario 1:

[0255] The PRS measurement report is a Layer 1 measurement report or a measurement prediction report (the measurement prediction report is obtained from the prediction of the reference signal results and does not require actual measurement). That is, TRP handover is triggered by the Layer 1 measurement report or measurement prediction report; i.e., it is a Layer 1 triggered TRP handover or mobility handover. The first TRP, based on the Layer 1 measurement report or measurement prediction report, determines the target TRP and sends a handover command to the terminal device, indicating a handover from the first TRP to the second TRP. Correspondingly, this handover command also triggers a handover of the PRS resource set.

[0256] It is understood that the TRP handover / PRS resource set handover described in scenario 1 can be a Layer 1 triggered TRP handover / PRS resource set handover, and the overall handover process is similar to the LTM handover process described in method 600 above. The main difference is that the TRP handover / PRS resource set handover described in this application embodiment is triggered based on the PRS measurement report or measurement prediction report, while the LTM handover described in method 600 is triggered based on the communication signal measurement report.

[0257] For example, S1001 can correspond to S606 in method 600: "The terminal device sends a Layer 1 measurement report to the source TRP". The measurement report in S1001 can be a Layer 1 measurement report or a measurement prediction report, which includes measurement results or quantities obtained based on PRS measurements. The first TRP corresponds to the source TRP in S502.

[0258] For example, the way the terminal device receives the handover command in S1002 can correspond to S607 in method 600: "The source TRP sends a handover command to the terminal device". The handover command in S1002 is carried in the MAC CE, indicating a handover from the first TRP to the second TRP.

[0259] Scenario 2:

[0260] The PRS measurement report is a Layer 3 measurement report, meaning that TRP handover is triggered by the Layer 3 measurement report; that is, it is a Layer 3-based TRP handover or mobility handover. Based on this Layer 3 measurement report, the first TRP determines the target TRP and sends a handover command to the terminal device, indicating a handover from the first TRP to the second TRP. Correspondingly, this handover command also triggers a handover of the PRS resource set.

[0261] It is understood that the TRP handover / PRS resource set handover described in scenario 2 can be a Layer 3 triggered TRP handover / PRS resource set handover, and the overall handover process is similar to the Layer 3 handover process described in method 500 above. The main difference is that the TRP handover / PRS resource set handover described in this embodiment is triggered based on the PRS measurement report, while the Layer 3 handover described in method 500 is triggered based on the communication signal measurement report.

[0262] For example, S1001 can correspond to S502 in method 500: "The terminal device sends a measurement report to the source TRP". The measurement report in S1001 can be a layer 3 measurement report, which includes measurement results or quantities obtained based on PRS measurement. The first TRP corresponds to the source TRP in S502.

[0263] For example, the implementation of the terminal device receiving the handover command in S1002 can correspond to S506 in method 500: "The source TRP sends a handover command to the terminal device". The handover command in S1001 is similar to the handover command in S506. It is a Layer 3 / RRC layer message that indicates the handover from the first TRP to the second TRP.

[0264] Optionally, the switching command carries configuration information for the second TRP.

[0265] Optionally, the configuration information of the second TRP includes the configuration information of the on-demand synchronization signal of the second TRP.

[0266] Optionally, after switching from the first TRP to the second TRP, the second TRP sends an on-demand synchronization signal to the terminal device, and the terminal device completes downlink synchronization with the second TRP based on the on-demand synchronization signal. For example, the on-demand synchronization signal is an SSB, CSI-RS, or TRS. For example, the configuration information of the on-demand synchronization signal may include the period and / or pattern of the on-demand synchronization signal.

[0267] Optionally, the configuration information of the second TRP may also include one or more of the following: the earliest service time after the TRP switch, the service time period, or the NTN configuration information associated with the second TRP.

[0268] The following provides a detailed explanation of how terminal devices perform handover when the handover conditions are met. For ease of description, the scenario where terminal devices perform TRP handover when the handover conditions are met will be referred to as Scenario 3.

[0269] Scenario 3:

[0270] The PRS measurement report is a Layer 3 measurement report, meaning that TRP handover is triggered by the Layer 3 measurement report; that is, it is a Layer 3 triggered TRP handover or mobility handover. The first TRP determines the target TRP, i.e., the second TRP, based on this Layer 3 measurement report. Subsequent terminal devices, under the condition that the handover conditions are met, handover from the first TRP to the second TRP.

[0271] It is understandable that the handover performed by the terminal device under the condition of meeting the handover requirements can be a Layer 3 triggered TRP handover / PRS resource set handover, and the overall handover process is similar to the Layer 3 handover process described in Method 500 above. The main difference is that the TRP handover / PRS resource set handover described in this embodiment is triggered based on the PRS measurement report, and the terminal device performs the handover under the condition of meeting the handover requirements, while the Layer 3 handover described in Method 500 is triggered based on the communication signal measurement report, and there is no step of judging the handover conditions.

[0272] For example, S1001 can correspond to S502 in method 500: "The terminal device sends a measurement report to the source TRP". The measurement report in S1001 can be a layer 3 measurement report, which includes measurement results or quantities obtained based on PRS measurement. The first TRP corresponds to the source TRP in S502.

[0273] In S1002, the terminal device determines whether the handover conditions are met. If the handover conditions are met, it switches from the first TRP to the second TRP.

[0274] Optionally, method 1000 further includes S1004: the first TRP sends second configuration information to the terminal device, the second configuration information indicating the switching condition. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the second configuration information. S1004 can be executed before S1002.

[0275] In one possible implementation, the switching conditions include: the terminal device's clock is in a first time period, and / or the terminal device is in a first location. Optionally, the PRS resource set of the second TRP is valid in the first time period and / or the first location, or in other words, the service time of the second TRP's PRS resource set is in the first time period and / or the PRS beam coverage of the second TRP includes the first location.

[0276] Optionally, for scenarios 2 and 3 above, similar to the description in method 500, before S1002, the first TRP sends a handover request message to the second TRP. This handover request message can be replaced by a PRS handover request message. Correspondingly, the second TRP sends a handover response message to the first TRP. This handover response message includes the configuration information of the second TRP, and can also be replaced by a PRS handover response message. Based on this handover response message, the first TRP sends the configuration information of the second TRP to the terminal device via an RRC reconfiguration message. Optionally, after S1002, the terminal device sends a handover completion indication to the second TRP. This handover completion indication is used to confirm the successful completion of the RRC reconfiguration process.

[0277] Optionally, method 1000 further includes S1005: the terminal device activates a first parameter and / or a second parameter associated with the second TRP, wherein the first parameter is used to determine the center position of the PRS search window, and the second parameter is used to determine the offset value of the PRS search window. S1005 can be executed after S1002. Activating the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the second TRP can be alternatively described as updating the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the second TRP. The PRS search window refers to the time window used to receive the PRS; in other words, the terminal device can receive PRS from multiple TRPs within the PRS search window.

[0278] Optionally, after receiving a handover completion indication sent by the terminal device, the second TRP activates the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the second TRP.

[0279] Optionally, the first and / or second parameters associated with the second TRP are configured by the second TRP.

[0280] Understandably, since the set of TRPs providing positioning services to the terminal device changes after switching from the first TRP to the second TRP, the first and / or second parameters related to the PRS search window also need to be updated. The first parameter, DL-PRS-expectedRSTD, represents the reference signal arrival time difference (RSTD) between the two TRPs that the target device (e.g., the terminal device) expects to measure, used to determine the center position of the PRS search window. The second parameter, DL-PRS-expectedRSTD-uncertainty, represents the uncertainty of the DL-PRS-expectedRSTD value. This uncertainty is related to the network side's (e.g., the location server's) prior estimate of the target device's location and environmental non-ideals (e.g., clock offsets, synchronization errors between multiple network sides, non-ideals in the transmission path, etc.), reflecting the inaccuracy of the location server's estimate of the target device's location, i.e., the maximum deviation of the network's expected actual RSTD from DL-PRS-expectedRSTD. The PRS search window is typically determined by DL-PRS-expectedRSTD and DL-PRS-expectedRSTD-uncertainty. The location server can be a location management function (LMF) network element.

[0281] For example Figure 11 The diagram illustrates the PRS search window. The terminal device determines the DL-PRS-expectedRSTD value by measuring the PRS transmitted by the reference TRP and adjacent TRPs, thereby determining the center position of the PRS search window. Then, the PRS search window is determined by offsetting the center position by DL-PRS-expectedRSTD-uncertainty to the left and right. The length of the search window = 2 × DL-PRS-expectedRSTD-uncertainty.

[0282] Optionally, the terminal device can also activate / update a third parameter, which indicates the time offset of the downlink PRS resource set relative to slot 0 with system frame number 0 of the TRP. The third parameter is DL-PRS-SFN0-offset.

[0283] Optionally, method 1000 further includes S1006: the terminal device receives first information, the first information indicating one or more PRS resource sets, the one or more PRS resource sets being associated with one or more TRPs, and a second TRP being one of the one or more TRPs. Wherein, one PRS resource set is associated with one TRP, and one TRP can be associated with at least one PRS resource set.

[0284] For example, the one or more PRS resource sets include PRS resource set #1, PRS resource set #2 and PRS resource set #3, and the one or more TRPs include TRP #1, TRP #2 and TRP #3, wherein PRS resource set #1 is associated with TRP #1, PRS resource set #2 is associated with TRP #2, and PRS resource set #3 is associated with TRP #3.

[0285] For example, the one or more PRS resource sets include PRS resource set #1, PRS resource set #2 and PRS resource set #3, and the one or more TRPs include TRP #1 and TRP #2, wherein PRS resource set #1 is associated with TRP #1, PRS resource set #2 is associated with TRP #1, and PRS resource set #3 is associated with TRP #2.

[0286] In scenario 1 above, the first TRP sends first information to the terminal device, and the terminal device receives the first information from the first TRP. S1006 is executed before S1001. The first information can be PRS configuration information of one or more TRPs, which indicates one or more PRS resource sets. In scenario 1, similar to S603 in the LTM handover procedure shown in method 600, S1006 can be executed by the first TRP before S1001.

[0287] Optionally, the terminal device can complete uplink and downlink synchronization with one or more TRPs, including a second TRP, based on the NTN configuration information associated with the one or more PRS resource sets. Then, the terminal device switches from the first TRP to the second TRP based on the handover command. Since the terminal device has already completed uplink and downlink synchronization with the second TRP, this helps reduce handover latency.

[0288] In scenario 2 or 3 above, the second TRP sends first information to the terminal device. The terminal device receives the first information from the second TRP. S1006 is executed after S1002, for example, after the second TRP receives a handover completion indication from the terminal device. The first information indicates one or more PRS resource sets, meaning that one or more TRPs associated with the one or more PRS resource sets provide positioning services to the terminal device to assist in positioning.

[0289] Optionally, the first information also indicates the location frequency layer associated with the one or more PRS resource sets.

[0290] For example, Figure 12This is a schematic diagram of a PRS configuration, where one positioning frequency layer is associated with multiple PRS resource sets, for example, N PRS resource sets. Each PRS resource set includes multiple PRS resources, and each PRS resource set is associated with one NTN configuration information. In the method described above, where a handover command is used to activate a PRS resource set, thereby indicating a handover from a first TRP to a second TRP, the terminal device activates the PRS resource set and the associated NTN configuration information based on the handover command. The terminal device then completes uplink and downlink synchronization with the second TRP based on the NTN configuration information. The statement that one positioning frequency layer is associated with multiple PRS resource sets can also be described as one positioning frequency layer comprising multiple PRS resource sets.

[0291] A PRS resource set can also be associated with multiple NTN configuration information sets. Different NTN configuration information sets can correspond to different effective times and / or effective locations. It can be understood that NTN configuration information and TRP can be associated through PRS resource sets. For example, if a PRS resource set is associated with TRP#1, and this PRS resource set is associated with NTN configuration information #1, then TRP#1 is associated with NTN configuration information #1.

[0292] For example Figure 13 As shown, taking TRP as an example, satellite #1 is the serving / reference satellite, and satellite #1's neighboring satellites include satellite #2 and satellite #3. Specifically, satellite #1 is associated with NTN configuration information #1, satellite #2 with NTN configuration information #2, and satellite #3 with NTN configuration information #3. It can be understood that... Figure 13 Taking two adjacent satellites as an example, satellite #1 may have fewer or more adjacent satellites than two, but this application does not limit this.

[0293] In one possible implementation, the positioning frequency layer associated with the one or more PRS resource sets is transmitted in the form of a reference configuration, such as an LTM reference configuration; the one or more PRS resource sets and one or more PRS resources in each PRS resource set are transmitted in the form of candidate configurations, such as LTM candidate configurations.

[0294] In one possible implementation, the first information is contained in the RRC reconfiguration message.

[0295] The above NTN configuration information includes one or more of the following: ephemeris information, uplink / downlink synchronization related information (e.g., TA), scheduling offset, timing drift, or Doppler shift.

[0296] Optionally, the first TRP may send second information to the terminal device, the second information indicating the effective time and / or effective location corresponding to each PRS resource set in the one or more PRSs. The terminal device can activate different PRS resource sets at different times and / or locations according to the second information. For a detailed description of the second information, please refer to the description in method 1800 below, which will not be elaborated here.

[0297] For example, the overall process of TRP switching related to scenario 1 above is as follows: Figure 14 As shown, method 1400 includes steps S1401 to S1409, and the specific steps are as follows:

[0298] S1401, the terminal device sends a layer 3 measurement report to the first TRP.

[0299] The Layer 3 measurement report may include the measurement results of PRS, such as the signal quality of the Layer 3 PRS.

[0300] S1402, the first TRP decides to use LTM and prepares a set of candidate TRPs corresponding to LTM, which may include one or more TRPs.

[0301] S1403, the first TRP sends an RRC reconfiguration message to the terminal device. The RRC reconfiguration message contains the configuration information of the candidate TRP set.

[0302] The configuration information of the candidate TRP set includes the PRS configuration information of each candidate TRP, such as the PRS resource set associated with each candidate TRP.

[0303] This step corresponds to S1006 described above.

[0304] S1404, the terminal device sends an RRC reconfiguration complete message to the first TRP.

[0305] S1405, the terminal device completes uplink and downlink synchronization with the candidate TRP.

[0306] S1406, the terminal device sends a Layer 1 measurement report to the first TRP.

[0307] The L1 measurement report can be periodically reported, semi-statically reported, or event-triggered. Event-triggered reporting is, for example, the reporting triggered by the first event as described above.

[0308] The Layer 1 measurement report includes measurement results or quantities based on PRS measurements, such as the signal quality, PDOP, and positioning accuracy of the Layer 1 PRS.

[0309] This step corresponds to S1001 described above.

[0310] Optionally, before S1406, the first TRP sends a first event to the terminal device. This step corresponds to S1003 described above.

[0311] S1407, the first TRP sends a handover command to the terminal device, indicating a handover from the first TRP to the second TRP.

[0312] For example, a first TRP can activate a PRS resource set via a switching command. This activated PRS resource set is associated with a second TRP, thereby indicating a switch from the first TRP to the second TRP.

[0313] This step corresponds to S1002 described above.

[0314] S1408, the terminal device disconnects from the first TRP and applies the configuration information of the second TRP.

[0315] Optionally, the terminal device applies the configuration information of the second TRP, including: the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the activation of the second TRP by the terminal device.

[0316] S1409, the terminal device switches to the second TRP, or accesses the second TRP, by executing the RACH procedure, and completes LTM.

[0317] For example, the overall process of TRP switching related to scenario 2 above. Figure 15 As shown. Method 1500 includes steps S1501 to S1510, and the specific steps are as follows:

[0318] S1501, the first TRP sends PRS configuration information to the terminal device.

[0319] Optionally, the PRS configuration information is Layer 3 configuration information. This PRS configuration information includes measurement report triggering events for PRS switching, such as the first event described above. Optionally, the PRS configuration information may also indicate one or more PRS resource sets, which are associated with one or more TRPs.

[0320] This step corresponds to S1003 and S1006 described above.

[0321] S1502, the terminal device determines whether the measurement report trigger event for PRS handover is met.

[0322] S1503, if the measurement report trigger event for PRS handover is met, the terminal device sends a measurement report to the first TRP.

[0323] The measurement report in this step is either a Layer 3 measurement report or a Layer 3 measurement result. The Layer 3 measurement report may include the reporting of PRS-related signal quality, PDOP, and positioning accuracy for the first TRP and its adjacent TRPs.

[0324] This step corresponds to S1001 described above.

[0325] S1504, the first TRP sends a PRS handover request message to the second TRP.

[0326] S1505, the second TRP sends a PRS handover response message to the first TRP, which includes the configuration information of the second TRP.

[0327] Optionally, the second TRP may send a PRS handover response message to the first TRP after performing admission control.

[0328] S1506, the first TRP sends a handover command to the terminal device. This handover command can be sent via an RRC reconfiguration message, and may contain configuration information from the second TRP.

[0329] After receiving the handover command, the terminal device disconnects from the first TRP.

[0330] S1507, the terminal device completes the synchronization process with the second TRP. This synchronization process can be achieved through the RACH procedure to access the second TRP.

[0331] This step corresponds to S1002 described above.

[0332] Optionally, after S1507, the terminal device activates the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the second TRP.

[0333] Optionally, the second TRP sends an on-demand synchronization signal to the terminal device, and the terminal device completes downlink synchronization with the second TRP based on the on-demand synchronization signal.

[0334] S1508, the terminal device sends a PRS handover completion indication to the second TRP. This PRS handover completion indication is used to confirm the successful completion of the RRC reconfiguration process. The PRS handover completion indication can be sent via an RRC reconfiguration completion message.

[0335] S1509, the second TRP sends PRS reconfiguration information to the terminal device, indicating that the new TRP set after the TRP switch can be implemented by incremental configuration.

[0336] S1510, the second TRP and its adjacent TRPs send PRS to the terminal device to assist the terminal device in positioning.

[0337] For example, the overall process of TRP switching related to scenario 3 above. Figure 16 As shown. Method 1600 includes steps S1601 to S1610, and the specific steps are as follows:

[0338] S1601, the first TRP sends PRS configuration information to the terminal device.

[0339] This PRS configuration information is Layer 3 configuration information. It includes the PRS switching conditions. A description of these switching conditions can be found above and will not be repeated here. Optionally, this PRS configuration information may also indicate one or more PRS resource sets, which are associated with one or more TRPs.

[0340] This step corresponds to S1004 and S1006 described above.

[0341] S1602, the terminal device sends a measurement report to the first TRP.

[0342] The measurement report in this step is either a Layer 3 measurement report or a Layer 3 measurement result. The Layer 3 measurement report may include the reporting of PRS-related signal quality, PDOP, and positioning accuracy for the first TRP and its adjacent TRPs.

[0343] This step corresponds to S1001 described above.

[0344] S1603, the first TRP sends a PRS handover request message to the second TRP.

[0345] S1604, the second TRP sends a PRS handover response message to the first TRP, which includes the configuration information of the second TRP.

[0346] Optionally, the second TRP may send a PRS handover response message to the first TRP after performing admission control.

[0347] S1605, the first TRP sends the configuration information of the second TRP to the terminal device.

[0348] S1606, the terminal device switches from the first TRP to the second TRP if the switching conditions of the PRS are met.

[0349] This step corresponds to S1002 described above.

[0350] Optionally, after S1606, the terminal device activates the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the second TRP.

[0351] S1607, Optionally, the second TRP sends an on-demand synchronization signal to the terminal device, and the terminal device completes downlink synchronization with the second TRP based on the on-demand synchronization signal.

[0352] S1608, the terminal device sends a PRS handover completion indication to the second TRP. This PRS handover completion indication is used to confirm the successful completion of the RRC reconfiguration process. The PRS handover completion indication can be sent via an RRC reconfiguration completion message.

[0353] S1609, the second TRP sends PRS reconfiguration information to the terminal device, indicating that the new TRP set after the TRP switch can be implemented by incremental configuration.

[0354] S1610, the second TRP and its adjacent TRPs send PRS to the terminal device to assist the terminal device in positioning.

[0355] The following diagram illustrates the changes in the TRP set and PRS resource set before and after the TRP switch.

[0356] like Figure 17A As shown, taking TRP as an example, in the first time period, satellite #1 is the serving satellite, associated with PRS resource set #1. Neighboring satellites used to assist satellite #1 in positioning include satellite #2 and satellite #3. Satellite #2 is associated with PRS resource set #2, and satellite #3 is associated with PRS resource set #3. When the serving satellite switches from satellite #1 to satellite #2, as... Figure 17B As shown, the satellite set used for positioning is switched from {satellite #1, satellite #2, satellite #3} to {satellite #2, satellite #3, satellite #4, satellite #5}, and correspondingly, the PRS resource set used for positioning is also switched from {PRS resource set #1, PRS resource set #2, PRS resource set #3} to {PRS resource set #2, PRS resource set #3, PRS resource set #4, PRS resource set #5}.

[0357] In the embodiments described above, switching the service TRP can achieve the switching of the PRS resource set used for positioning. In other embodiments, the service TRP of the terminal device remains unchanged, and the terminal device can trigger changes to the PRS resource set and / or adjacent TRP sets based on time and / or location, as described in detail below.

[0358] Figure 18 This is a schematic flowchart of another communication method 1800 provided in an embodiment of this application. Method 1800 includes, but is not limited to, steps S1801 to S1803, which are described in detail below.

[0359] S1801, the first TRP sends first information and second information to the terminal device. The first information is used to indicate one or more PRS resource sets, and the second information is used to indicate the effective time and / or effective location of each PRS resource set in the one or more PRS. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the first information and the second information.

[0360] The first TRP is the current service TRP of the terminal device, which can also be called the reference TRP.

[0361] The first and second messages can be sent simultaneously, for example, by sending both messages through the same RRC reconfiguration message. Alternatively, the first and second messages can be sent separately, for example, by sending them through two different RRC reconfiguration messages.

[0362] For a description of the first information and the one or more PRS resources indicated by the first information, please refer to the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0363] For example, the first TRP is associated with PRS resource set #1 and PRS resource set #2, wherein PRS resource set #1 is valid in time period #1 and / or location #1, and PRS resource set #2 is valid in time period #2 and / or location #2.

[0364] S1802, the first TRP sends third information to the terminal device, indicating a switch from the second TRP set to the third TRP set. Accordingly, the terminal device receives the third information.

[0365] The second TRP set includes the first TRP and one or more neighboring TRPs of the first TRP, wherein the first TRP is the serving TRP. For ease of description, the set of one or more neighboring TRPs of the first TRP in the second TRP set is referred to as the first neighboring TRP set. The third TRP set includes the first TRP and one or more neighboring TRPs of the first TRP, wherein the first TRP is the serving TRP. For ease of description, the set of one or more neighboring TRPs of the first TRP in the third TRP set is referred to as the second neighboring TRP set. After switching from the second TRP set to the third TRP set, the serving TRP of the terminal device remains unchanged and is still the first TRP. The first neighboring TRP set and the second neighboring TRP set may be the same or different, that is, the first TRP set and the second TRP set may be the same or different.

[0366] It is understandable that the first neighboring TRP set is a set of neighboring TRPs that assists in the location of the first TRP over a period of time and / or at a different geographical location, and the second neighboring TRP set is a set of neighboring TRPs that assists in the location of the first TRP over another period of time and / or at another geographical location. The activation time and / or activation location of the first neighboring TRP set and the second neighboring TRP set are different.

[0367] Alternatively, the third information may be carried in an RRC message, MAC CE, or DCI.

[0368] In one possible implementation, the third information indicates a switch from a second TRP set to a third TRP set by indicating an active PRS resource set and / or a deactivated PRS resource set, wherein the third TRP set includes the TRPs associated with the indicated active PRS resource set.

[0369] It should be noted that the TRPs included in the first TRP set and the second TRP set may be exactly the same, partially the same, or completely different. These cases will be described in detail below.

[0370] In one possible scenario, the second TRP set and the third TRP set are the same, meaning that the second TRP set and the third TRP set include exactly the same TRPs. In other words, the TRP set used to assist the terminal device in positioning has not changed, but the PRS resource set in which some or all of the TRPs in the TRP set are active / activated has changed.

[0371] For example Figure 19A As shown, the second TRP set includes TRP#1, TRP#2, and TRP#3. During time period #1, PRS resource set #1-1 associated with TRP#1 is valid, PRS resource set #2-1 associated with TRP#2 is valid, and PRS resource set 3-1 associated with TRP#3 is valid. During time period #2, an example of the third TRP set and the effective PRS resource sets is shown below. Figures 19B to 19D As shown.

[0372] For example Figure 19B As shown, the third TRP set includes TRP#1, TRP#2, and TRP#3, with the service TRP remaining unchanged at TRP#1. During time period #2, the PRS resource set #1-2 associated with TRP#1 is valid, while PRS resource set #1-1 is invalid; the PRS resource set #2-2 associated with TRP#2 is valid, while PRS resource set #2-1 is invalid; and the PRS resource set #3-2 associated with TRP#3 is valid, while PRS resource set #3-1 is invalid.

[0373] For example Figure 19CAs shown, the third TRP set includes TRP#1, TRP#2, and TRP#3, with the service TRP remaining unchanged at TRP#1. During time period #2, the PRS resource set #1-1 associated with TRP#1 remains valid, the PRS resource set #2-2 associated with TRP#2 remains valid, and the PRS resource set #2-1 becomes invalid. Similarly, the PRS resource set #3-2 associated with TRP#3 remains valid, and the PRS resource set #3-1 becomes invalid.

[0374] In another possible scenario, the second TRP set differs from the third TRP set. For example, the third TRP set may contain more or fewer TRPs than the second TRP set. Alternatively, the second and third TRP sets may have partially overlapping TRPs, or no overlapping TRPs at all. In this case, the activation status of the PRS resource set associated with the overlapping TRPs may change at different times and / or locations, or it may remain unchanged. The activation status of the PRS resource set can also be described as the effective state of the PRS resource set.

[0375] For example Figure 19D As shown, the third TRP set includes TRP#1, TRP#3, TRP#4, and TRP#5, while the service TRP remains unchanged at TRP#1. During time period #2, the PRS resource sets #1-2 associated with TRP#1 and #3-2 associated with TRP#3 are valid, the PRS resource set #4-1 associated with TRP#4 is valid, and the PRS resource set #5-1 associated with TRP#5 is valid.

[0376] S1803, the terminal device switches from the second TRP set to the third TRP set.

[0377] Specifically, when the terminal device's clock is in the second time period and / or the terminal device is in the second location, the first PRS resource set associated with the third TRP is used to locate the terminal device. The first PRS resource set is valid during the second time period and / or at the second location, and the third TRP is any TRP in the third TRP set. Optionally, the terminal device activates the NTN configuration information associated with the first PRS resource set.

[0378] The terminal device switches from the second TRP set to the third TRP set, which can also be described as the terminal device activating the third TRP set to activate the second TRP set. Accordingly, the terminal device activates the corresponding PRS resource set according to its own clock and / or its own location.

[0379] In the embodiments of this application, the service TRP of the terminal device can remain unchanged, and the changes of the adjacent TRP set and / or PRS resource set are triggered based on time and / or location, which helps to reduce the number of TRP switching.

[0380] In one possible implementation, each PRS resource set indicated by the first information is associated with one or more NTN configuration information sets. The NTN configuration information includes one or more of the following: ephemeris information, information for uplink / downlink synchronization, scheduling information (e.g., scheduling offset), timing offset (drift), or Doppler shift. A description of the NTN configuration information can be found above and will not be repeated here.

[0381] In one possible implementation, the one or more PRS resource sets can be associated with an NTN configuration information, in which case the one or more PRS resource sets conform to QCL-TypeD by default.

[0382] In one possible implementation, the one or more PRS resource sets are associated with a positioning frequency layer, which is transmitted in the form of a reference configuration, and the one or more PRS resource sets and one or more PRS resources in each PRS resource set are transmitted in the form of a candidate configuration. A description of the positioning frequency layer can be found above and will not be repeated here.

[0383] In one possible implementation, the terminal device activates a first parameter and / or a second parameter associated with the third TRP set. The first parameter is used to determine the center position of the PRS search window, and the second parameter is used to determine the offset value of the PRS search window. A description of the first and second parameters can be found above and will not be repeated here.

[0384] Optionally, the first TRP sends a first parameter and / or a second parameter associated with the third TRP set to the terminal device, and correspondingly, the terminal device receives the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the third TRP set.

[0385] Optionally, the first TRP activates the first parameter and / or the third parameter associated with the third TRP set.

[0386] Optionally, the terminal device activates a third parameter associated with the third TRP set. This third parameter indicates the time offset of the downlink PRS resource set relative to slot 0 with system frame number 0 of the TRP. The third parameter is DL-PRS-SFN0-offset.

[0387] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

[0388] In the embodiments provided above, the method provided by the embodiments of this application is described using a terminal device and a first TRP as examples. In this application, each embodiment can be implemented independently or in combination based on certain inherent connections; in each embodiment, different implementation methods can be implemented in combination or independently. To achieve the functions in the methods provided in the embodiments of this application above, the steps executed by the terminal device can be implemented by the terminal device itself or by different functional entities constituting the terminal device. The steps executed by the first TRP can be implemented by the network device itself or by different functional entities constituting the first TRP. To achieve the functions in the methods provided in the embodiments of this application above, the terminal device and the first TRP may include hardware structures and / or software modules, implementing the above functions in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or hardware structures plus software modules. Whether a certain function is executed in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or hardware structures plus software modules depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0389] The above text combines Figure 10 or Figure 18 The communication method according to the embodiments of this application is described in detail below, in conjunction with Figure 20 and Figure 21 The present application provides a detailed description of the communication apparatus according to embodiments thereof.

[0390] Figure 20 and Figure 21 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. These communication devices can be used to implement the functions of the terminal device or the first TRP in the above method embodiments, and thus can also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiments.

[0391] like Figure 20 As shown, the communication device 2000 includes a transceiver module 2010 and a processing module 2020. The transceiver module 2010 can also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication module.

[0392] The communication device 2000 can be used to perform the actions performed by the terminal device or the first TRP in the above method embodiments. Alternatively, the communication device 2000 can be a component (e.g., a chip) configured in the terminal device or the first TRP. The processing module 2020 is used to perform processing-related operations of the terminal device or the first TRP in the above method embodiments. The transceiver module 2010 is used to perform receiving and transmitting-related operations of the terminal device or the first TRP in the above method embodiments.

[0393] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 may include a sending module and a receiving module. The sending module is used to perform the sending operation in the above method embodiments. The receiving module is used to perform the receiving operation in the above method embodiments.

[0394] It should be noted that the communication device 2000 may include a transmitting module but not a receiving module. Alternatively, the communication device 2000 may include a receiving module but not a transmitting module. This depends on whether the above-described scheme executed by the communication device 2000 includes both transmitting and receiving actions.

[0395] Optionally, the communication device 2000 is used to perform the above. Figure 10 or Figure 18 The actions performed by the terminal device or the first TRP in the illustrated embodiment. See the above for details. Figure 10 or Figure 18 The relevant descriptions in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0396] Optionally, the communication device 2000 may further include a storage module, which can be used to store data and / or to store computer programs or instructions. The processing module 2020 can read the computer programs / instructions and / or data in the storage module so that the communication device 2000 can implement the above-described method embodiments.

[0397] When the communication device 2000 is used to achieve, for example Figure 10 In the method embodiment shown, when the terminal device functions, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: send a PRS measurement report, which is used to trigger the handover of the TRP; the processing module 2020 is used to: when a handover command is received, or when the handover conditions are met, switch from the first TRP to the second TRP, and the PRS resource set associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource set associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP are used to locate the terminal device.

[0398] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is configured to: send a measurement report of the PRS when a first event is met, the first event including one or more of the following: the clock of the terminal device is at a first preset time; the PDOP is greater than or equal to a first threshold within a first duration; the rate of change of the PDOP is greater than or equal to a second threshold within a second duration; the rate of change of the positioning accuracy is greater than or equal to a third threshold within a third duration; the PRS beam coverage duration of at least N TRPs in the first TRP set is less than or equal to a fourth threshold, where N is a positive integer, the first TRP set includes the first TRP and its adjacent TRPs, or the signal quality of the PRS is less than or equal to a fifth threshold.

[0399] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: receive first configuration information, wherein the first configuration information indicates a first event.

[0400] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: receive second configuration information, the second configuration information indicating the switching condition.

[0401] Optionally, the processing module 2020 is used to: activate the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the second TRP, wherein the first parameter is used to determine the center position of the search window of the PRS, and the second parameter is used to determine the offset value of the search window of the PRS.

[0402] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: receive the on-demand synchronization signal; and the processing module 2020 is used to: complete the downlink synchronization with the second TRP based on the on-demand synchronization signal.

[0403] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is configured to: receive first information indicating one or more PRS resource sets, the one or more PRS resource sets being associated with one or more TRPs, the one or more TRPs including a second TRP.

[0404] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is configured to: receive second information, the second information being used to indicate the effective time and / or effective location corresponding to each PRS resource set in one or more PRS resource sets.

[0405] When the communication device 2000 is used to achieve, for example Figure 10 In the method embodiment shown, when the first TRP is in function, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: receive a measurement report from the PRS, which is used to trigger the switching of the TRP; and, based on the measurement report from the PRS, send a switching command, which is used to switch from the first TRP to the second TRP.

[0406] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: send first configuration information, the first configuration information indicating a first event, the first event being an event that triggers the reporting of the measurement report of the PRS.

[0407] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: send second configuration information, the second configuration information indicating switching conditions, which are used to trigger the switching of TRP.

[0408] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is configured to: send first information indicating one or more PRS resource sets, the one or more PRS resource sets being associated with one or more TRPs, the one or more TRPs including a second TRP.

[0409] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: send second information, the second information being used to indicate the effective time and / or effective location corresponding to each PRS resource set in one or more PRS resource sets.

[0410] When the communication device 2000 is used to achieve, for example Figure 18In the method embodiment shown, when the terminal device functions, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: receive first information and second information, the first information indicating one or more PRS resource sets, and the second information indicating the effective time and / or effective location of each PRS resource set in the one or more PRS resource sets; receive third information, the third information indicating a switch from a second TRP set to a third TRP set; the processing module 2020 is used to: switch from the second TRP set to the third TRP set. Wherein, when the terminal device's clock is in a second time period and / or the terminal device is in a second location, the first PRS resource set associated with the third TRP is used to locate the terminal device, the first PRS resource set is valid in the second time period and / or the second location, and the third TRP is any TRP in the third TRP set; wherein, after switching from the second TRP set to the third TRP set, the service TRP of the terminal device remains unchanged.

[0411] Optionally, the processing module 2020 is used to: activate the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the third TRP set, wherein the first parameter is used to determine the center position of the PRS search window and the second parameter is used to determine the offset value of the PRS search window.

[0412] When the communication device 2000 is used to achieve, for example Figure 18 In the method embodiment shown, when the first TRP functions, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: send first information and second information, the first information indicating one or more PRS resource sets, and the second information indicating the effective time and / or effective location corresponding to each PRS resource set in the one or more PRS resource sets; and send third information indicating a switch from the second TRP set to the third TRP set. After switching from the second TRP set to the third TRP set, the service TRP of the terminal device remains unchanged.

[0413] Optionally, the transceiver module 2010 is used to: send a first parameter and / or a second parameter associated with the third TRP set, wherein the first parameter is used to determine the center position of the search window of the PRS, and the second parameter is used to determine the offset value of the search window of the PRS.

[0414] For a more detailed description of the aforementioned transceiver module 2010 and processing module 2020, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 10 or Figure 18 The relevant descriptions in the method embodiments shown will not be repeated here.

[0415] Figure 21 This is a schematic block diagram of another communication device 2100 provided in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 21As shown, device 2100 includes one or more processors 2110 and interface circuitry 2120. The one or more processors 2110 and interface circuitry 2120 are coupled to each other. It is understood that interface circuitry 2120 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, device 2100 may also include memory 2130 for storing instructions executed by processor 2110, or for storing input data required by processor 2110 to execute instructions, or for storing data generated after processor 2110 executes instructions. Sometimes, interface circuitry 2120 can also be understood as part of the one or more processors 2110, in which case device 2100 includes the one or more processors 2110.

[0416] The one or more processors 2110 and memory 2130 can be configured separately or integrated, and this application does not limit this.

[0417] When device 2100 is used to achieve Figure 10 or Figure 18 In the method shown, the one or more processors 2110 are used to implement the functions of the processing module 2020, and the interface circuit 2120 is used to implement the functions of the transceiver module 2010.

[0418] When the aforementioned device 2100 is a chip applied to a terminal device, the chip of the terminal device implements the functions of the terminal device in the above method embodiments. The chip of the terminal device receives information from a network device (such as a first TRP or a second TRP), which can be understood as the information being first received by other modules (such as an RF module or antenna) in the terminal device, and then sent to the chip of the terminal device by these modules. The chip of the terminal device sends information to the network device, which can be understood as the information being first sent to other modules (such as an RF module or antenna) in the terminal device, and then sent to the network device by these modules.

[0419] When the aforementioned device 2100 is a chip applied to a network device (such as a first TRP or a second TRP), the chip of the network device implements the functions of the network device in the above method embodiments. The chip of the network device receives information from the terminal device, which can be understood as the information being first received by other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the network device, and then sent by these modules to the chip of the terminal device. The chip of the network device sends information to the terminal device, which can be understood as the information being first sent to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the network device, and then sent by these modules to the terminal device.

[0420] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in the above embodiments. Alternatively, the computer program includes instructions for implementing the methods described in the above embodiments.

[0421] This application also provides a computer program product, including: a computer program or instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described above.

[0422] This application also provides a chip, which includes at least one processor for supporting the implementation of the methods in the above embodiments, such as receiving or processing data involved in the methods in the above embodiments.

[0423] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the processor may be a central processing unit (CPU), or it may be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0424] The method steps in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or in software instructions executable by a processor. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disks, portable hard disks, optical discs, or any other form of storage medium well known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. The storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and the storage medium can reside in an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Alternatively, the ASIC can reside in a base station or terminal. The processor and the storage medium can also exist as discrete components in the base station or terminal.

[0425] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are performed entirely or partially. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a user equipment, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium may be a volatile or non-volatile storage medium, or may include both types of storage media.

[0426] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0427] 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: A measurement report of the Positioning Reference Signal (PRS) is sent, which is used to trigger the switching of the Transmitter Receiver Point (TRP). Upon receiving a handover command or when the handover conditions are met, the device is switched from the first TRP to the second TRP. The PRS resource set associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource set associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP are used to locate the terminal device.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The measurement report sent to the PRS includes: Upon fulfillment of the first event, a measurement report of the PRS is sent, wherein the first event includes one or more of the following: The terminal's clock is set to the first preset time. The positioning accuracy attenuation factor PDOP is greater than or equal to the first threshold within the first time period; The rate of change of PDOP within the second time period is greater than or equal to the second threshold. The rate of change of positioning accuracy within the third time period is greater than or equal to the third threshold. In the first TRP set, at least N TRPs have PRS beam coverage durations less than or equal to the fourth threshold, where N is a positive integer. The first TRP set includes the first TRP and its adjacent TRPs; or... The signal quality of PRS is less than or equal to the fifth threshold.

3. The method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive first configuration information, which indicates the first event.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second configuration information, which indicates the switching conditions.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Activate the first parameter and / or the second parameter associated with the second TRP, wherein the first parameter is used to determine the center position of the search window of the PRS, and the second parameter is used to determine the offset value of the search window of the PRS.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive on-demand synchronization signals; Based on the on-demand synchronization signal, downlink synchronization with the second TRP is completed.

7. The method as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The on-demand synchronization signal is a synchronization signal block (SSB), a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS), or a tracking reference signal (TRS).

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Before sending the measurement report of the PRS, or after switching from the first TRP to the second TRP, the method further includes: Receive first information, the first information indicating one or more PRS resource sets, the one or more PRS resource sets being associated with one or more TRPs, the one or more TRPs including the second TRP.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive second information, which is used to indicate the effective time and / or effective location of each PRS resource set in one or more PRS resource sets.

10. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The measurement report of the Positioning Reference Signal (PRS) is received, and the measurement report of the PRS is used to trigger the switching of the Transmission Receiver Point (TRP). Based on the measurement report of the PRS, a switching command is sent to switch from the first transmission receiving point (TRP) to the second TRP.

11. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send first configuration information, which indicates a first event, which is an event that triggers the PRS measurement report to be reported.

12. The method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The first event includes one or more of the following: The terminal's clock is set to the first preset time. The positioning accuracy attenuation factor PDOP is greater than or equal to the first threshold within the first time period; The rate of change of PDOP within the second time period is greater than or equal to the second threshold. The rate of change of positioning accuracy within the third time period is greater than or equal to the third threshold. In the first TRP set, at least N TRPs have a PRS beam coverage duration that is less than or equal to the fourth threshold, where N is a positive integer. The first TRP set includes the first TRP and its adjacent TRPs. or, The signal quality of PRS is less than or equal to the fifth threshold.

13. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send second configuration information, which includes switching conditions used to trigger the switching of TRP.

14. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a first message indicating one or more PRS resource sets, the one or more PRS resource sets being associated with one or more TRPs, the one or more TRPs including the second TRP.

15. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second message, which is used to indicate the effective time and / or effective location of each PRS resource set in one or more PRS resource sets.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The PRS measurement report includes one or more of the following: Signal quality of PRS in layer 1, signal quality of PRS in layer 3, PDOP, or positioning accuracy.

17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that, The switching conditions include: The clock of the terminal device is located in a first time period, and / or the terminal device is located in a first position.

18. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that, The switching command is carried in the Media Access Control Unit (MAC CE).

19. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, Each of the pre-configured PRS resource sets is associated with one or more non-terrestrial network (NTN) configuration information. The pre-configured PRS resource sets include the PRS resource sets associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource sets associated with the neighboring TRPs of the second TRP.

20. The method as described in claim 19, characterized in that, The NTN configuration information includes one or more of the following: Ephemeris information, information used for uplink and downlink synchronization, scheduling information, timing offset, or Doppler shift.

21. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that, One or more pre-configured PRS resource sets are associated with a positioning frequency layer, which is transmitted in the form of a reference configuration. The one or more PRS resource sets and one or more PRS resources in each PRS resource set are transmitted in the form of a candidate configuration. The one or more pre-configured PRS resource sets include the PRS resource sets associated with the second TRP and the PRS resource sets associated with the adjacent TRPs of the second TRP.

22. The method as described in claim 8 or 14, characterized in that, The first information is contained in the Radio Resource Control (RRC) reconfiguration message.

23. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, 16 to 22, or modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 10 to 22.

24. A communication device, characterized in that, The method includes at least one processor coupled to a memory for storing a program or instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, 16 to 22 to be performed, or cause the method as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 22 to be performed.

25. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, Used to store a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, 16 to 22 to be performed, or causes the method as described in any one of claims 10 to 22 to be performed.

26. A computer program product, characterized in that, include: A computer program or instruction that, when executed, causes the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, 16 to 22 to be performed, or causes the method as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 22 to be performed.

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