Communication method and device

Abstract

This application provides a communications method and apparatus, including: a network device transmitting a first signal to the first device on a first frequency band, the first frequency band including a downlink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, the first signal being used to energize the first device; and the network device receiving a second signal transmitted by the first device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band, the second signal including uplink data, the second frequency band including an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band including a frequency band of an unlicensed spectrum. In an embodiment of this application, the energy delivery signal is sent on the downlink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum to increase the coverage area of ​​the network device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to communication methods and devices in the field of communications. [Background technology]

[0002] With the rapid development of Internet of Things (IoT) technology, the interconnection of all things is gradually becoming a reality. However, the battery life issue of IoT terminal devices has become a major bottleneck limiting IoT development, leading to difficulties in maintaining terminal devices and a significant increase in maintenance costs. Therefore, IoT terminal devices that do not rely on batteries for power supply are an important development trend for the next generation of IoT. Passive IoT is a cellular-based Internet of Things communication technology that supports battery-free terminals.

[0003] Typically, in an Internet of Things system, IoT terminal devices can be classified into active tags, passive tags, and semi-passive tags based on their different power supply modes. Active tags include a built-in battery. Semi-passive tags partially rely on a battery to operate. Passive tags do not include a built-in battery and can supply energy by rectifying a radio frequency signal from another device and using the rectified DC voltage as a power source.

[0004] In the passive Internet of Things (IoT), communication between a base station and a passive tag is typically achieved using a backscatter communication mechanism. The widely used ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio frequency identification (RFID) system relies on the backscatter communication mechanism. The base station transmits a downlink radio frequency signal to the tag by using a frequency band in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) spectrum, which is typically reserved for passive UHF RFID systems. The tag receives the downlink radio frequency signal transmitted by the base station and transmits an uplink signal to the base station by using backscatter technology. However, in UHF RFID systems, the equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP) of the radio frequency signal transmitted by the base station is constrained to not exceed 36 decibel-milliwatts (dBm). As a result, the coverage radius of a base station does not exceed 15 meters, and the spacing between base stations is only 21 meters. In this case, the requirements of some application scenarios that require a large coverage area in a cellular passive Internet of Things system cannot be met. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of this application provide a communication method and a communication apparatus for increasing the coverage area of ​​network devices in an IoT system.

[0006] According to a first aspect, there is provided a communication method, the method including: a network device transmitting a first signal to a first device on a first frequency band, the first frequency band comprising a downlink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, the first signal being used to power the first device; and the network device receiving a second signal from the first device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band, the second signal comprising uplink data, the second frequency band comprising an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band comprising a frequency band of an unlicensed spectrum.

[0007] In particular, the frequency bands in the unlicensed spectrum may be frequency bands in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) spectrum.

[0008] Specifically, a frequency range of the first frequency band, a frequency range of the second frequency band, and a frequency range of the third frequency band may be specified in the protocol.

[0009] In particular, the first device may be a battery-free terminal device.

[0010] It should be understood that the first device may receive downlink signals, transmit uplink data, and / or the like by using the energy provided by the first signal.

[0011] The network device may be enabled to send an energy supply signal with higher power on the licensed FDD downlink frequency band, thereby extending the coverage area of ​​the network device. In addition, the network device may not only receive an uplink signal transmitted by a first device on the licensed FDD uplink frequency band, but also receive an uplink signal transmitted by a first device on the unlicensed spectrum frequency band, thereby improving the flexibility of frequency domain resource allocation.

[0012] Referring to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the network device transmitting a first signal to the first device on a first frequency band includes the network device transmitting the first signal to the first device in a first period of time in the first frequency band and the second frequency band, or the network device transmitting the first signal to the first device in a second period of time in the first frequency band and the third frequency band.

[0013] The first and second periods may be predetermined periods, or may alternatively be in units of hours or the like, although this is not a limitation of this application.

[0014] The coverage area of ​​the network device can be further extended by the network device transmitting an energy supply signal with higher power on both the licensed FDD downlink frequency band and another frequency band.

[0015] Referring to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, when the network device receives a second signal transmitted by the first device on the second frequency band, the method further includes: the network device transmitting first instruction information to the second device, the first instruction information instructing the second device to transmit a first carrier signal on the second frequency band to the first device, and the first carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device.

[0016] Specifically, the second device may be customer premises equipment (CPE), customer premises equipment, customer premises equipment, or user equipment (UE), which is not limited in this application.

[0017] Specifically, the network device may receive a second signal transmitted by the first device through backscatter.

[0018] Specifically, the first carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, which is not limited in this application.

[0019] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the first carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the first carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0020] The first device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in an FDD system. For example, the first device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by using a method in which the network device instructs another auxiliary device to transmit a carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0021] Referring to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, receiving a second signal from a first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band by a network device includes: the network device transmitting second instruction information to the third device, the second instruction information instructing the third device to transmit a third carrier signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the first device, the third carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device; and the network device receiving the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band.

[0022] Specifically, the third device may be a relay node, for example, the third device may be a handheld terminal, which is not a limitation in this application.

[0023] Specifically, the network device may receive a second signal transmitted by the first device through backscatter.

[0024] Specifically, the third carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the third carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the third carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, which is not limited in this application.

[0025] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the third carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the third carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the third carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0026] The first device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in an FDD system. For example, the first device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by using a method in which the network device instructs another auxiliary device to transmit a carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0027] Referring to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first instruction information includes at least one of a start time for transmitting the first carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the first carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the first carrier signal.

[0028] For example and not by way of limitation, the first instruction information may directly include fields indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the first carrier signal. Alternatively, the first instruction information may include other fields indirectly indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the first carrier signal.

[0029] When the first instruction information includes the above information, it is possible to accurately control the transmission of the first carrier signal.

[0030] Referring to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the second instruction information includes at least one of a start time for transmitting the third carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the third carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the third carrier signal.

[0031] For example and not limitation, the second instruction information may directly include fields indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the third carrier signal. Alternatively, the second instruction information may include other fields indirectly indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the third carrier signal.

[0032] The second instruction information includes the above information, so that the transmission of the third carrier signal can be accurately controlled.

[0033] Referring to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, when the network device receives a second signal transmitted by the first device on the second frequency band, the method further includes: the network device transmits a second carrier signal on the second frequency band to the first device, the second carrier signal is used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device, and the power of the second carrier signal transmitted by the network device is less than the power of the first signal transmitted by the network device.

[0034] It should be understood that the network device can transmit a second carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band, and the network device can also simultaneously receive a second signal from the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0035] Specifically, the network device may receive a second signal transmitted by the first device through backscatter.

[0036] Specifically, the second carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0037] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the second carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the second carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0038] Also, the power of the second carrier signal transmitted by the network device may be less than the power of the first signal transmitted by the network device, or may be less than the power of another downlink signal transmitted by the network device to the first device.

[0039] According to the above method, the network device can transmit a second carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band, but the power of the second carrier signal must be smaller than the power of the energy supply signal (e.g., the first signal), or the power of the second carrier signal must be smaller than the power of another downlink signal, which can reduce blocking interference at the network device side and avoid modifications that need to be made to hardware for interference cancellation or interference suppression.

[0040] Referring to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, when the network device receives a second signal transmitted by the first device on a third frequency band, the method further includes: the network device transmitting a second carrier signal on the third frequency band to the first device, and the second carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device.

[0041] Specifically, the network device may receive a second signal transmitted by the first device through backscatter.

[0042] Specifically, the second carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0043] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the second carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the second carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0044] The problem that the first device does not support frequency shifting when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by using the above-mentioned method, in which the network device transmits a carrier signal to the first device on an unlicensed frequency band having a power limitation.

[0045] Referring to the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes the network device transmitting a third signal to the first device on the first frequency band or the third frequency band, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit the second signal.

[0046] The network device can not only transmit a signal to the first device on the first frequency band, but also transmit a signal to the first device on the third frequency band, thereby improving the flexibility of transmitting signals and achieving high communication efficiency. In addition, in order to appropriately allocate frequency domain resources, the network device can select the first frequency band to transmit a signal with a high transmission power requirement and further select the third frequency band to transmit a signal with a low transmission frequency requirement.

[0047] According to a second aspect, there is provided a communication method, the method including: a first device receiving a first signal from a network device on a first frequency band, the first frequency band comprising a downlink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, the first signal being used to provide energy to the first device; and the first device transmitting a second signal to the network device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band, the second signal comprising uplink data, the second frequency band comprising an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band comprising a frequency band of an unlicensed spectrum.

[0048] In particular, the frequency bands of the unlicensed spectrum may be frequency bands of the ISM spectrum.

[0049] Specifically, a frequency range of the first frequency band, a frequency range of the second frequency band, and a frequency range of the third frequency band may be specified in the protocol.

[0050] In particular, the first device may be a battery-free terminal device.

[0051] It should be understood that the first device may receive downlink signals, transmit uplink data, and / or the like by using the energy provided by the first signal.

[0052] The first device may be enabled to receive an energy supply signal having a higher power from the network device on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD. Thus, the coverage area of ​​the network device may be extended. In addition, the first device may not only transmit an uplink signal to the network device on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD, but also transmit an uplink signal to the network device on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, thereby improving the flexibility of frequency domain resource allocation.

[0053] Referring to the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first device receiving a first signal from a network device on a first frequency band includes the first device receiving the first signal from the network device in a first period in the first frequency band and the second frequency band, or the first device receiving the first signal from the network device in a second period in the first frequency band and the third frequency band.

[0054] The first and second periods may be predetermined periods, or may alternatively be in units of hours or the like, although this is not a limitation of this application.

[0055] The first device can receive an energy supply signal with higher power from the network device on both the licensed FDD downlink frequency band and another frequency band, thereby extending the coverage area of ​​the network device.

[0056] Referring to the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, when the first device transmits a second signal to the network device on a second frequency band, the method further includes the first device receiving a first carrier signal from the second device on the second frequency band, and the first carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device.

[0057] Specifically, the second device may be customer premises equipment (CPE), customer premises equipment, customer premises equipment, or user equipment (UE), which is not limited in this application.

[0058] Specifically, the first device may transmit a second signal to the network device through backscatter.

[0059] Specifically, the first carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0060] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the first carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the first carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0061] The first device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in an FDD system. For example, the first device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by using a method in which the network device instructs another auxiliary device to transmit a carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0062] Referring to the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: the first device receiving a third carrier signal from the third device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; and the third carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit a second signal to the network device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band.

[0063] Specifically, the third device may be a relay node, for example, the third device may be a handheld terminal, which is not a limitation in this application.

[0064] Specifically, the first device may transmit a second signal to the network device through backscatter.

[0065] Specifically, the third carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the third carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the third carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0066] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the third carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the third carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the third carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0067] The first device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in an FDD system. For example, the first device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by using a method in which the network device instructs another auxiliary device to transmit a carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0068] Referring to the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, when the first device transmits a second signal to the network device on a second frequency band, the method further includes: the first device receiving a second carrier signal from the network device on the second frequency band, the second carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device, and the power of the second carrier signal being less than the power of the first signal.

[0069] Specifically, the first device may transmit a second signal to the network device through backscatter.

[0070] It should be understood that the first device can receive a second carrier signal from the network device on the FDD uplink frequency band, and the first device can further simultaneously transmit a second signal to the network device on the FDD uplink frequency band by using the second carrier signal.

[0071] Specifically, the first device may transmit a second signal to the network device through backscatter.

[0072] Specifically, the second carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0073] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the second carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the second carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0074] Also, the power of the second carrier signal may be less than the power of the first signal, or may be less than the power of another downlink signal received by the first device from the network device.

[0075] According to the above method, the network device can transmit a second carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band, but the power of the second carrier signal must be smaller than the power of the energy supply signal (e.g., the first signal), or the power of the second carrier signal must be smaller than the power of another downlink signal, which can reduce blocking interference at the network device side and avoid modifications that need to be made to hardware for interference cancellation or interference suppression.

[0076] Referring to the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, when the first device transmits a second signal to the network device on a third frequency band, the method further includes: the first device receiving a second carrier signal from the network device on the third frequency band, and the second carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device.

[0077] Specifically, the first device may transmit a second signal to the network device through backscatter.

[0078] Specifically, the second carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0079] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the second carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the second carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0080] The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shifting when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by using the above-described method of receiving, by the first device, a carrier signal transmitted by a network device on an unlicensed frequency band having a power limitation.

[0081] Referring to the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes the first device receiving a third signal from the network device on the first frequency band or the third frequency band, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit the second signal.

[0082] The first device can not only receive signals transmitted by the network device on the first frequency band, but also receive signals transmitted by the network device on the third frequency band, thereby improving the flexibility of transmitting signals and achieving high communication efficiency. In addition, in order to appropriately allocate frequency domain resources, the network device can select the first frequency band for transmitting signals with high transmission power requirements and further select the third frequency band for transmitting signals with low transmission frequency requirements.

[0083] According to a third aspect, there is provided a communication method, the method including: a second device receiving first instruction information from a network device, the first instruction information instructing the second device to transmit a first carrier signal on a second frequency band to the first device, the second frequency band including an uplink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, the first carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit a second signal to the network device, the second signal including uplink data, and the second device transmitting the first carrier signal on the second frequency band to the first device.

[0084] Specifically, the frequency range of the second frequency band may be specified in the protocol.

[0085] Specifically, the second device may be customer premises equipment (CPE), customer premises equipment, customer premises equipment, or user equipment (UE), which is not limited in this application.

[0086] Specifically, the second signal may be transmitted by the first device to the network device through backscattering.

[0087] Specifically, the first carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0088] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the first carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the first carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0089] The first device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in an FDD system. For example, the first device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by using a method in which a network device instructs a second device to transmit a carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0090] Referring to the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the first instruction information includes at least one of a start time for transmitting the first carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the first carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the first carrier signal.

[0091] For example and not by way of limitation, the first instruction information may directly include fields indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the first carrier signal. Alternatively, the first instruction information may include other fields indirectly indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the first carrier signal.

[0092] When the first instruction information includes the above information, it is possible to accurately control the transmission of the first carrier signal.

[0093] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of communications, the method including: a network device transmitting a first signal to a first device during a first time period, the first time period including a downlink time period of a licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum, the first signal being used to provide energy to the first device; and the network device receiving a second signal from the first device during a second time period, the second signal including uplink data, the second time period including an uplink time period of the licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum.

[0094] In particular, the first device may be a battery-free terminal device.

[0095] It should be understood that the first device may receive downlink signals, transmit uplink data, and / or the like by using the energy provided by the first signal.

[0096] In particular, the licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum may be a licensed frequency band, and the frequency range of the licensed frequency band may be specified in the protocol.

[0097] Network devices may be enabled to transmit energy supply signals with higher power on licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum, thus extending the coverage area of ​​the network devices.

[0098] Referring to the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes the network device transmitting a third signal to the first device during a first period of time, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit the second signal.

[0099] It should be understood that the second signal may be reported independently by the first device to the network device or may be reported based on a request from the network device, which is not a limitation of this application.

[0100] Referring to the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes the network device transmitting a fourth carrier signal to the first device during a second period, the fourth carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit a second signal to the network device, and the power of the fourth carrier signal transmitted by the network device being less than the power of the first signal transmitted by the network device, or the power of the fourth carrier signal transmitted by the network device being less than the power of the third signal transmitted by the network device.

[0101] According to the above method, the network device can transmit a fourth carrier signal to the first device on the licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum, but the power of the fourth carrier signal must be less than the power of the energy supply signal (e.g., the first signal), or the power of the fourth carrier signal must be less than the power of another downlink signal (e.g., the third signal), which can reduce blocking interference at the network device side and avoid modifications that need to be made to hardware for interference cancellation or interference suppression.

[0102] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a communication method, the method including: a third device transmitting a third signal on a second frequency band to a first device, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit a second signal; and the third device receiving the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band, the second signal including uplink data.

[0103] Alternatively, the method includes the third device transmitting a third signal to the first device on a third frequency band, and the third device receiving a second signal from the first device on the third frequency band.

[0104] The second frequency band comprises an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band comprises a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum.

[0105] Specifically, the third device may be a relay node, for example, a handheld terminal, which is not a limitation in this application.

[0106] Referring to the fifth aspect, in some implementations of the fifth aspect, the method further includes: the third device transmitting a fourth carrier signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the first device, and the fourth carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit a second signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the third device.

[0107] Specifically, the third device may receive the second signal transmitted by the first device through backscatter.

[0108] Specifically, the fourth carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the third device can be as follows: the fourth carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the fourth carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, which is not limited in this application.

[0109] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the fourth carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the fourth carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the fourth carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0110] The first device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in an FDD system. For example, the first device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by using a method in which the third device transmits a carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0111] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a communication method, the method including: a first device receiving a third signal from a third device on a second frequency band, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit a second signal; and the first device transmitting the second signal on the second frequency band to the third device, the second signal including uplink data.

[0112] Alternatively, the method includes the first device receiving a third signal from a third device on a third frequency band, and the first device transmitting a second signal to the third device on the third frequency band.

[0113] The second frequency band comprises an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band comprises a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum.

[0114] Specifically, the third device may be a relay node, for example, a handheld terminal, which is not a limitation in this application.

[0115] Referring to the sixth aspect, in some implementations of the sixth aspect, the method further includes the first device receiving a first signal from the network device on a first frequency band, the first frequency band including a downlink frequency band of an FDD spectrum, and the first signal being used to supply energy to the first device.

[0116] The first device may be enabled to receive an energy supply signal with higher power from the network device on the licensed FDD downlink frequency band, thereby extending the coverage area of ​​the network device.

[0117] Referring to the sixth aspect, in some implementations of the sixth aspect, the first device receiving a first signal from a network device on a first frequency band includes the first device receiving the first signal from the network device in a first period in the first frequency band and the second frequency band, or the first device receiving the first signal from the network device in a second period in the first frequency band and the third frequency band.

[0118] The first and second periods may be predetermined periods, or may alternatively be in units of hours or the like, although this is not a limitation of this application.

[0119] The first device can receive an energy supply signal with higher power from the network device on both the licensed FDD downlink frequency band and another frequency band, thereby extending the coverage area of ​​the network device.

[0120] Referring to the sixth aspect, in some implementations of the sixth aspect, the method further includes: the first device receiving a fourth carrier signal from the third device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; and the fourth carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit a second signal to the third device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band.

[0121] Specifically, the third device may receive the second signal transmitted by the first device through backscatter.

[0122] Specifically, the fourth carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the third device can be as follows: the fourth carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the fourth carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, which is not limited in this application.

[0123] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the fourth carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the fourth carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the fourth carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0124] The first device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in an FDD system. For example, the first device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by using a method in which the third device transmits a carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0125] According to a seventh aspect, there is provided a communications apparatus, the apparatus including: a transmitting unit configured to transmit a first signal to a first device on a first frequency band, the first frequency band comprising a downlink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, the first signal being used to provide energy to the first device; and a receiving unit configured to receive a second signal from the first device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band, the second signal comprising uplink data, the second frequency band comprising an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band comprising a frequency band of an unlicensed spectrum.

[0126] In particular, the frequency bands of the unlicensed spectrum may be frequency bands of the ISM spectrum.

[0127] Specifically, a frequency range of the first frequency band, a frequency range of the second frequency band, and a frequency range of the third frequency band may be specified in the protocol.

[0128] In particular, the first device may be a battery-free terminal device.

[0129] It should be understood that the first device may receive downlink signals, transmit uplink data, and / or the like by using the energy provided by the first signal.

[0130] The device may be enabled to send an energy supply signal with higher power on the licensed FDD downlink frequency band, thereby extending the coverage area of ​​the device. In addition, the device may not only receive an uplink signal transmitted by the first device on the licensed FDD uplink frequency band, but also receive an uplink signal transmitted by the first device on the unlicensed spectrum frequency band, thereby improving the flexibility of frequency domain resource allocation.

[0131] Referring to the seventh aspect, in some implementations of the seventh aspect, being configured to transmit a first signal to a first device on a first frequency band further includes being configured to transmit the first signal to the first device in a first period in the first frequency band and a second frequency band, or being configured to transmit the first signal to the first device in a second period in the first frequency band and a third frequency band.

[0132] Referring to the seventh aspect, in some implementations of the seventh aspect, when the receiving unit is configured to receive a second signal from the first device on a second frequency band, the transmitting unit is further configured to transmit first instruction information to the second device, where the first instruction information instructs the second device to transmit a first carrier signal to the first device on the second frequency band, and the first carrier signal is used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device.

[0133] Specifically, the second device may be customer premises equipment (CPE), customer premises equipment, customer premises equipment, or user equipment (UE), which is not limited in this application.

[0134] Specifically, the apparatus may receive a second signal transmitted by a first device through backscatter.

[0135] Specifically, the first carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the device can be as follows: the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0136] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the first carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the first carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0137] The first device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in an FDD system. For example, the first device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem that the first device does not support frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by the apparatus instructing another auxiliary device to transmit a carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0138] Referring to the seventh aspect, in some implementations of the seventh aspect, being configured such that the receiving unit receives a second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band includes: a transmitting unit configured to transmit second instruction information to the third device, the second instruction information instructing the third device to transmit a third carrier signal to the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band, the third carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the communication apparatus; and the receiving unit further configured to receive the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band.

[0139] Referring to the seventh aspect, in some implementations of the seventh aspect, the first instruction information includes at least one of a start time for transmitting the first carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the first carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the first carrier signal.

[0140] For example and not by way of limitation, the first instruction information may directly include fields indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the first carrier signal. Alternatively, the first instruction information may include other fields indirectly indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the first carrier signal.

[0141] When the first instruction information includes the above information, it is possible to accurately control the transmission of the first carrier signal.

[0142] Referring to the seventh aspect, in some implementations of the seventh aspect, the second instruction information includes at least one of a start time for transmitting the third carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the third carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the third carrier signal.

[0143] Referring to the seventh aspect, in some implementations of the seventh aspect, when the receiving unit is configured to receive a second signal from the first device on a second frequency band, the transmitting unit is further configured to transmit a second carrier signal on the second frequency band to the first device, the second carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the device, and the power of the second carrier signal transmitted by the device being smaller than the power of the first signal transmitted by the device.

[0144] It should be understood that the device can transmit a second carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band, and the device can also simultaneously receive a second signal from the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0145] Specifically, the apparatus may receive a second signal transmitted by a first device through backscatter.

[0146] Specifically, the second carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the device can be as follows: the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0147] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the second carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the second carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0148] Furthermore, the power of the second carrier signal transmitted by the device may be less than the power of the first signal transmitted by the device, or may be less than the power of another downlink signal transmitted by the device to the first device.

[0149] The device can transmit a second carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band, but the power of the second carrier signal must be smaller than the power of the energy supply signal (e.g., the first signal), or the power of the second carrier signal must be smaller than the power of another downlink signal, which can reduce blocking interference at the device side and avoid modifications that need to be made to hardware for interference cancellation or interference suppression.

[0150] Referring to the seventh aspect, in some implementations of the seventh aspect, when the receiving unit is configured to receive a second signal from the first device on a third frequency band, the transmitting unit is further configured to transmit a second carrier signal on the third frequency band to the first device, and the second carrier signal is used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the apparatus.

[0151] Specifically, the apparatus may receive a second signal transmitted by a first device through backscatter.

[0152] Specifically, the second carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the device can be as follows: the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0153] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the second carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the second carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0154] The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shifting when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by the apparatus transmitting a carrier signal to the first device on an unlicensed frequency band having a power limitation.

[0155] Referring to the fifth aspect, in some implementations of the fifth aspect, the transmitting unit is further configured to transmit a third signal to the first device on the first frequency band or the third frequency band, and the third signal is used to request the first device to transmit the second signal.

[0156] The apparatus can not only transmit a signal to the first device on a first frequency band, but also transmit a signal to the first device on a third frequency band, thereby improving the flexibility of transmitting signals and achieving high communication efficiency. In addition, the apparatus can select the first frequency band for transmitting a signal with a high transmission power requirement and further select the third frequency band for transmitting a signal with a low transmission frequency requirement in order to appropriately allocate frequency domain resources.

[0157] According to an eighth aspect, there is provided a communications apparatus, the apparatus including: a receiving unit configured to receive a first signal from a network device on a first frequency band, the first frequency band comprising a downlink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, the first signal being used to power the apparatus; and a transmitting unit configured to transmit a second signal to the network device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band, the second signal comprising uplink data, the second frequency band comprising an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band comprising a frequency band of an unlicensed spectrum.

[0158] In particular, the frequency bands of the unlicensed spectrum may be frequency bands of the ISM spectrum.

[0159] Specifically, a frequency range of the first frequency band, a frequency range of the second frequency band, and a frequency range of the third frequency band may be specified in the protocol.

[0160] In particular, the apparatus may be a battery-free terminal device.

[0161] It should be understood that the device may receive downlink signals, transmit uplink data, and / or the like, by using the energy provided by the first signal.

[0162] The device may be enabled to receive an energy supply signal with higher power from a network device on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD, thereby extending the coverage area of ​​the network device. In addition, the device may not only transmit an uplink signal to a network device on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD, but also transmit an uplink signal to a network device on a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, thereby improving the flexibility of frequency domain resource allocation.

[0163] Referring to the eighth aspect, in some implementations of the eighth aspect, configuring the receiving unit to receive a first signal from a network device on a first frequency band includes configuring the receiving unit to receive the first signal from the network device in a first period of time in the first frequency band and the second frequency band, or configuring the receiving unit to receive the first signal from the network device in a second period of time in the first frequency band and the third frequency band.

[0164] Referring to the eighth aspect, in some implementations of the eighth aspect, when the transmitting unit is configured to transmit a second signal to the network device on a second frequency band, the receiving unit is further configured to receive a first carrier signal from the second device on the second frequency band, and the first carrier signal is used by the apparatus to transmit the second signal to the network device.

[0165] Specifically, the second device may be customer premises equipment (CPE), customer premises equipment, customer premises equipment, or user equipment (UE), which is not limited in this application.

[0166] Specifically, the apparatus may transmit a second signal to the network device through backscatter.

[0167] Specifically, the first carrier signal used by the device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted to the network device as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted to the network device as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0168] Alternatively, the device may generate a new carrier signal based on the first carrier signal and use the new carrier signal to transmit the second signal. Whether the device directly uses the first carrier signal to transmit the second signal or the device uses a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal to transmit the second signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0169] The device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in an FDD system. For example, the device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem of the device not supporting frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by the network device instructing another auxiliary device to transmit a carrier signal to the device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0170] Referring to the eighth aspect, in some implementations of the eighth aspect, the receiving unit is further configured to receive a third carrier signal from a third device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band, and the third carrier signal is used by the communication device to transmit a second signal to a network device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band.

[0171] Referring to the eighth aspect, in some implementations of the eighth aspect, when the transmitting unit is configured to transmit a second signal to the network device on a second frequency band, the receiving unit is further configured to receive a second carrier signal from the network device, and the second carrier signal is used by the apparatus to transmit the second signal to the network device, and the power of the second carrier signal is smaller than the power of the first signal.

[0172] Specifically, the apparatus may transmit a second signal to the network device through backscatter.

[0173] It should be understood that the device can receive a second carrier signal from a network device on the FDD uplink frequency band, and the device can further simultaneously transmit a second signal to the network device on the FDD uplink frequency band by using the second carrier signal.

[0174] Specifically, the apparatus may transmit a second signal to the network device through backscatter.

[0175] Specifically, the second carrier signal used by the device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted to the network device as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted to the network device as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0176] Alternatively, the device may generate a new carrier signal based on the second carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the device transmits the second signal directly using the second carrier signal or the device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0177] Additionally, the power of the second carrier signal may be less than the power of the first signal or may be less than the power of another downlink signal received by the apparatus from a network device.

[0178] The network device can transmit a second carrier signal to the device on the FDD uplink frequency band, but the power of the second carrier signal must be less than the power of the energy supply signal (e.g., the first signal), or the power of the second carrier signal must be less than the power of another downlink signal, which can reduce blocking interference at the network device side and avoid modifications that need to be made to hardware for interference cancellation or interference suppression.

[0179] Referring to the eighth aspect, in some implementations of the eighth aspect, when the transmitting unit is configured to transmit a second signal to the network device on a third frequency band, the receiving unit is further configured to receive a second carrier signal from the network device on the third frequency band, and the second carrier signal is used by the apparatus to transmit the second signal to the network device.

[0180] Specifically, the apparatus may transmit a second signal to the network device through backscatter.

[0181] Specifically, the second carrier signal used by the device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted to the network device as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted to the network device as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0182] Alternatively, the device may generate a new carrier signal based on the second carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the device transmits the second signal directly using the second carrier signal or the device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the second carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0183] The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shifting when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by the device receiving a carrier signal transmitted by a network device on an unlicensed frequency band having a power limitation.

[0184] Referring to the eighth aspect, in some implementations of the eighth aspect, the receiving unit is further configured to receive a third signal from the network device on the first frequency band or the third frequency band, and the third signal is used to request the first device to transmit the second signal.

[0185] The network device can not only transmit signals to the device on the first frequency band, but also transmit signals to the device on the third frequency band, thereby improving the flexibility of transmitting signals and achieving high communication efficiency. In addition, in order to appropriately allocate frequency domain resources, the network device can select the first frequency band to transmit signals with high transmission power requirements and further select the third frequency band to transmit signals with low transmission frequency requirements.

[0186] According to a ninth aspect, there is provided a communications apparatus, the apparatus including: a receiving unit configured to receive first instruction information from a network device, the first instruction information instructing the apparatus to transmit a first carrier signal on a second frequency band to the first device, the second frequency band comprising an uplink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex (FDD) spectrum, the first carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit a second signal to the network device, the second signal comprising uplink data; and a transmitting unit configured to transmit the first carrier signal on the second frequency band to the first device.

[0187] Specifically, the frequency range of the second frequency band may be specified in the protocol.

[0188] Specifically, the device may be customer premises equipment (CPE), customer premises equipment, customer premise equipment, or user equipment (UE), which is not a limitation in this application.

[0189] Specifically, the second signal may be transmitted by the first device to the network device through backscattering.

[0190] Specifically, the first carrier signal used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device can be as follows: the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal carries uplink data and is transmitted as the second signal, or the like, which is not limited in this application.

[0191] Alternatively, the first device may generate a new carrier signal based on the first carrier signal and transmit the second signal using the new carrier signal. Whether the first device transmits the second signal directly using the first carrier signal or the first device transmits the second signal using a new carrier signal generated based on the first carrier signal, it is within the scope of protection of this application.

[0192] The first device cannot support frequency shift within a certain range when transmitting an uplink signal in the FDD system. For example, the first device can receive a first signal and a subsequent third signal, etc., on the FDD downlink frequency band, but cannot support transmission of a second signal on the FDD uplink frequency band. The problem of the first device not supporting frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in the FDD system can be solved by the network device instructing the network device to transmit a carrier signal to the first device on the FDD uplink frequency band.

[0193] Referring to the ninth aspect, in some implementations of the ninth aspect, the first instruction information includes at least one of a start time for transmitting the first carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the first carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the first carrier signal.

[0194] For example and not by way of limitation, the first instruction information may directly include fields indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the first carrier signal. Alternatively, the first instruction information may include other fields indirectly indicating the start time, duration, transmission power, etc. for transmitting the first carrier signal.

[0195] When the first instruction information includes the above information, it is possible to accurately control the transmission of the first carrier signal.

[0196] According to a tenth aspect, there is provided a communications apparatus, the apparatus including: a transmitting unit configured to transmit a first signal to a first device during a first time period, the first time period comprising a downlink time period of a licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum, the first signal being used to provide energy to the first device; and a receiving unit configured to receive a second signal from the first device during a second time period, the second signal comprising uplink data, the second time period comprising an uplink time period of the licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum.

[0197] In particular, the first device may be a battery-free terminal device.

[0198] It should be understood that the first device may receive downlink signals, transmit uplink data, and / or the like by using the energy provided by the first signal.

[0199] In particular, the licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum may be a licensed frequency band, and the frequency range of the licensed frequency band may be specified in the protocol.

[0200] The device may be enabled to transmit an energy supply signal with higher power on the licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum, thus extending the coverage area of ​​the device.

[0201] Referring to the tenth aspect, in some implementations of the tenth aspect, the transmitting unit is further configured to transmit a third signal to the first device during the first period, and the third signal is used to request the first device to transmit the second signal.

[0202] It should be understood that the second signal may be reported independently by the first device to the apparatus or may be reported based on a request from the apparatus, which is not a limitation of this application.

[0203] Referring to the tenth aspect, in some implementations of the tenth aspect, the transmitting unit is further configured to transmit a fourth carrier signal to the first device during a first period, the fourth carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit a second signal to the device, and the power of the fourth carrier signal transmitted by the device being less than the power of the first signal transmitted by the device, or the power of the fourth carrier signal transmitted by the device being less than the power of the third signal transmitted by the device.

[0204] The device can transmit a fourth carrier signal to the first device on the licensed time division duplex TDD spectrum, but the power of the fourth carrier signal must be less than the power of the energy supply signal (e.g., the first signal) or the power of the fourth carrier signal must be less than the power of another downlink signal (e.g., the third signal), which can reduce blocking interference at the device side and avoid modifications that need to be made to hardware for interference cancellation or interference suppression.

[0205] According to an eleventh aspect, there is provided a communications apparatus, the apparatus including: a transmitting unit configured to transmit a third signal to a first device on a second frequency band, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit a second signal; and a receiving unit configured to receive a second signal from the first device on the second frequency band, the second signal including uplink data.

[0206] Alternatively, the transmitting unit is configured to transmit a third signal to the first device on a third frequency band, and the receiving unit is configured to receive a second signal from the first device on the third frequency band.

[0207] The second frequency band comprises an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band comprises a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum.

[0208] Referring to the eleventh aspect, in some implementations of the eleventh aspect, the transmitting unit is further configured to transmit a fourth carrier signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the first device, and the fourth carrier signal is used by the first device to transmit a second signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the communication apparatus.

[0209] According to a twelfth aspect, there is provided a communications apparatus, the apparatus including: a receiving unit configured to receive a third signal from a third device on a second frequency band, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit a second signal; and a transmitting unit configured to transmit the second signal on the second frequency band to the third device, the second signal including uplink data.

[0210] Alternatively, the transmitting unit is configured to receive a third signal from a third device on a third frequency band, and the receiving unit is configured to transmit a second signal to the third device on the third frequency band.

[0211] The second frequency band comprises an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band comprises a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum.

[0212] Referring to the twelfth aspect, in some implementations of the twelfth aspect, the receiving unit is further configured to receive a first signal from the network device on a first frequency band, the first frequency band including a downlink frequency band of an FDD spectrum, and the first signal is used to supply energy to the first device.

[0213] Referring to the twelfth aspect, in some implementations of the twelfth aspect, the receiving unit being further configured to receive a first signal from the network device on a first frequency band includes the receiving unit being further configured to receive the first signal from the network device in a first period of time in the first frequency band and the second frequency band, or the receiving unit being further configured to receive the first signal from the network device in a second period of time in the first frequency band and the third frequency band.

[0214] Referring to the twelfth aspect, in some implementations of the twelfth aspect, the receiving unit is further configured to receive a fourth carrier signal from a third device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band, and the fourth carrier signal is used by the communication device to transmit a second signal to the third device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band.

[0215] According to a thirteenth aspect, there is provided a communication device. The device may be a network device, a part of the network device (e.g., a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or a logical module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the network device. The device has a function of performing the first aspect, the fourth aspect, and possible implementations of the first aspect and the fourth aspect. The function may be implemented by hardware, or may be implemented by executing corresponding software by hardware. The hardware or the software includes one or more modules corresponding to the function.

[0216] In one possible design, the device includes a receiving unit and a transmitting unit. The receiving unit and the transmitting unit may be at least one of a transceiver, a receiver, and a transmitter. The receiving unit and the transmitting unit may include a radio frequency circuit or an antenna. Optionally, the device further includes a processing unit, which may be a processor. Optionally, the device further includes a storage unit, which may be, for example, a storage. When the device includes the storage unit, the storage unit is configured to store a program or instructions. The processing unit may be coupled to the storage unit, and the processing unit may execute the program or instructions stored in the storage unit or instructions from another source, thereby enabling the device to perform the communication method according to the first aspect, the fourth aspect, and possible implementations of the first and fourth aspects. In this design, the device may be a network device.

[0217] In another possible design, when the apparatus is a chip, the chip includes a receiving unit, a transmitting unit, and a processing unit. The receiving unit and the transmitting unit may be, for example, input / output interfaces, pins, or circuits within the chip. The processing unit may be, for example, a processor. The processing unit may execute instructions to enable the chip in the network device to perform a communication method according to any one of the first aspect, the fourth aspect, and possible implementations of the first and fourth aspects. Optionally, the processing unit may execute instructions in a storage unit, which may be a storage module, such as a register or a cache, within the chip. The storage unit may instead be located within the communication device but external to the chip, such as, for example, a read-only memory (ROM) or another type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, or a random access memory (RAM).

[0218] Any of the above mentioned processors may be a general purpose central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits configured to control program execution of the communication methods according to the first and fourth aspects.

[0219] According to a fourteenth aspect, there is provided a communication device. The device may be a first device, a part of the first device (e.g., a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first device. The device has a function of performing the second aspect, the sixth aspect, and possible implementations of the second aspect and the sixth aspect. The function may be implemented by hardware, or may be implemented by executing corresponding software by hardware. The hardware or the software includes one or more modules corresponding to the function.

[0220] In one possible design, the device includes a receiving unit and a transmitting unit, which may be, for example, at least one of a transceiver, a receiver, and a transmitter, and which may include a radio frequency circuit or an antenna.

[0221] Optionally, the apparatus further comprises a processing unit, which may be a processor.

[0222] Optionally, the device further includes a storage unit, which can be, for example, a storage. When the device includes the storage unit, the storage unit is configured to store a program or instruction. The processing unit is connected to the storage unit, and the processing unit may execute the program or instruction stored in the storage unit or instructions from another source, thereby enabling the device to perform a method according to any one of the second aspect, the sixth aspect, or possible implementations of the second aspect and the sixth aspect.

[0223] In another possible design, when the device is a chip, the chip includes a receiving unit and a transmitting unit, which may be, for example, an input / output interface, pins, or circuits within the chip.

[0224] Optionally, the apparatus may further include a processing unit, which may be, for example, a processor, and the processing module may execute programs or instructions to enable the chip in the first device to perform the communication method according to any one of the second aspect, the sixth aspect, and possible implementations of the second and sixth aspects.

[0225] Optionally, the processing unit may execute instructions in a storage unit, which may be a storage module, such as a register or cache, within the chip. The storage unit may alternatively be located within the first device but external to the chip, such as a read-only memory (ROM) or another type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, or a random access memory (RAM).

[0226] Any of the above mentioned processors may be a general purpose central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits configured to control program execution of the communication methods according to the second and sixth aspects.

[0227] According to a fifteenth aspect, there is provided a communication device. The device may be a second device or a third device, may be a part of the second device or the third device (e.g., a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or may be a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second device or the third device. The device has a function for implementing the third aspect, the fifth aspect, and possible implementations of the third aspect and the fifth aspect. The function may be implemented by hardware, or may be implemented by executing corresponding software by hardware. The hardware or the software includes one or more modules corresponding to the function.

[0228] In one possible design, the device includes a receiving unit and a transmitting unit, which may be, for example, at least one of a transceiver, a receiver, and a transmitter, and which may include a radio frequency circuit or an antenna.

[0229] Optionally, the apparatus further comprises a processing unit, which may be a processor.

[0230] Optionally, the device further includes a storage unit, which can be, for example, a storage. When the device includes the storage unit, the storage unit is configured to store a program or instruction. The processing unit is connected to the storage unit, and the processing unit may execute the program or instruction stored in the storage unit or instructions from another source, thereby enabling the device to perform a method according to any one of the third aspect, the fifth aspect, or possible implementations of the third aspect and the fifth aspect.

[0231] In another possible design, when the device is a chip, the chip includes a receiving unit and a transmitting unit, which may be, for example, an input / output interface, pins, or circuits within the chip.

[0232] Optionally, the apparatus may further include a processing unit, which may be, for example, a processor, and the processing module may execute programs or instructions to enable the chip in the second device or the third device to perform the communication method according to any one of the third aspect, the fifth aspect, and possible implementations of the third and fifth aspects.

[0233] Optionally, the processing unit may execute instructions in a storage unit, which may be a storage module, such as a register or cache, within the chip. The storage unit may alternatively be located within a second or third device but external to the chip, such as a read-only memory (ROM) or another type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, or a random access memory (RAM).

[0234] Any of the above mentioned processors may be a general purpose central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits configured to control program execution of the communication methods according to the third and fifth aspects.

[0235] According to a sixteenth aspect, there is provided a computer storage medium having program code stored thereon, the program code representing instructions for performing a method according to any one of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth aspects and possible implementations of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth aspects.

[0236] According to a seventeenth aspect, there is provided a computer program product comprising computer instructions or computer code which, when executed on a computer, enables the computer to carry out a method according to any one of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth aspects and possible implementations of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth aspects.

[0237] According to an eighteenth aspect, there is provided a communication system including at least one of an apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the first aspect, an apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the second aspect, an apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the third aspect, an apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the fourth aspect, an apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the fifth aspect, and an apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the sixth aspect. The apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the first aspect or the fourth aspect may be a network device, the apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the second aspect or the sixth aspect may be a first device, the apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the third aspect may be a second device, and the apparatus capable of implementing the method and possible designs of the fifth aspect may be a third device.

[0238] Specifically, for the advantageous effects of other aspects, please refer to the advantageous effects described in the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth aspects. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0239] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a communication scenario applicable to an embodiment of this application. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram of a frequency domain resource allocation method according to the present application. [Figure 3]4 is a schematic flow chart of another frequency domain resource allocation method according to the present application; [Figure 4] 4 is a schematic flow chart of another frequency domain resource allocation method according to the present application; [Figure 5] 4 is a schematic flow chart of another time domain resource allocation method according to the present application. [Figure 6] 4 is a schematic flow chart of another frequency domain resource allocation method according to the present application; [Figure 7] 4 is a schematic flow chart of another frequency domain resource allocation method according to the present application; [Figure 8] 4 is a schematic flow chart of another frequency domain resource allocation method according to the present application; [Figure 9] 4 is a schematic flow chart of another time domain resource allocation method according to the present application. [Figure 10] 4 is a schematic flow chart of another frequency domain resource allocation method according to the present application; [Figure 11] 1 is a block diagram of an example of a communication device according to the present application. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of another example of a communication device according to the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0240] The technical solutions of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0241] Wireless communication systems to which embodiments of this application may be applied include, but are not limited to, global system for mobile communications (GSM), long term evolution (LTE) frequency division duplex (FDD) systems, LTE time division duplex (TDD) systems, LTE systems, long term evolution advanced (LTE-Advanced, LTE-A) systems, next generation communication systems (e.g., 5G communication systems), systems that integrate multiple access systems, or evolved systems (e.g., 6G communication systems).

[0242] The technical solution provided in this application may further be applied to machine-type communication (MTC), Long Term Evolution-machine (LTE-M), device-to-device (D2D) networks, machine-to-machine (M2M) networks, Internet of Things (IoT) networks, or other networks. IoT networks may include, for example, Internet of Vehicles. Communication modes in Internet of Vehicle systems are collectively referred to as Vehicle-to-X (V2X, where X can represent anything). For example, V2X may include vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications, vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications, vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P) communications, or vehicle-to-network (V2N) communications.

[0243] A terminal device in this application may also be referred to as a user equipment (UE), access terminal, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station, mobile console, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication device, user agent, or user equipment. A terminal device may be a station (ST) in a WLAN, or may be a cellular phone, a cordless phone, a smartphone, a wireless data card, a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phone, a Wireless Local Loop (WLL) station, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) device, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a machine-type communication terminal, a wireless modem, a handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, an in-vehicle device, a wearable device, a computing device, or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, such as a terminal device in a 5G network or a terminal device in a future evolved Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN).

[0244] By way of example and not limitation, in embodiments of this application, the terminal device may instead be a wearable device. A wearable device, also referred to as a wearable intelligent device, is a general term for wearable devices, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothes, and shoes, that are intelligently designed and developed for everyday wear by using wearable technology. A wearable device is a portable device that is worn directly on a user's body or integrated into a user's clothes or accessories. A wearable device is not just a hardware device, but implements powerful functions through software support, data exchange, and cloud interaction. In a broad sense, a wearable intelligent device includes a full-featured large device, such as a smart watch or smart glasses, that can implement all or part of its functions independently of a smartphone, and also includes a device that provides only one type of application function and needs to be used in combination with another device, such as a smartphone, such as various smart bands or various smart jewelry for monitoring physical signs.

[0245] In addition, in the embodiments of this application, the terminal device may alternatively be a terminal device in an Internet of Things (IoT) system. IoT is an important part of the future development of information technology, and its main technical feature is that things are connected to a network by using communication technology to implement an intelligent network with human-machine interconnection and thing-thing interconnection.

[0246] The terminal device may alternatively be a terminal device that supports a wake-up receiver, or may be a terminal device that does not support a wake-up receiver. The terminal device may also be a terminal device that supports a reflective communication mechanism, such as a tag. A network device in this application may be a radio access network (RAN) node (or device) that connects a terminal to a wireless network, and may also be referred to as a base station (BS). Currently, some examples of RAN nodes are a continuously evolved NodeB (gNB), a transmission reception point (TRP), an evolved NodeB (eNB), a radio network controller (RNC), a NodeB (NodeB, NB), a base station controller (BSC), a base transceiver station (BTS), a home base station (e.g., home evolved NodeB or home NodeB, HNB), a baseband unit (BBU), or a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) access point (AP), etc. In addition, in the network structure, the network device may include a central unit (CU) node, a distributed unit (DU) node, or a RAN device including a CU node and a DU node. The RAN device including a CU node and a DU node divides the protocol layers of an eNB in ​​a long term evolution (LTE) system. Some protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, and some or all of the remaining protocol layer functions are distributed to the DU, and the CU centrally controls the DU. Alternatively, the network device may be a reader / writer device.

[0247] In systems using different radio access technologies, the names of the base station functions may be different. For example, a base station may be a device such as an access network device configured to communicate with terminal devices, or it may be an access point (AP) in a WLAN, a base transceiver station (BTS) in a GSM or CDMA system, a base station (NodeB, NB) in a WCDMA system, a gNB in ​​a new radio (NR) system, an evolved NodeB (eNB or eNodeB) in LTE, a relay station, an access point, an in-vehicle device, a wearable device, an access network device (radio access network, RAN) in a future 5G network, or an access network device in a future evolved PLMN network.

[0248] In the embodiments of this application, a wireless communication system typically includes cells, each of which includes a base station, and the base station provides communication services to multiple terminal devices. The base station includes a baseband unit (BBU) and a remote radio unit (RRU). The BBU and the RRU may be located in different locations or in the same equipment room. For example, the RRU may be remotely located in a high-traffic area, and the BBU may be located in a central equipment room. Alternatively, the RRU and the BBU may be in different parts of the same rack. The terminal devices communicate with the base station by using transmission resources (e.g., frequency domain resources or spectrum resources) used by the cell. The base station may be a base station that supports data transmission by receiving or transmitting communications, or a base station that supports transmission of a wake-up signal. A cell may be a cell corresponding to a base station. The base station may be a macro base station, a micro base station, a small cell, or a pole station. A cell may belong to a macro base station or a base station corresponding to a small cell. The small cells here may include metro cells, micro cells, pico cells, femto cells, etc. These small cells are characterized by small coverage areas and low transmission power, and are applicable to providing high-speed data transmission services.

[0249] In an embodiment of this application, a terminal device or a network device includes a hardware layer, an operating system layer running on the hardware layer, and an application layer running on the operating system layer. The hardware layer includes hardware such as a central processing unit (CPU), a memory management unit (MMU), and memory (also referred to as main memory). The operating system may be any one or more computer operating systems that perform service processing through processes, such as a Linux operating system, a Unix operating system, an Android operating system, an iOS operating system, or a Windows operating system. The application layer includes applications such as a browser, a contact application, text processing software, and instant messaging software. Furthermore, the specific structure of the executing entity of the method provided in the embodiment of this application is not particularly limited in the embodiment of this application, as long as a program recording the code of the method provided in the embodiment of this application can be executed to communicate according to the method provided in the embodiment of this application. For example, the executing entity of the method provided in the embodiment of this application may be a terminal device or a network device, or may be a functional module that can call and execute a program in the terminal device or the network device.

[0250] Additionally, aspects or features of embodiments of this application may be implemented as a method, apparatus, or product using standard programming and / or engineering techniques. The term "product" as used in this application covers a computer program accessible from any computer-readable device, carrier, or medium. For example, computer-readable media may include, but are not limited to, magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks, or magnetic tapes), optical disks (e.g., Compact Discs (CDs) or Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs)), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM) cards, sticks, or key drives). Additionally, various storage media described herein may represent one or more devices and / or other machine-readable media configured to store information. The term "machine-readable medium" may include, but is not limited to, wireless channels, and various other media capable of storing, containing, and / or transporting instructions and / or data.

[0251] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, multiple application programs may be executed in the application layer, in which case the application program for executing the communication method in the embodiments of this application and the application program used to control the receiving end device to complete an action corresponding to the received data may be different application programs.

[0252] With the rapid development of IoT technology, the interconnection of all things is gradually becoming a reality. However, the battery life issue of IoT terminal devices has become a major bottleneck limiting IoT development, leading to difficulties in maintaining terminal devices and significantly increasing maintenance costs. Therefore, IoT terminal devices that do not rely on batteries for power supply are an important development trend for the next generation of IoT. Passive Internet of Things (passive IoT) is a cellular-based Internet of Things communication technology that supports battery-free terminals.

[0253] Typically, in Internet of Things systems, tags can be classified into active tags, passive tags, and semi-passive tags based on their different power supply modes. Active tags include a built-in battery, can generate a carrier signal, and have signal amplification capabilities, with power consumption estimated to be between 200 and 500 microwatts. Semi-passive tags partially rely on a battery to operate, and do not generate a carrier signal but have signal amplification capabilities, with power consumption estimated to be approximately 100 microwatts. Passive tags do not include a built-in battery and can supply energy by rectifying a radio frequency signal from another device and using the resulting DC voltage as a power source. Passive tags do not generate a carrier signal or have signal amplification capabilities, and power consumption can be as low as approximately 1 microwatt. Passive tags can also be referred to as passive Internet of Things (passive IoT) devices. Therefore, the terminal devices used in the passive Internet of Things can also be called passive tags.

[0254] For example and not limitation, this application will hereinafter describe in detail the technical solution of this application by taking a base station as an example of a network device and a passive tag as an example of a terminal device.

[0255] In the passive Internet of Things, communication between a base station and a passive tag is usually implemented by using a backscatter communication mechanism, and the communication link includes a downlink from the base station to the passive tag and an uplink from the passive tag to the base station. The downlink from the base station to the passive tag transmits a radio frequency signal used to power the passive tag. Radio frequency energy receivers have poor sensitivity. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the power of the radio frequency signal transmitted by the base station as much as possible so that the base station can meet the coverage distance requirements.

[0256] Specifically, widely used ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio frequency identification (RFID) systems involve a backscatter communication mechanism. A base station transmits a downlink radio frequency signal to a tag by using the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) spectrum, which is typically reserved for passive UHF RFID systems. The tag receives the downlink radio frequency signal transmitted by the base station and transmits an uplink signal to the base station by using backscatter technology. In this way, the base station can identify the tag's identifier and perform operations, such as read / write operations, on the tag. However, passive UHF RFID systems are constrained such that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP) of the radio frequency signal transmitted by the base station does not exceed 36 decibel-milliwatts (dBm). In comparison, when licensed FDD spectrum below 1 GHz is used, the power of the radio frequency signal transmitted by the base station within the narrow carrier bandwidth of 180 kHz can exceed 36 dBm, and when antenna gain is added, the EIRP can exceed 46 dBm. Compared to the case of the ISM spectrum dedicated to passive UHF RFID, the power of the transmitted radio frequency signal can be increased by more than 10 dB. Therefore, in the passive Internet of Things, it is preferable to use licensed FDD spectrum for energy supply between the base station and the passive tag.

[0257] In the passive Internet of Things (IoT), when a base station and a passive tag communicate by using a licensed FDD spectrum, the uplink and downlink respectively need to transmit channels and signals on two frequency bands separated by tens of MHz. However, after receiving the downlink channels and signals transmitted by the base station, the passive tag does not support frequency shifting of the uplink backscattered signal relative to the FDD downlink carrier signal within a wide range. Therefore, uplink data transmission between the passive tag and the base station cannot be performed on the FDD spectrum.

[0258] 1 is a diagram of a communication scenario applicable to one embodiment of this application. The communication system of FIG. 1 may include at least one terminal device (e.g., terminal device #1, terminal device #2, terminal device #3, terminal device #4, terminal device #5, terminal device #6, terminal device #7, and terminal device #8) and at least one network device (e.g., base station #1 and base station #2). The network device 170 is configured to provide communication services to the terminal device and access a core network. The terminal device may access the network by searching for a synchronization signal, a broadcast signal, or the like transmitted by the network device 170 to establish communication with the network device.

[0259] Base station #1, base station #2, terminal device #1, terminal device #2, terminal device #3, terminal device #4, terminal device #5, terminal device #6, terminal device #7, and terminal device #8 in FIG. 1 form a communication system. Downlink information may be transmitted to at least one of base station #1, terminal device #1, terminal device #2, terminal device #3, terminal device #4, terminal device #5, and terminal device #6. Similarly, at least one of terminal device #1, terminal device #2, terminal device #3, terminal device #4, terminal device #5, and terminal device #6 may transmit uplink information to base station #1. Base station #1 may transmit downlink information to at least one of terminal device #7 and terminal device #8 via base station #2. Similarly, at least one of terminal device #7 and terminal device #8 may transmit uplink information to base station #1 via base station #2. Furthermore, terminal device #4, terminal device #5, and terminal device #6 may form a communication system. Terminal device #5 may transmit downlink information to at least one of terminal device #4 and terminal device #6. Similarly, at least one of terminal device #4 and terminal device #6 may transmit uplink information to terminal device #5. Also, base station #2, terminal device #7, and terminal device #8 may form a communication system. Base station #2 may transmit downlink information to at least one of terminal device #7 and terminal device #8. Similarly, at least one of terminal device #7 and terminal device #8 may transmit uplink information to base station #2.

[0260] It should be understood that a communication system may include one or more network devices. One network device may transmit information, data, etc. to one or more terminal devices. Multiple network devices may simultaneously transmit information, data, etc. to one or more terminal devices.

[0261] It should be understood that terminal device #1 to terminal device #8 can be terminal devices that support backscatter communication, i.e., the passive tags described above, or terminal devices that do not support backscatter communication, which is not a limitation in this application.

[0262] In a passive Internet of Things system, a base station can transmit a continuous waveform containing a high level to a passive tag, and after receiving the energy, the tag can reflect information back to the base station via a reverse link.

[0263] Hereinafter, this application provides a technical solution for improving link budget through frequency domain resource allocation, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0264] Step S210: The network device transmits a first signal on a first frequency band to a first device.

[0265] Specifically, the first frequency band may be a downlink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the first signal may be used by the first device to harvest energy.

[0266] Step S212: The first device receives a first signal on a first frequency band and acquires energy.

[0267] According to the above steps, the network device can be enabled to transmit an energy supply signal with higher power on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, thus extending the coverage area of ​​the network device.

[0268] Step S214: The first device transmits a second signal to the network device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band, where the second signal includes uplink data.

[0269] Specifically, the second frequency band may be an uplink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex FDD spectrum, and the third frequency band may be a frequency band of an unlicensed spectrum, for example an ISM frequency band.

[0270] Specifically, the first device may transmit the second signal to the network device based on a request from the network device, or may actively transmit the second signal to the network device, although this is not a limitation in this application.

[0271] The above method can ensure energy supply to the first device within as large a coverage area as possible and ensure uplink data transmission of the first device, thereby improving the overall link budget.

[0272] To describe the technical solution of this application in more detail, the following provides an explanation by using a base station as an example of a network device and a passive tag as an example of a first device, as shown in Figure 3.

[0273] Step S310: The base station transmits a signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the signal #1 is used by the passive tag to harvest energy.

[0274] Specifically, signal #1 may be an example of the first signal mentioned above.

[0275] For example, a base station may transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0276] Optionally, step S310 may instead involve the base station transmitting signal #1 to the passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, which may be an ISM frequency band.

[0277] For example, the base station can transmit signal #1 to the passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 920-925 MHz frequency band, or the base station can transmit signal #1 to the passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 866-869 MHz frequency band.

[0278] Step S312: Correspondingly, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and acquire energy.

[0279] The base station may be enabled to transmit an energy supply signal #1 with higher power on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, thus extending the coverage area of ​​the base station.

[0280] Specifically, a passive tag needs to use a rectifier circuit to convert the radio frequency energy of signal #1 into DC energy. Usually, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is -30 dBm or higher, which can be understood as the sensitivity of the energy transmission receiver. The radio frequency energy transmission receiver has poor sensitivity. Therefore, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is usually large.

[0281] For example, a passive tag may receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0282] Optionally, when the base station transmits signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, the passive tag receives signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum.

[0283] Optionally, there is a step S314 in which the base station transmits a signal #2 to the passive tag.

[0284] By way of example and not limitation, signal #2 may be a downlink physical channel or signal, or the like.

[0285] By way of example and not limitation, the downlink physical channel may be a downlink control channel, a downlink data channel, a downlink broadcast channel, etc. The downlink physical signal may be a reference signal (e.g., a preamble signal, a midamble signal, or a postamble signal), a synchronization signal, a measurement signal, a calibration signal, a delimiter signal, or a start signal, etc.

[0286] Specifically, in order to improve the flexibility of signal transmission by base stations and achieve high communication efficiency, the base stations can transmit downlink physical channels or downlink physical signals, etc. on downlink frequency bands of licensed FDD spectrum, transmit downlink physical channels or downlink physical signals, etc. on frequency bands of unlicensed spectrum dedicated to UHF RFID, or transmit downlink physical channels or downlink physical signals, etc. on frequency bands of unlicensed spectrum not dedicated to UHF RFID.

[0287] For example, a base station may transmit a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal on a frequency band of 934-954 MHz, or may transmit a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal on a frequency band of 920-925 MHz.

[0288] Correspondingly, when the base station transmits a downlink physical channel or downlink physical signal, etc. on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, the passive tag receives the downlink physical channel or downlink physical signal, etc. on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum; when the base station transmits a downlink physical channel or downlink physical signal, etc. on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum dedicated to UHF RFID, the passive tag receives the downlink physical channel or downlink physical signal, etc. on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum dedicated to UHF RFID; and when the base station transmits a downlink physical channel or downlink physical signal, etc. on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum not dedicated to UHF RFID, the passive tag receives the downlink physical channel or downlink physical signal, etc. on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum not dedicated to UHF RFID.

[0289] Optionally, there is a step S316, in which the base station transmits a carrier signal #1 on a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, and the carrier signal #1 is used by the passive tag to transmit an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0290] Specifically, the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum may be a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum that is dedicated to UHF RFID, or may be a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum that is not dedicated to UHF RFID.

[0291] Specifically, carrier signal #1 may be a monophonic signal or a continuous wave.

[0292] Specifically, carrier signal #1 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station. The fact that carrier signal #1 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station may be understood as carrier signal #1 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or as a new carrier signal generated based on carrier signal #1 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or the like. This is not a limitation of this application.

[0293] Also, when receiving signal #2 or carrier signal #1 etc. transmitted by the base station, the passive tag may acquire the energy of signal #1.

[0294] The problem that passive tags do not support frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by having the base station transmit carrier signal #1 to the passive tag.

[0295] Step S318: The passive tag transmits a signal #3 to the base station on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum through backscattering by using the carrier signal #1, where the signal #3 includes an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0296] Specifically, signal #3 may be an example of the second signal mentioned above.

[0297] For example, a passive tag transmits signal #3 on the 920-925 MHz frequency band or the 866-869 MHz frequency band.

[0298] It should be noted that the execution order of the steps in FIG. 3 is not limited to this application.

[0299] The above method can ensure that passive tags are energized within the largest possible coverage area and that the passive tags can transmit uplink data, thereby improving the overall link budget.

[0300] This application can further provide another technical solution for improving link budget through frequency domain resource allocation, as shown in FIG.

[0301] Step S410: The base station transmits a signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the signal #1 is used by the passive tag to harvest energy.

[0302] Specifically, signal #1 may be an example of the first signal mentioned above.

[0303] For example, a base station may transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0304] Optionally, step S410 may alternatively involve the base station transmitting a signal #1 to the passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0305] For example, a base station may transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0306] Step S412: Correspondingly, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and acquire energy.

[0307] The base station may be enabled to transmit an energy supply signal #1 with higher power on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, thus extending the coverage area of ​​the base station.

[0308] Specifically, a passive tag needs to use a rectifier circuit to convert the radio frequency energy of signal #1 into DC energy. Usually, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is -30 dBm or higher, which can be understood as the sensitivity of the energy transmission receiver. The radio frequency energy transmission receiver has poor sensitivity. Therefore, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is usually large.

[0309] For example, a passive tag may receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0310] Optionally, when the base station transmits signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, the passive tag receives signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0311] Step S414: The base station transmits a signal #2 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, where the signal #2 can be a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal, etc.

[0312] By way of example and not limitation, the downlink physical channel may be a downlink control channel, a downlink data channel, a downlink broadcast channel, etc. The downlink physical signal may be a reference signal (e.g., a preamble signal, a midamble signal, or a postamble signal), a synchronization signal, a measurement signal, a calibration signal, a delimiter signal, or a start signal, etc.

[0313] For example, a base station may transmit a downlink physical channel or signal, etc., on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0314] Correspondingly, when the base station transmits a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal, etc. on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, the passive tag receives the downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal, etc. on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0315] Optionally, there is a step S416 in which the base station transmits a carrier signal #2 on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the carrier signal #2 is used by the passive tag to transmit an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0316] Specifically, the power of carrier signal #2 transmitted by the base station can be less than the power of signal #1 or signal #2.

[0317] For example, a base station may transmit carrier signal #2 on the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0318] Specifically, carrier signal #2 may be a monophonic signal or a continuous wave.

[0319] Specifically, carrier signal #2 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station. The fact that carrier signal #2 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station may be understood as carrier signal #2 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or as a new carrier signal generated based on carrier signal #2 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or the like. This is not a limitation of this application.

[0320] Also, when receiving signal #2 transmitted by the base station or carrier signal #2 etc., the passive tag may acquire the energy of signal #1.

[0321] Step S418: The passive tag transmits a signal #3 on the uplink frequency band of the licensed spectrum through backscattering by using the carrier signal #2, where the signal #3 includes an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0322] Specifically, signal #3 may be an example of the second signal mentioned above.

[0323] For example, a passive tag may transmit uplink data over the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0324] Correspondingly, the power of transmitted signal #3 is positively correlated with the power of carrier signal #2 transmitted by the base station, i.e., a higher power of carrier signal #2 transmitted by the base station indicates a higher power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag, and a lower power of carrier signal #2 transmitted by the base station indicates a lower power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag.

[0325] If the power of signal #3 received by the base station on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum is too high, a certain degree of blocking will be caused to the base station. By using a method in which the base station controls the power of the transmitted downlink carrier signal #2, the blocking interference of the base station can be reduced and modifications made to the hardware for interference cancellation or interference suppression performed on the base station side can be avoided.

[0326] In another implementation, when signal #1, signal #2, signal #3, carrier signal #1, and carrier signal #2 are all transmitted on frequency bands of the ISM spectrum, the power of carrier signal #1 or carrier signal #2 transmitted by the base station can also be controlled to be smaller than the power of signal #1 transmitted by the base station to avoid modifications to hardware for interference cancellation or interference suppression performed on the base station side.

[0327] In addition to the cases provided in Figures 3 and 4 where the frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum can be used to ensure the energy supply to the passive tag and the uplink data transmission of the passive tag within the largest possible coverage area, the technical solution of this application can also be applied to the TDD system, as shown in Figure 5. Specifically, the specific frequency used in the TDD system can be a licensed frequency band, which is not limited in this application.

[0328] Step S510: The base station transmits a signal #1 in a period #1, and the signal #1 is used by the passive tag to harvest energy.

[0329] Specifically, signal #1 may be an example of the first signal mentioned above.

[0330] Specifically, period #1 may be the downlink period of a TDD system.

[0331] Step S512: Correspondingly, the passive tag may receive signal #1 in period #1 and acquire energy.

[0332] Specifically, a passive tag needs to use a rectifier circuit to convert the radio frequency energy of signal #1 into DC energy. Usually, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is -30 dBm or higher, which can be understood as the sensitivity of the energy transmission receiver. The radio frequency energy transmission receiver has poor sensitivity. Therefore, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is usually large.

[0333] The base station can transmit an energy supply signal #1 with higher power on a frequency band of the licensed spectrum of TDD, thus extending the coverage area of ​​the base station.

[0334] Optionally, there is a step S514, in which the base station transmits a signal #2 in a period #2. The signal #2 may include a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal, etc.

[0335] By way of example and not limitation, the downlink physical channel may be a downlink control channel, a downlink data channel, a downlink broadcast channel, etc. The downlink physical signal may be a reference signal (e.g., a preamble signal, a midamble signal, or a postamble signal), a synchronization signal, a measurement signal, a calibration signal, a delimiter signal, or a start signal, etc.

[0336] Specifically, period #2 may be the downlink period of a TDD system.

[0337] Specifically, period #1 and period #2 may be considered to be the same period.

[0338] Correspondingly, when the base station transmits signal #2 in period #2, the passive tag receives signal #2 in period #2.

[0339] Optionally, there is a step S516, in which the base station transmits a carrier signal #3 in a period #3, and the carrier signal #3 is used by the passive tag to transmit an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0340] Specifically, carrier signal #3 may be a monophonic signal or a continuous wave.

[0341] Specifically, carrier signal #3 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station. The fact that carrier signal #3 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station may be understood as carrier signal #3 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or as a new carrier signal generated based on carrier signal #3 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or the like. This is not a limitation of this application.

[0342] Specifically, the power of carrier signal #3 transmitted by the base station may be less than the power of signal #1 transmitted by the base station, or the power of carrier signal #3 transmitted by the base station may be less than the power of signal #2 transmitted by the base station.

[0343] Also, when receiving signal #2 or carrier signal #3 etc. transmitted by the base station, the passive tag may acquire the energy of signal #1.

[0344] Step S518: The passive tag transmits a signal #3 to the base station in a period #4 through backscattering by using a carrier signal #3, where the signal #3 includes an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0345] Specifically, signal #3 may be an example of the second signal mentioned above.

[0346] Specifically, period #3 and period #4 may be the same period.

[0347] According to the above-mentioned method, the coverage area of ​​the base station can be expanded by increasing the transmission power of signal #1, and blocking interference on the base station side can be suppressed by reducing the transmission power of the carrier signal, thereby reducing changes to the hardware.

[0348] This application can further provide another technical solution for improving the link budget with passive tags by using licensed FDD spectrum, as shown in FIG.

[0349] Step S610: The base station transmits a signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the signal #1 is used by the passive tag to harvest energy.

[0350] Specifically, signal #1 may be an example of the first signal mentioned above.

[0351] For example, a base station may transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0352] Optionally, step S610 may alternatively involve the base station transmitting a signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0353] For example, the base station transmits signal #1 to the passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0354] Step S612: Correspondingly, the passive tag may receive the signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and acquire energy.

[0355] Optionally, if the base station transmits signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0356] Specifically, a passive tag needs to use a rectifier circuit to convert the radio frequency energy of signal #1 into DC energy. Usually, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is -30 dBm or higher, which can be understood as the sensitivity of the energy transmission receiver. The radio frequency energy transmission receiver has poor sensitivity. Therefore, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is usually large.

[0357] For example, a passive tag may receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0358] Optionally, there is a step S614 in which the base station transmits a signal #2 or the like to the passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, which may include a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal, etc.

[0359] By way of example and not limitation, the downlink physical channel may be a downlink control channel, a downlink data channel, a downlink broadcast channel, etc. The downlink physical signal may be a reference signal (e.g., a preamble signal, a midamble signal, or a postamble signal), a synchronization signal, a measurement signal, a calibration signal, a delimiter signal, a start signal, etc. For example, the base station may transmit signal #2 on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0360] Correspondingly, when the base station transmits signal #2 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, the passive tag receives signal #2 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0361] Optionally, there is step S616, in which the base station sends instruction information #1 to the relay node, and the instruction information #1 instructs the NR terminal device or CPE to transmit carrier signal #4 to the passive tag.

[0362] Specifically, instruction information #1 includes information such as the start time for transmitting carrier signal #4, the duration for transmitting carrier signal #4, and the power for transmitting carrier signal #4.

[0363] Specifically, a relay node may be an example of a second device or a third device in this application. For example, a relay node may be an auxiliary NR terminal device, a customer premises equipment (CPE), a handheld terminal, or the like. This is not a limitation in this application. Specifically, a CPE may be a device directly connected to a network.

[0364] By including the above information in the instruction information #1, it is possible to accurately control the transmission of the carrier signal #4.

[0365] Optionally, there is a step S618 in which the relay node transmits a carrier signal #4 on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the carrier signal #4 is used by the passive tag to transmit an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0366] Specifically, carrier signal #4 may be a monophonic signal or a continuous wave.

[0367] Specifically, carrier signal #4 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station. The fact that carrier signal #4 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station may be understood as carrier signal #4 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or as a new carrier signal generated based on carrier signal #4 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or the like. This is not a limitation of this application.

[0368] Also, when receiving signal #2 transmitted by a base station or carrier signal #4 transmitted by a relay node, etc., the passive tag may acquire the energy of signal #1.

[0369] For example, a relay node may transmit carrier signal #4 on the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0370] The problem that passive tags do not support frequency shifting when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by transmitting carrier signal #4 by the relay node to the passive tag.

[0371] Step S620: The passive tag transmits a signal #3 to the base station on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum through backscattering by using a carrier signal #4, where the signal #3 includes an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0372] Specifically, signal #3 may be an example of the second signal mentioned above.

[0373] For example, a passive tag transmits carrier signal #4 on the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0374] The above method can ensure that passive tags are energized within the largest possible coverage area and that the passive tags can transmit uplink data, thereby improving the overall link budget.

[0375] This application can further provide another technical solution for improving the link budget with passive tags by using licensed FDD spectrum, as shown in FIG.

[0376] Step S710: The base station transmits a signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the signal #1 is used by the passive tag to harvest energy.

[0377] Specifically, signal #1 may be an example of the first signal mentioned above.

[0378] For example, a base station may transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0379] Optionally, step S710 may instead involve the base station transmitting signal #1 to the passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and on a second frequency band, which may be an uplink frequency band of the FDD spectrum.

[0380] For example, the base station transmits signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the FDD spectrum and on the uplink frequency band of the FDD spectrum.

[0381] Step S712: Correspondingly, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and acquire energy.

[0382] Specifically, a passive tag needs to use a rectifier circuit to convert the radio frequency energy of signal #1 into DC energy. Usually, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is -30 dBm or higher, which can be understood as the sensitivity of the energy transmission receiver. The radio frequency energy transmission receiver has poor sensitivity. Therefore, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is usually large.

[0383] For example, a passive tag may receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0384] Optionally, if the base station transmits signal #1 to a passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the FDD spectrum, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the FDD spectrum.

[0385] For example, a passive tag may receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0386] Step S714: The relay node transmits a signal #2 or the like to the passive tag on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, where the signal #2 may include a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal.

[0387] By way of example and not limitation, the downlink physical channel may be a downlink control channel, a downlink data channel, a downlink broadcast channel, etc. The downlink physical signal may be a reference signal (e.g., a preamble signal, a midamble signal, or a postamble signal), a synchronization signal, a measurement signal, a calibration signal, a delimiter signal, a start signal, etc. For example, the relay node may transmit signal #2 on the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0388] Specifically, the relay node may be an example of a second device or a third device in this application. For example, the relay node may be an auxiliary NR terminal device, a CPE, a handheld terminal, or the like. This is not a limitation in this application.

[0389] Correspondingly, when the relay node transmits signal #2 on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, the passive tag receives signal #2 on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0390] Step S716: The relay node transmits a carrier signal #5 on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the carrier signal #5 is used by the passive tag to transmit an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0391] Specifically, the power of carrier signal #5 transmitted by the relay node may be less than the power of signal #2 transmitted.

[0392] Specifically, carrier signal #5 may be a monophonic signal or a continuous wave.

[0393] Specifically, carrier signal #5 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a relay node. The fact that carrier signal #5 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a relay node may be understood as carrier signal #5 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the relay node, or as a new carrier signal generated based on carrier signal #5 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the relay node, or the like. This is not a limitation of this application.

[0394] Also, when receiving signal #2 transmitted by a relay node or carrier signal #5 transmitted by a relay node, etc., the passive tag may acquire the energy of signal #1.

[0395] For example, a relay node may transmit carrier signal #5 on the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0396] The problem that passive tags do not support frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by transmitting carrier signal #5 to the passive tags by the relay node.

[0397] Step S718: The passive tag transmits a signal #3 to the relay node on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum through backscattering by using carrier signal #5, where the signal #3 includes an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0398] Specifically, signal #3 may be an example of the second signal mentioned above.

[0399] For example, a passive tag transmits signal #3 on the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0400] Correspondingly, the power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag is positively correlated with the power of carrier signal #5 transmitted by the relay node, i.e., a higher power of carrier signal #5 transmitted by the relay node indicates a higher power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag, and a lower power of carrier signal #5 transmitted by the relay node indicates a lower power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag.

[0401] The above method can ensure that passive tags are energized within the largest possible coverage area and that the passive tags can transmit uplink data, thereby improving the overall link budget.

[0402] This application can further provide another technical solution for improving the link budget with passive tags by using licensed FDD spectrum, as shown in FIG.

[0403] Step S810: The base station transmits a signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the signal #1 is used by the passive tag to harvest energy.

[0404] Specifically, signal #1 may be an example of the first signal mentioned above.

[0405] For example, a base station may transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0406] Optionally, step S810 may instead involve the base station transmitting signal #1 to the passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and on a second frequency band, which may be an uplink frequency band of the FDD spectrum.

[0407] For example, the base station transmits signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the FDD spectrum and on the uplink frequency band of the FDD spectrum.

[0408] Step S812: Correspondingly, the passive tag may receive the signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and acquire energy.

[0409] Specifically, a passive tag needs to use a rectifier circuit to convert the radio frequency energy of signal #1 into DC energy. Usually, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is -30 dBm or higher, which can be understood as the sensitivity of the energy transmission receiver. The radio frequency energy transmission receiver has poor sensitivity. Therefore, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is usually large.

[0410] For example, a passive tag may receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0411] Optionally, if the base station transmits signal #1 to a passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the FDD spectrum, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the FDD spectrum.

[0412] For example, a passive tag may receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0413] Step S814: The relay node transmits a signal #2 or the like to the passive tag on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, where the signal #2 may include a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal.

[0414] By way of example and not limitation, the downlink physical channel may be a downlink control channel, a downlink data channel, a downlink broadcast channel, etc. The downlink physical signal may be a reference signal (e.g., a preamble signal, a midamble signal, or a postamble signal), a synchronization signal, a measurement signal, a calibration signal, a delimiter signal, a start signal, etc. For example, the relay node may transmit signal #2 on the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0415] Specifically, the relay node may be an example of a second device or a third device in this application. For example, the relay node may be an auxiliary NR terminal device, a CPE, a handheld terminal, or the like. This is not a limitation in this application.

[0416] Correspondingly, when the relay node transmits signal #2 on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, the passive tag receives signal #2 on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0417] Step S816: The relay node transmits a carrier signal #6 on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, which is used by the passive tag to transmit an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0418] Specifically, carrier signal #6 may be a monophonic signal or a continuous wave.

[0419] Specifically, carrier signal #6 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station. The fact that carrier signal #6 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station may be understood as carrier signal #6 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or as a new carrier signal generated based on carrier signal #6 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or the like. This is not a limitation of this application.

[0420] Also, when receiving signal #2 transmitted by a relay node or carrier signal #6 transmitted by a relay node, etc., the passive tag may acquire the energy of signal #1.

[0421] For example, a relay node may transmit carrier signal #6 on the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0422] The problem that passive tags do not support frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by transmitting carrier signal #6 to the passive tags by the relay node.

[0423] Step S818: The passive tag transmits a signal #3 to the base station on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum through backscattering by using carrier signal #6, where the signal #3 includes an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0424] Specifically, signal #3 may be an example of the second signal mentioned above.

[0425] For example, a passive tag transmits signal #3 on the 889-909 MHz frequency band.

[0426] Correspondingly, the power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag is positively correlated with the power of carrier signal #6 transmitted by the relay node, i.e., a higher power of carrier signal #6 transmitted by the relay node indicates a higher power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag, and a lower power of carrier signal #6 transmitted by the relay node indicates a lower power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag.

[0427] The above method can ensure that passive tags are energized within the largest possible coverage area and that the passive tags can transmit uplink data, thereby improving the overall link budget.

[0428] This application can further provide another technical solution for improving the link budget with passive tags by using licensed FDD spectrum, as shown in FIG.

[0429] Step S910: The base station transmits a signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the signal #1 is used by the passive tag to harvest energy.

[0430] Specifically, signal #1 may be an example of the first signal mentioned above.

[0431] For example, a base station may transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0432] Optionally, step S910 may instead involve the base station transmitting signal #1 to the passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and a third frequency band, which may be a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, such as an ISM frequency band.

[0433] For example, the base station transmits signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band and the ISM frequency band of the FDD spectrum.

[0434] Step S912: Correspondingly, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and acquire energy.

[0435] Specifically, a passive tag needs to use a rectifier circuit to convert the radio frequency energy of signal #1 into DC energy. Usually, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is -30 dBm or higher, which can be understood as the sensitivity of the energy transmission receiver. The radio frequency energy transmission receiver has poor sensitivity. Therefore, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is usually large.

[0436] For example, a passive tag may receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0437] Optionally, if the base station transmits signal #1 to a passive tag on the downlink frequency band and ISM frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band and ISM frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0438] For example, a passive tag can receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 920-925 MHz frequency band, or a passive tag can receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 866-869 MHz frequency band.

[0439] Step S914: The relay node transmits a signal #2 or the like to the passive tag on a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, where the signal #2 may include a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal, etc.

[0440] By way of example and not limitation, the downlink physical channel may be a downlink control channel, a downlink data channel, a downlink broadcast channel, etc. The downlink physical signal may be a reference signal (e.g., a preamble signal, a midamble signal, or a postamble signal), a synchronization signal, a measurement signal, a calibration signal, a delimiter signal, a start signal, etc. For example, the relay node may transmit signal #2 on the 920-925 MHz frequency band or the 866-869 MHz frequency band.

[0441] Specifically, the relay node may be an example of a third device in this application. For example, the relay node may be a handheld terminal or the like, but this is not a limitation in this application.

[0442] Correspondingly, when the relay node transmits signal #2 on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, the passive tag receives signal #2 on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum.

[0443] Step S916: The relay node transmits a carrier signal #7 on a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, and the carrier signal #7 is used by the passive tag to transmit an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0444] Specifically, the power of carrier signal #7 transmitted by the relay node may be less than the power of signal #2 transmitted.

[0445] Specifically, carrier signal #7 may be a monophonic signal or a continuous wave.

[0446] Specifically, carrier signal #7 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a relay node. The fact that carrier signal #7 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a relay node may be understood as carrier signal #7 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the relay node, or as a new carrier signal generated based on carrier signal #7 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the relay node, or the like. This is not a limitation of this application.

[0447] Also, when receiving signal #2 transmitted by a relay node or carrier signal #7 transmitted by a relay node, etc., the passive tag may acquire the energy of signal #1.

[0448] For example, the relay node may transmit carrier signal #7 on the 920-925 MHz frequency band or the 866-869 MHz frequency band.

[0449] The problem that passive tags do not support frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by transmitting carrier signal #7 to the passive tags by the relay node.

[0450] Step S918: The passive tag transmits a signal #3 to the relay node on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum through backscattering by using the carrier signal #7, where the signal #3 includes an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0451] Specifically, signal #3 may be an example of the second signal mentioned above.

[0452] For example, a passive tag transmits signal #3 on the 920-925 MHz frequency band or the 866-869 MHz frequency band.

[0453] Correspondingly, the power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag is positively correlated with the power of carrier signal #7 transmitted by the relay node, i.e., a higher power of carrier signal #7 transmitted by the relay node indicates a higher power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag, and a lower power of carrier signal #7 transmitted by the relay node indicates a lower power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag.

[0454] The above method can ensure that passive tags are energized within the largest possible coverage area and that the passive tags can transmit uplink data, thereby improving the overall link budget.

[0455] This application can further provide another technical solution for improving the link budget with passive tags by using licensed FDD spectrum, as shown in FIG.

[0456] Step S1010: The base station transmits a signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, and the signal #1 is used by the passive tag to harvest energy.

[0457] Specifically, signal #1 may be an example of the first signal mentioned above.

[0458] For example, a base station may transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0459] Optionally, step S910 may instead involve the base station transmitting signal #1 to the passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and a third frequency band, which may be a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, such as an ISM frequency band.

[0460] For example, the base station transmits signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band and the ISM frequency band of the FDD spectrum.

[0461] Step S1012: Correspondingly, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and acquire energy.

[0462] Specifically, a passive tag needs to use a rectifier circuit to convert the radio frequency energy of signal #1 into DC energy. Usually, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is -30 dBm or higher, which can be understood as the sensitivity of the energy transmission receiver. The radio frequency energy transmission receiver has poor sensitivity. Therefore, the threshold at which the radio frequency energy can be converted is usually large.

[0463] For example, a passive tag may receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band.

[0464] Optionally, if the base station transmits signal #1 to a passive tag on the downlink frequency band and ISM frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, the passive tag may receive signal #1 on the downlink frequency band and ISM frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0465] For example, a passive tag can receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 920-925 MHz frequency band, or a passive tag can receive signal #1 transmitted by a base station on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 866-869 MHz frequency band.

[0466] Step S1014: The relay node transmits a signal #2 or the like to the passive tag on a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, where the signal #2 may include a downlink physical channel or a downlink physical signal, etc.

[0467] By way of example and not limitation, the downlink physical channel may be a downlink control channel, a downlink data channel, a downlink broadcast channel, etc. The downlink physical signal may be a reference signal (e.g., a preamble signal, a midamble signal, or a postamble signal), a synchronization signal, a measurement signal, a calibration signal, a delimiter signal, a start signal, etc. For example, the relay node may transmit signal #2 on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 920-925 MHz frequency band.

[0468] Specifically, the relay node may be an example of a third device in this application. For example, the relay node may be a handheld terminal or the like, but this is not a limitation in this application.

[0469] Correspondingly, when the relay node transmits signal #2 on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, the passive tag receives signal #2 on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum.

[0470] Step S1016: The relay node transmits a carrier signal #8 on a frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum, and the carrier signal #8 is used by the passive tag to transmit an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0471] Specifically, carrier signal #8 may be a monophonic signal or a continuous wave.

[0472] Specifically, carrier signal #8 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station. The fact that carrier signal #8 may be used by a passive tag to transmit uplink data to a base station may be understood as carrier signal #8 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or as a new carrier signal generated based on carrier signal #8 carrying the uplink data and being transmitted to the base station, or the like. This is not a limitation of this application.

[0473] Also, when receiving signal #2 transmitted by a relay node or carrier signal #8 transmitted by a relay node, etc., the passive tag may acquire the energy of signal #1.

[0474] For example, the relay node may transmit carrier signal #8 on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 920-925 MHz frequency band.

[0475] The problem that passive tags do not support frequency shift when transmitting uplink data in an FDD system can be solved by transmitting carrier signal #8 to the passive tags by the relay node.

[0476] Step S1018: The passive tag transmits a signal #3 to the base station on the frequency band of the unlicensed spectrum through backscattering by using the carrier signal #8, where the signal #3 includes an uplink signal or uplink data.

[0477] Specifically, signal #3 may be an example of the second signal mentioned above.

[0478] For example, the passive tag transmits signal #3 on the 934-954 MHz frequency band and the 920-925 MHz frequency band.

[0479] Correspondingly, the power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag is positively correlated with the power of carrier signal #8 transmitted by the relay node, i.e., a higher power of carrier signal #8 transmitted by the relay node indicates a higher power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag, and a lower power of carrier signal #8 transmitted by the relay node indicates a lower power of signal #3 transmitted by the passive tag.

[0480] The above method can ensure that passive tags are energized within the largest possible coverage area and that the passive tags can transmit uplink data, thereby improving the overall link budget.

[0481] It should be noted that the execution order of the steps in FIGS. 2 to 10 is not limited to this application.

[0482] According to the above method, Figure 11 is a block diagram of a communication device according to this application. As shown in Figure 11, the communication device 700 includes a transmitting unit 710 and a receiving unit 720.

[0483] Optionally, the communications device 700 may correspond to a base station in an embodiment of the present application.

[0484] In this case, the units within the communication device 700 are configured to implement the following functions:

[0485] The transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, to transmit signal #1 to a passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, to transmit signal #2 to a passive tag on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum or an unlicensed frequency band, to transmit signal #2 to a passive tag in period #2, to transmit carrier signal #1, carrier signal #2, carrier signal #3, and carrier signal #4 to a passive tag on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum or an unlicensed frequency band, or to transmit instruction information #1 to an NR terminal device or a CPE.

[0486] Specifically, the transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit the signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, see FIG. 2 to FIG. 10 for related descriptions; the transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit the signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, or the transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit the signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the unlicensed frequency band, see FIG. 3 to FIG. 10 for related descriptions; the transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit the signal #1 to the passive tag on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum or the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, see FIG. For related explanations regarding the transmitting unit 710 being configured to transmit signal #2 to a passive tag on an unlicensed frequency band, please refer to Figures 3 and 4; for related explanations regarding the transmitting unit 710 being configured to transmit signal #2 to a passive tag in period #2, please refer to Figure 5; for related explanations regarding the transmitting unit 710 being configured to transmit carrier signal #1, carrier signal #2, carrier signal #3, and carrier signal #4 to a passive tag on an uplink frequency band of a licensed FDD spectrum or an unlicensed frequency band, please refer to Figures 3 to 6; and for related explanations regarding the transmitting unit 710 being configured to transmit indication information #1 to an NR terminal device or CPE, please refer to Figure 6.

[0487] The receiving unit 720 is configured to receive a signal #3 transmitted by a passive tag on an uplink frequency band or an unlicensed frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0488] Specifically, for related descriptions, see Figures 2 to 6, where the receiving unit 720 is configured to receive signal #3 transmitted by a passive tag on the uplink frequency band or unlicensed frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0489] Optionally, communications device 700 may further include a processing unit 730. Processing unit 730 is communicatively connected to transmitting unit 710 and receiving unit 720. Optionally, device 700 may further include a storage, which is communicatively connected to processing unit 730. Optionally, processing unit 730, the storage, transmitting unit 710, and receiving unit 720 may be communicatively connected. The storage may be configured to store instructions. Processing unit 730 is configured to execute the instructions stored in the storage and to control transmitting unit 710 to transmit information or signals and to control receiving unit 720 to receive information or signals.

[0490] In this embodiment of the application, the apparatus 700 may be a chip (or chip system) installed in a base station, as shown in FIG. 12 . In this case, the apparatus 700 may include a processor and an input / output interface. The processor may be communicatively connected to a transmitting unit 710 and a receiving unit 720 in the base station via the input / output interface. Optionally, the apparatus further includes a storage, which is communicatively connected to the processor. Optionally, the processor in the base station, the storage, and the transmitting unit 710 and the receiving unit 720 may be communicatively connected. The storage may be configured to store instructions. The processor is configured to execute the instructions stored in the storage, and to control the transmitting unit 710 to transmit information or signals and control the receiving unit 720 to receive information or signals. In this case, the communication interface in the apparatus 700 shown in FIG. 12 may correspond to the input / output interface.

[0491] In one implementation of the aforementioned units, the transmitting unit 710 and the receiving unit 720 may alternatively be integrated into one transceiver unit with both receiving and transmitting capabilities, which is not a limitation of this application.

[0492] In embodiments in which the communications device 700 corresponds to a base station, the processing unit 730 is configured to perform processing and / or operations other than transmit and receive operations that are performed within the base station. The transmitting unit 710 is configured to perform transmit operations, and the receiving unit 720 is configured to perform receive operations.

[0493] Optionally, the communication device 700 may support a passive tag in an embodiment of this application.

[0494] In this case, the units within the communication device 700 are configured to implement the following functions:

[0495] The transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit the signal #3 to a base station on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum or on an unlicensed frequency band.

[0496] Specifically, for related descriptions, see Figures 2 to 10, where the transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit signal #3 to a base station on an uplink frequency band or an unlicensed frequency band of a licensed FDD spectrum.

[0497] The receiving unit 720 is configured to receive signal #1 from a base station on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, to receive signal #1 from a base station on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, to receive signal #1 from a base station on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the unlicensed frequency band, to receive signal #2 from a base station on the downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and the unlicensed frequency band, to receive signal #2 from a base station in period #2, to receive carrier signal #1, carrier signal #2, and carrier signal #3 from a base station on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum or the unlicensed frequency band, or to receive carrier signal #4 from an NR terminal device or CPE on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum.

[0498] Specifically, the receiving unit 720 is configured to receive a signal #1 from a base station on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, see Figures 2 to 6 for related descriptions; the receiving unit 720 is configured to receive a signal #1 from a base station on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, or the receiving unit 720 is configured to receive a signal #1 from a base station on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum and an unlicensed frequency band, see Figures 3 to 10 for related descriptions; the receiving unit 720 is configured to receive a signal #1 from a base station on a downlink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum or an unlicensed frequency band, see Figures 2 to 6 for related descriptions; For related explanations, see Figures 3 and 4 for the receiving unit 720 being configured to receive signal #2 from a base station on an unlicensed frequency band; for related explanations, see Figure 5 for the receiving unit 720 being configured to receive signal #2 from a base station in period #2; for related explanations, see Figures 3 to 5 for the receiving unit 720 being configured to receive carrier signal #1, carrier signal #2, and carrier signal #3 from a base station on an uplink frequency band of a licensed FDD spectrum or an unlicensed frequency band; and for related explanations, see Figure 6 for the receiving unit 720 being configured to receive carrier signal #4 from an NR terminal device or CPE.

[0499] Optionally, communications device 700 may further include a processing unit 730. Processing unit 730 is communicatively connected to transmitting unit 710 and receiving unit 720. Optionally, device 700 may further include a storage, which is communicatively connected to processing unit 730. Optionally, processing unit 730, the storage, transmitting unit 710, and receiving unit 720 may be communicatively connected. The storage may be configured to store instructions. Processing unit 730 is configured to execute the instructions stored in the storage and to control transmitting unit 710 to transmit information or signals and to control receiving unit 720 to receive information or signals.

[0500] In this embodiment of the application, the device 700 may be a chip (or chip system) installed in a passive tag, as shown in FIG. 12 . In this case, the device 700 may include a processor and an input / output interface. The processor may be communicatively connected to a transmitting unit 710 and a receiving unit 720 in the passive tag via the input / output interface. Optionally, the device further includes a storage, which is communicatively connected to the processor. Optionally, the processor in the passive tag, the storage, and the transmitting unit 710 and the receiving unit 720 may be communicatively connected. The storage may be configured to store instructions. The processor is configured to execute the instructions stored in the storage, and to control the transmitting unit 710 to transmit information or signals and control the receiving unit 720 to receive information or signals. In this case, the communication interface in the device 700 shown in FIG. 8 may correspond to the input / output interface.

[0501] In one implementation of the aforementioned units, the transmitting unit 710 and the receiving unit 720 may alternatively be integrated into one transceiver unit with both receiving and transmitting capabilities, which is not a limitation of this application.

[0502] In embodiments in which the communication device 700 corresponds to a passive tag, the processing unit 730 is configured to perform processes and / or operations other than transmit and receive operations that are implemented internally in the passive tag. The transmitting unit 710 is configured to perform transmit operations, and the receiving unit 720 is configured to perform receive operations.

[0503] Optionally, the communication device 700 may correspond to an NR terminal device or a CPE in an embodiment of this application.

[0504] In this case, the units within the communication device 700 are configured to implement the following functions:

[0505] The transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit carrier signal #4 on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum to a passive tag, configured to transmit signal #2 on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum to a passive tag, configured to transmit signal #2 on an unlicensed frequency band to a passive tag, configured to transmit carrier signal #5 on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum to a passive tag, configured to transmit carrier signal #6 on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum to a passive tag, configured to transmit carrier signal #7 on an unlicensed frequency band to a passive tag, or configured to transmit carrier signal #8 on an unlicensed frequency band to a passive tag.

[0506] Specifically, the transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit carrier signal #4 to a passive tag on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, see FIG. 6 for a related description; the transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit signal #2 to a passive tag on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, see FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 for a related description; the transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit signal #2 to a passive tag on an unlicensed frequency band, see FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 for a related description; the transmitting unit 710 is configured to transmit carrier signal #5 to a passive tag on an uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum, see FIG. For related explanations, see Figure 7 for the transmitting unit 710 being configured to transmit carrier signal #6 on the uplink frequency band of the licensed FDD spectrum to the passive tag, see Figure 8 for related explanations, see Figure 9 for related explanations, see Figure 10 for related explanations, see Figure 11 for related explanations, see Figure 12 for related explanations, see Figure 13 for related explanations, see Figure 14 for related explanations, see Figure 15 for related explanations, see Figure 16 for related explanations, see Figure 17 for related explanations, see Figure 18 for related explanations, see Figure 19 for related explanations, see Figure 20 for related explanations, see Figure 21 for related explanations, see Figure 22 for related explanations, see Figure 23 for related explanations, see Figure 24 for related explanations, see Figure 25 for related explanations, see Figure 26 for related explanations, see Figure 27 for related explanations, see Figure 28 for related explanations, see Figure 29 for related explanations, see Figure 30 for related explanations, see Figure 31 for related explanations, see Figure 32 for related explanations, see Figure 33 for related explanations, see Figure 34 for related explanations, see Figure 35 for related explanations, see Figure 36 for related explanations, see Figure 37 for related explanations, see Figure 38 for related explanations, see Figure 39 for related explanations, see Figure 40 for related explanations, see Figure 41 for related explanations, see Figure 42 for related explanations, see Figure 43 for related explanations, see Figure 44 for related explanations, see Figure 45 for related explanations, see Figure 46 for related explanations, see Figure 47 for related explanations, see Figure 48 for related explanations, see Figure 49 for related explanations, see Figure 50 for related explanations, see Figure 51 for related explanations, see Figure 52 for related explanations, see Figure 53 for related explanations, see Figure 54 for related explanations,

[0507] The receiving unit 720 is configured to receive instruction information #1 from the base station, or to receive signal #3 from the passive tag.

[0508] Specifically, for a related description of the receiving unit 720 being configured to receive instruction information #1 from the base station, please refer to Figure 6, and for a related description of the receiving unit 720 being configured to receive signal #3 from the passive tag, please refer to Figures 7 to 10.

[0509] Optionally, communications device 700 may further include a processing unit 730. Processing unit 730 is communicatively connected to transmitting unit 710 and receiving unit 720. Optionally, device 700 may further include a storage, which is communicatively connected to processing unit 730. Optionally, processing unit 730, the storage, transmitting unit 710, and receiving unit 720 may be communicatively connected. The storage may be configured to store instructions. Processing unit 730 is configured to execute the instructions stored in the storage and to control transmitting unit 710 to transmit information or signals and to control receiving unit 720 to receive information or signals.

[0510] In this embodiment of the application, the apparatus 700 may be a chip (or chip system) installed in an NR terminal device or CPE, as shown in FIG. 12 . In this case, the apparatus 700 may include a processor and an input / output interface. The processor may be communicatively connected to a transmitting unit 710 and a receiving unit 720 in the NR terminal device or CPE via the input / output interface. Optionally, the apparatus further includes a storage, which is communicatively connected to the processor. Optionally, the processor, the storage, and the transmitting unit 710 and the receiving unit 720 in the NR terminal device or CPE may be communicatively connected. The storage may be configured to store instructions. The processor is configured to execute the instructions stored in the storage, control the transmitting unit 710 to transmit information or signals, and control the receiving unit 720 to receive information or signals. In this case, the communication interface in the apparatus 700 shown in FIG. 12 may correspond to the input / output interface.

[0511] In one implementation of the aforementioned units, the transmitting unit 710 and the receiving unit 720 may alternatively be integrated into one transceiver unit with both receiving and transmitting capabilities, which is not a limitation of this application.

[0512] In embodiments in which the communications apparatus 700 corresponds to an NR terminal device or CPE, the processing unit 730 is configured to perform processing and / or operations other than transmit and receive operations that are implemented within the NR terminal device or CPE. The transmitting unit 710 is configured to perform transmit operations, and the receiving unit 720 is configured to perform receive operations.

[0513] Those skilled in the art may recognize that the example units, algorithms, and steps described with reference to the embodiments disclosed in this specification may be implemented by electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether a function is performed by hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art may use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered to go beyond the scope of this application.

[0514] It can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art that for the sake of convenience and concise description, the detailed operation processes of the above-mentioned systems, devices and units can be referred to the corresponding processes in the above-mentioned method embodiments, and the details will not be described again here.

[0515] In some embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, devices, and methods may be implemented in other manners. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely examples. For example, the division into units is merely a logical division of function, and other divisions may be used in actual implementation. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not implemented. Furthermore, the shown or described mutual couplings or direct couplings or communication connections may be implemented through some interface. Indirect couplings or communication connections between devices or units may be implemented in electronic, mechanical, or other forms.

[0516] The units described as separate parts may or may not be physically separate, and the parts shown as units may or may not be physical units, i.e., they may be located in one location or distributed over multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected based on actual requirements to achieve the objectives of the solution of the embodiment.

[0517] In addition, the functional units in the embodiments of this application may be integrated into one processing unit, each of the units may exist physically alone, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0518] When functions are implemented in the form of a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, the functions may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application or part of the technical solution may be implemented in the form of a software product. The computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions for instructing a computer device (which may be a personal computer, a server, a network device, etc.) to perform all or part of the steps of the method described in the embodiments of this application. The storage medium includes any medium that can store program code, such as a USB flash drive, a removable hard disk, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.

[0519] The above description is merely a specific implementation of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications or substitutions that can be easily conceived by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application shall fall within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application shall be governed by the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A communication method comprising: transmitting, by a network device, a first signal on a first frequency band to a first device, the first frequency band comprising a downlink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex (FDD) spectrum, the first signal being used to provide energy to the first device; receiving, by the network device, a second signal from the first device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band, the second signal comprising uplink data, the second frequency band comprising an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex (FDD) spectrum, and the third frequency band comprising a frequency band of an unlicensed spectrum; How to have that.

2. transmitting, by the network device, a first signal on a first frequency band to a first device; transmitting, by the network device, the first signal to the first device in a first time period in the first frequency band and the second frequency band, or transmitting, by the network device, the first signal to the first device in a second time period in the first frequency band and the third frequency band; The method of claim 1 , comprising:

3. receiving, by the network device, a second signal from the first device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band; transmitting, by the network device, first instruction information to a second device, the first instruction information instructing the second device to transmit a first carrier signal on the second frequency band to the first device, the first carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device; receiving, by the network device, the second signal from the first device over the second frequency band; 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, comprising:

4. receiving, by the network device, a second signal from the first device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band; sending, by the network device, second instruction information to a third device, the second instruction information instructing the third device to transmit a third carrier signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the first device, the third carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device; receiving, by the network device, the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, comprising:

5. 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the first instruction information comprises at least one of a start time for transmitting the first carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the first carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the first carrier signal.

6. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the second instruction information comprises at least one of a start time for transmitting the third carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the third carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the third carrier signal.

7. receiving, by the network device, a second signal from the first device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band; transmitting, by the network device, a second carrier signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the first device, the second carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device; receiving, by the network device, the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, comprising:

8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the power of the second carrier signal transmitted by the network device is less than the power of the first signal transmitted by the network device.

9. The method further comprises: transmitting, by the network device, a third signal on the first frequency band or the third frequency band to the first device, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit the second signal; 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

10. 1. A communication method comprising: receiving, by a first device, a first signal from a network device on a first frequency band, the first frequency band comprising a downlink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex (FDD) spectrum, the first signal being used to provide energy to the first device; transmitting, by the first device, a second signal on a second frequency band or a third frequency band to the network device, the second signal comprising uplink data, the second frequency band comprising an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex (FDD) spectrum, and the third frequency band comprising a frequency band of an unlicensed spectrum; How to have that.

11. receiving, by the first device, a first signal from a network device on a first frequency band; receiving, by the first device, the first signal from the network device in a first time period in the first frequency band and the second frequency band; or receiving, by the first device, the first signal from the network device in a second time period in the first frequency band and the third frequency band; The method of claim 10, comprising:

12. The method further comprises: receiving, by the first device, a first carrier signal from a second device on the second frequency band, the first carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device; 12. The method of claim 10 or 11, comprising:

13. The method further comprises: receiving, by the first device, a third carrier signal from a third device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band, the third carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; 12. The method of claim 10 or 11, comprising:

14. transmitting, by the first device, a second signal on a second frequency band or a third frequency band to the network device, receiving, by the first device, a second carrier signal from the network device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band, the second carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device; 12. The method of claim 10 or 11, comprising:

15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the power of the second carrier signal is less than the power of the first signal.

16. The method further comprises: receiving, by the first device, a third signal from the network device on the first frequency band or the third frequency band, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit the second signal; 16. The method of any one of claims 10 to 15, comprising:

17. A communication device, a processor coupled to a storage configured to store a program or instructions that, when executed by the processor, enable the device to perform the communication method of any one of claims 1 to 9; A device having:

18. A communication device, a processor coupled to a storage configured to store a program or instructions that, when executed by the processor, enable the device to perform the communication method of any one of claims 10 to 16; A device having:

19. 17. A computer-readable storage medium having stored thereon a computer program, the computer program being capable of, when executed on a computer, carrying out the communication method of any one of claims 1 to 9 or any one of claims 10 to 16.

20. 17. A computer program product comprising computer program code which, when executed, performs the communication method of any one of claims 1 to 9 or any one of claims 10 to 16.

21. A communication device, the communication device comprising logic circuitry and input / output interfaces configured to perform a communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

22. A communication device, the device comprising logic circuitry and input / output interfaces configured to perform a communication method according to any one of claims 10 to 16.

23. 1. A communication method comprising: transmitting, by a network device, a first signal on a first frequency band to a first device, the first frequency band comprising a downlink frequency band of a licensed frequency division duplex (FDD) spectrum, the first signal being used to provide energy to the first device; receiving, by the first device, the first signal from the network device over the first frequency band; transmitting, by the first device, the second signal to the network device on a second frequency band or a third frequency band, the second frequency band comprising an uplink frequency band of the licensed frequency division duplex (FDD) spectrum and the third frequency band comprising a frequency band of an unlicensed spectrum; receiving, by the network device, the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; How to have that.

24. The transmitting, by a network device, a first signal on a first frequency band to a first device or the receiving, by the first device, the first signal from the network device on the first frequency band includes: transmitting, by the network device, the first signal to the first device in the first frequency band and the second frequency band for a first time period, and receiving, by the first device, the first signal from the network device in the first frequency band and the second frequency band for the first time period; or transmitting, by the network device, the first signal to the first device in a second time period in the first frequency band and the third frequency band; and receiving, by the first device, the first signal from the network device in the second time period in the first frequency band and the third frequency band.

24. The method of claim 23, comprising:

25. The receiving, by the network device, of the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band, or the transmitting, by the first device, of the second signal to the network device on the second frequency band, includes: transmitting, by the network device, first instruction information to a second device, the first instruction information instructing the second device to transmit a first carrier signal on the second frequency band to the first device, the first carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device; receiving, by the first device, the second carrier signal from the second device over the second frequency band; transmitting, by the first device, the second signal on the second frequency band to the network device; receiving, by the network device, the second signal from the first device over the second frequency band; 25. The method of claim 23 or 24, comprising:

26. The receiving, by the network device, of the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band, or the transmitting, by the first device, of the second signal to the network device on the second frequency band, includes: sending, by the network device, second instruction information to a third device, the second instruction information instructing the third device to transmit a third carrier signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the first device, the third carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device; receiving, by the first device, the third carrier signal from the third device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; transmitting, by the first device, the second signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the network device; receiving, by the network device, the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; 25. The method of claim 23 or 24, comprising:

27. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the first instruction information comprises at least one of a start time for transmitting the first carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the first carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the first carrier signal.

28. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the second instruction information comprises at least one of a start time for transmitting the third carrier signal, a duration for transmitting the third carrier signal, and a power for transmitting the third carrier signal.

29. The receiving, by the network device, of the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band, or the transmitting, by the first device, of the second signal to the network device on the second frequency band, includes: transmitting, by the network device, a second carrier signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the first device, the second carrier signal being used by the first device to transmit the second signal to the network device; receiving, by the first device, the second carrier signal from the network device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; transmitting, by the first device, the second signal on the second frequency band or the third frequency band to the network device; receiving, by the network device, the second signal from the first device on the second frequency band or the third frequency band; 25. The method of claim 23 or 24, comprising:

30. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the power of the second carrier signal transmitted by the network device is less than the power of the first signal transmitted by the network device.

31. The method further comprises: transmitting, by the network device, a third signal on the first frequency band or the third frequency band to the first device, the third signal being used to request the first device to transmit the second signal; receiving, by the first device, the third signal from the network device on the first frequency band or the third frequency band; 31. The method of any one of claims 23 to 30, comprising:

32. 17. A communication system comprising a network device and a first device, wherein the network device is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 9 and the first device is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 10 to 16.

Images